Juvenile Firearms Safety Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill creates new federal crimes for adults who knowingly give firearms (other than handguns) to minors when they know or should know the minor plans to use the gun for self-harm or crime. It also makes it illegal for adults to leave guns unsecured when a minor is likely to access them.
• Penalties range from up to 1 year in prison for a basic violation, up to 5 years if a minor obtains an unsecured firearm and causes injury or death, and up to 10 years if an adult knowingly provides a firearm to a minor who then causes injury or death.
• The bill provides a safe harbor for gun owners who store firearms securely using a gun safe or safety device, keep them in a location a reasonable person would consider secure, or carry the firearm on their person. It also protects lawful activities like hunting with parental permission.
• Courts can consider whether the adult received warnings about the minor's mental health from schools, doctors, law enforcement, or other adults, or knew about the minor's past violence or suicidal behavior. This is designed to encourage adults to act on red flags.