Why 4/5: Establishes a new legal requirement and penalty for handgun storage in unattended vehicles.
Individuals leaving a handgun in an unattended vehicle would be required to store it in a locked, hard-sided container or face a Class 4 misdemeanor. This new requirement aims to reduce firearm thefts from vehicles and enhance public safety.
Update
House acceded to request for second conference committee
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Conferees appointed by House
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House Conferees: Laufer, Simon, Morefield
Cleared committee (favorable)
Conference report agreed to by House (60-Y 36-N 0-A)
Cleared committee (favorable)
Conference report agreed to by Senate (21-Y 18-N 0-A)
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Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB496)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB496ER)
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Handguns in unattended motor vehicle; definitions, penalty.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Update
Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB496)
Signed into law
Approved by Governor-Chapter 561 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0561)