Caregivers could face felony if dependents injure someone with unsecured loaded guns

A caregiver would commit a Level 6 felony if they recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally leave a loaded gun unsecured and a dependent uses it to injure or kill anyone. This covers guns at the caregiver’s home or in their vehicle. Nearby ammunition can make a gun count as loaded. Exceptions cover antique or inoperable guns, guns carried on the caregiver or kept close enough for the caregiver to readily retrieve and use them, and uses or possession named in other laws. Lawful defense of oneself or another person is a defense. A prior unrelated neglect conviction raises the offense to Level 5. This provision lists July 1, 2026, as its effective date if enacted.

Retail gun sellers would have to display a visible sign warning about the caregiver felony rule. The sign would be displayed at the retail dealer’s business. Knowingly or intentionally failing to post the sign would be a Class C infraction. A prior unrelated finding for the same violation would raise it to a Class A infraction. The sign rule lists July 1, 2026, as its effective date if enacted.

Indiana’s health department would develop gun storage materials and training for pediatric health providers, share the materials, and post safety resources online. The materials are for pediatric health providers to share with patients and families. The materials must be nonpolitical. The bill sets aside $50,000 from the state general fund for this work. The duties would start July 1, 2026, if enacted. The funding period runs through June 30, 2027, but the funding section says it expires January 1, 2027.

Clinicians who conduct well-child visits could ask parents or guardians about guns at home and share safe storage information. This applies at each well-child visit. The bill treats the firearm safety questions as standard care and confidential. This provision lists July 1, 2026, as its effective date if enacted.