North Carolina House Bill H72

North Carolina 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/23
• Refer: 2/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Report Pass: 2/21/23
• Engrossed: 2/27/23
• Refer: 2/27/23

Caption

Firearm Safe Storage Awareness Initiative

Impact

The bill establishes a framework for state-coordinated outreach and community involvement in firearm safety. It is designed to facilitate the distribution of resources, such as free or discounted gun locks, and provide local communities with tailored materials to launch their own firearm safety initiatives. By promoting education and accessibility to gun safety resources, HB 72 attempts to address public health and safety concerns related to firearm usage in North Carolina, particularly in reducing incidents of accidental injuries involving firearms in homes.

Summary

House Bill 72, titled 'Firearm Safe Storage Awareness Initiative', aims to launch a statewide initiative in North Carolina that focuses on educating the public about the importance of safe firearm storage. The initiative will be led by the Department of Public Safety in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Wildlife Resources Commission. It includes the creation of a website and toolkit aimed at informing the community about safe storage practices, particularly to prevent access by children and youth. The initiative is set to be rolled out over a two-year period, culminating in a comprehensive awareness campaign that targets local education and distribution of gun locks.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 72 appears largely supportive, as it positions firearm safety within a public health framework rather than a gun control debate. Advocates of the bill emphasize its potential to foster safer communities by empowering local awareness campaigns. However, there may be underlying tensions related to how the initiative interacts with existing gun laws and advocacy against stricter gun regulations, although the bill explicitly prohibits using state funds to advocate for new laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the bill's implementation and its restriction on advocacy. Critics might argue that any initiative focusing on firearm safety could inadvertently lead to discussions about gun control, despite the bill's clear directives to remain within the scope of education and safe storage practices. Additionally, the reliance on a third-party entity for launching the initiative may raise questions about the influence of private organizations in public health initiatives related to firearms.