The bill outlines a framework where eligible individuals can request covered items, such as lockboxes, or redeemable vouchers for their procurement. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is authorized to collaborate with qualified entities that specialize in secure firearm storage. An annual report is mandated to assess the program's operations and outreach effectiveness, which will help ensure accountability and adapt the program based on feedback and performance metrics. Additionally, it outlines that participation in this program does not infringe upon the rights of individuals concerning lawful gun ownership.
Summary
House Bill 1987, titled the 'Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2025', proposes to amend title 38 of the United States Code. This bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a program aimed at providing certain individuals, including veterans and eligible former members of the armed forces, with items designed for the secure storage of firearms. The initiative is launched with the intention of promoting safety and preventing firearm-related suicides among veterans, who are known to be at a higher risk for such tragedies.
Contention
While the bill is primarily focused on safety, it also includes provisions that attempt to mitigate potential pushback regarding personal freedoms. For example, it explicitly states that the program will not create a registry of firearm owners, nor will it impose mandatory storage requirements. Concerns may arise from advocates for gun rights who might view any governmental program related to firearms as a step towards stricter regulations. Furthermore, the funding outlined for the program, totaling $5 million annually for a decade, may prompt discussions about budget allocation and priorities within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Elections: registration; automatic voter registration; modify. Amends secs. 493a, 500a & 501 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.493a et seq.) & adds sec. 493b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4569'23
State: identification cards; mobile official state personal identification card; provide for. Amends sec. 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.292). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0460'23, SB 0461'23, SB 0894'24
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).
State: identification cards; application requirements for a state identification card; modify. Amends secs. 1 & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 & 28.292).
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).
State: identification cards; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a state identification card; remove. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.291 et seq.).