Safe storage gun bill narrowly passes Delaware House

DOVER, Del. (AP) - The state House has narrowly approved a bill requiring gun owners to safely store firearms so they aren't obtained by people who shouldn't have them.

The proposal cleared the House 22-19 on Tuesday and now goes to the Senate.

The bill makes it a misdemeanor to intentionally or recklessly leave a loaded firearm within the reach or easy access of a child or person prohibited from possessing a gun, and that person obtains the gun.

Supporters of the measure say it is a commonsense proposal to help prevent accidental shootings, suicides, and shooting rampages by mentally disturbed individuals.

Opponents expressed concerns about the bill's vague language, and about law-abiding gun owners being prosecuted if a firearm is stolen or if a gun owner lives with someone who uses medical marijuana.