Since February 13, 2024, Michigan law has required gun owners to lock up their firearms whenever a child could get to them. If you own a gun and kids live in your home, visit often, or are simply likely to be around, this law applies to you.

What the law asks of you

When a firearm is not on you or under your direct control, and it's reasonable to expect a minor could be on the property, the gun has to be unloaded and secured. That means either a locking device, like a cable lock, or a locked box or container.

"Likely to be present" covers more than you might think: your own kids, grandkids who stay the weekend, a neighbor's child who comes over to play, or teenagers visiting your teen.

What happens if a child gets the gun

If a firearm isn't stored the right way and a minor gets hold of it, the owner can face criminal charges. The penalties climb with the harm done:

• A child shows or carries the gun in public, or handles it recklessly or threateningly around others: misdemeanor, up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• A child fires the gun and injures someone, including themselves: felony, up to 5 years and $5,000.
• The shot causes serious, lasting injury: felony, up to 10 years and $7,500.
• The shot causes a death: felony, up to 15 years and $10,000.

These charges can be added on top of any others that come from the same incident.

The easy part

Following this law can cost you nothing. We hand out free cable gun locks year-round at our Lansing headquarters, 6035 Executive Dr, Suite 1014, in partnership with the Michigan State Police. No questions asked, limit one per person. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred. You'll also find us tabling at community events with locks and safe-storage tips.

Locking up doesn't mean you love your rights any less. It means a curious kid never turns into a tragedy in your home.

This post is general information, not legal advice. For questions about your situation, talk to an attorney.