Illinois has enacted a pivotal new gun safety law aimed at reducing tragic firearm incidents in homes. Championed by State Senator Laura Ellman, the measure mandates all gun owners to securely store firearms if any minor is present, closing dangerous loopholes that have led to devastating consequences. Data shows that a majority of adolescent firearm suicides and school shootings involve unsecured guns from home. Additionally, the law addresses the widespread impact of stolen firearms, which often end up in illegal markets and fuel crime. Senate Bill 8, signed into law and effective January 1, 2026, marks a significant stride toward preventing avoidable gun tragedies.
“For far too long, we have witnessed the tragic consequences of unsecured firearms in homes,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Firearms, if left unaccounted for and unsecured, pose risks to those who shouldn’t have access to them. Firearm owners can help prevent gun-related incidents by ensuring their guns are securely stored away from others.”
“Unsecured handguns put children and teenagers at the highest risk of harm or death,” said Ellman. “This measure strengthens Illinois storage safety standards, addressing the prevalence of gun-related fatalities and injuries in our state due to unsecured firearms.”
