Retailers who promote the sale of safe storage devices for firearms would receive a tax credit under a bipartisan bill introduced on April 20 by U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA).
“Incentivizing the safe storage of guns protects law abiding citizens’ safe usage of guns while reducing the chance of gun violence, suicide, or accidental shootings,” Rep. Kim said on Monday. “I will always support common-sense policies that save lives and keep our communities safe.”
The congresswoman signed on as one of five original cosponsors of the Prevent Family Fire Act, H.R. 2770, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) to provide a tax credit to retailers for external devices sold in the United States that are designed and marketed to deny unauthorized access to, or render inoperable, a firearm or ammunition, and secured by a combination, key, or biometric lock. The credit would be equal to 10 percent of cost at sale, with a maximum credit of $40 per device sold, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kim’s staff.
“Over the past decade, nine in every 10 youth suicides by gun were with guns in the victim’s home, and roughly one in every three kids lives in a home with guns,” said Rep. Kim. “As a mother of four and new grandmother, protecting the safety of our kids, our schools, and our communities is personal to me.”
Rep. Levin pointed out that America is facing an epidemic of gun violence, and both Democrats and Republicans must come together to enact reforms. “This bill is a strong step we can take to reduce unintentional discharges, suicides, and school shootings by incentivizing the safe storage of firearms,” he said.
H.R. 2770 has been referred to the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee for consideration.