Illinois law expands firearm storage requirements to protect minors under 18
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. , (KBSI) — Illinois law will strengthen firearm storage requirements aimed at protecting children when an amendment to the state’s child protection statute takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.
Under the amended law, it is unlawful for a person to store or leave a firearm on premises under their control if they know, or should reasonably know, that a minor under age 18 without a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card is likely to gain access to the weapon without permission and the minor causes death or great bodily harm with it.
To comply with the law, firearms must be secured with a device that renders them temporarily inoperable or placed in a securely locked box or container.
A violation is punishable as a Class C misdemeanor, with a fine of at least $1,000. A second or subsequent violation is a Class A misdemeanor.
The law includes exceptions if a minor gains access to a firearm and uses it in lawful self-defense or defense of another, or if the firearm is obtained due to an unlawful entry of the premises.
The amendment expands the age threshold from under 14 to under 18 and removes prior language allowing storage in other locations deemed reasonably secure. The definition of “firearm” remains the same as that used in the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act.
