Child Safety Lock Act of 1997
Latest action (12 Mar 1997): Introduced
What this bill does
H.R. 1047, the Child Safety Lock Act of 1997, would amend federal firearms law (chapter 44 of title 18, U.S. Code) to require that licensed handgun manufacturers, importers, and dealers include a locking device with every handgun they sell, deliver, or transfer, and that each handgun come with a specific printed safety warning about proper storage and the legal risks of failing to store firearms safely. The bill defines what qualifies as a "locking device," such as an external lock requiring a key or combination, or a locking mechanism built into the gun itself.
The requirements would apply to commercial handgun sales through licensed dealers, beginning 90 days after enactment, with exceptions for handguns transferred to or possessed by government agencies, law enforcement officers (on or off duty), and certified rail police officers. Licensees who violate the requirements could face suspension or revocation of their federal firearms license, or a civil penalty of up to $10,000, subject to administrative review.
The bill was introduced in the House on March 12, 1997, by Rep. Charles Schumer along with several cosponsors, and was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. According to available records, it did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 105th Congress.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
Child Safety Lock Act of 1997 - Amends the Federal criminal code to define (firearm) "locking device." Makes it unlawful for a licensed manufacturer, importer, or dealer to sell, deliver, or transfer a handgun without a locking device or a specified related warning, with exceptions for law enforcement and governmental entities. Sets forth civil penalties (in addition to any administrative penalties) for related violations, including suspension or loss of license.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 1047 do?
- H.R. 1047, the Child Safety Lock Act of 1997, would amend federal firearms law (chapter 44 of title 18, U.S. Code) to require that licensed handgun manufacturers, importers, and dealers include a locking device with every handgun they sell, deliver, or transfer, and that each handgun come with a specific printed safety warning about proper storage and the legal risks of failing to store firearms safely. The bill defines what qualifies as a "locking device," such as an external lock requiring a key or combination, or a locking mechanism built into the gun itself. The requirements would apply to commercial handgun sales through licensed dealers, beginning 90 days after enactment, with exceptions for handguns transferred to or possessed by government agencies, law enforcement officers (on or off duty), and certified rail police officers. Licensees who violate the requirements could face suspension or revocation of their federal firearms license, or a civil penalty of up to $10,000, subject to administrative review. The bill was introduced in the House on March 12, 1997, by Rep. Charles Schumer along with several cosponsors, and was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. According to available records, it did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 105th Congress.
- Has H.R. 1047 become law?
- Not yet. As of 12 Mar 1997, H.R. 1047 is introduced.
- Who sponsored H.R. 1047?
- H.R. 1047 was sponsored by Sen. Charles “Chuck” Schumer [D-NY] (Democrat-NY), with 44 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 1047?
- Introduced (12 Mar 1997).
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