Learn about gun violence and gun laws by state
Gun violence affects every community, but it affects them in different ways. Whether you’re a gun owner or not, take the time to learn about gun violence in your area. Once you understand the devastating effects of gun violence, don't be overwhelmed. Many local and national organizations, from health care systems to nonprofits and community programs, are working hard to reduce the impact of gun violence on communities—and you can get involved.
Check the statistics about youth gun violence, understand the gun laws in your state, and explore local resources available to help keep your family and community safe.
Gun laws vary from state to state
Many states have laws intended to prevent unauthorized access to guns, including by children or those at risk of harming themselves or others. The majority of gun deaths occur when someone who should not have access to a gun gets access to one.
Contact your state’s public health department or local law enforcement to learn more about laws that can prevent unauthorized access to guns and keep our communities safe.
These state laws can include:
- Safe Firearm Storage (SFS) laws require that gun owners store their guns securely, typically any time the gun is unattended. These laws are intended to prevent unauthorized people, especially minors, from accessing guns. Some SFS laws require trigger locks or other safety devices.
- Child Access Prevention (CAP) laws hold gun owners accountable for safe gun storage. These laws are designed to keep guns away from children. In some states, if a minor gets access to the gun and uses it to commit a crime, the gun owner may face fines, prison time, or both.
- Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) are civil orders that can temporarily prevent a person at risk of harming themselves or others from possessing or purchasing guns. ERPOs are designed to help people in crisis “pause to heal” by giving them lifesaving time and space between a moment in crisis and access to a gun.
ERPOs are currently available in 21 states and Washington, DC. In some areas they are called Firearm Restraining Orders (FROs) or Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVROs). Visit your state’s public health department website or contact law enforcement to see if they are available in your state.
4.6 million children in the U.S. live in homes with unlocked and loaded guns.
Source: 2021 National Firearms Survey
Share what you’ve learned
Want to talk with another parent or concerned adult about safe gun storage? Use the conversation guides to get started.