HB1174

This bill creates a new law requiring all firearm owners in South Dakota to store their guns securely—either by carrying them, keeping them within immediate reach, locking them in a safe or container, using a trigger lock, or rendering them inoperable—with stricter rules against leaving firearms unattended in vehicles. Violators face criminal penalties (Class 2 misdemeanor for first offense, Class 1 for subsequent offenses) and can be sued for damages if a minor or other unauthorized person uses the improperly stored firearm to commit a crime. Law enforcement agencies are exempt from this requirement if they have their own firearm storage policy.