Gun Store Bill Passes In Baltimore County

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Some firearms dealers will have to take extra measures to secure their merchandise, after the passage of the SAFE Act Tuesday in Baltimore County. The Baltimore County Council made amendments to the originally proposed legislation before passing it, to alleviate the burden on retailers.

County Executive Johnny Olszewski and Police Chief Melissa Hyatt promoted the Secure All Firearms Effectively (SAFE) Act in November, with aim of requiring gun dealers to protect their merchandise from potential burglars. It would also add security plans for gun shows.

Officials said burglars in Baltimore County stole from firearms dealers in four cases in 2018 and 2019, including one in which 51 weapons were stolen from a retailer.

Councilman David Marks introduced amendments to eliminate fees associated with the bill, and he said fellow Republican Councilman Wade Kach proposed offering financial assistance for dealers to install security barriers to keep vehicles from crashing into stores to steal weapons.

Related: Gun Safety Bill To Help Reduce Theft, Number Of Guns On Streets

Marks said he spent the week of Christmas meeting with gun retailers in his district and beyond to understand their needs and concerns.

"During my conversations with gun retailers, each owner expressed concern about the possibility of future administrations levying high fees to put them out of business," Marks said. "I support gun security, but will not endorse using taxes and regulation to push gun retailers to extinction."

His amendment to eliminate fees passed. Gun dealers may also apply for up to $10,000 in grants to come into compliance with the new county standards, according to WBAL.

The SAFE Act was introduced in December. It was slated to take effect 45 days from its passage. However, WBAL reports the new law will take effect 180 days after it passed Tuesday by a 7-1 vote.

The SAFE Act only applies to gun retailers within 100 yards of a park, house of worship, school, public building or public assembly place.