Virginia is considering an important bill that aims to strengthen firearm storage laws, which could significantly reduce youth suicide rates linked to gun access. Currently, nearly 4.6 million minors live in homes with unlocked and loaded firearms, leading to alarming statistics: approximately 15% of Virginia high school students can access a firearm in under 10 minutes without parental consent.
The proposed Senate Bill 1134 focuses on mandates that require firearms and ammunition to be stored securely, limiting access for minors, particularly teenagers aged 14-17, who face heightened risks. Public health data reveals a concerning rise in firearm suicide rates among older teens, especially in marginalized communities, emphasizing the urgent need for effective prevention measures.
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