Ohio's Amya's Law targets negligent gun storage after child's death
A new bill in Ohio aims to hold gun owners criminally responsible if a child uses an unsecured firearm to cause harm. The legislation, named 'Amya's Law', follows the tragic death of 11-year-old Amya Frazier in 2025. It also includes financial incentives for safe storage solutions. The proposed law is named after Amya Frazier, who was fatally shot by her cousin using an improperly stored gun. While it does not require safe storage, it would penalise owners only when a minor gains access to a negligently stored firearm and injury or death occurs.
To encourage compliance, the bill offers a state tax credit of up to £250 for purchasing gun safes, lockboxes, or trigger locks. It also exempts these safety devices from sales taxes.
The NRA supports safe storage but argues that parents should lead firearm safety education for children. They also note that no single approach works for all gun owners. Additionally, the organisation raises constitutional concerns, citing a Washington, D.C. law struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Research by the Rand Foundation links Child Access Prevention (CAP) laws to reductions in youth firearm injuries, suicides, and deaths. If passed, the law would introduce criminal penalties for negligent storage while providing financial support for safety measures. Studies suggest such laws may reduce firearm-related harm among children. The NRA maintains that parental education remains the most effective way to teach firearm safety.
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