Baltimore County to Consider Mandatory Retailer Security Requirement Bill Next Week
The Baltimore County Council will meet next week for a “work session” on Tuesday, January 14, at 2 p.m., to discuss the “Secure All Firearms Effectively Act,” also known as the SAFE Act. The language proposed in Bill No. 72-19 would create a process in which all firearms dealers would be required apply for a dealer’s license from the Baltimore County Chief of Police (or Chief’s designee), but prior to being approved for such a license, the dealer must meet certain security requirements set forth by this bill.
The proposed bill creates a “one-size-fits-all” approach and mandate for how firearms dealers must secure their facility when not open for business. Some of the requirements set forth in the proposal may not even be doable due to lease agreements, etc. With many firearms retailers having uniquely different setups, including location and space, each retailer has a different way in which they may choose to secure their facility and inventory when closed for business.
The language proposed would require all of the following security measures be taken, or another combination of security elements to be approved by the Chief of Police:
Be monitored at all times by an alarm system and video system; and
Include one of the following physical security elements:
Bollards or another physical barrier to prevent a vehicle from entering the building;
Security gates or screens over windows and doors; and
All firearms secured in a safe, secure room, secure cage, or behind security shutters when the business is closed.
In addition to the fee, which is not capped at any specific amount, the burdensome requirements could cost firearms dealers tens of thousands of dollars, ultimately putting dealers out of business. NSSF continues to push its Operation Secure Store message with Baltimore County officials, as well as FFLs around the country, as a way to decrease FFL burglaries. Operation Secure Store has been extremely successful, as FFL burglaries and the number of firearms continue in a downward trend.
It is imperative that you attend the work session on January 14th, at 2 p.m., to voice your concern and opposition to the proposed “SAFE Act.” The meeting will take place at the address listed below:
400 Washington Avenue,
Courthouse, Second Floor in the Council Chambers
Towson, Maryland 21204
If you are unable to attend the work session in person on January 14th, please take a moment send comments to members of the County Council listed below:
