An Act To Prohibit The Unsecured Storage Of Handguns In Motor Vehicles

LD 1299 prohibits storing a handgun in an unoccupied motor vehicle unless it is kept out of plain view in a locked hard-sided container and the vehicle (including trunk) is locked. This applies to most individuals storing handguns in vehicles, with exceptions for law enforcement officers, licensed hunters engaged in hunting, participants in state hunter education programs, and National Guard members on active duty. Violations are civil offenses punishable by fines of $200-$500 for first offenses, increasing to $500-$1,000 for repeat violations. The bill directly affects vehicle owners and passengers storing handguns, aiming to prevent accidental access or theft. It does not apply to occupied vehicles or cases where the handgun is secured as required.