maine gets a F
maryland gets an A-
Maine lose 5 kids
MD loses 109 kids
strange accounting... http://www.cphv.org/press/release.asp?Record=71
For Immediate Release
08/27/99
1999 State-by-State Grades
1999 State Grade Descriptions
Alabama
Alabama received a grade of D+ because it has no child access prevention law, no local rights
which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher gun laws, and has no law regulating the
possession of a firearm by a juvenile. Alabama does require a 48 hour waiting period on all
handgun sales. In 1996, 104 children and teenagers in Alabama died as a result of firearms.
Alaska
Alaska maintained its 1998 grade of D- because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons, has
no child access prevention law, and has no law regulating the sale or transfer of a firearm to a
juvenile. In addition, Alaska received a demerit for weakening its restrictions on carrying
concealed weapons. In 1996, 22 children and teenagers in Alaska died as a result of firearms.
Arizona
Arizona maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has no child access prevention law, no local
rights which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher gun laws, and allows the carrying
of concealed weapons. In 1996, 122 children and teenagers in Arizona died as a result of
firearms.
Arkansas
Arkansas maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has no law regulating private sales, no Child
Access Prevention law, no local rights which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher
gun laws and allows the carrying of concealed weapons. Arkansas earned a demerit because the
legislature failed to pass SB 394 which would have required adults to safely store their firearms
despite the fact that a state wide poll found that 82% of Arkansans supported this type of
legislation. In 1996, 63 children and teenagers in Arkansas died as a result of firearms.
California
California improved its 1998 B grade to a B+ because the legislature passed several laws that will
keep handguns out of the wrong hands. Governor Davis has already signed a
one-handgun-per-month law and a stricter assault weapons ban. The legislature has also passed
bills to ban the sale of cheaply-made, concealable handguns while also requiring the sale of child
safety locking devices. Next year, the legislature will consider a handgun licensing bill. In 1996,
675 children and teenagers in California died as a result of firearms.
Colorado
Colorado’s 1998 grade of C dropped to a C- when its weak private sale law was factored in.
Furthermore, during the 1999 session, the Colorado legislature defeated a Child Access
Prevention bill, while coming dangerously close to passing a law to allow almost anyone in the
state to carry hidden handguns almost anywhere in the state. The legislature was also prepared to
strip (pre-empt) all local laws and ordinances governing firearms, and was poised to pass this
legislation in anticipation of the NRA’s Annual Meeting in Denver. Only the Columbine tragedy
forced the legislature to shelve its pro-gun agenda. In 1996, 44 children and teenagers in
Colorado died as a result of firearms.
Connecticut
Connecticut maintained its A- grade. The state has a Child Access Prevention law, a requirement
that child safety locks be sold with all handguns, juvenile sales and possession laws and very
strong handgun licensing laws. In response to recent shootings in the state, the Connecticut
legislature adapted a groundbreaking law that, beginning October 1, 1999, will give law
enforcement and the courts the authority under limited conditions to remove guns from the homes
of those who are found to pose a significant threat to the community. In 1996, 36 children and
teenagers in Connecticut died as a result of firearms.
Delaware
Delaware went from a B- to a C+ because the legislature once again failed to pass a bill, SB 172,
to require background checks on the private sales of handguns. This bill will be on the calendar
during the 2000 session of the legislature. All of Delaware’s contiguous neighbors, Maryland,
Pennsylvania and New Jersey have those laws. The state does have a strong child access
prevention law, sensible juvenile sales and possession laws, but does not allow cities and counties
to enact laws to prevent gun violence. In 1996, five children and teenagers in Delaware died as a
result of firearms.
Florida
Florida maintained its 1998 grade of C- because it further weakened its carrying-concealed
handgun law this year by allowing people from other states, even those with laws that are not as
strict as Florida’s, to carry guns into the Sunshine State. Child safety lock legislation also failed
this past session. On the other hand, the people of Florida showed strong support for keeping
guns out of the wrong hands when they voted overwhelmingly for a constitutional amendment to
close the gun show loophole. The margin of victory was 72% - 28%, demonstrating that ordinary
Floridians are more committed to protecting their families from guns than is the NRA-dominated
state legislature. In 1996, 192 children and teenagers in Florida died as a result of firearms.
Georgia
Georgia’s grade went down from a C- grade to a D+ because it has done nothing to keep guns
out of the wrong hands. This year the legislature failed to pass a Child Access Prevention bill, and
also became the first state to “immunize” the gun industry by passing legislation prohibiting
Atlanta’s lawsuit against gun manufacturers. The Georgia legislature had previously pre-empted
Atlanta’s tougher gun laws; this year they attempted to prevent access to the courts. Fortunately,
Atlanta’s suit was filed before the lawsuit preemption bill became law. In 1996, 162 children and
teenagers in Georgia died as a result of firearms.
Hawaii
Hawaii improved its 1998 grade of B+ to an A- because of it has one of the nation’s most
restrictive secondary sales laws. It also allows cities and counties to enact laws to prevent gun
violence, and has a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 4 children and teenagers in Hawaii died
as a result of firearms.
Idaho
Idaho’s grade went down from a D in 1998 to a D- in 1999 because it has no restrictions on the
secondary sale of firearms. The state also allows carrying of hidden handguns, does not allow
cities and counties to enact laws to prevent gun violence and has no child access prevention law.
In 1996, 27 children and teenagers in Idaho died as a result of firearms.
Illinois
Illinois improved its 1998 grade of B to a B+ because the state passed a Child Access Prevention
law this year. Also, Chicago has filed a landmark lawsuit against the gun industry after extensive
research on straw purchasing and multiple sales of firearms in the state. Unfortunately, the state
legislature failed to pass a bill which would have limited handgun sales to one per person per
month. The state does allow localities to pass laws relating to firearm regulation and has strong
juvenile possession and sale laws. In 1996, 309 children and teenagers in Illinois died as a result
of firearms.
Indiana
Indiana maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has very weak private sales laws.
Unfortunately, the state wiped out its long-standing seven day waiting period on handgun sales.
The state also has a weak law on carrying concealed handguns with an age limit of only eighteen
years old. It also does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation.
The legislature also rejected a Child Access Prevention bill this session for the fourth year in a
row. In 1996, 98 children and teenagers in Indiana died as a result of firearms.
Iowa
Iowa maintained its 1998 grade of B- because it has a Child Access Prevention law and
reasonable restrictions on juvenile possession. At the same time, it allows the carrying of
concealed weapons and does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention
legislation. In 1996, 23 children and teenagers in Iowa died as a result of firearms.
Kansas
Kansas’ grade declined from B- to C+ because it does not regulate the private sale of handguns.
At the same time, Kansas prohibits carrying concealed weapons despite constant efforts by the
NRA and its supporters to change the law. The legislature has also not changed the home rule law
for firearms despite the NRA’s persistence. In 1996, 54 children and teenagers in Kansas died as
a result of firearms.
Kentucky
Kentucky maintained its 1998 grade of F because it allows carrying concealed weapons, does not
allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation, and does not have a Child
Access Prevention law. The Kentucky legislature was not in session in 1999. The highlight of the
1998 session was a law allowing guns in churches. A bill to protect the gun industry from
lawsuits has already been pre-filed for the 2000 session. In 1996, 52 children and teenagers in
Kentucky died as a result of firearms.
Louisiana
Louisiana maintained its 1998 grade of F because it allows carrying concealed weapons, has no
juvenile possession law, does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention
legislation, and does not have a Child Access Prevention law. Furthermore, during the 1999
session, the legislature passed a law that protects the gun industry from lawsuits. This was
intended to stop New Orleans’ groundbreaking lawsuit against the industry. The legislature,
which constantly does the NRA’s bidding, does not allow cities to pass their own gun laws,
steadfastly refuses to pass any statewide laws that will keep firearms out of the wrong hands, and
now wants to prevent access to the courts by cities. In 1996, 192 children and teenagers in
Louisiana died as a result of firearms.
Maine
Maine maintained its 1998 grade of F because the legislature failed to pass Child Access
Prevention legislation this year. However, both Governor King and the legislature supported the
NRA’s lawsuit preemption legislation -- despite the fact that no Maine city or county has taken
any steps to file a lawsuit against the gun industry. Maine also allows carrying of concealed
handguns, has no juvenile possession law and does not allow cities and counties to enact gun
violence prevention legislation. In 1996, 5 children and teenagers in Maine died as a result of
firearms.
Maryland
Maryland maintained its 1998 grade of A- due to the state’s strong gun violence prevention laws
and administrative directives, including the statewide tracing on all firearms recovered in crime.
Governor Glendenning has also created a Task Force on Childproof Guns which is charged with
drafting legislation by December 1, 1999. The state limits the carrying of concealed weapons, has
a one-handgun-per-month law, a strong juvenile possession law, and a child access prevention
law. In 1996, 109 children and teenagers in Maryland died as a result of firearms.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts maintained its 1998 grade of A- because of the significant legislation which
passed in 1998. Among the provisions of the new law, which serves as a national model, are: a
Child Access Prevention law which requires firearms be safely stored and inaccessible to
children; a requirement for the sale of child safety locking devices with all firearms; a ban on the
sale of junk guns/Saturday Night Specials; increase in the minimum age for sale of handguns
across the board to 21; funding for the Weapons Related Injury Surveillance System program;
and an increase in the penalty for felons in possession of firearms, illegal gun trafficking, illegal
sale to a minor, and use of a gun in a crime by a felon. In 1996, 32 children and teenagers in
Massachusetts died as a result of firearms.
Michigan
Michigan received a C- because it failed to enact stricter laws this year while coming dangerously
close to weakening existing gun laws. The Michigan House, under intense pressure from the gun
lobby, passed a very liberal concealed handgun bill on May 18 and the Senate passed their
version on May 26. Governor Engler had indicated a willingness to sign the legislation despite
strong opposition from the public -- 80% according to a poll in the June 1, 1999 Detroit News.
These bills are now apparently stopped from further consideration. In addition, Michigan does
not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation, and does not have a
Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 158 children and teenagers in Michigan died as a result of
firearms.
Minnesota
Minnesota received a C+ grade because it has a Child Access Prevention law and the legislature
once again failed to pass the NRA bill to weaken the state’s carrying concealed handgun law. The
gun lobby will surely try to push this bill again next year despite strong opposition from the
public. The state does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation,
but does have a child access prevention law and juvenile sales and possession laws. In 1996, 56
children and teenagers in Minnesota died as a result of firearms.
Mississppi
Mississippi received a grade of D- because it does not regulate the private sale of firearms; allows
carrying of concealed weapons, does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence
prevention legislation and does not have a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 78 children and
teenagers in Mississippi died as a result of firearms.
Missouri
Missouri’s grade improved to a C+ in 1999, when its ordinary citizens proved to be far ahead of
its legislature in protecting their families from guns. In the first-ever state-wide referendum on the
carrying of concealed handguns, the NRA suffered a major defeat on Proposition B, which they
had placed on the April 6th ballot. For years, the NRA had been stymied in their effort to pass
this legislation by a veto threat from Governor Mel Carnahan. The NRA chose to put the issue
directly to the voters, backed it up with over $4 million -- outspending their opponents by a 5 to 1
margin -- and lost 52% - 48%. A strong bi-partisan coalition of law enforcement, business
leaders, religious, health care professionals and community activists organized a campaign to
defeat the hidden handgun measure. The election was decided by turnout in suburban St. Louis
County, a Republican stronghold, where the margin was 70% to 30% against the NRA’s
proposal. Unfortunately, Missouri does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence
prevention legislation, and does not have a Child Access Prevention law (efforts to pass a law
were defeated again this session.) However, the state has reasonable juvenile possession and sales
laws. In 1996, 102 children and teenagers in Missouri died as a result of firearms.
Montana
Montana maintained its 1998 grade of F because it does not regulate the private sale of firearms,
allows the carrying of concealed weapons, does not have a Child Access Prevention law and has
weak juvenile sales and transfer laws. What’s more, Montana passed a bill granting immunity to
the gun industry from city lawsuits -- despite the fact that no Montana city has indicated interest
in reforming the gun industry through litigation. In 1996, 20 children and teenagers in Montana
died as a result of firearms.
Nebraska
Nebraska maintained its 1998 grade of B- because it does not allow the carrying of concealed
weapons, allows cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, but does not have
a Child Access Prevention law. Furthermore, the legislature defeated efforts to pass a dangerous
carrying concealed weapons bill. In 1996, 28 children and teenagers in Nebraska died as a result
of firearms.
Nevada
Nevada maintained its 1998 grade of D+ because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons,
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and has no
secondary sales law. However, the state does have a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 36
children and teenagers in Nevada died as a result of firearms.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s grade declined to a D because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons,
does not have a Child Access Prevention law and does not regulate secondary sales. The
legislature has repeatedly killed attempts to pass a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 7
children and teenagers in New Hampshire died as a result of firearms.
New Jersey
New Jersey maintained its 1998 grade of B based on extra credit earned for the success of Project
LISA, a statewide crime gun tracing system, as well as for its efforts to pass a law requiring the
sale of childproof firearms. The state has a restrictive carrying concealed weapons system, a
juvenile possession law, a juvenile sale/transfer law, a permit/license system regulating secondary
sales and a Child Access Prevention law, but does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. In 1996, 67 children and teenagers in New Jersey died as a
result of firearms.
New Mexico
New Mexico received a D+ because it has no juvenile sale/transfer law, no secondary sales law
and no Child Access Prevention law. It does however, prohibit the carrying of concealed weapons.
The state does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence. In 1996,
44 children and teenagers in New Mexico died as a result of firearms.
New York
New York raised its grade to a B- because regulates the secondary sale of firearms and allows
cities and counties to enact local gun violence prevention legislation. The state’s grade could have
improved further, but the legislature defeated efforts to pass a Child Access Prevention bill this
session. In 1996, 200 children and teenagers in New York died as a result of firearms.
North Carolina
North Carolina received a grade of C because it regulates the private sales of handgun.
Unfortunately, the state legislature failed to pass legislation that would close the gun show
loophole (HB 1275) and a bill to strengthen the state’s Child Access Prevention law (HB 1231).
North Carolina does allow the carrying of concealed weapons and does not allow cities and
counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence. At the same time, the state has a Child
Access Prevention law and reasonable restrictions on juvenile possession and juvenile sales. In
1996, 135 children and teenagers in North Carolina died as a result of firearms.
North Dakota
North Dakota maintained its 1998 grade of D because it allows carrying of concealed weapons,
does not have a Child Access Prevention law and does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. However, the state does have reasonable restrictions on
juvenile possession and juvenile sales. In 1996, 9 children and teenagers in North Dakota died as
a result of firearms.
Ohio
Ohio maintained its 1998 grade of C because it does not regulate the private sales of handguns
nor does it have a Child Access Prevention law. The state does allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence and the carrying of concealed weapons is prohibited.
Fortunately, in 1999 Governor Taft stated he would veto the NRA’s legislation that would
liberalize the carrying of concealed handguns. During the 1998 campaign, Governor Taft
announced his support for Child Access Prevention and child safety lock legislation. The Ohio
legislature has failed to pass either of these proposals to protect Ohio’s children from gun
violence. In 1996, 126 children and teenagers in Ohio died as a result of firearms.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s grade declined to a D- because it does not regulate secondary sales or have a Child
Access Prevention law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun
violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. There are reasonable restrictions on
juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 61 children and teenagers in Oklahoma died as a result of
firearms.
Oregon
Oregon received a grade of D+ because it does not have a child access prevention law, does not
allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, does not regulate secondary
sales and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. Despite enormous public support for the
measure, the legislature failed to close the gun show loophole. There are reasonable restrictions
on juvenile sales and possession. It must be noted there was no regular legislative session this
year. In 1996, 39 children and teenagers in Oregon died as a result of firearms.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania received a grade of D+ because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and allows the
carrying of concealed weapons. The legislature failed to act on a one-handgun-per-month
proposal, even though a statewide poll showed 71% support for it. There are reasonable
restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, and all secondary sales must be completed by a
licensed firearms dealer or sheriff. In 1996, 182 children and teenagers in Pennsylvania died as a
result of firearms.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s grade improved to a B- because it strictly regulates secondary sales. However, the
state does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow
limited carrying of concealed weapons. There are reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and
possession and the state does have a Child Access Prevention law. The legislature passed a bill
which increases the age from 15 to 18 years of age for possession of ammunition and firearms by
minors. In 1996, 6 children and teenagers in Rhode Island died as a result of firearms.
South Carolina
South Carolina’s grade rose slightly to a C because it does have some record-keeping
requirements for secondary sales. The state does not have a child access prevention law, does not
allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying
of concealed weapons. The state does have a one-handgun-per-month law and reasonable
restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 78 children and teenagers in South
Carolina died as a result of firearms.
South Dakota
South Dakota maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, has no
secondary sales restrictions and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does
have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, but voted to pre-empt litigation
against gun manufacturers. In 1996, 10 children and teenagers in South Dakota died as a result of
firearms.
Tennessee
Tennessee maintained its 1998 grade of D+ because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, does not
regulate secondary sales and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, but passed a law in 1999 to give gun
makers immunity from civil lawsuits.In 1996, 123 children and teenagers in Tennessee died as a
result of firearms.
Texas
Texas received a lower grade in 1999, falling from a D to a D- because it does not have a juvenile
possession law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. Governor
George W. Bush failed to push the legislature to close the gun show loophole, while promoting
and signing a bill that gives immunity from civil prosecution to the gun industry. The state does
have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and a child access prevention law. In 1996, 361
children and teenagers in Texas died as a result of firearms.
Utah
Utah maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons, even into churches and
schools. The legislature failed to pass responsible gun legislation in both the regular and a special
session. The state does have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 39
children and teenagers in Utah died as a result of firearms.
Vermont
Vermont maintained its 1998 grade of D- because it does not have a child access prevention law,
does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence, and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons without even a permit.
The state does have some restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 5 children and
teenagers in Vermont died as a result of firearms.
Virginia
Virginia received a lower grade than 1998, falling from a C+ to a C, due to the lax secondary sales
provisions in its law. Virginia also failed to pass a child safety lock law this year. The state also
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the
carrying of concealed weapons. However, the state does have a Child Access Prevention law, a
one-handgun-per-month law, as well as some restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In
1996, 110 children and teenagers in Virginia died as a result of firearms.
Washington
Washington maintained its 1998 grade of C- because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. A demerit was given to the legislature
which failed again to pass a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 68 children and teenagers in
Washington died as a result of firearms.
West Virginia
West Virginia maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 16 children and teenagers in
West Virginia died as a result of firearms.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin maintained its 1998 grade of C+ because it does have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not allow the carrying of concealed weapons, but it does not allow cities and counties to
enact ordinances to prevent gun violence or regulate secondary sales. The state also has
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 76 children and teenagers in
Wisconsin died as a result of firearms.
Wyoming
Wyoming maintained its 1998 grade of F because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does allow the carrying of concealed weapons and does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. The state also has no restrictions on juvenile sales and
possession, does not regulate secondary sales and prohibits litigation against gun manufacturers.
In 1996, 11 children and teenagers in Wyoming died as a result of firearms.
maryland gets an A-
Maine lose 5 kids
MD loses 109 kids
strange accounting... http://www.cphv.org/press/release.asp?Record=71
For Immediate Release
08/27/99
1999 State-by-State Grades
1999 State Grade Descriptions
Alabama
Alabama received a grade of D+ because it has no child access prevention law, no local rights
which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher gun laws, and has no law regulating the
possession of a firearm by a juvenile. Alabama does require a 48 hour waiting period on all
handgun sales. In 1996, 104 children and teenagers in Alabama died as a result of firearms.
Alaska
Alaska maintained its 1998 grade of D- because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons, has
no child access prevention law, and has no law regulating the sale or transfer of a firearm to a
juvenile. In addition, Alaska received a demerit for weakening its restrictions on carrying
concealed weapons. In 1996, 22 children and teenagers in Alaska died as a result of firearms.
Arizona
Arizona maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has no child access prevention law, no local
rights which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher gun laws, and allows the carrying
of concealed weapons. In 1996, 122 children and teenagers in Arizona died as a result of
firearms.
Arkansas
Arkansas maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has no law regulating private sales, no Child
Access Prevention law, no local rights which would enable cities and localities to pass tougher
gun laws and allows the carrying of concealed weapons. Arkansas earned a demerit because the
legislature failed to pass SB 394 which would have required adults to safely store their firearms
despite the fact that a state wide poll found that 82% of Arkansans supported this type of
legislation. In 1996, 63 children and teenagers in Arkansas died as a result of firearms.
California
California improved its 1998 B grade to a B+ because the legislature passed several laws that will
keep handguns out of the wrong hands. Governor Davis has already signed a
one-handgun-per-month law and a stricter assault weapons ban. The legislature has also passed
bills to ban the sale of cheaply-made, concealable handguns while also requiring the sale of child
safety locking devices. Next year, the legislature will consider a handgun licensing bill. In 1996,
675 children and teenagers in California died as a result of firearms.
Colorado
Colorado’s 1998 grade of C dropped to a C- when its weak private sale law was factored in.
Furthermore, during the 1999 session, the Colorado legislature defeated a Child Access
Prevention bill, while coming dangerously close to passing a law to allow almost anyone in the
state to carry hidden handguns almost anywhere in the state. The legislature was also prepared to
strip (pre-empt) all local laws and ordinances governing firearms, and was poised to pass this
legislation in anticipation of the NRA’s Annual Meeting in Denver. Only the Columbine tragedy
forced the legislature to shelve its pro-gun agenda. In 1996, 44 children and teenagers in
Colorado died as a result of firearms.
Connecticut
Connecticut maintained its A- grade. The state has a Child Access Prevention law, a requirement
that child safety locks be sold with all handguns, juvenile sales and possession laws and very
strong handgun licensing laws. In response to recent shootings in the state, the Connecticut
legislature adapted a groundbreaking law that, beginning October 1, 1999, will give law
enforcement and the courts the authority under limited conditions to remove guns from the homes
of those who are found to pose a significant threat to the community. In 1996, 36 children and
teenagers in Connecticut died as a result of firearms.
Delaware
Delaware went from a B- to a C+ because the legislature once again failed to pass a bill, SB 172,
to require background checks on the private sales of handguns. This bill will be on the calendar
during the 2000 session of the legislature. All of Delaware’s contiguous neighbors, Maryland,
Pennsylvania and New Jersey have those laws. The state does have a strong child access
prevention law, sensible juvenile sales and possession laws, but does not allow cities and counties
to enact laws to prevent gun violence. In 1996, five children and teenagers in Delaware died as a
result of firearms.
Florida
Florida maintained its 1998 grade of C- because it further weakened its carrying-concealed
handgun law this year by allowing people from other states, even those with laws that are not as
strict as Florida’s, to carry guns into the Sunshine State. Child safety lock legislation also failed
this past session. On the other hand, the people of Florida showed strong support for keeping
guns out of the wrong hands when they voted overwhelmingly for a constitutional amendment to
close the gun show loophole. The margin of victory was 72% - 28%, demonstrating that ordinary
Floridians are more committed to protecting their families from guns than is the NRA-dominated
state legislature. In 1996, 192 children and teenagers in Florida died as a result of firearms.
Georgia
Georgia’s grade went down from a C- grade to a D+ because it has done nothing to keep guns
out of the wrong hands. This year the legislature failed to pass a Child Access Prevention bill, and
also became the first state to “immunize” the gun industry by passing legislation prohibiting
Atlanta’s lawsuit against gun manufacturers. The Georgia legislature had previously pre-empted
Atlanta’s tougher gun laws; this year they attempted to prevent access to the courts. Fortunately,
Atlanta’s suit was filed before the lawsuit preemption bill became law. In 1996, 162 children and
teenagers in Georgia died as a result of firearms.
Hawaii
Hawaii improved its 1998 grade of B+ to an A- because of it has one of the nation’s most
restrictive secondary sales laws. It also allows cities and counties to enact laws to prevent gun
violence, and has a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 4 children and teenagers in Hawaii died
as a result of firearms.
Idaho
Idaho’s grade went down from a D in 1998 to a D- in 1999 because it has no restrictions on the
secondary sale of firearms. The state also allows carrying of hidden handguns, does not allow
cities and counties to enact laws to prevent gun violence and has no child access prevention law.
In 1996, 27 children and teenagers in Idaho died as a result of firearms.
Illinois
Illinois improved its 1998 grade of B to a B+ because the state passed a Child Access Prevention
law this year. Also, Chicago has filed a landmark lawsuit against the gun industry after extensive
research on straw purchasing and multiple sales of firearms in the state. Unfortunately, the state
legislature failed to pass a bill which would have limited handgun sales to one per person per
month. The state does allow localities to pass laws relating to firearm regulation and has strong
juvenile possession and sale laws. In 1996, 309 children and teenagers in Illinois died as a result
of firearms.
Indiana
Indiana maintained its 1998 grade of D because it has very weak private sales laws.
Unfortunately, the state wiped out its long-standing seven day waiting period on handgun sales.
The state also has a weak law on carrying concealed handguns with an age limit of only eighteen
years old. It also does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation.
The legislature also rejected a Child Access Prevention bill this session for the fourth year in a
row. In 1996, 98 children and teenagers in Indiana died as a result of firearms.
Iowa
Iowa maintained its 1998 grade of B- because it has a Child Access Prevention law and
reasonable restrictions on juvenile possession. At the same time, it allows the carrying of
concealed weapons and does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention
legislation. In 1996, 23 children and teenagers in Iowa died as a result of firearms.
Kansas
Kansas’ grade declined from B- to C+ because it does not regulate the private sale of handguns.
At the same time, Kansas prohibits carrying concealed weapons despite constant efforts by the
NRA and its supporters to change the law. The legislature has also not changed the home rule law
for firearms despite the NRA’s persistence. In 1996, 54 children and teenagers in Kansas died as
a result of firearms.
Kentucky
Kentucky maintained its 1998 grade of F because it allows carrying concealed weapons, does not
allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation, and does not have a Child
Access Prevention law. The Kentucky legislature was not in session in 1999. The highlight of the
1998 session was a law allowing guns in churches. A bill to protect the gun industry from
lawsuits has already been pre-filed for the 2000 session. In 1996, 52 children and teenagers in
Kentucky died as a result of firearms.
Louisiana
Louisiana maintained its 1998 grade of F because it allows carrying concealed weapons, has no
juvenile possession law, does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention
legislation, and does not have a Child Access Prevention law. Furthermore, during the 1999
session, the legislature passed a law that protects the gun industry from lawsuits. This was
intended to stop New Orleans’ groundbreaking lawsuit against the industry. The legislature,
which constantly does the NRA’s bidding, does not allow cities to pass their own gun laws,
steadfastly refuses to pass any statewide laws that will keep firearms out of the wrong hands, and
now wants to prevent access to the courts by cities. In 1996, 192 children and teenagers in
Louisiana died as a result of firearms.
Maine
Maine maintained its 1998 grade of F because the legislature failed to pass Child Access
Prevention legislation this year. However, both Governor King and the legislature supported the
NRA’s lawsuit preemption legislation -- despite the fact that no Maine city or county has taken
any steps to file a lawsuit against the gun industry. Maine also allows carrying of concealed
handguns, has no juvenile possession law and does not allow cities and counties to enact gun
violence prevention legislation. In 1996, 5 children and teenagers in Maine died as a result of
firearms.
Maryland
Maryland maintained its 1998 grade of A- due to the state’s strong gun violence prevention laws
and administrative directives, including the statewide tracing on all firearms recovered in crime.
Governor Glendenning has also created a Task Force on Childproof Guns which is charged with
drafting legislation by December 1, 1999. The state limits the carrying of concealed weapons, has
a one-handgun-per-month law, a strong juvenile possession law, and a child access prevention
law. In 1996, 109 children and teenagers in Maryland died as a result of firearms.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts maintained its 1998 grade of A- because of the significant legislation which
passed in 1998. Among the provisions of the new law, which serves as a national model, are: a
Child Access Prevention law which requires firearms be safely stored and inaccessible to
children; a requirement for the sale of child safety locking devices with all firearms; a ban on the
sale of junk guns/Saturday Night Specials; increase in the minimum age for sale of handguns
across the board to 21; funding for the Weapons Related Injury Surveillance System program;
and an increase in the penalty for felons in possession of firearms, illegal gun trafficking, illegal
sale to a minor, and use of a gun in a crime by a felon. In 1996, 32 children and teenagers in
Massachusetts died as a result of firearms.
Michigan
Michigan received a C- because it failed to enact stricter laws this year while coming dangerously
close to weakening existing gun laws. The Michigan House, under intense pressure from the gun
lobby, passed a very liberal concealed handgun bill on May 18 and the Senate passed their
version on May 26. Governor Engler had indicated a willingness to sign the legislation despite
strong opposition from the public -- 80% according to a poll in the June 1, 1999 Detroit News.
These bills are now apparently stopped from further consideration. In addition, Michigan does
not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation, and does not have a
Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 158 children and teenagers in Michigan died as a result of
firearms.
Minnesota
Minnesota received a C+ grade because it has a Child Access Prevention law and the legislature
once again failed to pass the NRA bill to weaken the state’s carrying concealed handgun law. The
gun lobby will surely try to push this bill again next year despite strong opposition from the
public. The state does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence prevention legislation,
but does have a child access prevention law and juvenile sales and possession laws. In 1996, 56
children and teenagers in Minnesota died as a result of firearms.
Mississppi
Mississippi received a grade of D- because it does not regulate the private sale of firearms; allows
carrying of concealed weapons, does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence
prevention legislation and does not have a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 78 children and
teenagers in Mississippi died as a result of firearms.
Missouri
Missouri’s grade improved to a C+ in 1999, when its ordinary citizens proved to be far ahead of
its legislature in protecting their families from guns. In the first-ever state-wide referendum on the
carrying of concealed handguns, the NRA suffered a major defeat on Proposition B, which they
had placed on the April 6th ballot. For years, the NRA had been stymied in their effort to pass
this legislation by a veto threat from Governor Mel Carnahan. The NRA chose to put the issue
directly to the voters, backed it up with over $4 million -- outspending their opponents by a 5 to 1
margin -- and lost 52% - 48%. A strong bi-partisan coalition of law enforcement, business
leaders, religious, health care professionals and community activists organized a campaign to
defeat the hidden handgun measure. The election was decided by turnout in suburban St. Louis
County, a Republican stronghold, where the margin was 70% to 30% against the NRA’s
proposal. Unfortunately, Missouri does not allow cities and counties to enact gun violence
prevention legislation, and does not have a Child Access Prevention law (efforts to pass a law
were defeated again this session.) However, the state has reasonable juvenile possession and sales
laws. In 1996, 102 children and teenagers in Missouri died as a result of firearms.
Montana
Montana maintained its 1998 grade of F because it does not regulate the private sale of firearms,
allows the carrying of concealed weapons, does not have a Child Access Prevention law and has
weak juvenile sales and transfer laws. What’s more, Montana passed a bill granting immunity to
the gun industry from city lawsuits -- despite the fact that no Montana city has indicated interest
in reforming the gun industry through litigation. In 1996, 20 children and teenagers in Montana
died as a result of firearms.
Nebraska
Nebraska maintained its 1998 grade of B- because it does not allow the carrying of concealed
weapons, allows cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, but does not have
a Child Access Prevention law. Furthermore, the legislature defeated efforts to pass a dangerous
carrying concealed weapons bill. In 1996, 28 children and teenagers in Nebraska died as a result
of firearms.
Nevada
Nevada maintained its 1998 grade of D+ because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons,
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and has no
secondary sales law. However, the state does have a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 36
children and teenagers in Nevada died as a result of firearms.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s grade declined to a D because it allows the carrying of concealed weapons,
does not have a Child Access Prevention law and does not regulate secondary sales. The
legislature has repeatedly killed attempts to pass a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 7
children and teenagers in New Hampshire died as a result of firearms.
New Jersey
New Jersey maintained its 1998 grade of B based on extra credit earned for the success of Project
LISA, a statewide crime gun tracing system, as well as for its efforts to pass a law requiring the
sale of childproof firearms. The state has a restrictive carrying concealed weapons system, a
juvenile possession law, a juvenile sale/transfer law, a permit/license system regulating secondary
sales and a Child Access Prevention law, but does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. In 1996, 67 children and teenagers in New Jersey died as a
result of firearms.
New Mexico
New Mexico received a D+ because it has no juvenile sale/transfer law, no secondary sales law
and no Child Access Prevention law. It does however, prohibit the carrying of concealed weapons.
The state does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence. In 1996,
44 children and teenagers in New Mexico died as a result of firearms.
New York
New York raised its grade to a B- because regulates the secondary sale of firearms and allows
cities and counties to enact local gun violence prevention legislation. The state’s grade could have
improved further, but the legislature defeated efforts to pass a Child Access Prevention bill this
session. In 1996, 200 children and teenagers in New York died as a result of firearms.
North Carolina
North Carolina received a grade of C because it regulates the private sales of handgun.
Unfortunately, the state legislature failed to pass legislation that would close the gun show
loophole (HB 1275) and a bill to strengthen the state’s Child Access Prevention law (HB 1231).
North Carolina does allow the carrying of concealed weapons and does not allow cities and
counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence. At the same time, the state has a Child
Access Prevention law and reasonable restrictions on juvenile possession and juvenile sales. In
1996, 135 children and teenagers in North Carolina died as a result of firearms.
North Dakota
North Dakota maintained its 1998 grade of D because it allows carrying of concealed weapons,
does not have a Child Access Prevention law and does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. However, the state does have reasonable restrictions on
juvenile possession and juvenile sales. In 1996, 9 children and teenagers in North Dakota died as
a result of firearms.
Ohio
Ohio maintained its 1998 grade of C because it does not regulate the private sales of handguns
nor does it have a Child Access Prevention law. The state does allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence and the carrying of concealed weapons is prohibited.
Fortunately, in 1999 Governor Taft stated he would veto the NRA’s legislation that would
liberalize the carrying of concealed handguns. During the 1998 campaign, Governor Taft
announced his support for Child Access Prevention and child safety lock legislation. The Ohio
legislature has failed to pass either of these proposals to protect Ohio’s children from gun
violence. In 1996, 126 children and teenagers in Ohio died as a result of firearms.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s grade declined to a D- because it does not regulate secondary sales or have a Child
Access Prevention law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun
violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. There are reasonable restrictions on
juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 61 children and teenagers in Oklahoma died as a result of
firearms.
Oregon
Oregon received a grade of D+ because it does not have a child access prevention law, does not
allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, does not regulate secondary
sales and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. Despite enormous public support for the
measure, the legislature failed to close the gun show loophole. There are reasonable restrictions
on juvenile sales and possession. It must be noted there was no regular legislative session this
year. In 1996, 39 children and teenagers in Oregon died as a result of firearms.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania received a grade of D+ because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and allows the
carrying of concealed weapons. The legislature failed to act on a one-handgun-per-month
proposal, even though a statewide poll showed 71% support for it. There are reasonable
restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, and all secondary sales must be completed by a
licensed firearms dealer or sheriff. In 1996, 182 children and teenagers in Pennsylvania died as a
result of firearms.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s grade improved to a B- because it strictly regulates secondary sales. However, the
state does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow
limited carrying of concealed weapons. There are reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and
possession and the state does have a Child Access Prevention law. The legislature passed a bill
which increases the age from 15 to 18 years of age for possession of ammunition and firearms by
minors. In 1996, 6 children and teenagers in Rhode Island died as a result of firearms.
South Carolina
South Carolina’s grade rose slightly to a C because it does have some record-keeping
requirements for secondary sales. The state does not have a child access prevention law, does not
allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying
of concealed weapons. The state does have a one-handgun-per-month law and reasonable
restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 78 children and teenagers in South
Carolina died as a result of firearms.
South Dakota
South Dakota maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, has no
secondary sales restrictions and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does
have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, but voted to pre-empt litigation
against gun manufacturers. In 1996, 10 children and teenagers in South Dakota died as a result of
firearms.
Tennessee
Tennessee maintained its 1998 grade of D+ because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence, does not
regulate secondary sales and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession, but passed a law in 1999 to give gun
makers immunity from civil lawsuits.In 1996, 123 children and teenagers in Tennessee died as a
result of firearms.
Texas
Texas received a lower grade in 1999, falling from a D to a D- because it does not have a juvenile
possession law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. Governor
George W. Bush failed to push the legislature to close the gun show loophole, while promoting
and signing a bill that gives immunity from civil prosecution to the gun industry. The state does
have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and a child access prevention law. In 1996, 361
children and teenagers in Texas died as a result of firearms.
Utah
Utah maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons, even into churches and
schools. The legislature failed to pass responsible gun legislation in both the regular and a special
session. The state does have reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 39
children and teenagers in Utah died as a result of firearms.
Vermont
Vermont maintained its 1998 grade of D- because it does not have a child access prevention law,
does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence, and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons without even a permit.
The state does have some restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 5 children and
teenagers in Vermont died as a result of firearms.
Virginia
Virginia received a lower grade than 1998, falling from a C+ to a C, due to the lax secondary sales
provisions in its law. Virginia also failed to pass a child safety lock law this year. The state also
does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to prevent gun violence and does allow the
carrying of concealed weapons. However, the state does have a Child Access Prevention law, a
one-handgun-per-month law, as well as some restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In
1996, 110 children and teenagers in Virginia died as a result of firearms.
Washington
Washington maintained its 1998 grade of C- because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. A demerit was given to the legislature
which failed again to pass a Child Access Prevention law. In 1996, 68 children and teenagers in
Washington died as a result of firearms.
West Virginia
West Virginia maintained its 1998 grade of D because it does not have a Child Access Prevention
law, does not regulate secondary sales, does not allow cities and counties to enact ordinances to
prevent gun violence and does allow the carrying of concealed weapons. The state does have
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 16 children and teenagers in
West Virginia died as a result of firearms.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin maintained its 1998 grade of C+ because it does have a Child Access Prevention law,
does not allow the carrying of concealed weapons, but it does not allow cities and counties to
enact ordinances to prevent gun violence or regulate secondary sales. The state also has
reasonable restrictions on juvenile sales and possession. In 1996, 76 children and teenagers in
Wisconsin died as a result of firearms.
Wyoming
Wyoming maintained its 1998 grade of F because it does not have a Child Access Prevention law,
does allow the carrying of concealed weapons and does not allow cities and counties to enact
ordinances to prevent gun violence. The state also has no restrictions on juvenile sales and
possession, does not regulate secondary sales and prohibits litigation against gun manufacturers.
In 1996, 11 children and teenagers in Wyoming died as a result of firearms.
