Protect Children Through Safe Gun Ownership Act

This bill seeks to amend federal law to improve firearm safety, particularly concerning juveniles and secure storage. It makes it unlawful for a parent or guardian to provide written consent for a juvenile to possess a handgun unless they have actual knowledge that the juvenile's use will be under the active supervision of an adult not prohibited from possessing a firearm. A key provision establishes that it is unlawful to keep, leave, or store any unsecured firearm that has moved in interstate commerce, unless the firearm is carried on the person or within close proximity for ready retrieval. An "unsecured firearm" is defined as one not secured by a secure gun storage or safety device. Violations can result in civil money penalties, ranging from up to $1,000 for a first offense to $5,000 for subsequent violations. The bill also creates a private right of action , allowing individuals injured by an unsecured firearm violation to sue for damages against the violator or premises owner who knew or should have known about the unsecured firearm. Furthermore, it mandates that the Attorney General promulgate rules to ensure the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) denies firearm transfers to individuals assessed a civil money penalty for an unsecured firearm violation within the preceding five years. To further promote safety, the bill establishes a competitive grant program, administered by the Secretary of Education, for eligible local educational agencies to provide educational materials and information sessions for parents on gun safety and the importance of secure gun storage. Finally, the Attorney General is required to submit annual reports to Congress on the Act's implementation, including disaggregated data.