1. (a)

   1. (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
   2. (2) “Ammunition” means a cartridge, shell, or other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.

   3. (3)

      1. (i) “Firearm” means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, or short-barreled shotgun, as those terms are defined in § 4-201 of this title, or any other firearm.
      2. (ii) “Firearm” does not include an antique firearm as defined in § 4-201 of this title.

2. (b) This section does not apply if:

   1. (1) the minor's access to a firearm is supervised by an individual at least 18 years old;
   2. (2) the minor's access to a firearm was obtained as a result of an unlawful entry;
   3. (3) the firearm is in the possession or control of a law enforcement officer while the officer is engaged in official duties; or
   4. (4) the minor has a certificate of firearm and hunter safety issued under § 10-301.1 of the Natural Resources Article.
3. (c) A person may not store or leave a loaded firearm in a location where the person knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor has access to the firearm.
4. (d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.

5. (e)

   1. (1) A violation of this section may not:

      1. (i) be considered evidence of negligence;
      2. (ii) be considered evidence of contributory negligence;
      3. (iii) limit liability of a party or an insurer; or
      4. (iv) diminish recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a firearm or ammunition.
   2. (2) A party, witness, or lawyer may not refer to a violation of this section during a trial of a civil action that involves property damage, personal injury, or death.

Added by Acts 2002, c. 26, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 2002. Amended by Acts 2023, c. 622, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2023.

Formerly Art. 27, § 36K.