MDHHS emphasizes firearm safety, education on anniversary of secure storage law

More than 110,600 gun locks distributed since 2024 

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is marking the two-year anniversary of Michigan’s secure storage law by reaffirming its commitment to firearm safety, education and prevention through statewide partnerships, and expanding access to firearm safety resources.

Public Act 17 of 2023 requires individuals to keep firearms unloaded and locked with a locking device or stored in a locked box or container if it is reasonably known that a minor is likely to be present on the premises. The law took effect Feb. 13, 2024. 

“No one should have to fear gun violence at home, school, church, work or as they go about their daily lives,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “I was proud to sign the secure storage law, one of several commonsense gun safety measures to keep Michiganders safe. By keeping guns properly stored, ensuring Michigan families know the proper way to store their firearms and distributing free gun locks, we can prevent misuse and avoid senseless tragedies. Let’s keep working together to keep Michiganders safe and save lives.”

Over the past two years, MDHHS – in partnership with the Michigan State Police (MSP), schools, local organizations and community partners – has focused on education, awareness and access to firearm safety resources, including the availability of free, cable-style gun locks at MDHHS county offices, MSP posts and local health departments across the state. 

Since the law was signed, approximately 110,600 gun locks have been distributed, including 63,180 since Feb. 13, 2025. 

“Two years after Michigan’s secure storage law took effect, we continue to see how critical safe firearm storage is to protecting children, families and communities from preventable gun violence,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Thousands of gun locks have been made available to Michigan residents since 2024, and we are committed to ensuring more residents are aware that this free life-saving resource exists. Providing education and access to safety devices like gun locks helps reduce risk and supports safer homes and communities.” 

All schools, intermediate school districts, public school academies and nonpublic schools in Michigan are also required to provide parents and caregivers with information about safe firearm storage and the law’s requirements. 

Through the Safer Schools project and collaboration with education partners, schools across the state help ensure families receive consistent, accurate information on secure firearm storage. This coordinated approach is strengthened through collaboration with community and health care partners, helping ensure families receive the same clear, evidence-based guidance across schools, health settings and the community. 

“This law works best when education and access go hand in hand,” said Holly Alway, injury prevention coordinator at Trinity Health Muskegon. “Through partnerships between the state, health care systems and community organizations, we’ve been able to significantly expand access to free gun locks across Michigan. Since the law took effect, these efforts have helped turn prevention into action by putting safety tools directly into the hands of families.” 

To obtain a free cable gun lock, residents can visit a local MDHHS office to request one or check with their local health department, some of which also have gun locks available. MDHHS staff who make home visits can access gun locks if a client has a need or requests one. 

Free gun locks can additionally be obtained through Project ChildSafe police partners across the state. Gun lock installation instructions are included within the product’s packaging and available on the Project ChildSafe website. 

Learn more about Michigan’s Secure Storage Law on the MDHHS website.  

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