S397 (2026): Safe Firearm Storage Education in Schools

Senate Bill 397 would require the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop model firearm safe-storage content in consultation with EOPSS.^[1]

State Model Content

The model content would address secure storage in homes and vehicles, risks to children, teens, schools, and communities, Massachusetts storage requirements, suicide-prevention resources, and related behavioral-health or educational resources. The Department would publish it in English and other languages reflecting local needs and review it annually.

School-District Duties

Each superintendent's office and school committee would collaborate to distribute the notice annually to the school community, including parents, guardians, and staff, and make the information available on the district website.

What the Filed Bill Does Not Require

The text requires an annual notice and electronic access. It does not require classroom instruction, a student curriculum, or a new course.

Status

S397 was reported favorably and referred to Senate Ways and Means on July 24, 2025.^[2] The related House bill H548 remains listed in the Joint Committee on Education, with the latest posted action extending its reporting date to March 18, 2026.^[3]