CAMPAIGN PLATFORM 1
Support Accountability for Parents of Children in Possession of Firearms

As part of Tracey Lucas’ vision for a safer and more united Washington, DC, we propose a groundbreaking policy to hold parents accountable if their children are found in possession of a firearm. This initiative aims to strengthen family bonds, encourage responsible parenting, and reduce gun violence in our communities. By addressing the root causes of youth firearm possession, this policy will empower families to play an active role in keeping our neighborhoods safe.

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Key Objectives

1. Enhance Parental Responsibility: Parents or guardians will be held legally accountable if their minor child is found with a firearm. This measure will incentivize parents to stay informed about their child’s activities, peer groups, and any potential exposure to illegal firearms. ​

2. Promote Gun Safety Education: The initiative will include mandatory gun safety education programs for parents and children to ensure they understand the dangers of firearms and the importance of responsible behavior.

3. Reduce Youth Gun Violence: By addressing the accessibility of firearms to minors and involving parents directly in prevention, this policy will contribute to a significant reduction in gun-related incidents among youth.

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Case Study

The City of Grand Rapids, Michigan, provides a compelling example of how similar policies can work effectively. Grand Rapids enforces the state's Child Access Prevention (CAP) laws, which require firearm owners to securely store their weapons, especially when minors are present. A recent incident highlighted the importance of these laws: a 3-year-old child accidentally shot themselves with an unsecured firearm.

 

The firearm owner faced investigation for non-compliance with Michigan’s secure storage law, which mandates that firearms be unloaded and locked or stored in a locked container if minors are likely to be present. Non-compliance can result in penalties, including fines and up to five years in prison.

 

This incident underscores the significance of CAP laws in reducing accidental shootings and promoting responsible firearm storage. By learning from such examples, Washington, DC, can implement measures that hold parents accountable while safeguarding children and the broader community.​

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Proposed Actions

• Legislative Measures: Introduce a city ordinance that establishes penalties for parents or guardians of minors caught in possession of a firearm. Penalties will include fines, mandatory parenting classes, and, in severe cases, community service.

• Community-Based Support Programs: Develop partnerships with local organizations to provide resources, mentorship programs, and after-school activities aimed at keeping youth engaged and away from negative influences.

• Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Work closely with law enforcement to create programs that educate parents and youth on firearm laws and prevention strategies, ensuring compliance with the initiative.

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Cost Analysis

The estimated budget for implementing this policy is as follows:

1. Legislative Implementation

• Drafting and passing the ordinance: $100,000

• Administrative costs for enforcement: $200,000/year

 

2. Gun Safety Education Programs

• Curriculum development and materials: $150,000

• Staff training and facilitation: $300,000/year

 

3. Community-Based Support Programs

• Partnerships with local organizations: $500,000/year

• Youth engagement initiatives: $400,000/year

 

4. Law Enforcement Collaboration

• Program development and outreach: $250,000/year

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Total Estimated Annual Cost: $1.8 million

 

Funding Sources

• Reallocation of existing public safety and community program budgets.

• Federal grants for gun violence prevention initiatives.

• Partnerships with private organizations and local businesses.

 

Expected Outcomes

• Increased parental awareness and involvement in their children’s lives.

• Reduction in the number of minors caught with firearms.

• Safer neighborhoods with lower gun violence rates.​

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​By holding parents accountable and fostering a culture of responsibility, we can create a safer environment for all residents of Washington, DC. Tracey Lucas is committed to ensuring every family has the resources and support they need to thrive while addressing the critical issue of youth firearm possession.

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