ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements today applauding the Minnesota House for passing three bills that would strengthen gun safety in Minnesota.

“As a gun-owner, veteran, hunter, and dad, I know that basic gun safety is a critical part of responsible gun ownership. I applaud the House for passing a trio of common sense bills that would make Minnesota safer by making sure guns don’t fall into the wrong hands,” said Governor Walz. “I am ready to sign this legislation into law as soon as it reaches my desk.”

“We can and must make Minnesota schools, homes, and workplaces safer for everyone,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “I’m proud to see legislators pushing for these overdue gun safety bills. As a relatively new hunter, I know that gun safety legislation does not impede Minnesotans’ ability to hunt and use guns responsibly. This legislation will only make Minnesota a safer, healthier place to live, work, and learn. I look forward to seeing these bills reach the Governor’s desk.”

If passed, the bills would strengthen safe gun storage rules, require a person to report a lost or stolen firearm, and make straw purchases of firearms a state felony in Minnesota.