Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2025
The Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2025 would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to create a new program (Sec. 1720M) that provides eligible veterans with a secure storage option for firearms. Eligible individuals could receive a lockbox (a “covered item”) or a voucher to obtain one, along with information about the benefits and options for secure storage. The VA would work with veterans’ storage organizations, run a public education campaign about secure storage and suicide prevention, and ensure that participation in the program does not affect lawful firearm ownership. The bill also requires annual reports to Congress on distribution, outreach, and program improvements, and authorizes $5 million per year for 2026–2036 to fund the program. Importantly, the act contains protections against data collection or registration of gun owners and prohibits turning participation into a firearm ownership list. In short, the bill aims to reduce veterans’ risk of firearm-related harm by increasing access to validated, US-made lockboxes and by raising awareness about safe storage options, while preserving privacy and current gun rights.
Key Points
- 1Establishes a VA program to furnish eligible veterans with a secure storage item (lockbox) or a redeemable voucher, plus information on secure storage options and benefits.
- 2The program must coordinate with organizations experienced in secure firearm storage and place a public education campaign on storage safety and suicide prevention, ensuring materials affirm that participation does not affect firearm ownership.
- 3Defines a “covered item” as a US-made lockbox designed to prevent unauthorized access, compliant with ASTM F2456-20 (or successor), and not intended for resale.
- 4Requires annual (and initial by Oct 1, 2025) reporting to Congress on distribution, outreach to both enrolled and non-enrolled veterans, and steps to improve the program.
- 5Authorizes $5,000,000 in appropriations for each fiscal year 2026 through 2036 to fund the program and related activities.