# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 4. Weapon Crimes

### Subtitle 1. General Provisions

#### Section 4-104

(a)

  (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

  (2) "Ammunition" means a cartridge, shell, or other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.

  (3)

    (i) "Firearm" means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, or short-barreled shotgun, as those terms are defined in Sec. 4-201 of this title, or any other firearm.

    (ii) "Firearm" does not include an antique firearm as defined in Sec. 4-201 of this title.

(b) This section does not apply if:

  (1) the minor's access to a firearm is supervised by an individual at least 18 years old;

  (2) the minor's access to a firearm was obtained as a result of an unlawful entry;

  (3) the firearm is in the possession or control of a law enforcement officer while the officer is engaged in official duties; or

  (4) the minor has a certificate of firearm and hunter safety issued under Sec. 10-301.1 of the Natural Resources Article.

(c) A person may not store or leave a loaded firearm in a location where the person knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor has access to the firearm.

(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.

(e)

  (1) A violation of this section may not:

    (i) be considered evidence of negligence;

    (ii) be considered evidence of contributory negligence;

    (iii) limit liability of a party or an insurer; or

    (iv) diminish recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a firearm or ammunition.

  (2) A party, witness, or lawyer may not refer to a violation of this section during a trial of a civil action that involves property damage, personal injury, or death.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)