Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, passed a bill out of the Appropriations & Budget Committee on Thursday that would encourage responsible gun ownership.

Starting from the tax year 2025, House Bill 3427 proposes to provide a tax credit equal to 50% of the purchase price of a gun safe or other qualified lockable storage device, up to a maximum of $1,000.

"The idea is to incentivize individuals to store firearms safely," Archer said. "House Bill 3427 is a proactive measure designed to promote responsible gun ownership while preventing firearm accidents, theft and unauthorized access."

Archer said the National Rifle Association and the Oklahoma Rifle Association, as well as Everytown for Gun Safety, agree on the measure, a topic that typically divides opinions.

"This unified commitment to responsible gun ownership bridges the gap between staunch defenders of Second Amendment rights and advocates for gun violence prevention," Archer said. "I was glad this measure passed easily and look forward to seeing it widely supported on the House floor."

HB3427 passed the committee with bipartisan support, with one legislator, a Republican, voting against the measure. It is now eligible to be heard on the House floor.