Mosaic Commons expects that members who choose to keep guns will be properly licensed and will comply with all state and federal laws applicable to possession and storage of firearms and ammunition. Those wishing further information on gun laws may consult the “Federal Gun Laws” and “State Gun Laws” sections of the National Rifle Association’s website. The current link for Massachusetts is http://www.nraila.org/GunLaws/StateLaws.aspx?ST=MA.
Safe Storage
Massachusetts state law currently requires that a gun which is not in use be "secured in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device, properly engaged so as to render such weapon inoperable by any person other than the owner or other lawfully authorized user." (Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, §131L(a)). Though this provision technically allows for the use of trigger or cable locks for gun storage, Mosaic Commons members who choose to keep firearms agree to take personal responsibility for securing any guns and ammunition in locked containers or, ideally, in a gun safe. Anyone who has any questions or concerns about this agreement should discuss the matter directly with the Community Support Team.
Common Spaces
Firearms are not permitted in common spaces unless unloaded, secured in a locked case, and under the direct control of their owner. Firearms are not permitted inside the Common House at any time.
Individuals who are required to carry a firearm as part of their professional responsibilities are exempt from the above common space restrictions during times when they are required to be armed. They are nonetheless required to keep any firearm they carry under their direct control at all times.
Disclosure
In recognition of the potential emotional intensity of this topic and the need for effective communication within the community, firearms owners are expected to be forthright about their ownership and storage provisions. Those individuals with concerns or questions they wish to raise with members who own firearms are likewise expected to be forthright and respectful in their communications.
Members who wish to keep firearms in Mosaic Commons agree to disclose this fact to the community and to explain their storage provisions prior to storing firearms on site. Disclosure is to occur at a regularly scheduled general meeting, however no list or other designation of which members keep firearms will be maintained as part of the records of Mosaic Commons. This disclosure is meant to accommodate legitimate community needs for information and assurances.
For More Information
Those interested in learning more about firearms safety are encouraged to contact our local police department for more information on nearby firearms safety courses. If there is sufficient interest, the community's gun owners will arrange for safety training to be held on-site.