Indianapolis, Indiana – A proposed bill in the Indiana General Assembly’s 2026 legislative session aims to strengthen how the state handles gun-related offenses involving juveniles, particularly those occurring near schools.
Senate Bill 62 focuses on youth who illegally possess firearms, introducing stricter legal consequences and creating circumstances under which minors could be transferred to adult court. Supporters of the bill say it is intended to curb rising youth gun violence, while community leaders emphasize that prevention must remain central to any long-term solution.
What Senate Bill 62 Proposes
Senate Bill 62 would make several significant changes to Indiana law regarding juvenile gun offenses. One of the most notable provisions allows prosecutors to seek a waiver to adult court in certain cases involving minors unlawfully carrying firearms. This means some juveniles could face adult-level charges and sentencing, depending on the severity and circumstances of the offense.
The bill also introduces enhanced penalties for gun crimes committed in or near school environments, reflecting lawmakers’ concern about student safety.
Key elements of SB 62 include:
- Renaming the offense of “dangerous possession of a firearm” to “unlawful possession of a firearm by a child”
- Increasing penalties if the offense occurs on school property, within 500 feet of a school, or on a school bus
- Creating a legal pathway for juveniles to be tried as adults in qualifying firearm cases
Community Voices Weigh In
Faith and community leaders in Indianapolis have been following the proposal closely. James Jackson, lead pastor of Fervent Prayer Church, said the bill could serve as a deterrent but also carries serious consequences for young people who may not fully understand the gravity of their actions.
“I also think that it’s a possibility that we could get some young people who do not realize the gravity or the depth of what they’re doing and having guns and get into a situation where they are tried as adults and their life could be over for that,” Jackson said.
Jackson has previously worked with La Keisha Jackson during her time as an Indianapolis City-County Councilor, advocating for policies that emphasize prevention over punishment.
Recent Youth Gun Violence in Indianapolis
Supporters of Senate Bill 62 point to recent incidents involving juveniles as evidence of the need for legislative action. Indianapolis has seen multiple high-profile shootings involving young suspects, including:
- A triple shooting along the Downtown Canal in June
- A deadly mass shooting during Fourth of July weekend
Jackson believes SB 62 could help prevent similar incidents by sending a clear message about accountability, particularly in sensitive areas such as schools.
Emphasis on Prevention, Not Just Penalties
While Jackson acknowledges the bill’s intent, he stresses that legislation alone cannot solve youth gun violence. He is urging lawmakers to collaborate more closely with community organizations.
“I would like to see our legislators partner with local churches,” Jackson said. “I would like to see our legislators partner with other nonprofits and put more energy into prevention.”
According to Jackson, effective prevention includes reducing access to firearms, increasing parental involvement, and educating young people about the real-life consequences of gun possession.
“Get with our parents to make sure that they are talking to their young people about the importance of staying out of trouble and the importance of staying away from guns and people that have guns,” he said.
School-Zone Penalties Explained
One of the strongest components of SB 62 is its focus on schools. If passed, the bill would impose harsher penalties when a firearm offense by a minor occurs:
- On school grounds
- Within 500 feet of school property
- On a school bus
Lawmakers argue that these measures are necessary to create a protective buffer around educational environments and discourage youth from bringing weapons near schools.
What Happens Next
Senate Bill 62 will be debated during the 2026 legislative session, where it may be amended before advancing through committee votes. As discussion continues, lawmakers are expected to hear testimony from educators, law enforcement, parents, and community leaders.
The debate surrounding SB 62 reflects a broader challenge facing Indiana and many other states: balancing public safety, accountability, and rehabilitation for young offenders.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to youth gun violence and prevention efforts in your community in the comments below.
