Nevada 2023 Regular Session

Nevada Senate Bill SB171

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Report Pass
4/13/23  
Engrossed
4/21/23  
Refer
4/21/23  
Report Pass
5/8/23  
Enrolled
5/15/23  
Vetoed
5/17/23  

Caption

Revises provisions governing firearms. (BDR 15-649)

Impact

The impact of SB171 is significant as it seeks to amend existing firearm possession laws within the state. By introducing stipulations based on the motivation behind a crime, the bill aims to create a protective measure for vulnerable communities targeted by hate crimes. The law further distinguishes between those convicted before July 1, 2023, who are exempted from these prohibitions regarding firearms they legally owned prior to this date. This aspect reflects consideration for individuals who may not have been aware of changes in the law that affect their rights.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 171 addresses firearm ownership laws in Nevada, specifically targeting individuals who have been convicted of crimes that are motivated by the victim's characteristics, such as race, religion, or sexual orientation. The bill stipulates that if a person has been convicted of specific offenses—considered hate crimes or offenses involving violence—within the past ten years, they are prohibited from purchasing, owning, or possessing firearms. This measure has been introduced to enhance public safety by limiting gun access to those with a history of violent or prejudicial behavior.

Contention

Notably, the bill has faced contention regarding its implications on personal rights and legal definitions. Critics may argue that broad interpretations of hate crimes could lead to unjust restrictions on individuals who might not pose a threat despite their past convictions. Additionally, concerns regarding the enforcement of such prohibitions, and whether they can effectively deter hate-related violence while maintaining individual freedoms, have been raised during legislative discussions. This tension underscores the ongoing debate around gun control and public safety in the context of crime motivated by bias.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NV SB89

Revises provisions relating to firearms. (BDR 15-174)

NV AB181

Revises provisions governing concealed firearms. (BDR 15-521)

NV SB412

Revises provisions relating to criminal justice. (BDR 15-1091)

NV AB105

Revises provisions governing firearms. (BDR 15-64)

NV AB35

Revises provisions relating to pornography involving minors. (BDR 15-448)

NV SB457

Revises provisions relating to public safety. (BDR 15-1038)

NV AB126

Revises provisions relating to pornography involving minors. (BDR 15-195)

NV AB436

Revises provisions relating to firearms. (BDR 15-830)

NV AB160

Revises provisions governing the sealing of certain criminal records. (BDR 14-634)

NV SB227

Revises provisions relating to crimes. (BDR 15-17)

Similar Bills

CA AB712

Control of deadly weapons.

TN HB2106

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal history records.

TN SB1932

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal history records.

CA AB303

Firearms: prohibited persons.

CA AB1735

Transit districts: prohibition orders.

CA SB1417

Transit districts: prohibition orders.

CA AB468

Transit districts: prohibition orders.

CA AB730

Transit districts: prohibition orders.