Nevada lawmakers hear testimony on SB 156 to create Gun Violence Prevention Office

The Nevada Senate Committee on Government Affairs convened on April 4, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 156, a proposed measure aimed at establishing an Office of Gun Violence Prevention in the state. This initiative has garnered significant attention following the tragic shooting incident at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) on December 6, 2023, which resulted in the loss of three professors and left many students traumatized.

During the meeting, numerous students and community members voiced their support for SB 156, emphasizing the urgent need for preventive measures against gun violence. Pio Rejas, a UNLV student, highlighted the bill's focus on saving lives and preventing future tragedies, stating, "This is about prevention. It is about saving lives." Other supporters shared personal experiences of fear and trauma from the December incident, underscoring the bill's potential to create a safer environment for students and families across Nevada.

The proposed office would be tasked with researching gun violence, educating the public, and implementing community-driven solutions without infringing on Second Amendment rights. Supporters argue that this proactive approach is essential for addressing the growing epidemic of gun violence in the state, which ranks among the highest in gun-related deaths in the nation.

However, the bill faced opposition from various groups who expressed concerns about potential overreach and the misuse of taxpayer funds. Critics, including representatives from the National Rifle Association and other gun rights advocates, argued that the establishment of such an office could lead to the promotion of anti-gun policies rather than effective solutions. They emphasized the importance of education and responsible gun ownership over government intervention.

As the committee heard testimony from both supporters and opponents, the discussions highlighted the deep divisions surrounding gun violence prevention in Nevada. The outcome of SB 156 remains uncertain, but the testimonies reflect a community grappling with the impact of gun violence and the search for effective strategies to ensure safety in schools and public spaces. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the bill, weighing the testimonies and the implications of establishing the proposed office.