Nevada Gun Laws: What You Need to Know After Manhattan Shooting

Understanding Nevada's Gun Laws and the Context of the Manhattan Shooting

As investigators continue to investigate the tragic mass shooting that occurred in Manhattan on Monday, one of the key questions being raised is how the Las Vegas-based suspect managed to obtain his weapons, especially considering Nevada’s stringent gun control measures. The individual, identified as Shane Devon Tamura, 27, was armed with an M4-style semiautomatic rifle and a .357 caliber revolver during the attack. While the revolver was legally purchased, the source of the rifle remains unclear.

New York state law strictly prohibits the possession or transportation of assault-type weapons, which raises concerns about how the shooter was able to access such a weapon. Although Nevada does not have a similar ban, the state has implemented several measures since the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting, where 60 people were killed and hundreds injured, to prevent dangerous individuals from accessing firearms.

David Pucino, legal director and deputy chief counsel for Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, noted that Nevada received a B- in its most recent report card on gun laws, indicating that while the state has made progress, there are still areas for improvement.

Key Aspects of Nevada's Gun Laws

Background Checks

Nevada is an open carry state, allowing adults over 18 to purchase firearms without a permit. However, a law enacted in 2020 requires all private firearm purchases to undergo a background check. This measure aims to ensure that individuals with criminal records or other disqualifying factors cannot easily acquire weapons.

Concealed Carry Permit

Nevada allows local law enforcement to issue concealed carry permits to handgun users who meet specific criteria. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, pass a background check, and complete a certified gun safety course. Individuals with certain criminal convictions, those on parole, or those with a history of mental health commitments or substance abuse may be denied the permit.

Prohibited Locations

While open carry is permitted, there are restrictions on where firearms can be carried. Guns are not allowed in public schools, government buildings like courts and jails, and businesses that display signs prohibiting firearms. However, guns can be brought into hospitals, places of worship, sports arenas, and parks unless otherwise posted.

Extreme Risk Protection Order

In 2019, Nevada passed a "red flag" law, known as the Extreme Risk Protection Order. This law enables courts to remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. Petitions can be filed by individuals, law enforcement, family members, or household members. The subject of the petition has the right to appeal if the order is approved.

Firearm Prohibitions for Mental Health Issues

Nevada bars individuals who have been adjudicated as mentally ill or committed to a mental health facility from owning firearms. Additionally, applicants for concealed carry permits cannot have been voluntarily or involuntarily admitted to a mental health facility within the past five years.

Device Safety and Storage

Nevada does not mandate secure storage of firearms when not in use. However, a 2023 law requires licensed gun dealers to provide locking devices for weapons and to post signage informing buyers that negligent storage could lead to imprisonment or fines.

Ghost Guns

In 2022, Nevada banned ghost guns—firearms without serial numbers sold as kits for assembly. This legislation makes Nevada one of 15 states regulating these untraceable weapons, which have become a growing concern for law enforcement.