Nevada lawmakers discuss voluntary firearm storage bill to prevent suicides

A proposed bill aimed at enhancing firearm storage options during mental health crises took center stage at the Nevada Senate Committee on Judiciary meeting on April 30, 2025. Assembly Bill 451 seeks to provide legal protections for firearm dealers and law enforcement agencies that voluntarily store firearms for individuals in crisis, addressing a pressing public health concern amid rising suicide rates in the state.

Assembly member PK O'Neil emphasized the bill's intent to create a "safe space" for firearm dealers, allowing them to accept weapons from individuals who may be at risk of self-harm without fear of civil liability. "If someone is in a terrible situation and wants to voluntarily give me a weapon, currently, if I return it and they harm themselves, I could be held liable," O'Neil explained. The proposed legislation aims to alleviate this concern, encouraging more dealers to participate in temporary firearm storage programs.

The discussion highlighted alarming statistics regarding suicide rates in Nevada, where firearm-related suicides significantly outnumber homicides. In 2023, approximately 400 of the 654 suicide deaths in the state involved firearms. Advocates argue that providing temporary storage can create critical time and distance between individuals in crisis and their firearms, potentially preventing tragic outcomes.

The bill's provisions include a voluntary agreement for firearm storage, which can be either written or oral, and it allows for flexibility in the duration of storage, removing previous 21-day restrictions. This change aims to make the program more accessible for those in need, as Assembly member Sandra Howdyke noted that successful programs in other states did not impose strict time limits.

Concerns were raised about the potential liability for dealers when returning firearms to individuals who may still be experiencing suicidal thoughts. However, legal definitions of gross negligence were discussed, indicating that dealers would only be liable if they returned firearms to individuals exhibiting clear signs of intent to harm themselves or others.

The bill has garnered support from various stakeholders, including law enforcement and mental health advocates, who see it as a vital step toward reducing suicide rates in Nevada. As the committee prepares to move forward, the focus remains on balancing the rights of firearm owners with the urgent need for mental health support and safety.