Nevada Governor signs gun background check bill into law

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak has signed into law a measure closing a loophole that allows gun buyers to avoid background checks by going through unlicensed gun sellers.

He signed the bill Friday afternoon surrounded by lawmakers who supported the measure. The bill came shortly after the state Assembly approved the measure.

He described it as a historic moment for the state and thanked lawmakers and the survivors of gun violence for their work.

The legislation was fiercely opposed by Republicans, who argued the legislation was not specific and would not quell gun violence.

Nevada's Legislature has passed a bill requiring background checks on private gun sales and transfers.

The Assembly approved the measure Friday, days after the state Senate passed it. Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak is expected to sign it.

Lawmakers heard hours of public comment on the bill earlier this week that is considered a fix to a 2016 gun background check measure approved by voters.

The measure seeks to close a loophole that allows gun buyers to avoid background checks by going through unlicensed gun sellers.

Democrats proposed the new measure after former Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval and former Attorney General Adam Laxalt said the 2016 law could not be enforced.

Republicans are accusing Democrats of hurrying the legislation, which opponents say is overly broad and infringes on Second Amendment rights.

Senate Majority Leader Kelvin Atkinson and Speaker Jason Frierson statements:

“Today, more than two years after Nevadans affirmed their support for comprehensive background checks, the will of the voters has finally been implemented,” Senate Majority Leader Kelvin Atkinson said. “Background checks are proven to be the best way to prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands without compromising the rights of law-abiding citizens. I am proud to say that today, we have taken steps to prevent senseless tragedies like the deaths of 14-year-old Giovanni Melton and Christina Franklin, a mother of two. I would like to thank my Assembly colleagues and Governor Sisolak for collaborating with our Caucus and making this a priority.”

“As I stated on day one of the legislature, we intended to prioritize the background checks measure and move it through an open and transparent legislative process,” said Assembly Speaker Jason Frierson. “With the passage of SB143, our state will now be better equipped to keep guns out of the hands of felons, domestic abusers, and other dangerous individuals by closing loopholes. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in the Senate and with Governor Sisolak to pass this important public safety measure. The people's house has truly implemented the will of the people today.”