In a swift and controversial move, the Nevada State Assembly passed Assembly Bill 245 (AB245), a sweeping new gun control measure. According to the official bill overview (AB245 Reprint 1, adopted April 21, 2025), this legislation targets residents under the age of 21, making it illegal for them to possess, handle, or control semiautomatic shotguns and semiautomatic centerfire rifles. The bill passed along party lines with a 27–15 vote, signaling sharp political division over firearm rights in the state.
Understanding the Core of AB245
At its heart, AB245 bans most adults under 21 from owning certain types of firearms, even though these individuals are recognized as legal adults in almost every other part of American life. As outlined in the bill text, violations of the new law could result in a gross misdemeanor. Additional penalties apply to anyone who knowingly allows or aids someone under 21 to possess a banned firearm, with repeat offenses potentially escalating to a felony with prison time.
Assemblymember Sandra Jauregui’s Personal Motivation
Assemblymember Sandra Jauregui, who authored AB245, spoke passionately about her reasons for pushing the bill forward. As reported by George Acosta of News 3 Las Vegas, Jauregui tied her support for stronger gun control measures to her personal experience surviving the tragic mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest music festival. “I have a new fire to never give up,” she said, “the fights make our communities safer.” Her perspective is deeply personal, emphasizing action born from trauma rather than just politics.
Tightening Storage Rules and Selling Restrictions
Beyond possession, AB245 also toughens Nevada’s laws on firearm storage and transfers. It expands negligent storage penalties to cover adults under 21 accessing firearms, even in private homes. Moreover, under the bill, selling or bartering a semiautomatic centerfire rifle or shotgun to someone under 21 could now be charged as a category B felony, carrying prison time up to six years and fines up to $5,000.
Limited Exceptions: Military, Law Enforcement, and Hunting
The legislation does leave a few small cracks open. As detailed in the bill overview, exceptions exist for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, honorably discharged veterans, law enforcement officers, and licensed hunters participating in regulated activities. However, these exemptions are narrow. Young adults who don’t fall into these categories will find themselves effectively disarmed from lawful ownership or general possession of popular types of firearms.
Reaction from Gun Rights Advocates
Gun rights advocates are raising alarms about the speed and breadth of AB245. In a recent video by gun rights YouTube channel Copper Jacket TV, the host, William, warned viewers that many who moved to Nevada seeking freedom from strict California laws are now facing similar restrictions. William emphasized that there was no clear grandfathering clause for existing owners under 21, meaning they could lose rights they already legally exercised. “It’s unconstitutional to wipe away the Second Amendment rights of people who are legal, law-abiding adults,” he said passionately.
Nevada’s Strange Political Split
William from Copper Jacket TV also pointed out the odd political landscape in Nevada. Despite electing a Republican governor, the state legislature remains under Democratic control, which has allowed major gun control bills like AB245 to advance quickly. “Nevada’s a weird split,” William explained, highlighting the difficulty in predicting the political future of firearm rights in the state.
A Race Against the Legislative Clock
The 2025 Nevada Legislative Session ends June 2nd, meaning supporters and opponents alike are racing against time. As reported by George Acosta, the bill must pass the Senate and reach the governor’s desk by then. Given the fast-paced nature of Nevada’s short legislative session (running only from February to June), many critics feel the public hasn’t had nearly enough time to digest or respond to the changes.
A Veto Hope or a Signed Law?
There remains a sliver of hope among gun rights defenders: Governor Joe Lombardo, a Republican, could veto AB245 once it hits his desk. William from Copper Jacket TV reminded viewers that Lombardo previously vetoed a gun control measure and might do so again. Still, the political pressure surrounding mass shootings, like the recent Florida State University tragedy mentioned by George Acosta, could weigh heavily on final decisions.
How Fast Is Too Fast?
One thing that really stands out to me is just how fast this bill moved. In just a few months, life could change dramatically for thousands of Nevadans under 21. It’s wild to think you can vote, buy a house, join the military, and serve on a jury at 18, but under AB245, you might be treated like a minor when it comes to firearms. It raises serious questions about consistency in what adulthood really means.
The Danger of Emotional Legislation
While it’s understandable that tragedies fuel urgent action, it’s also dangerous when fear leads to sweeping laws that might not even address the real problem. Most young adults are not violent criminals. Punishing every 18–to 20-year-old based on the actions of a few could erode basic constitutional rights. As William from Copper Jacket TV said, “The Second Amendment is not a second-class right.” That’s a chilling reminder of what’s really at stake beyond the politics.
A Critical Moment for Nevada
As AB245 moves to the Senate, Nevada sits at a crossroads. On one side, lawmakers like Assemblymember Jauregui argue that stronger restrictions are needed to prevent future tragedies. On the other, citizens and advocates like William urge caution, fearing a permanent loss of freedoms for an entire age group. With the clock ticking toward June 2nd, the final outcome will come fast, and its effects could last for generations.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa is our dedicated Second Amendment news writer and also focuses on homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Lisa aims to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.