As a mother, grandmother, small business owner and firearms instructor, I care deeply about the safety of our families and the future of our communities. That’s why I strongly support Gov. Joe Lombardo’s decision to veto Assembly Bill 245.
This bill would have banned responsible young adults between the ages of 18 and 20 from owning certain rifles and shotguns — tools often used for sport shooting, hunting and self-defense. These are adults who can vote, serve in the military, sign legal contracts, and be held fully accountable under the law. Stripping them of a constitutional right simply because of their age doesn’t make us safer — it sets a dangerous precedent.
Supporters of AB 245 argue that fewer guns mean less crime. But the facts tell a different story.
According to a Washington Post fact-check, 86% of mass public shootings from 2009 to 2016 happened in “gun-free zones” — places where law-abiding citizens were prohibited from carrying firearms, but criminals were not deterred. In other words, taking guns away from responsible citizens doesn’t stop violent individuals. It leaves more people vulnerable.
The same goes for concealed carry laws. Research shows that when law-abiding citizens are allowed to carry firearms, violent crime goes down. One study found a 1.2% drop in crime after Colorado passed its concealed carry law — a change that translates to hundreds of fewer violent incidents per year.
And contrary to the fear-based rhetoric we often hear, concealed carry permit holders are among the most law-abiding groups in the country. In Colorado, they’re 39 times less likely to be arrested than adults without a permit. These are responsible citizens who take safety seriously, invest in training, and follow the law.
At Women for Gun Rights, we believe that education — not more legislation — is the key to safer communities. We believe proper training — not blanket bans or political talking points — empowers individuals to protect themselves and others. And we believe that in an emergency, you are your own first responder. That means being prepared, being equipped, and being trained to act.
Too often, lawmakers focus on restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens instead of addressing the root causes of violence — repeat offenders, gang activity, mental health crises and failures in the justice system. AB245 was a distraction from real solutions.
Gov. Lombardo made the right call. He stood up for common sense, for individual rights, and for a safer Nevada. I applaud his leadership and urge other leaders — regardless of party — to follow his example.
At the end of the day, this issue isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting our families, preserving our freedoms, and building stronger, safer communities.
Susan Schwertfeger is the Nevada state director for Women for Gun Rights.