Gov. Joe Lombardo Vetoes Sen. Julie Pazina’s Senate Bill 89, Addressing Hate Crimes Laws in Nevada

This is the second such veto from Lombardo on bills that would have addressed hate crime laws

NEVADA - Today, Gov. Joe Lombardo vetoed (SB89). This measure would have prohibited anyone convicted of a misdemeanor hate crime from possessing or purchasing firearms for up to ten years following their conviction. It is the second such veto for Lombardo. In 2023, he vetoed a similar bill (previously Senate Bill 171).

Senator Julie Pazina issued the following statement:

“Days after yet another hate crime in Boulder, Colorado, and in San Antonio, Texas, targeting those for who they love and how they worship, the Governor’s actions vetoing SB89 are truly a disappointment. This bill was designed to keep firearms out of the hands of individuals convicted of misdemeanor hate crimes, closing a dangerous loophole that puts marginalized communities at risk. As a Jewish Nevadan, this legislation is deeply personal to me. In a time of rising antisemitism and hate-fueled violence, we cannot afford to be passive. SB 89 was a responsible, narrowly tailored step to prevent future harm and uphold the values of justice, safety, and tolerance that should define our state. While the Governor’s veto is a setback, I remain committed to protecting vulnerable communities and will continue working to advance policies that confront hate with action, not inaction.”

André Wade, Executive Director of Silver State Equality, issued the following statement:

“Once again, the Governor has chosen not to protect Nevadans, especially our most vulnerable citizens, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is disappointing that he has rejected this commonsense measure that would save lives.”

Amber Falgout, Communications Director of Battle Born Progress, issued the following statement:

“Rejecting SB89 means rejecting thousands of Nevadans who are and will continue to be unfairly subjected to hate and to fear. SB89 would have taken common-sense preventative measures to protect vulnerable people without compromising broader access to firearms for law-abiding Nevadans. Gov. Joe Lombardo’s veto is nothing less than a full repudiation of what SB89 stood for.”

Kris Brown, Brady President, issued the following statement:

“When hate is coupled with a firearm, it can turn deadly fast. Some of the nation’s deadliest mass shootings have been driven by hate, including the 2022 shooting at a Buffalo, NY, grocery store; the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, FL, and the 2019 shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, TX. By vetoing a bill that would keep firearms from those convicted of hate crimes, Gov. Lombardo has failed to protect communities across Nevada. This veto is a stark reminder of the work still needed to end gun violence.”

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