Senate Floor Passes Senator Julie Pazina’s Senate Bill 89, Addressing Hate Crimes Laws in Nevada

Bill Sponsor and Supporters are encouraged by the passage of the hate crimes bill

NEVADA - Today, the Nevada Senate Floor passed Senate Bill 89 (SB89) by a 12-8 vote. This measure prohibits anyone convicted of a misdemeanor hate crime from possessing or purchasing firearms for up to ten years following their conviction.

Senator Julie Pazina issued the following statement:

“I am thrilled to see my colleagues in the Senate support Senate Bill 89 and look forward to this legislation passing the Assembly and getting signed into law. This is a common-sense bill that aims to protect Nevadans by keeping firearms out of the hands of those convicted of hate crimes. This is an important step in ensuring that all Nevadans feel safe in our state, no matter the color of their skin, who they love, or how they worship.”

André C. Wade, State Director, Silver State Equality, issued the following statement:

“The veracity of hate-fueled crime is why it’s so important for our elected leaders to do everything in their power to keep guns out of the hands of individuals whose goal it is to divide communities and serve vengeance on those they deem less than. Allowing individuals who are convicted of hate crimes to purchase or possess guns only gives them a lethal tool to further spread their hate. Nevadans want sensible gun violence prevention laws - SB89 is a step in that direction. Silver State Equality thanks Nevada Senator Julie Pazina and all who voted in favor of SB89.”

Shelbie Swartz, Executive Director of Battle Born Progress, issued the following statement:

“Hate crimes aren’t just crimes against one person—they’re messages of fear aimed at entire communities. And when firearms enter that equation, the results can be catastrophic. Senate Bill 89 sends a clear message that Nevada will not tolerate hate, and we won’t hand weapons to people convicted of acting on it. We thank Senator Pazina for her work on this measure, and we thank every Senator who supported this bill. Nevadans do not want people who have been convicted of hate-motivated crimes to be able to own or possess firearms. Plain and simple, this bill is a step in the right direction.”

Emma Brown, Executive Director, GIFFORDS, issued the following statement:

“'Disarm Hate' laws like the legislation advanced today by Nevada lawmakers are essential to pushing back against extremism and hate-fueled violence,” said Agustin Cabrera, State Legislative Manager at GIFFORDS. “In a time when communities face rising threats and intimidation, keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals is a critical step toward safety. Today marks meaningful progress—and now it’s up to lawmakers to get this bill across the finish line.”

Eric Jeng, Executive Director, One APIA Nevada, issued the following statement:

“The pain of hate-driven violence remains fresh in our minds — from the rise of Anti Asian Hate tragedies targeting our communities to acts of hate across our country. Senate Bill 89 is a crucial step toward ensuring that those who act on hate are not given easy access to firearms. We are grateful to Senator Pazina for championing this measure and to every Senator who voted to prioritize the safety of all communities. In Nevada, we must continue standing together against hate and building a future where everyone can live with dignity and without fear.”

Kris Brown, President, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the following statement:

“Gun violence in all forms has deeply affected Nevada communities, taking the lives of over 600 people in the state every year. But the passage of these life-saving gun violence prevention bills through the Nevada State House marks a critical step forward in changing this devastating reality. By prohibiting firearm ownership for those convicted of hate crimes, Nevada is passing common-sense legislation that will build a better, safer future for generations to come. This is a reminder that enough is enough. It is time we take bold action to end gun violence in Nevada. Brady thanks Senator Pazina for her leadership on this issue.”

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