Criminal Justice (Firearms)

This bill creates two key provisions to enhance firearm safety around minors in Nebraska. First, it establishes a civil cause of action against parents, guardians, or spouses who knowingly allow a child under 14 to possess a handgun or ammunition, making them strictly liable for all damages if the minor causes injury. Second, it creates a new criminal offense for leaving a loaded firearm in an unsecured location accessible to a minor. The bill amends existing statutes to define "child" (under 14) and "handgun," and clarifies that these provisions apply to handguns only - not other firearms. It directly affects adults responsible for minors' safety, imposing legal consequences for negligent firearm access.

Nebraska's LB 539 would eliminate the requirement for most individuals to obtain a certificate before purchasing a handgun, removing a key provision from current law. The bill preserves exceptions for licensed dealers, antique firearms, law enforcement, family transfers, and permit holders, but removes the certificate mandate for all other handgun purchases. It also modifies background check procedures by restricting the information shared with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System to only disqualifying factors, while keeping requirements for mental health and disability reporting. The bill is currently pending in the Judiciary Committee and has not yet become law.