By Chris “Badger” Thomas at Breaking First
LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers appear headed for debate over a “red-flag” bill that would allow authorities to temporarily take guns away from people suspected of being dangerous.
The controversial approach to gun violence advanced from the Judiciary Committee on Wednesday on a 5-2 vote, with one senator abstaining.
State Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln, who introduced Legislative Bill 58, said he is “seriously considering” naming the proposal his priority for the year. Having priority status generally guarantees that a bill will be scheduled for debate. Under the bill, a family member, household member, school superintendent or law enforcement official could petition a judge to have firearms removed from a person if that a person poses a “significant risk” of harm to themselves or others. Omaha Herald
Lincoln Sen. Adam Morfeld introduced a similar bill Thursday in Nebraska, this one called the Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, to enable law enforcement to remove firearms from a person at high risk of harming themselves or others.
Morfeld said that in drafting the bill, he worked with law enforcement and students who planned and participated in the March for Our Lives rally in 2018.
“As a gun owner and an attorney this is a critical component for me, Law enforcement, students and my constituents have made clear the need to have safeguards to ensure that those found to be suffering from severe mental illnesses and individuals who pose an immediate threat do not have access to firearms after an emergency court hearing.”
What Is a Red Flag Law?
Red flag laws are state laws that are known by various names, including “Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs),” “gun-violence restraining orders” and “risk warrants.” They allow law enforcement, family members and even medical professionals in some states to petition the court to temporarily remove firearms and ammunition from a person who is believed to present a danger to himself or herself or others.
A judge rules and, if the order is signed, law enforcement confiscates the firearms and ammunition from the person. The person also loses any concealed carry permits he or she may have and is prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms, typically for up to one year.
All we have to do is follow what has happened in Virginia to see that if, “We The People” continue to tolerate the immense corruption and destruction of our rights, the political machine will continue to grow and we will be forced to our knees.
Chris “Badger” Thomas is a Veteran who served our country as an Army Combat Medic.
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