Nevada AFL-CIO backs expanded background checks for gun buys

CARSON CITY — The Nevada State AFL-CIO has endorsed Question 1 on the November ballot requiring expanded background checks for gun purchases.

“No one law can prevent every crime but background checks are an effective tool to reduce gun violence and that will save lives,” Danny Thompson, executive secretary-treasurer of the labor group, said in a statement Tuesday.

The Nevada AFL-CIO is a state federation of labor representing more than 200,000 workers in unions around the state. The organization voted to support the initiative at its August convention in Reno.

Under Question 1, criminal background checks through a licensed dealer would be required for most sales or transfers of firearms. There would be limited exceptions for the transfer of guns between immediate family members; executors or administrators of estates; when necessary to prevent imminent death or harm; for hunting; or at shooting ranges or competitions.

A bill passed by the 2013 Legislature to require background checks for private sales and sales at gun shows was vetoed by Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval, who said it infringed on Nevadans’ Second Amendment rights.

Proponents then gathered signatures to put the issue to voters.

Opponents argue the measure won’t stop criminals from obtaining guns.

Robert Uithoven, director of NRA Nevadans for Freedom, said the measure “will make it harder for law-abiding gun owners to protect and defend themselves.”

Contact Sandra Chereb at schereb@reviewjournal.com or 775-461-3821. Follow @SandraChereb on Twitter.