Law would make it illegal for youths to carry stun guns

Fourteen-year-olds shouldn't be allowed to buy and carry electronic stun guns, according to a bill which advanced Thursday in the Nevada Legislature

AB123 was intended to make the use of a stun gun for any purpose other than self-defense a felony. The guns were designed for self-defense or as a nonlethal way for law enforcement to control a violent suspect. They use high-powered electric charges to disable an attacker.

A number of lawmakers and public officials raised concerns earlier this session when the Assembly passed AB123 with provisions allowing anyone 14 or older to buy, possess and use the stun guns.

Some teens - particularly girls - have been buying and carrying the guns for self- protection, in some cases provided by their parents.

Sen. Valerie Wiener, D-Las Vegas, moved to amend the bill so that no one under 18 can buy, possess or legally use a stun gun.

Sen. Terry Care, D-Las Vegas, said they should also prevent people from selling stun guns to minors.

"If it's illegal for a 14-year-old to possess, such as spray paint, then it ought to be illegal for someone to sell it to someone under 18," he said.

He said he might bring another amendment to the floor to put that provision in. That provision will also be part of the amendment on the Senate floor.

The only no vote on the Senate Judiciary Committee came from Sen. Maurice Washington, R-Sparks.