LAS VEGAS, NV — The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent 6-3 ruling to overturn a Trump-era ban on bump stocks has sparked immediate reactions from Nevada’s leaders and congressional delegation, reigniting debates over gun control and public safety in the aftermath of the 1 October shooting.

Court Decision and Legislative Background

The Supreme Court’s majority decision emphasized that the authority to regulate bump stocks rests with Congress rather than the executive branch. Initially banned in 2019 under the Trump Administration’s regulatory measures, bump stocks were categorized as components of machine guns. Despite this federal prohibition, bump stocks remain illegal under Nevada state law.

Impact of 1 October Shooting

On October 1, 2017, Stephen Paddock used bump stocks to devastating effect, firing over 1,000 rounds in just 11 minutes from his Mandalay Bay hotel room onto concertgoers below at the Route 91 Harvest festival. The attack resulted in 60 deaths and left hundreds injured, marking it as the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history at the time.

Political and Public Reactions

Reacting to the Supreme Court’s decision, Nevada’s Democratic leaders expressed profound disappointment and renewed calls for legislative action. Congresswoman Dina Titus condemned the ruling, advocating for her BUMP Stock bill as a necessary step to prevent future tragedies. Similarly, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto urged swift congressional action to permanently ban bump stocks, citing their potential to exacerbate gun violence.

Advocacy for Legislation

Senator Jacky Rosen criticized the Supreme Court’s decision as prioritizing corporate interests over public safety, echoing sentiments shared by Representative Steven Horsford, who characterized the ruling as siding with violent criminals. Horsford highlighted ongoing trauma within the Las Vegas community and reiterated the need for bipartisan efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Legal and Public Safety Concerns

Attorney General Aaron Ford of Nevada underscored the emotional and practical impact of the Supreme Court’s decision, urging Congress to reinstate the bump stock ban through legislative means. Ford emphasized the widespread devastation caused by bump stocks and lamented the court’s perceived disregard for public safety.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the bump stock ban has reopened wounds in the Las Vegas community, prompting renewed calls for legislative action to prevent gun violence. As discussions continue on Capitol Hill, the future regulation of bump stocks remains uncertain, leaving many to ponder the balance between gun rights and public safety.

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