Lincoln, Nebraska — Nebraska lawmakers are considering legislation that would require people subject to domestic violence protection orders to temporarily surrender their firearms, part of a broader effort to strengthen protections for abuse victims.
The Nebraska Legislature’s Judiciary Committee held hearings Friday on five bills addressing domestic violence, including Legislative Bill 1088, introduced by State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln. The proposal would require individuals named in domestic abuse protection orders or convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence to surrender their firearms and provide proof of compliance. Violations would be classified as a Class I misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
Under current Nebraska law, individuals in these categories are prohibited from purchasing new firearms or ammunition, but supporters of LB 1088 argue that existing laws fail to address firearms already in possession. Raybould said the bill would close what she described as a “deadly gap” and align Nebraska with 29 other states that have similar surrender requirements.
Supporters included domestic violence survivors, advocacy organizations, and law enforcement groups who testified that firearms significantly increase the risk of fatal outcomes in abusive situations, particularly during the period when protection orders are sought. Opponents, including representatives from law enforcement and legal professionals, raised concerns about firearm storage capacity, enforcement logistics, and potential conflicts with federal standards.
Raybould said she is open to amendments addressing implementation and law enforcement concerns as the bill advances.
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