NEVADA — State legislators are considering a bill that would ban weapons such as pocket knives from school campuses and off-campus school activities. The bill was inspired in part by a gang-related attempted murder that took place at Reno High School in September.
SB171 would ban machetes, axes, hatchets and swords as well as the possession of a knife with a blade over two inches on school grounds or at school activities, RGJ.com reports. Violators would be charged with a gross misdemeanor.
Opposition to the bill is primarily focused on what constitutes a dangerous knife. Critics believe that violators could be severely punished for innocent behavior, needlessly exposing students to the criminal justice system.
A similar bill proposed in 2007 Legislative session but died in committee.
