“A law like this may have been able to assist law enforcement,” Sgt. Michael Kozelichki said.

Both sides agreed on one thing — something needs to be done.

“Not doing anything is unacceptable,” said State Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln.

Morfeld introduced the state’s first proposal for a “red-flag” law. Such laws have been adopted by 14 states and have shown promise in reducing suicides by firearms.

Under Legislative Bill 58, if a family member, roommate or law enforcement official senses that a person poses a “significant risk” of harm to themselves or others, they can petition a judge to have firearms within easy access of that person removed.

Often, Morfeld said, a person exhibits warning signs before attempting suicide or a violent act. He said his Extreme Risk Protection Act would allow the temporary removal of guns for up to 12 months, thus providing a “time out” in which a person could seek help or cool off.

“The purpose of this law is to save lives,” the senator said.

Law enforcement officials and a trio of university students supported the bill, saying it would be a valuable tool to remove deadly weapons from people in crisis when other steps fail.