A law that went into effect earlier this month will task law enforcement to carry out civilian warrants to confiscate firearms.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister told Regional Radio, 'Karina's Law' allows those who have an order of protection against another individual to have a search warrant executed to seize the firearms of that individual.

Chief Meister calls it a huge burden on law enforcement. While much of his staff is trained in tactical situations like executing a search warrant, there will be continuing education that comes with this legislation.

There are several concerns over this legislation. Chief Meister points out this will bog down law enforcement because he predicts many petty or frivolous orders of protection being sought and then the following search warrant requests.

Chief Meister also is concerned that executing a search warrant on short notice will create uncertain circumstances for his officers. He explains, normally there is knowledge of what is happening at the targeted site of a warrant but with this legislation, there will be little time to prepare. 

Another piece of legislation, House Bill 1611, works in direct opposition to 'Karina's Law'. We'll have more on that proposal that is in the House next week on Regional Radio.