In discussing the scope of the gang problem, the author notes that although researchers do not agree on a definition of "street gang," certain elements appear in most modern street gangs. Most gangs have certain organizational and geographical characteristics, symbols, and criminal activities that make them identifiable. A discussion of the characteristics of street gangs considers income-producing activities and activities designed to protect a gang's turf from other gangs and counter the influence of other gangs. A review of literature on the expansion of street gangs notes that gangs have been identified in all 50 States. The authors conclude that the spread of gangs across the Nation is due in part to the lucrative drug markets that these gangs aspire to control. A review of street gangs in Nevada addresses the Las Vegas area and the Reno area. Local responses to street gangs are documented for the United States as a whole and for the Nevada areas of Las Vegas and Reno. A discussion of State legislative responses to gangs advises that with the exception of a few States, legislatures have not responded. Nevada has legislation regarding general crimes likely to be committed by gang members, and the 1989 legislature also enacted at least seven laws designed, in part, to curb gang violence and crime. Proposed Nevada legislation pertinent to gangs is also profiled. 13 references and an attachment of recommendations for legislative activity to control gangs in California