Nevada Assembly passes comprehensive bill addressing domestic violence and child protection laws

Nevada's Assembly Committee on Judiciary made significant strides in enhancing public safety and legal protections during its recent meeting on June 2, 2025. Key legislative amendments were discussed, focusing on child welfare, stalking laws, and domestic violence, among other critical issues.

One of the most impactful decisions was the amendment to Nevada's stalking laws, which now explicitly includes accessing a victim's social media accounts as part of a stalker's conduct. This change aims to strengthen protections for victims by recognizing the evolving nature of stalking in the digital age. The bill also revises the definition of cyberstalking to encompass various electronic communications, ensuring that victims have broader legal recourse.

In a move to address child exploitation, the committee approved a measure that allows for separate felony charges for each child depicted in illegal images. This change reflects a commitment to recognizing the individual trauma experienced by each victim, aligning legal consequences with the severity of the crime.

The meeting also addressed domestic violence, mandating that offenders surrender their firearms within a specified timeframe following a conviction. This requirement aims to enhance safety for victims and ensure compliance with protective orders. Additionally, the bill introduces a new crime targeting "smash and grab" offenses, which will apply to incidents involving significant property damage and theft.

Another notable discussion centered on the need for improved safety in schools, particularly in light of the 6,800 violent incidents reported in Clark County Schools over a seven-month period. The bill stipulates that students who assault school employees must undergo evaluation before returning to the community, emphasizing the importance of safety in educational environments.

Furthermore, the committee explored updates to the state's approach to opioid use disorder, mandating collaboration between the Nevada Department of Corrections and the Department of Health and Human Services to implement effective treatment programs. This initiative aims to address the growing opioid crisis and ensure that individuals receive necessary support during incarceration.

As these legislative changes move forward, they reflect a proactive approach to addressing pressing issues within Nevada's legal framework, ultimately aiming to enhance community safety and support for vulnerable populations. The committee's actions signal a commitment to adapting laws to meet contemporary challenges and protect the rights of all Nevadans.