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Committee narrows batterers-intervention programs to evidence-based curricula in SB84
Summary
Senate Bill 84 would require batterers intervention programs in Nevada to use evidence-based curriculum and instructional materials; the Department of Health and Human Services presenter said the change clarifies existing practice and aids oversight; the bill drew unanimous support in testimony and no opposition at the hearing.
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services heard Senate Bill 84 on March 3, 2025, which would require that curricula and instructional materials used in batterers intervention programs in Nevada be evidence-based.
Liz Ortenberger, introduced by the Department of Health and Human Services, told the committee the bill clarifies existing expectations for programs that operate as diversionary options for people convicted of domestic-violence offenses. Batterers intervention programs provide 26- or 52-week classes as alternatives to incarceration in some cases. Ortenberger said the proposed language explicitly requires curriculum and instructional materials to be evidence-based so that the Department of Behavioral Health can better oversee provider compliance during site visits and application reviews.
Riley Svenson of the Nevada Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence testified in support, saying evidence-based programs are critical to reducing recidivism. No witnesses in opposition or neutral testimony expressed substantive concerns; the Department of Health and Human Services noted there are 23 licensed providers in the state and described the application and oversight process used by Behavioral Health. Committee members asked for a brief explanation of how Behavioral Health reviews curricula; Ortenberger described the program-application process and the department’s ability to request documentation during site visits.
No formal vote was taken at the hearing.
The committee closed the hearing and moved on to public comment.
