Assembly Bill 216, introduced in the Nevada State Legislature on March 2, 2025, aims to enhance the safety of domestic violence victims through a structured lethality assessment process. This bill mandates that peace officers conduct a series of targeted questions to evaluate the potential danger faced by individuals in domestic violence situations.

The core of AB216 revolves around a lethality assessment form that officers must complete when responding to domestic violence incidents. If a victim answers affirmatively to specific questions regarding their safety—such as threats from an aggressor or previous suicide attempts—the officer is required to take immediate action. This includes advising the victim of their potentially lethal situation, providing a domestic violence resource card, and connecting them with a victim’s advocate for further support.

Notably, the bill addresses critical gaps in current domestic violence response protocols, aiming to provide timely assistance to those at risk. The legislation has sparked discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups, with supporters emphasizing its potential to save lives and opponents raising concerns about the adequacy of resources for victims post-assessment.

The implications of AB216 are significant, as it not only seeks to improve immediate responses to domestic violence but also aims to create a database for tracking incidents and outcomes, which could inform future policy decisions. Experts believe that the bill could lead to a more informed approach to domestic violence prevention and intervention in Nevada.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its supporters are hopeful for swift passage, while critics call for a thorough evaluation of the resources available to support victims after the assessment. The outcome of AB216 could reshape how Nevada addresses domestic violence, making it a pivotal moment in the state's legislative history.