Nevada Assembly Judiciary Committee supports SB 140 for juvenile intervention programs
May 10, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The Assembly Judiciary Committee of the Nevada State Legislature convened on May 9, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 140, a proposed expansion of therapeutic programs aimed at supporting youth with neurodevelopmental disorders. The bill received overwhelming support from various stakeholders, emphasizing its potential to reduce recidivism and foster safer communities.
Paloma Guerrero from the Clark County Public Defender's Office highlighted the impressive 90 percent success rate of therapeutic programs, arguing that investing in these resources is a proactive approach to crime prevention. She noted that such initiatives not only benefit the youth but also save the state money in the long run.
Jonathan Norman from the Nevada Coalition of Legal Service Providers underscored the importance of accountability in the judicial process, particularly through the day court program, which ensures that parents and stakeholders remain engaged in the welfare of children in foster care. This oversight, he argued, significantly improves outcomes for at-risk youth.
Support for SB 140 was echoed by multiple representatives, including Tonia Brown from Advocates for the Inmates and the Innocent, who stressed the bill's role in breaking the cycle of incarceration. John McCormick, assistant court administrator, and Jeff Rogan from the Clark County Department of Juvenile Justice Services also voiced their backing, reinforcing the bill's alignment with the goals of specialty courts.
The committee heard from Eric Lobas, a long-time autism treatment expert, who emphasized the need for effective behavioral interventions for children with autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. He praised the bill's focus on treatment rather than punitive measures.
Carissa Pierce from the Children's Advocacy Alliance pointed out that children with neurodevelopmental disorders often face significant challenges without appropriate interventions. She argued that SB 140 would connect these youth with necessary evidence-based treatments, steering them away from punitive actions.
The committee did not receive any opposition to the bill, indicating a strong consensus on its importance. Senator James Ohrenshaw and Judge Bailey, who championed the bill, expressed gratitude for the committee's consideration and reiterated the transformative impact of the day court program on the lives of children.
As the hearing concluded, the committee's support for SB 140 signals a commitment to innovative solutions that address the unique needs of vulnerable youth in Nevada, aiming to create a more supportive and effective judicial system.
Paloma Guerrero from the Clark County Public Defender's Office highlighted the impressive 90 percent success rate of therapeutic programs, arguing that investing in these resources is a proactive approach to crime prevention. She noted that such initiatives not only benefit the youth but also save the state money in the long run.
Jonathan Norman from the Nevada Coalition of Legal Service Providers underscored the importance of accountability in the judicial process, particularly through the day court program, which ensures that parents and stakeholders remain engaged in the welfare of children in foster care. This oversight, he argued, significantly improves outcomes for at-risk youth.
Support for SB 140 was echoed by multiple representatives, including Tonia Brown from Advocates for the Inmates and the Innocent, who stressed the bill's role in breaking the cycle of incarceration. John McCormick, assistant court administrator, and Jeff Rogan from the Clark County Department of Juvenile Justice Services also voiced their backing, reinforcing the bill's alignment with the goals of specialty courts.
The committee heard from Eric Lobas, a long-time autism treatment expert, who emphasized the need for effective behavioral interventions for children with autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. He praised the bill's focus on treatment rather than punitive measures.
Carissa Pierce from the Children's Advocacy Alliance pointed out that children with neurodevelopmental disorders often face significant challenges without appropriate interventions. She argued that SB 140 would connect these youth with necessary evidence-based treatments, steering them away from punitive actions.
The committee did not receive any opposition to the bill, indicating a strong consensus on its importance. Senator James Ohrenshaw and Judge Bailey, who championed the bill, expressed gratitude for the committee's consideration and reiterated the transformative impact of the day court program on the lives of children.
As the hearing concluded, the committee's support for SB 140 signals a commitment to innovative solutions that address the unique needs of vulnerable youth in Nevada, aiming to create a more supportive and effective judicial system.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting