The Nevada Senate Committee on Judiciary convened on June 1, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 91 (AB 91), a proposed piece of legislation aimed at providing a second chance for individuals who have demonstrated rehabilitation after serving long sentences. The bill seeks to create a process for reviewing the cases of those incarcerated, allowing the parole board to assess whether continued imprisonment serves a public safety purpose.

Supporters of AB 91 emphasized the importance of recognizing that people can change over time. Testimonies highlighted personal stories of individuals who have transformed their lives while incarcerated, advocating for the opportunity to present their cases for potential release. Nick Schepack, the Nevada state director of the Fines and Fees Justice Center, noted that the bill aligns with a growing national conversation about criminal justice reform, referencing similar initiatives like the First Step Act under former President Trump.

Several speakers, including representatives from the NAACP and Families Against Mandatory Minimums, echoed the sentiment that the current justice system often fails to account for the capacity for change in individuals who committed crimes decades ago. They argued that many of these individuals, who were sentenced as youths, have matured and rehabilitated during their time in prison.

The committee heard from individuals who shared their experiences of incarceration and the impact of long sentences on their families. They stressed that AB 91 does not guarantee release but rather opens a pathway for individuals to demonstrate their growth and readiness to reintegrate into society. The bill aims to address the issues of over-sentencing and racial bias within the justice system, providing hope for families who have been separated for years.

In conclusion, AB 91 represents a significant step towards reforming Nevada's criminal justice system by allowing for a more humane approach to sentencing and rehabilitation. The committee's discussions reflect a broader recognition of the need for policies that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, with the potential to reunite families and strengthen communities. The next steps will involve further deliberation and potential voting on the bill as the legislative session progresses.