Nevada 2025 Regular Session

Nevada Senate Bill SB309

Introduced
3/10/25  
Refer
3/10/25  
Report Pass
4/17/25  
Refer
4/17/25  
Report Pass
5/28/25  
Engrossed
5/30/25  
Refer
5/30/25  
Report Pass
5/31/25  
Enrolled
6/6/25  
Chaptered
6/11/25  

Caption

Revises provisions relating to crimes. (BDR 43-906)

Impact

The enactment of SB309 will result in stricter penalties for DUI offenders in Nevada. For instance, the minimum jail sentence for a second DUI offense within seven years is set to increase from 10 days to 20 days. It provides that individuals convicted of such offenses must also participate in treatment programs aimed at addressing substance use disorders, potentially reducing the recidivism rate and promoting rehabilitation. By integrating treatment mandates with penalties, the law aims not only to punish offenses but also to address underlying health issues contributing to such behavior.

Summary

Senate Bill 309 (SB309) revises provisions related to driving under the influence of alcohol and certain other prohibited substances, focusing on the penalties that offenders might face based on their prior offenses. This bill specifically reduces the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold from 0.18 to 0.16, meaning that individuals found to be at or above this level will now face increased scrutiny and potential penalties for DUI offenses. Additionally, SB309 mandates that offenders with a BAC at or above this new threshold undergo an evaluation for alcohol or substance use disorders before sentencing, thereby linking legal consequences with treatment for addiction.

Contention

Though supportive legislators argue that SB309 offers a necessary update to DUI laws and enhances public safety, there are concerns about the fairness of implementing harsher penalties. Critics argue that reducing the BAC threshold may disproportionately affect certain demographics and that the mandatory evaluations could overwhelm treatment systems that are already strained. The change may also lead to an increase in legal challenges regarding the enforcement of the new standards, raising questions about the bill's practicality and effectiveness in promoting overall public health and safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NV AB397

Revises provisions governing public safety. (BDR 43-210)

NV AB17

Revises provisions relating to penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. (BDR 43-465)

NV SB59

Revises provisions relating to vessels. (BDR 43-225)

NV SB284

Revises provisions relating to driving or operating certain vehicles or vessels while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. (BDR 16-940)

NV SB227

Revises provisions relating to crimes. (BDR 15-17)

NV SB412

Revises provisions relating to criminal justice. (BDR 15-1091)

NV SB86

Revises provisions related to crimes. (BDR 14-106)

NV AB364

Revises provisions governing the Board of Medical Examiners. (BDR 54-148)

NV SB66

Revises provisions relating to public safety. (BDR 43-256)

NV SB35

Revises provisions relating to controlled substances. (BDR 40-423)

Similar Bills

OK SB54

Motor vehicles; modifying scope and sentencing provisions for certain offenses. Effective date.

OK HB3044

Motor vehicles; requiring certain persons complete Impaired Driver Accountability Program; allowing for satisfaction of requirements under certain condition; effective date.

OK HB2563

Driving under the influence; providing an exception to certain prohibited act; effective date.

OK HB2563

Driving under the influence; providing an exception to certain prohibited act; effective date.

NV SB304

Revises provisions relating to the crime of vehicular homicide. (BDR 43-370)

OK SB1649

Motor vehicles; persons under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substance; modifying certain penalty. Effective date.

OK HB2151

Driving under the influence; creating the Drunk Impaired Accountability Law (DIAL); requiring the development of certain cellular phone tracking application; effective date.

OK HB2151

Driving under the influence; creating the Drunk Impaired Accountability Law (DIAL); requiring the development of certain cellular phone tracking application; effective date.