Nevada Senate Bill SB222

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/23
• Refer: 3/6/23
• Report Pass: 4/19/23
• Refer: 4/19/23
• Report Pass: 5/29/23
• Engrossed: 5/30/23
• Refer: 5/30/23
• Report Pass: 5/31/23
• Enrolled: 6/8/23
• Chaptered: 6/12/23
• Passed: 6/12/23

Caption

Revises provisions relating to juries. (BDR 1-192)

Impact

In addition to broadening the pool of jurors, SB222 increases the compensation jurors receive for their service. Specifically, it raises the daily juror fee from $40 to $65 for those serving from the second day of jury selection onward. This change is significant as it aims to encourage greater participation in jury duty by providing fairer compensation, particularly beneficial for those who may face financial hardships. The bill also makes provisions for additional allowances for long-distance travelers, further helping to ease the burden on jurors who must travel significantly to attend court.

Summary

Senate Bill 222 aims to revise several provisions concerning the selection and compensation of jurors in Nevada. The bill allows jury commissioners to include names from the Department of Health and Human Services, particularly those who receive public assistance, onto the list of qualified jurors. This inclusion serves to diversify the pool of jurors by ensuring representation from various segments of society. It further mandates that the jury commissioners maintain updated records and submit annual reports detailing the demographics of jurors selected, which might enhance transparency in jury selection processes.

Contention

Some notable points of contention include discussions surrounding the implications of including public assistance recipients in the juror pool. While proponents assert that this will enhance representation and inclusivity in the judicial process, opponents may raise concerns regarding potential biases or implications on juror independence. Furthermore, the appropriations required to implement these changes, such as the funding for developing connections to the Department of Health and Human Services' systems, may also draw scrutiny concerning budget allocations within the state.

Voting_history

The bill was passed in the Assembly on June 3, 2023, with a unanimous vote of 42 yeas and 0 nays, showcasing strong bipartisan support for the proposed changes.