Revises provisions relating to domestic violence. (BDR 40-488)
Summary
SB84 revises Nevada law governing programs that treat persons who commit domestic violence. The bill directs the Division of Public and Behavioral Health to adopt regulations requiring that both the curriculum and instructional materials used in these programs be evidence-based. Existing law already required these programs to include a victim-safety module and to be based on evidence-based practices and participant assessment; SB84 adds a more specific evidence-based standard for the instructional content itself.
The bill also preserves and reinforces the state’s certification framework for domestic violence treatment programs, including the ability to certify out-of-state programs that serve Nevada residents who are ordered by a Nevada court to participate. The measure takes effect immediately for rulemaking and administrative preparation, with the substantive changes becoming effective October 1, 2025.
Impact
SB84 amends NRS 439.258, expanding the Division of Public and Behavioral Health’s regulatory authority over domestic violence treatment programs by requiring evidence-based curriculum and instructional materials. It affects program providers, treatment supervisors, and any out-of-state programs seeking Nevada certification, while leaving the existing certification, monitoring, and victim-safety requirements in place. The bill primarily changes administrative standards rather than creating a new program or penalty.
Sentiment
The available voting history shows strong, unanimous support: the Senate passed the bill 21-0 and the Assembly passed it 42-0. No committee transcript excerpts were provided, but the final votes indicate broad bipartisan agreement and little visible opposition. Overall, the bill appears to have been viewed as a technical but meaningful improvement to domestic violence treatment standards.
Contention
No specific points of contention are reflected in the provided record. Based on the text, the main policy choice is the added requirement that curriculum and instructional materials be evidence-based, which could affect how treatment providers select and justify their program content. Another potential issue is the certification of out-of-state programs serving Nevada residents, but the bill preserves that pathway rather than restricting it.