The recent legislative session in Nevada has resulted in a variety of new laws that could impact residents in different ways. Here’s a summary of some notable changes:
- To-Go Cocktails: Counties can now allow food establishments to sell or deliver alcoholic beverages for takeout, bringing back a popular option from the COVID-19 era.
- Home Business Licensing: Residents producing homemade food or cosmetics for sale must obtain a license from the State Department of Agriculture. The law raises the revenue cap for cottage food operations to $100,000 annually.
- Regulation of Hemp Shops: New regulations require shops selling hemp to clearly state they are not licensed cannabis dispensaries, aiming to prevent consumer confusion.
- Identity Theft Protections: Starting in 2027, victims of identity theft can obtain a new driver’s license with a new number at no cost.
- Rental Application Fee Refunds: Landlords must return application fees if a prospective tenant does not secure the apartment. Additional fees for online rent payments exceeding the platform cost are also prohibited.
- School Bus Safety Cameras: School districts can install cameras on buses to catch drivers who fail to stop, with citations issued based on camera footage.
- Helium Balloon Ban: Intentionally releasing helium balloons outdoors is subject to a $250 civil penalty, effective from October 1.
- Inflatables Safety: Use of bounce houses in winds over 15 mph is banned. Operators must secure inflatables and meet insurance and licensing requirements starting January 1, 2026.
- Stricter DUI Penalties: Repeat DUI offenders face stricter penalties, with the threshold for mandatory evaluations lowered to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.16.
- Private Gaming Salons: Casinos can set their own minimum wagers in private gaming salons without statutory limits, allowing more flexibility for high-stakes gaming.
- Online Cigar Tax: A new tax on online cigar and pipe tobacco sales has been introduced, with specific rates for premium cigars.
- Car Rental Insurance Requirement: Car rental companies must require proof of insurance from renters or offer temporary insurance options from October 1.
- Summer Construction Hours: Construction can begin at 5 a.m. during the summer months if the site is more than 300 feet from residential areas.
- Religious Sign Display: Landlords and homeowners associations cannot prohibit the display of religious or cultural items, with size and content restrictions.
- Wildfire Smoke Protections: New air quality regulations require employers to take protective measures when smoke levels reach unhealthy thresholds, though exemptions apply to smaller employers and certain industries.
These laws address various aspects of daily life, including public safety, consumer protection, and business operations, reflecting a broad scope of legislative priorities.
