Lawmakers consider pilot program for probation violators

Nevada lawmakers start the 11th week of their 2009 session today by reviewing a plan that could hold down state costs by keeping some probation violators from serving more prison time.

Senate Finance considers SB398, which provides for a $500,000, two-year pilot program of "intermediate sanction" centers for low-risk probation violators as well as people whose crimes are linked to alcohol or drug addictions.

Those who qualify for the centers would pay for their treatment if they can afford it; and could see convictions set aside if they successfully complete treatment programs.

Also today, Assembly Ways and Means considers AB528, which would erase a requirement that the state Library and Archives be open to the public at least five days a week. The plan is one of many being considered by lawmakers in efforts to reduce a huge revenue shortfall.

On Tuesday, Senate Judiciary reviews AB187, an Assembly-approved proposal to authorize a specialty court that would handle cases of veterans charged with nonviolent crimes and who suffer from mental or substance abuse problems stemming from their military service.

Under the plan, such veterans could go through a treatment program and, if they complete the program, have their criminal file sealed.

Assembly Transportation takes up SB116, a Senate-approved bill that allows police to stop any driver they believe isn't wearing a seat belt.

The measure is a new version of a proposal that has been killed in several previous sessions despite strong support from police agencies.

Also Tuesday, a Senate-Assembly budget subcommittee plans a work session on funding for the state Division of Mental Health and Developmental Services.

On Wednesday, Senate Judiciary considers AB322, an Assembly-endorsed plan to make it easier to prosecute people under Nevada's anti-racketeering laws. AB322, patterned after existing securities laws, would make it a felony to defraud clients at least two times in four years.

U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., is scheduled to address the Legislature. Titus was elected to Congress last year after a long stint as a state senator and service as Senate minority leader.

Also Wednesday, a joint Senate-Assembly budget panel will review funding for the state Education Department.

On Thursday, Senate-Assembly budget subcommittees will review funding for the state Health and Human Services Department, the state's higher education system which has been targeted for deep cuts by Gov. Jim Gibbons, and the state Department of Cultural Affairs.

Lawmakers also are scheduled to hear an address from U.S. Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev.

On Friday, budget subcommittees will review funding for the state Department of Public Safety and for the higher education system.

Also Friday, U.S. Rep. Dean Heller, R-Nev., is scheduled to address the Legislature.