Bill > AB416

This bill addresses access to library materials in Nevada's schools, public libraries, and higher education institutions by establishing clear guidelines for preserving intellectual freedom and preventing censorship. The bill prohibits school districts, charter schools, library employees, and volunteers from limiting students' access to library materials through actions like removing books from circulation, moving materials to conceal them, labeling materials as objectionable, or defacing books. It allows for reasonable restrictions related to safety, time and place, or maintenance, but explicitly states that such restrictions cannot be based on the content of materials or characteristics of the authors or subjects. The bill also creates legal protections for individuals who select or provide access to library materials, making it a felony for anyone to use force, intimidation, or coercion to prevent library material access or to retaliate against library staff or students. Additionally, the bill extends similar protections to public libraries and institutions within the Nevada System of Higher Education, allowing the Board of Regents to adopt policies preventing library material restrictions. A person who objects to a library material can petition a court for removal, but only if the material is deemed legally obscene based on specific community standards, and only if the petitioner is directly connected to the institution (such as a parent, student, or employee).

Budget and Finance, Education, Justice

https://www.leg.state.nv.us/App/NELIS/REL/83rd2025/Bill/12595/Overview