A Landmark Year for Nevada: New Laws That Impact You
By
Madeleine Jones
October 1, 2023
The legislative session in Nevada has concluded, and it’s truly historic for our state. With more than 500 new laws passed in Nevada and many taking effect as of October 1st, this session has ushered in a wave of transformative changes that will significantly impact our community. At J. Cogburn Law, we are dedicated to effectuating change. This was evident by Jamie Cogburn spending four months at the legislature lobbying for the Nevada Justice Association, which is an organization committed to protecting access to the courtroom and protecting the consumers of Nevada. At J. Cogburn Law, we are dedicated to empowering you with vital insights into these latest legal developments, which directly affect your life. In this article, we will delve into the significance of these new laws, highlighting how they protect your rights and ensure access to a fair and just justice system.
The Impactful Legislation of 2023
Now, let’s delve into the groundbreaking laws passed during the 2023 legislative session that will directly impact our clients:
Medical Malpractice Reform (AB404):
Nevada has long needed significant changes in its medical malpractice laws. After two decades of having one of the most challenging statutes in the nation, we achieved substantial reforms. Key highlights include:
• Increasing the cap on non-economic damages to $750,000, with incremental increases starting in 2024.
• Extending the statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases to 2 years (grants more time to file claims).
Compelled Exams (AB244):
This new law grants individuals substantive rights when compelled to undergo examinations by doctors with whom they have no doctor/patient relationship. It applies to various compelled exams, allowing individuals to video record, audio record, or bring an observer to ensure transparency.
Medical Record Costs Reform (SB283):
Effective October 1, 2023, this law limits the amount medical providers can charge for electronic medical records to $40.00 or $0.60 per page, whichever is less. This eliminates the exorbitant fees charged by medical record companies.
Depleting Insurance Policies (AB398):
Starting October 1, 2023, insurance companies are prohibited from issuing or renewing policies that deplete the policy based on defending an action, ensuring that the policy remains intact.
Soliciting Clients (AB408):
This law makes it a crime to solicit individuals involved in a crash at the scene or a medical facility within 72 hours. It also voids contracts signed by tort victims for such services and allows victims to recover double the fees charged.
Nursing Home Camera Access (AB202):
AB2O2 allows patients in nursing homes to install cameras in their own rooms. This legislation enhances transparency and safety within nursing home facilities. We applaud this measure for its commitment to protecting the elderly and vulnerable members of our community.
Worker Compensation Reform (SB274):
SB274 brings sweeping changes to worker compensation laws, addressing various aspects, including benefit penalties and the ability to obtain a second opinion. These reforms aim to improve the worker compensation system, benefiting employees and employers.
Work Comp Practitioner Regulations (AB165):
AB165 clears up a problem revealed in December for Work Comp practitioners. While we were able to receive an emergency regulation for the issue, this bill makes the fix permanent, providing more clarity and consistency in this area of law.
DUI Punitive Damages (5B401):
5B401 changes the way punitive damages can be considered in DUI cases, further reinforcing the consequences of irresponsible behavior on the road.
Expert Witness Costs (AB76):
AB76 increases the amount the court can award for the costs of expert witnesses, ensuring fair compensation for expert testimony in legal proceedings.
All Things Considered
We remain dedicated to keeping you informed about these developments and their potential impact on your life. If you have any questions or require further information on how these laws may affect your situation, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide you with expert guidance and support as we navigate these changes together.
Contact our office if you’d like to learn more about any of these new laws →