Nevada Legislation Targets Climate-Related Health Risks
Nevada has taken significant strides to safeguard communities from climate-related health threats with the enactment of two pivotal laws. Assembly Bill 96 (AB96) mandates that Clark and Washoe counties devise heat mitigation strategies to combat extreme heat, requiring investments in public cooling centers, increased access to drinking water, and the development of shade infrastructures. Notably, this bill had faced a veto during the 2023 state legislative session but has now been revitalized to address urgent public health needs.
Senate Bill 260 (SB260) complements AB96 by focusing on the safety of outdoor workers. This legislation directs Nevada’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to establish regulations for managing wildfire smoke. Employers will be tasked with monitoring air quality and restricting work activities during hazardous smoke conditions.
Jackie Spicer, coordinator for the Nevada Environmental Justice Coalition, emphasized the critical nature of these laws, citing the growing public health crisis posed by extreme heat and wildfire smoke. “Extreme heat is dangerous, it’s deadly,” Spicer remarked, highlighting its profound implications for both health and financial well-being as residents face increased costs to maintain comfortable living conditions.
Both laws are set to take effect in 2026, with SB260 commencing on January 1 and AB96 following on July 1. The proactive measures introduced by these laws represent Nevada’s commitment to protecting its residents from the escalating impacts of climate change, aiming to create safer and more resilient communities.
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