By a combined vote of 61 to 2, the Nevada Legislature has passed Assembly Bill 107, a measure that removes certain marijuana-related convictions from disqualifying individuals from working in or operating foster homes.
(Photo credit: http://nevadalawhelp.org/).
AB 107 was approved by the state Senate on May 23 with a 19 to 2 vote, after having previously passed the Assembly unanimously in April, 42 to 0. It will now be sent to Governor Joe Lombardo for consideration.
Under current law, individuals convicted of violating any law regulating controlled substances—including marijuana—were barred from residing in, being employed by, or operating a foster home. AB 107 revises this policy by allowing individuals with prior convictions for marijuana possession (not for the purpose of sale) to be eligible, so long as the offense occurred more than five years ago.
The legislation updates state requirements for background checks conducted on applicants, employees, and adult residents of foster homes. It specifically excludes older marijuana possession offenses from the list of disqualifying crimes, provided the convictions did not involve intent to sell and did not occur within the past five years.
Supporters say the bill helps remove outdated barriers created by now-obsolete marijuana laws, especially as Nevada legalized adult-use marijuana in 2016. The change is expected to expand the pool of qualified individuals who can support the state’s foster care system while acknowledging broader changes in public attitudes and state policy regarding marijuana use.
The bill takes effect immediately upon being signed by the governor.
