Silver State Times

Joe Lombardo, Governor of Nevada, announced that the Safe Streets and Neighborhoods Act would enhance the state's penal code by enforcing stricter penalties on theft, fentanyl trafficking, and repeat DUI offenders. The statement was made on X on April 10.

"The Safe Streets and Neighborhoods Act establishes stricter penalties for theft and repeat offenders, targets fentanyl traffickers, and holds repeat DUI offenders accountable," said Lombardo. "It's time to put teeth back into Nevada's penal code. Our bill does just that."

According to ebaillv, the Nevada Safe Streets and Neighborhoods Act, introduced by Governor Lombardo in 2025, seeks to bolster public safety through more severe penalties for repeat and violent offenders. The legislation also addresses drug trafficking by reducing thresholds for trafficking offenses, with a specific emphasis on fentanyl, in an effort to tackle the state’s drug crisis. Additionally, the act suggests reforms in bail policy to ensure that individuals posing significant risks remain detained until trial.

Reported by KNPR in 2024, Nevada experienced a 26% increase in drug overdose deaths, rising from 1,271 to approximately 1,603 fatalities. This increase represented the second-highest percentage rise in the United States at a time when national overdose deaths decreased by 14%. Health officials attribute this surge primarily to the widespread presence of fentanyl in illicit drug supplies.

According to the Review-Journal, Clark County, Nevada recorded 186 homicides in 2024—the lowest total since before the COVID-19 pandemic. This figure marks a notable decline from previous years: 233 homicides in 2023, 234 in 2022, and 247 in 2021. Law enforcement officials credit increased community engagement and targeted policing efforts as contributing factors.

Lombardo is serving as the 31st Governor of Nevada after being elected in 2022 following two terms as Sheriff of Clark County. Prior to his political career, he spent over three decades with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, advancing from officer to sheriff. He is also a U.S. Army veteran and holds degrees from both the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the University of Nevada, Reno.