Nevada2025Active
AB118
Limits Court Orders for Child Reunification Programs and Requires Training
Last scannedAug 22, 2026, 1:27 AM
In one sentence
This law stops courts from ordering children into family reunification programs if those programs require specific harmful conditions, and it requires training for judges and court staff on child safety.
What it does
- Defines 'family reunification treatment' as services meant to help a child reconnect with an estranged or rejected parent or immediate family member.
- Prohibits courts from ordering children into these programs if the program cuts off contact with other family members, requires overnight stays away from home, changes custody, uses force or threats, or isolates the child.
- Requires the Court Administrator to arrange training courses for judges and court staff who handle child custody or domestic violence cases.
- Mandates that this training must help courts recognize abuse and trauma while prioritizing children's safety.
- Requires an annual report to be submitted by January 1 listing the training courses offered and how many people attended.
Who it affects
- Children involved in family court cases regarding custody or reunification.
- Judges, magistrates, referees, guardians ad litem, mediators, and other court employees who work on child custody or domestic violence matters.
- The Court Administrator of the state.
Limits and unknowns
- The law does not specify exactly which circumstances allow courts to order these programs, only listing conditions that are forbidden.
- The text states the training must follow federal laws but does not list every specific rule from those federal laws.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Family reunification treatment
- A program designed to help a child build a relationship with an estranged or rejected parent or immediate family member, such as camps, workshops, therapeutic vacations, or educational programs.
- Guardian ad litem
- A person appointed by the court who regularly interacts with people involved in child custody proceedings to represent the best interests of a child during legal proceedings.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Revises provisions relating to domestic relations. (BDR 11-182)