Nevada Democratic leaders tout bill to support first responders

CARSON CITY — People who commit felonies against first responders and target them because of the jobs they do would face enhanced penalties under a bill introduced Thursday in the state Senate.

Sponsored by Majority Leader Aaron Ford, Speaker Jason Frierson and others, Senate Bill 541 adds prison time of one year to 20 years for felonies committed against police officers, firefighters or emergency medical personnel acting in their normal course of duty.

Speaking at a press conference flanked by law enforcement, firefighters and others, Ford, D-Las Vegas, said the proposed legislation will “send a message, one that is loud and clear, one that conveys the message that Nevada will not tolerate attacks on our brave first responders who work to protect and defend our liberties.”

The bill is a response to several incidents around the country where first responders were ambushed while answering emergencies.

Read more: https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/2017-legislature/nevada-democratic-leaders-tout-bill-to-support-first-responders/