Nevada Legislature Considers Bill to Protect Good Samaritans Rescuing Children and Animals Trapped in Hot Cars

NEVADA – On Thursday, the Nevada Legislature reviewed a bill that proposes immunity for anyone who breaks into a car to rescue a child or an animal. SB 190 aims to provide legal protection to those who act in good faith to save a life or prevent harm to a defenseless creature.

According to the bill, law enforcement officers or any other person who reasonably believes that a child aged seven or younger, or an animal, is locked inside a motor vehicle would not be held liable for any civil or criminal charges if they use reasonable means to remove them from the car. The proposed law requires the person to call 911 and stay with the rescued victim in a safe place near the vehicle until law enforcement arrives.

The bill does not extend immunity to anyone who accidentally locks a child in a car. However, the legislation is expected to give more confidence to people who encounter a vulnerable child or animal in a locked vehicle on a hot day and wish to intervene without fear of legal consequences.

If passed, SB 190 would come into effect on July 1, offering protection to those who act in good faith to save a life or prevent harm. Nevada would join a growing number of US states that have enacted similar laws in recent years to protect good Samaritans who rescue children and animals trapped in hot cars.

Credits: Fox5Vegas