Lawmakers Pass AB6 to Increase Penalties for School-Zone Traffic Violations

A traffic safety bill approved by both chambers of the Nevada Legislature is now awaiting Gov. Joe Lombardo’s signature. Assembly Bill 6 would increase penalties for specific traffic violations occurring in active school zones and allow local governments more flexibility in determining when those zones are activated.

Parents in Clark County say the bill is an important step toward improving student safety. Kara Barry, whose child attends J.D. Smith Middle School, said the higher penalties could encourage drivers to take school-zone rules more seriously.

The push for stronger enforcement follows the recent death of 12-year-old Christopher Suarez, who was struck by a vehicle near his school. Parents in the area say unsafe driving around campuses is a daily concern and forces some families to arrange alternative transportation to avoid having children walk.

CCSD Police reported multiple violations during a recent traffic operation near the site of the crash. According to district officials, nearly 190 students have been struck by vehicles traveling to or from Clark County schools this year.

Superintendent Jhone Ebert said the district is working with local jurisdictions to coordinate safety measures and noted that AB6 gives counties and cities more control over school-zone infrastructure, including the timing of warning lights. Previously, local jurisdictions needed state approval before making changes.

Parents say the changes come later than they would have preferred but welcome the added protections. The bill reached the governor’s desk on Friday.

Original source: News 3 Las Vegas.