Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, local leaders strengthen rider safety with new transit security law and relaunch of "Everyday Safer" campaign
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LAS VEGAS, Oct. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) leadership and elected officials today announced new safety and security enhancements, including the implementation of a state law taking effect Oct. 1.
Senate Bill 290 (SB290), passed during the 83rd session of the Nevada State Legislature, provides RTC contracted security officers with the authority to remove individuals from RTC vehicles if they engage in disruptive or unlawful behavior. SB290 marks a landmark step in strengthening safety across Southern Nevada's transit system, which operates 39 routes and provides more than 55 million rides each year.
According to RTC CEO MJ Maynard-Carey, the passage of this legislation enhances RTC's ability to maintain a safe and efficient public transit system. "The safety of the traveling public and our operators has always been a top priority," said Maynard-Carey. "While violent incidents on our system are down, even one is one too many. With this new authority, security officers can address disruptive behavior before it escalates. This is a significant step forward, and we thank Governor Joe Lombardo and our legislators for supporting SB290."
"As the sponsor for Senate Bill 290, I am proud to see this legislation take effect to help strengthen safety for both riders and transit employees," said Senator Nguyen. "By empowering RTC security officers to address disruptive behavior, we are making public transit safer, more reliable, and more welcoming for everyone who depends on it."
Held at the RTC's Bonneville Transit Center, the event also marked the relaunch of RTC's "Everyday Safer" campaign, which showcases ongoing initiatives to protect riders, operators and employees. The campaign features bus and transit stop signage as well as digital advertising.
Recent RTC safety enhancements include:
- 25-percent increase in contracted, armed security officers
- High-visibility uniforms for greater deterrence
- Real-time incident reporting via cellular technology and GPS tracking
- Body cameras for all officers
- Small patrol quadrants for more localized coverage
- Bus dashcams and upgraded system-wide cameras
- Driver enclosures to protect operators
Additionally, RTC was the first transit agency in the country in 2024 to launch a GPS-basedNanoPanic button that allows operators to call for immediate assistance from security, even while off the bus. The RTC was also the first transit agency to fully implement ZeroEyes, an AI technology software, at its transit facilities that detect if someone brandishes a firearm in a threatening manner.
To further enhance safety, the RTC was awarded more than $500,000 from the FEMATransit Security Grant Program, on Friday, September 26, to upgrade video surveillance cameras and access control systems at the Bonneville Transit Center, the Bonneville Transit Center Annex building, and Sunset Maintenance Facility to ensure that the facilities can continue employing the most current technologies.
"These investments show RTC's commitment to making public transit safer," said Clark Commissioner and RTC Board Member Tick Segerblom. "Through advanced technology and proactive security measures, we are ensuring passengers feel safe and confident riding throughout the valley."
"As a retired law enforcement officer, I know firsthand how important it is to give security personnel the right tools to do their job effectively," said Henderson City Councilman and RTC Board Member Jim Seebock. "This legislation is about prevention, protection, and reinforcing the trust our community places in public transit."
About the RTC
The RTC is the transit authority, designated metropolitan planning organization, regional traffic management agency and administrator of the Southern Nevada Strong comprehensive regional plan for the Las Vegas valley. The RTC's vision is to advance regionally transformative mobility solutions through equitable, innovative and sustainable infrastructure development. The RTC's mission is to elevate quality of life for residents and visitors through sustainable planning, collaborative problem-solving, and safe and equitable transportation service. For more information about the RTC and its major initiatives or to download its transit app rideRTC, visit rtcsnv.com and stay informed by subscribing to our blog.
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SOURCE Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC)