I am an armed security officer, constantly facing numerous challenges and legal implications when it comes to addressing shoplifters and theft. Like many of my colleagues in the security sector across Nevada, I find it incredibly difficult to execute my duties effectively without facing potential consequences, either from our employers or the existing legal framework. Currently, there are finite legal protections in place, leaving security officers in precarious positions when trying to intervene in incidents of theft.

Imagine standing in a situation where you can see a crime unfolding, yet your hands are tied because trying to stop it could result in backlash not only from your security firm or the shop owner but also from legal authorities. This issue affects not just me, but countless security personnel tasked with safeguarding retail and commercial environments across our state.

The pervasive issue of retail theft continues to impact businesses by increasing expenses and threatening the safety of both employees and customers. It is reported by the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention that more than $35 million worth of goods are stolen from retailers every day in the United States. In Nevada, the situation is no different, with retailers facing rising losses owing to shoplifting incidents.

It is critical that licensed security personnel are granted enhanced authority to act decisively and responsibly within the scope of their duties to minimize these losses and ensure safe environments. Such authority should include the capacity for security officers to employ reasonable physical intervention when necessary to detain individuals until law enforcement arrives.

We the people and residents of Nevada, propose the introduction of state legislation that: 

1. Clarifies the legal parameters within which licensed security personnel are authorized to operate.
2. Provides legal protection for actions taken by security officers within the scope of these enhanced powers.
3. Ensures liability protections for employers of licensed security personnel acting within the scope of their duties.

4.  Ensures proper training for these enhanced powers to ensure proper use of force in situations that requires a security officer to be hands-on.

5. Set a mandatory minimum wage for Security Officers higher for armed security officers and  lower for unarmed security officers.

It's time to support and safeguard those who strive to keep our businesses and communities safe. By signing this petition, you can help advocate for necessary legislative changes that allow security officers to perform their roles effectively and without fear of undue consequence. We urge the Governor of Nevada to consider this pressing matter that affects us all.