(Nevada Policy) – This week was packed with committee hearings, testimony, and key votes on bills that will impact Nevada’s economy, regulatory environment, and education system.
Here’s a breakdown of the bills we testified on, as well as those that passed through committee—both the wins and the setbacks.
Testifying at the Legislature
We had a strong presence at the Legislature this week, weighing in on several important bills:
- ❌ AB 362 – This bill would expand real property transfer taxes to include the sale of a controlling interest in entities that own Nevada real estate. We testified against it because it imposes new tax burdens, increases compliance costs, and discourages investment in Nevada’s economy.
- ❌ SB 260 – This bill would require employers to implement air quality mitigation programs, monitor conditions, and train employees on related hazards. While protecting workers is important, we opposed this bill because it places unnecessary and costly mandates on businesses that are not responsible for air quality issues.
- ✅ SB 340 – We testified in support of this bill, which strengthens legislative oversight of executive agency regulations by allowing individuals to petition for review when rules exceed statutory authority or contradict legislative intent. This ensures greater accountability and transparency in government rulemaking.
- ❌ AB 232 – This bill changes the requirements for school district employees to receive a full year of service credit under PERS, allowing them to qualify after working just 900 hours in a school year. If passed, this would enroll teachers into PERS after only 23 workdays, placing the future pension burden on taxpayers.
- ❌ AB 347 – This bill raises the threshold for state agencies to accept gifts and nongovernmental grants from $200,000 to $500,000, increasing the risk of donor influence over state policies. The higher threshold raises concerns about transparency and accountability, potentially fostering conflicts of interest in public decision-making.
✅ Bills That Passed Through the Committees
Several bills advanced through their respective committees this week, marking an important step in the legislative process. Here’s a quick look at where things stand:
Bills We Support:
- ✅ AB 164 – Strengthens the Account for Student Indemnification to better protect students impacted by school closures or regulatory violations.
- ✅ AB 371 – Establishes the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, making it easier for licensed professionals to work across state lines without additional licensing barriers.
- ✅ SB 130 – Raises the maximum value of unlicensed work a licensed contractor can perform from $1,000 to $2,500, maintaining existing permit requirements and trade exclusions.
Bills We Oppose:
- ❌ AB 62 – Expands transferable tax credits for affordable housing, making fiscal planning more difficult and violating the spirit of Nevada’s Gift Clause.
Looking Ahead
As more bills move through committees and toward floor votes, your engagement is more important than ever. Be sure to stay informed and make your voice heard—we’ll continue tracking the bills that matter most and fighting for policies that support Nevadan families and businesses.
Thank you for your support! Stay tuned for more updates next week.
Best,
Nevada Policy Team
