What Happened to The Rainy-Day Fund?

Image by Hands off my tags! Michael Gaida from Pixabay

During the COVID shutdown in 2020, Governor Sisolak raided the state’s Rainy-Day Fund, draining the $332 million completely and transferring it to the State General Fund. Deposits since the raid have returned the fund to 85% of the previous total. In May of this year, the level of the fund could only run the state for 7.9 days, according to the PEW Research Center. It could mean serious consequences for the state down the road.

The Governor’s raid on the Rainy-Day Fund has left many wondering where the money went and why there hasn’t been more accountability. Accountability is key when it comes to public funds. Sisolak must be transparent about where the Rainy-Day Fund money was spent and why it was necessary. Without this transparency, there is no way for the public to know if the money was truly needed or if it was misused. Every attempt to research this issue draws a blank. The lack of transparency on this issue is deeply troubling.

The Rainy-Day Fund is in place for a reason – to help the state during times of emergency. The people of Nevada must be shown that the Rainy-Day Fund money was used wisely and for its intended purpose. While many people across the state had reduced hours, or even laid off, state workers were hardly affected at all. You can’t tell me that 100% of state workers were essential personnel.

Sisolak’s actions – or lack thereof – on this issue show a blatant disregard for the people of Nevada. We deserve to know where our tax dollars are going, especially in times of crisis. Sisolak must be held accountable for his actions and be transparent about how he spent Rainy Day Fund money.