Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions News Roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
It’s election season in Nevada, and political ads are filling the air. As candidates make their case to voters, the Legislature’s joint interim standing committees are wrapping up work that will help shape the 2027 session. Created through Assembly Bill 443, these committees can request bill drafts on issues within their jurisdiction.
In this edition, we look at the races and dates to watch, along with proposals emerging from the interim. First, we’re pleased to welcome Petter Parelius back to Tom Clark Solutions as a Government Affairs Associate.
Petter first joined TCS as a Policy and Public Affairs Intern, supporting legislative research, policy tracking, and client briefings. He recently graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, where he studied International Affairs and Business Administration. His experience in journalism, legal research, and business operations adds to the perspective he brings to issues affecting Nevada’s businesses and communities. We’ll let Petter introduce himself:
“Hello everyone, I’m excited to be back at Tom Clark Solutions. Although I’m originally from Petaluma, California, Nevada has become home to me, and I’m thrilled to begin the next chapter of my career here. I’m looking forward to supporting the firm and our clients on legislative, regulatory, and public policy issues across the state.”
With Petter on board and Election Day approaching on November 3, we have plenty to follow. Read on for the election outlook and a look at what may be on deck for the 2027 Legislative Session.
Election Outlook & Seats to Watch
Nevada’s 2026 election is entering its final stretch, led by the closely watched governor’s race between Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo and Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford. Voters will also decide several statewide offices, all four U.S. House seats, all 42 Assembly seats, and 11 of the state’s 21 Senate seats. Recent polling has produced mixed results, reinforcing Nevada’s status as a closely divided battleground where turnout and late campaign developments will be critical. The Nevada Independent further notes that the Democratic Governors Association has placed about $13 million in ad buys supporting Ford's chance to flip the state, but incumbent governor's in Nevada have an impressive record in retaining their seat, not a perfect one, but notably consistent.
Control of the Legislature will be another major storyline. Eight Assembly districts—1, 2, 7, 9, 23, 29, 40, and 41—have no incumbent seeking reelection, ensuring significant turnover and new legislative leaders and committee chairs in 2027. Attention is focused on Senate Districts 8 and 12 and Assembly Districts 2, 9, 35, and 37. Democrats currently hold 27 Assemda’s 2026 election is entering its final stretch, led by the closely watched governor’s race between Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo and Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford. Voters will also decide several statewide offices, all four U.S. House seats, all 42 Assembly seats, and 11 of the state’s 21 Senate seats. Recent polling has produced mixed results, reinforcing Nevada’s status as a closely divided battleground where turnout and late campaign developments will be critical.
The Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce will host its Conversations with Candidates series on October 7–9 and October 14–16, immediately before early voting begins. See the full schedule here.
During these intimate, moderated conversations, candidates for public office will discuss the issues affecting Northern Nevada’s employers and communities, including economic development, workforce, housing, education, infrastructure, public safety, and responsible government.
Our own Tom Clark, joined by members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, will interview participating candidates and give Chamber members an opportunity to hear directly from the individuals seeking to represent them.
The series is open to Chamber members. Not a member? Now is a great time tojoin.
Important Dates
Days Until
Early Voting Begins
October 17
24
Early Voting Ends
October 30
37
General Election
November 3
41
Early voting will run from Saturday, October 17, through Friday, October 30. Election Day voting will be available from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
And What’s on Deck for the 2027 Legislative Session?
Health Care Access and Workforce
Lawmakers are considering proposals to expand who can deliver care and how providers are reimbursed. Pharmacists could receive broader prescribing, dispensing, testing, and laboratory authority, along with coverage and reimbursement for services provided within their scope of practice. Other proposals address maternal health, Medicaid care coordination, intensive in-home services, substance-use treatment, and accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. Scope of practice, provider qualifications, and reimbursement will be major issues in 2027.
Insurance and Consumer Protection
Insurance proposals would strengthen homeowners cancellation protections, restrict auto-insurance rating factors, increase liability requirements for short-term vehicle lessors, and establish new wildfire-related underwriting standards. One proposal would also prohibit property insurers from denying coverage solely through an automated or AI-based decision. Lawmakers are separately considering a statewide prohibition on virtual-currency kiosks to address fraud targeting older and vulnerable Nevadans.
Tax Modernization and Economic Development
The Revenue Committee is pursuing taxes on digital products and subscriptions, ticket resales, tobacco products, and prediction-market revenue. At the same time, lawmakers are reconsidering data-center tax incentives and discussing a statewide moratorium tied to water, energy, and infrastructure concerns. Other proposals would expand aerospace incentives, double the affordable-housing tax credit cap, and create additional rural economic-development tools.
Education Funding and Governance
Education proposals focus on funding stability, special education, educator shortages, charter-school policy, and early-childhood governance. Priorities include revising hold-harmless and enrollment adjustments, developing a more cost-based special education formula, and strengthening workforce pipelines for teachers, counselors, psychologists, and CTE instructors. A proposed Department or Division of Early Childhood Development could reform programs currently spread across several agencies to strengthen the system for children and families.
Criminal Justice and Court Operations
The Judiciary Committee advanced proposals to end debt-based driver’s license suspensions for civil traffic citations, improve late-night jail-release practices, expand the role of domestic-violence advocates, and regulate automated license plate readers. Lawmakers are also considering new rules for electric bicycles and scooters. Juvenile competency timelines and geriatric parole eligibility drew the most disagreement.
Natural Resources Energy and Water
A major water omnibus would expand local groundwater governance, revise financing tools, support water-right retirement, and strengthen county participation in water-management decisions. Other proposals address wildlife crossings, healthy soils, cloud seeding, wildfire detection, and outdoor recreation stewardship. Water and energy demands associated with data centers are also connecting natural-resource policy with Nevada’s broader economic-development debate.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Transportation proposals include regional rail planning, expanded authority for high-capacity transit, and potential dedicated revenue sources. Other measures would extend off-highway vehicle trail connectors, regulate electric mobility devices, and support Tahoe transit through lodging-tax revenue. Tahoe lawmakers also advanced evacuation planning focused on roadway access, wildfire risk, and peak visitor populations.
Technology Privacy and Artificial Intelligence
Nevada lawmakers are considering standards for government use of artificial intelligence, including transparency, bias protections, data privacy, and meaningful human review. Automated license plate readers and AI-based insurance decisions are raising similar questions about accountability and surveillance. A proposed statewide framework for peer-to-peer rentals could also create new responsibilities for platforms offering vessels, motorcycles, and motor homes.
Finally, we would be remiss not to say, "Elections Matter!". This November will determine who takes office in 2027, while this interim’s proposals offer an early look at the issues they may face. We’ll continue tracking both as the legislative agenda takes shape. You can follow the 2027 Bill Draft Requests here.
Justice Department Issues Subpoenas for Voter Data in Nevada The Justice Department has issued seven subpoenas seeking voter-related information from Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar’s office as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to investigate alleged voter fraud. The subpoenas follow a broader push for sensitive voter data and claims that thousands of noncitizens were registered in Nevada—claims state officials dispute and federal officials have not substantiated. The effort has heightened concerns about voter privacy and federal interference in state-run elections ahead of the 2026 midterms.
EDUCATION
Nevada education reform proposals aim to tighten charter school rules and expand funding Nevada’s Interim Education Committee approved bill requests to strengthen charter school closure oversight, protect public funds when schools face financial distress, and create a dedicated account for closure costs. The committee also supported expanding “hard-to-fill” recruitment incentives to counselors, psychologists, and certain special education professionals, as well as consolidating early childhood programs under a new state department or division. The Commission on School Funding and CCSD are advancing similar proposals to fully fund special education and make state education funding more predictable. Recommendations include using prior October enrollment instead of quarterly counts, removing discretionary language from funding law, and establishing a minimum funding floor during economic downturns
ENVIRONMENT
Fires:Nevada's firefighting system is built to borrow. This season is already testing it.Nevada’s wildfire response system is under strain because about 80% of the state is federal land, requiring the state to rely heavily on federal, local and regional support for crews, aircraft and funding. Although the Division of Forestry has a $4.5 million base budget, average annual fire costs reach about $24 million through emergency funding .This season has exposed that pressure, with major fires burning at the same time across the West and limiting the resources available to move between incidents. Nevada has relied on mutual aid, the National Guard, federal partners and California support as large fires, including the Bug, Stallion and Hawk fires, stretched response capacity. State Forester Firewarden Ryan Shane said staff have been fully committed to fire suppression and emphasized fuel reduction as a long-term cost-saving strategy.
GAMING
Predication Markets:Football is back. So are prediction markets, but not in Nevada Football season has renewed attention on prediction markets, but Nevada residents remain blocked from using platforms such as Kalshi. Nevada banned these markets to protect its state gaming regulatory system, and a federal appeals court upheld the state’s position while broader litigation continues. Major Nevada operators, including Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts, have avoided prediction markets to protect their gaming licenses. The issue is significant because national sports trading and wagering volumes are large, while Nevada’s licensed sportsbooks continue to operate under stricter state oversight. The dispute highlights a larger conflict between federal commodity regulation and Nevada’s authority over gaming markets.
HEALTHCARE
Nevada Medicaid begins outreach effort over work requirements Nevada will begin implementing Medicaid work requirements on Jan. 1, 2027. Adults ages 19 to 64 will generally need to complete at least 80 hours per month of work, education, job training, or community service, and eligibility renewals will move from once a year to every six months. The Nevada Health Authority began sending notices in September 2026 to about 250,000 enrollees, with additional outreach planned by text, email, and SilverSummit Healthplan. The state says many recipients may qualify for exemptions or already meet the requirements. Exempt groups include pregnant and postpartum individuals, people with disabilities or serious medical conditions, caretakers of children under 13, unemployed individuals, people receiving substance abuse treatment, and incarcerated individuals. Officials say the notices explain who is affected, what activities count, how to report compliance, and how to request an exemption. A prior estimate tied to the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act projected that about 70,000 Nevadans could lose Medicaid coverage.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Is Nevada in for a wet and wild winter? Forecasters expect a very strong El Niño this winter, but Nevada’s weather impacts remain uncertain. Past strong El Niño years have produced different results in the state, ranging from very wet conditions to near-normal precipitation. The forecast matters because much of the Intermountain West remains in drought after a warm, dry winter and early snowmelt. A wetter winter could help, especially in parts of the Colorado River Basin, but runoff benefits are still unclear. Experts caution that one wet winter will not resolve long-term water challenges; several strong seasons would be needed to meaningfully improve river conditions.
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2026 Election One-Stop Shop
Nevada voters delivered several notable outcomes in the 2026 Primary Election, setting the stage for a competitive General Election this November and helping shape the political landscape heading into the 2027 Legislative Session. While most incumbents survived primary challenges, several open-seat contests, competitive legislative races, and closely watched statewide races produced significant results.
The election also reinforced several broader political trends. President Donald Trump continued to demonstrate significant influence within Republican primaries, with Trump-endorsed candidates performing well both nationally and in Nevada. However, recent elections have also shown that endorsements and primary victories do not always guarantee success in the general election, particularly as independent voters continue to play a larger role.
Economic concerns remain a top priority for voters. Candidates from both parties are emphasizing affordability, inflation, wages, taxes, and cost-of-living challenges as they prepare for November.
Looking Ahead: Potential Special Session on Affordability
Beyond the election results, attention is increasingly turning toward the possibility of a summer special legislative session focused on affordability and tax relief. Political observers have speculated that Governor Joe Lombardo could propose a temporary tax holiday or targeted sales and gas tax relief aimed at addressing ongoing cost-of-living concerns, with the state reimbursing local governments for lost revenue. The discussion reflects a broader political reality emerging from the primary: affordability remains one of the top issues for Nevada voters, and both parties are likely to center their general election messaging around economic concerns. Whether a special session ultimately occurs remains uncertain, but the conversation itself underscores the extent to which housing costs, inflation, and household budgets are shaping Nevada's political environment heading into November.
Taken together, these results suggest that while endorsements, fundraising, and institutional support remain important, Nevada voters continue to reward strong local campaigns and are willing to challenge incumbents when they believe change is warranted. As attention shifts toward November, the growing influence of nonpartisan voters, continued economic concerns, and the potential for additional policy debates surrounding affordability and tax relief are likely to play a significant role in shaping the state's political landscape.
Key Results
Congressional District 2 (Open Seat) – Flippo (R) vs. Benitez-Thompson (D)
The retirement of Congressman Mark Amodei created Nevada's only open congressional seat and one of the state's most closely watched races. Republicans nominated David Flippo following a competitive primary in which he benefited from President Trump's endorsement. Democrats selected former Assemblywoman Teresa Benitez-Thompson. While the district maintains a Republican advantage, Democrats are expected to compete aggressively for the open seat.
Governor – Lombardo vs. Ford
Governor Joe Lombardo easily secured the Republican nomination, receiving more than 91% of the vote. Democrats nominated Attorney General Aaron Ford, who won his primary decisively with nearly 64% support. The Lombardo-Ford matchup is expected to become one of Nevada's marquee statewide contests and will likely focus on housing affordability, public safety, economic development, education, and growth management.
Attorney General (Open Seat) – Cannizzaro vs. Guzman Fralick
With Aaron Ford running for governor, Nevada voters selected nominees for the state's first open Attorney General race in several election cycles. Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro won the Democratic nomination with approximately 61% of the vote, defeating State Treasurer Zach Conine. Republicans nominated Adriana Guzman Fralick, who received roughly 60% of the vote over Danny Tarkanian. The Cannizzaro-Guzman Fralick contest is expected to be one of the most competitive statewide races this fall.
Lieutenant Governor – Jauregui vs. Anthony
Assembly Majority Leader Sandra Jauregui secured the Democratic nomination with nearly 60% of the vote and will challenge incumbent Republican Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony in November. The race is viewed as an important test of statewide voter sentiment and may serve as a launching point for future statewide leadership.
State Treasurer (Open Seat) – Mathis-Coleman (D) vs. Johnson (R)
An open Treasurer's race also emerged this cycle. Tya Mathis-Coleman won the Democratic nomination with approximately 55% of the vote. The Republican primary remained one of the closest statewide contests, with Drew Johnson ultimately taking the nomination.
Secretary of State – Aguilar (D) vs. Marchant (R)
Incumbent Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar advanced to the General Election and will face a Republican challenger Jim Marchant this fall.
State Senate Results
Several Senate incumbents faced meaningful primary challenges but ultimately prevailed:
SD 2: Senator Edgar Flores defeated labor-backed challenger Isaac Barron with approximately 54% of the vote after facing criticism for his opposition to the proposed film tax credit legislation.
SD 21: Senator James Ohrenschall narrowly defeated Junior Romero, winning with just under 53%.
SD 16: Senator Lisa Krasner comfortably secured renomination with nearly 70% of the vote.
SD 8: George Harris won the Republican nomination and will face Senator Marilyn Dondero Loop in November.
Several Senate contests will now move into the General Election, including competitive races in SD 8, SD9, SD 12, and SD 20.
Assembly Results
Open Seats
A number of Assembly districts featured open-seat contests that will help shape the next Legislature:
AD 1: Alexis Esparza advanced after winning the Democratic primary.
AD 2: Kamilah Bywaters secured the Democratic nomination.
AD 7: Cameron Homer Miller advanced in an open-seat race.
AD 9: Ryan Hampton won the Democratic nomination.
AD 23: Jan Allen Aspelund advanced in the open-seat contest.
AD 29: Alex Pereszlenyi advanced in another open-seat race.
AD 40: Julie Butler emerged as the Republican nominee to succeed retiring Assemblyman P.K. O'Neill.
AD 41: Vinny Spotleson emerged from one of the closest legislative races of the evening and will advance to November.
AD 22: Shenea Booth advanced to the General Election after defeating a primary challenger.
Incumbent Challenges
Most incumbents successfully defeated primary challengers:
AD 6: Jovan Jackson won renomination with about 71%.
AD 8: Duy Nguyen secured renomination with more than 82%.
AD 10: Venise Karris won renomination.
AD 16: Cecelia Gonzalez won renomination comfortably.
AD 17: Linda Hunt won renomination by a substantial margin.
AD 18: Venicia Considine secured renomination.
AD 20: David Orentlicher won renomination.
AD 39: Blayne Osborn defeated former Assemblyman Ken Gray and other challengers.
AD 42: Tracy Brown-May secured renomination with approximately 73%.
The most notable upset occurred in AD 15, where labor-backed challenger Miguel Davila defeated incumbent Assemblyman Howard Watts after one of the closest and most closely watched legislative primaries in the state.
Local Government Highlights
Several local races produced significant results and will remain closely watched through November:
Reno Mayor: Kate Marshall advanced to the General Election and will face Kathleen Taylor.
Henderson Mayor: Hollie Chadwick advanced and remains one of the strongest-positioned candidates in the open-seat contest.
Washoe County Commission Districts 2 and 5 remain key open-seat races.
North Las Vegas Mayor is open, with Assemblywoman Daniele Monroe-Moreno advancing to face Scott Black.
Several city council and county offices throughout Washoe and Clark Counties will also be contested in November.
Key Takeaways
Incumbents generally performed well across Nevada.
Women secured nominations in several major statewide and local races.
Trump-endorsed candidates continued to perform strongly in Republican primaries, most notably in Congressional District 2.
Labor organizations demonstrated significant influence in select legislative races, particularly AD 15 and attempted in SD 2.
Multiple open-seat contests at the federal, statewide, legislative, and local levels will create opportunities for new leadership in 2027.
The General Election will be anchored by the Governor's race, the open Attorney General contest, Congressional District 2, and several competitive legislative districts.
As Nevada moves toward November, attention will shift from primary turnout and intra-party dynamics to broader questions surrounding affordability, economic development, housing, education, public safety, and growth. The outcomes of these races will help determine both the partisan balance of power and the policy direction of Nevada heading into the 2027 Legislative Session.
Important Dates 2026
Potential Special Session
Late June - Early September
Early Voting, General Election
October 17 - October 30
General Election
November 3
Below is our list of candidates who will appear on the general election ballot as well as links to useful election resources. This page will be updated throughout the 2026 election cycle.
Below is a breakdown of current results for the federal, state, and select local races. Results will be updated periodically, keep an eye out for updated numbers. You may also click on a candidate's name to view their campaign website.
Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions News Roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
Across Nevada, the 2026 Election Cycle is already visibly underway. Campaign signs are appearing across communities statewide, and opposition and independent expenditure (IE) advertisements have already begun running, signaling that campaigns are gearing up. While this year does not include a presidential or vice-presidential race, it remains an important one—Nevada voters will decide contests for Congress and constitutional offices, the Legislature, and numerous local leadership positions that shape day-to-day governance in our communities.
To see the full list of candidates and track how crowded the primary field has become, visit:
In addition to candidate races, Nevada voters may also see several ballot questions on the 2026 ballot through the state’s citizen initiative process. Petition sponsors must file with the Secretary of State and gather roughly 148,000 valid signatures statewide, meeting minimum thresholds in each of Nevada’s four petition districts in order to qualify a measure for the ballot.
Several measures are already positioned to return to voters in 2026 after first passing in 2024, including the Right to Abortion Initiative and the Voter Identification Initiative, both of which must be approved by voters a second time before becoming constitutional amendments. Voters may also see proposals addressing changes to the Voter Bill of Rights and primary access, including the open primary and ranked-choice voting proposal, which would establish a nonpartisan primary open to all voters.
As signature deadlines and legal reviews move forward, additional initiative petitions could still emerge, meaning Nevada’s 2026 ballot may feature several high-profile policy questions alongside candidate races. Some of these ballot questions may also serve as ballot drivers, designed to mobilize partisan voters and increase turnout among specific segments of the electorate.
Voter Turnout
Turnout in Nevada’s off-cycle elections typically falls well below presidential-year levels. In recent cycles, about 75–77% of active voters participated in presidential elections, compared with 50–60% in midterm years and often under 40% in local municipal or school board elections. That drop-off means every ballot carries even greater weight in determining who leads our communities.
Nevada’s political landscape is also shifting as non-partisan voters continue to grow. Since 2023, non-partisan and independent voters have made up the largest share of registered voters in the state, surpassing both Democratic and Republican registration. This trend is likely to influence campaign strategies as candidates increasingly appeal to voters outside traditional party bases.
Primary elections will determine nominees for the Nevada Assembly and Senate, mayoral offices, county commissions, school boards, and statewide constitutional offices, shaping local priorities and setting the ballot for November.
Key 2026 Election Dates
Candidate Filing Close (Non-Judicial Races)
Friday, March 13
Early Voting, Primary
Saturday, May 23 - Friday, June 5
Primary Election Date
Tuesday, June 9
Deadline to Submit Petition Signatures to SOS
Wednesday, June 24
Early Voting, General
Saturday, October 17 - Friday October 30
General Election
Tuesday, November 3
Note: Nevada’s primaries are closed, meaning voters must be registered with a political party to participate in that party’s primary and vote in any primary races. Voters may update their party affiliation before casting a ballot and even through the date of the Primary Election, but should ensure their registration and ballot request are updated with their county registrar if they want to receive a full ballot with the primary races of a specific party.
Nevada is also part of the ongoing national debate over the order of presidential primaries. State leaders and party officials continue advocating for Nevada to be placed first—or among the first—states in future nomination calendars, citing the state’s diverse electorate and mix of urban and rural communities. National parties have already begun evaluating early-primary states for the 2028 presidential cycle, with Nevada competing alongside states like Michigan, Georgia, and North Carolina.
The close of candidate filing also brought a major federal development for Nevada. Congressman Mark Amodei, who has represented Nevada’s Second Congressional District since 2011 and is our sole republican representative within the Nevada congressional delegation, announced he will not seek reelection, leaving the seat open for the first time in more than a decade. The CD2 race has already drawn significant interest, with more than 25 candidates filing to run, with some familiar faces like former Senate Minority Leader James Settelmeyer (2018-2022) and former Assembly Majority Leader Teresa Benitez-Thompson (2016-2022). As the campaign season unfolds, Nevada voters will closely watch how this competitive field develops and who may gain President Trump’s endorsement.
On a more personal note, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to Congressman Mark Amodei for his years of distinguished service to the State of Nevada and Northern Nevada communities. At TCS, some of us have worked with Mark for more than 20 years, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter.
-Nicole Flangas, Director of Government Affairs
Looking Nationally
Across the country, early primaries and special elections are already influencing the 2026 political landscape. In Texas, one of the most closely watched races was the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate, where State Representative James Talarico defeated U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett after a competitive and high-profile campaign. The result sets up a major general election contest later this year for the seat currently held by Republican Senator John Cornyn, while the Republican primary is heading to a runoff between Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, highlighting divisions within the GOP electorate.
In Minnesota, a pair of special elections for the state House also drew national attention. Democratic-Farmer-Labor candidates Shelley Buck and Meg Luger-Nikolai won decisive victories in districts around St. Paul, with Luger-Nikolai receiving more than 95% of the vote in her race. The outcomes restored a 67–67 tie in the Minnesota House, illustrating how even lower-profile elections can shift legislative balance and influence policy heading into the next legislative session.
Other early contests have also set the stage for competitive races later this year. In North Carolina, voters finalized nominees for an open U.S. Senate seat, with former Governor Roy Cooper securing the Democratic nomination and former Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley emerging from the Republican primary. Meanwhile, Arkansas primaries drew attention as congressional incumbents defended their seats and parties finalized nominees for November, reflecting broader national trends of crowded primaries and ideological divisions within both parties.
Lombardo says traditional education is not working. His answer? Expand school choice. Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo argued that traditional education is failing students and called for expanding school choice as a solution, something incorporated into the omnibus education bill SB460 of the 2025 legislative session. He highlighted his support for increasing funding for charter schools, teacher raises, and early literacy programs.
Nevada has nearly doubled free pre-K seats. Why are 1 in 10 vacant? Nevada nearly doubled the number of free pre-K seats for the 2024–25 school year, expanding access through more infrastructure funding and broader eligibility. However, program leaders say the growth came too late for some providers to fully staff and fill all available spots, leaving about 1 in 10 seats vacant.
ECONOMY
Major Las Vegas casino operator might sell for $7B, report says Texas billionaire Tilman Fertitta is reportedly in exclusive talks to buy Caesars Entertainment Inc. for about $7 billion, topping a competing offer from investor Carl Icahn’s firm. Though no deal is imminent, Fertitta’s proposed purchase would give him control of one of the Las Vegas Strip’s largest casino operators, including Caesars Palace and Harrah’s.
Nevada likely to fall short of clean energy goals because of data centers Nevada is expected to miss its 2030 clean energy goals; one cause suggested is because of the surge of data centers seeking to operate in the state is driving electricity demand beyond renewable supply capacity. NV Energy projects it will need 47% more power than forecasted two years ago—turning partly to natural gas to meet demand, which could hinder progress toward the state’s renewable targets.
New NV top water regulator appointed, industry ties questioned by conservation groups Joe Cacioppo has been appointed as Nevada’s new state engineer and top water regulator following the abrupt departure of his predecessor, Adam Sullivan. Cacioppo, a licensed civil engineer and Army veteran with nearly 30 years of water management experience, will oversee the state’s 256 hydrographic basins and guide critical decisions on water allocation and conservation.
Lake Mead’s outlook just got even worse. Here’s how low it’s projected to go New federal projections show Lake Mead could reach its lowest level on record by late 2027, dropping to about 1,032.76 feet above sea level, nearly 8 feet lower than the previous record in 2022. The worsening forecast, driven by warm winters and poor runoff from the Colorado River Basin, has intensified pressure on the seven Western states to reach a new water-sharing agreement as drought conditions persist.
TOURISM
Outdoor recreation fuels the Nevada economy. A new state report says there’s a $24 billion impact A new state report shows that outdoor recreation contributes about $24 billion annually to Nevada’s economy and supports more than 75,000 jobs. The analysis highlights that activities like hiking, skiing, and boating are major economic drivers, underscoring the role of public lands in attracting both residents and visitors.
NBA, MLB, Final Four: 2028 shaping up as historic year for Las Vegas Las Vegas is poised for a historic 2028 as it prepares to host major sporting events including the NBA All-Star Game, MLB All-Star Game, and the NCAA Men’s Final Four — all in the same year. City leaders and tourism officials say the lineup cements Las Vegas’s status as a premier global sports destination, building on recent successes like the Super Bowl and Formula 1 Grand Prix.
NBA eyes expansion to Las Vegas for 2028-29 season The NBA is moving toward expanding to Las Vegas and Seattle for the 2028–29 season, with league governors set to hold a key vote next week to begin the process. If approved, the new franchises are expected to cost $7–$10 billion each, marking the league’s first expansion since 2004 and further cementing Las Vegas’s growing role in major professional sports.
HEALTHCARE
Nevada rejects Trump admin childhood vaccine rollbacks, maintains existing regulations The Nevada State Board of Health unanimously rejected the Trump administration’s weakened childhood vaccine guidelines, keeping the state’s stricter immunization requirements in place. Board members and health officials said the federal changes ignored scientific evidence and risked lowering protection for Nevada children.
State public-option health plans expand but can't fill gaps left by federal changes Nevada has become the third state to launch a public-option health plan, aiming to offer lower-cost insurance through the ACA marketplace. So far, about 10,000 people have enrolled—less than a third of projections—and experts say the plans may not significantly reduce costs without renewed federal subsidies.
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Nevada lawmakers convened for a special session on Thursday, November 13, 2025, following Governor Joe Lombardo’s official proclamation calling the Legislature into session. Because the Nevada Constitution limits special sessions to the subjects outlined by the governor, the proclamation established the full parameters of what lawmakers were authorized to debate and consider.
The special session focused on a multibillion-dollar expansion of film tax credits, the revival of Lombardo’s public-safety and criminal-justice proposals that had stalled in the 2023 and 2025 regular sessions, and a broad slate of policy priorities. In total, the call authorized seven returning bills, five new subject areas, and 14 appropriations. Lombardo positioned the agenda as one that “implements critical public safety measures, expands healthcare access, and supports good-paying jobs,” anchoring the Legislature’s work in the areas of economic development, behavioral health, health-care access, and criminal justice reform.
The proclamation also permitted legislation related to school-zone safety, cybersecurity, labor standards, enhanced protections for public-facing employees and first responders, and the creation of a new Silver State General Assistance Program designed to expand Nevada’s social-services infrastructure. Together, these items framed a session focused on workforce stability, public-sector protection, health-care capacity, and statewide economic growth.
Addition of Housing Affordability Legislation
Lawmakers subsequently expanded the scope of the session to include a housing-affordability bill. In a historic first, the measure qualified for inclusion via a legislatively sponsored petition, meeting the required two-thirds threshold across both chambers. The corporate-housing bill would have revived elements of prior proposals to restrict the number of single-family homes large corporate buyers may purchase and to require reporting on bulk acquisitions. The bill’s addition followed the growing concern that institutional investors are accelerating Nevada’s housing inflation, outpacing individual buyers, and reducing access to homeownership. However, this hail-mary addition failed to make it out of the second house and therefore failed to become law.
SB8 updates Nevada wage-and-hour law by incorporating key federal Portal-to-Portal Act and Fair Labor Standards Act exclusions—such as certain waiting time, preparatory/postliminary activities, training, and travel—into state law through October 31, 2029. The bill clarifies when employers must pay for donning and doffing uniforms or protective gear, and it aligns overtime calculations with federal regulations governing how the “regular rate” is computed. SB8 applies retroactively to pending wage cases and includes the standard effective-date and fiscal-note provisions. Signed by Governor Lombardo 11/20/2025
For Safety
AB4 is a broad public-safety omnibus bill that increases penalties for assaults on public-facing workers, modernizes stalking laws to cover digital conduct, expands child-sexual-abuse-material offenses, and creates a new felony for retail theft involving property damage. It broadens domestic-violence definitions, updates juvenile-justice, DUI, pretrial-release, sealing, and wrongful-conviction rules, and authorizes new alternative-correctional programs. The bill also mandates real-time custody lists, designates Clark County “corridors,” limits school-to-law-enforcement information sharing, and includes opioid-response and peer-support updates. In addition, AB4 adds targeted immigration-related protections by prohibiting immigration-enforcement officers from entering public school campuses without a warrant (with limited exceptions) and requiring legislative approval for any expansion of immigration-related detention capacity—late-added provisions meant to balance the bill’s public-safety framework with civil-liberty concerns for immigrant students and families. Signed by Governor Lombardo 11/20/2025
SB9 requires Clark County to establish public-safety corridors in high-tourism areas and lets justice courts create dedicated misdemeanor-adjudication programs, including exclusion orders of up to one year. It mandates detailed monthly and annual reporting and expands enhanced assault/battery penalties to cover hospitality employees. This bill died during the legislative process.
AB6 strengthens school-zone safety by allowing doubled penalties for certain traffic violations, requiring local governments to define active enforcement periods and standardize signage, and clarifying rules for speed, passing, and U-turns near schools. This bill was amended to include language regarding protocol for new student-privacy protections by prohibiting schools from including or releasing certain pupil contact information. Signed by Governor Lombardo 12/1/2025
Appropriations
SB4 is a state financial administration measure providing supplemental appropriations for the 2025–2027 biennium, funding corrections technology, behavioral health, public health, SNAP administration, indigent defense, education planning, and Public Option outreach. It also finances major higher-education construction projects, increases staffing for the Boards & Commissions Standards Office, raises the salary cap for the State Chief Information Officer, and expands the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education to include the education deans from UNR, UNLV, and NSU. Signed by Governor Lombardo 12/1/2025
UNR Life Sciences Building: $68.5M GF + matching non-GF authority.
UNLV Lee Business School: $68.5M GF + $106.5M other funding.
Non-GF funds must be secured before contracting; funds revert in 2029.
For Healthcare
SB7 expands Nevada’s workers’ compensation protections by creating a conclusive presumption that lung diseases in firefighters, police officers, and arson investigators are occupational—even if not caused by smoke, heat, or toxic exposure. It applies retroactively to existing claims and strengthens benefits and penalties rules for disputed cases. Signed by Governor Lombardo 12/1/2025
SB5 creates the Statewide Health Care Access and Recruitment Program, establishing a dedicated fund for provider-recruitment incentives, training pipelines, and targeted grants. It requires biennial statewide workforce-needs assessments to guide funding, shortage-area support, and future licensing-priority decisions. Signed by Governor Lombardo 12/1/2025
For Economic Development
AB5 creates the Nevada Studio Infrastructure Jobs and Workforce Training Act, authorizing a large-scale film-studio development in Summerlin and offering new film-infrastructure transferable tax credits for productions made on-site. It requires the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to enter a development agreement with the project’s lead participant, sets strict capital-investment and production-spending benchmarks with penalties for noncompliance, and mandates workforce-training contributions—including new vocational training centers and diversity hiring goals. The bill also increases and modernizes Nevada’s existing non-infrastructure film tax credits, establishes a production-studio entertainment district that dedicates certain taxes to pre-K programs, and creates a new statewide workforce-training account funded by a portion of issued credits. This bill did not pass and did not move forward.
SB10 limits the number of residential units that corporate entities can purchase each year in Nevada, and require those entities to register and report bulk-real-estate purchases. This bill failed to move forward.
Revises provisions relating to public office. (BDR 24-21)
Allows public officers to keep their personal information confidential after several lawmakers received threats in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination
Directs the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Government Affairs to conduct an interim study on the activities of federal officials engaging in the investigation or enforcement of immigration laws in this State. (BDR R-19)
Revises provisions relating to occupational diseases. (BDR 53-36)
Clarifies that a firefighter, arson investigator and police officer's lung disease does not have to be caused by heat, smoke, fumes, tear gas or other noxious gases for it to be considered a work-related injury (worker’s compensation)
Revises provisions relating to employment. (BDR 53-35)
Clarifying that employers don’t have to pay workers for activities that are “preliminary” or “postliminary” to their principal work duties; Amendment sunsets this in 2029, but includes pending litigation
Establishes provisions relating to public safety. (BDR 1-17)
Requires Clark County to create public-safety “corridors” in high-tourism areas and allows special misdemeanor-adjudication programs with exclusion orders and detailed reporting requirements
Revises provisions relating to real property. (BDR 10-38)
Limits the number of residential units that corporate entities can purchase each year in Nevada, and require those entities to register and report bulk-real-estate purchases
The 2025 Nevada Legislative Session brought several key victories despite a divided government and a cautious fiscal climate shaped by uncertainty at the federal level. Lawmakers secured important wins, including pay raises for public and charter school teachers, expanded funding for attainable housing, new renter protections and funding for eviction diversion programs. Outdoor access and education also saw progress through legislation supporting infrastructure and transit-to-trails initiatives. The Legislature worked to balance business-friendly practices with enhanced worker protections, advancing targeted reforms that support both economic growth and workforce stability. Though many ambitious policy proposals faced vetoes, the session concluded with the successful passage of all five budget bills—demonstrating fiscal responsibility and bipartisan cooperation. By holding the line on spending and making strategic investments in high-priority areas, Nevada positioned itself to navigate future federal funding shifts with greater resilience.
Notable Dates
Economic Forum
May 1, 2025
Day 120 (Sine Die)
June 2, 2025
Last Day for Vetoes
15 days after Receiving the Bills
Effective Dates (traditionally)
Upon Passage and Approval July 1, 2025 October 1, 2025 January 1, 2026 (and beyond)
Blackout End Date (Campaign Contributions)
July 3, 2025
Primary Filing Deadline
Judicial Candidates: January 5 - 16, 2026 Non-Judicial Candidates: March 2 - 13, 2026
Primary Election
June 9, 2026
What is the Economic Forum?
The Nevada Economic Forum is a nonpartisan body that issues the official revenue forecast used to build the state’s budget. At its May 1, 2025 meeting, the forum projected slower general fund growth due to federal policy uncertainty, a cooling tourism sector, and broader economic trends. This cautious outlook led lawmakers to adopt a fiscally conservative 2025–27 budget focused on restraint, limited new spending, and core services.
So What Now?
After 120 days of policy debate, the 2025 Nevada Legislative Session wrapped up with a record-breaking 87 vetoes from Governor Lombardo. To explore what ultimately became law, you can review the full list of passed bills and resolutions, read the Governor’s official veto messages, and dive into The Nevada Independent’s coverage of Lombardo’s second session—including which policy promises were kept. Unless otherwise specified, most new laws in Nevada take effect on October 1 of the year they’re passed, though some take effect immediately or on July 1 if tied to the state’s fiscal calendar. This session even saw some effective dates delayed until the next biennium and even further, but the work starts now to lay the foundation for success. Moreover, many of the ideas that stalled or died this year have a way of resurfacing when the Legislature reconvenes so now begins our interim work.
Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions news roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
With just 25 days left in the session, only two of Governor Lombardo’s five expected bills have been introduced. While late introductions aren't totally unheard of within these walls, the timing has some of us folks concerned that there won’t be enough time for discussion.
Adding to the tension, the Economic Forum just approved a two-year budget projection that’s $191 million lower than what was expected back in December and will likely result in budget cuts and kill many money-related bills.
Tax Revenues provided by Economic Forum, The Nevada Globe.
Here's a quick snapshot of where the numbers landed:
Sales and Use Tax: $102 million lower than previously predicted.
Gaming Percentage Fees: Decline in FY2026, followed by 'modest' growth.
Interest Income: Revenue from the Treasurer’s office is projected to be $25 million lower.
Live Entertainment Tax: Prediction decreased by $1 million with event attendance remaining stable despite tourism declines.
Insurance Premium Tax: An increase of $46 million.
Modified Business Tax: A decrease of $58 million.
Real Property Transfer Tax: An increase of $7 million.
Commerce Tax: A decrease of $20 million.
Additionally, a joint revenue forecast from the Legislative Counsel Bureau’s fiscal staff and the Governor’s Finance Office, shared by Assembly Speaker Yeager, indicates that projected funding for the State Education Fund is expected to see a $160 million decrease.
Key economic assumptions also include higher inflation, reduced travel, and a slowing real estate market. Read more about it on the Nevada Independent's report here.
And if you'd like to stay up to date with everything happening in the building, the Nevada Independent's policy tracker is also a great tool!
What’s in Lombardo’s education bill? Open enrollment, charter school, and literacy funding Governor Lombardo has introduced a comprehensive education bill aimed at expanding school choice, enhancing accountability for underperforming schools, and investing in literacy and educator incentives. The legislation proposes broadening open enrollment policies, allowing students to attend schools outside their designated zones—including charter and private institutions—and mandates transportation support for those transferring from low-performing schools. Additionally, the bill seeks to establish a fund to provide bonuses for high-performing educators and allocates resources to bolster early literacy programs, addressing concerns over potential third-grade retention due to reading proficiency standards. While the bill underscores a commitment to educational reform, it arrives amid fiscal uncertainties, with the upcoming Economic Forum expected to reveal potential revenue shortfalls that could impact budget allocations.
$160M fall in projected Nevada education funding raises questions about program expansion Nevada's State Education Fund is projected to collect approximately $160 million less than anticipated for the 2025–2027 biennium, primarily due to declines in sales tax revenue. This shortfall raises concerns about the state's ability to expand K-12 education programs, with officials prioritizing the maintenance of existing services. Governor Lombardo has expressed a commitment to preserving education funding, potentially utilizing emergency reserves to mitigate the impact. The forecast also indicates a $153 million revenue decrease for the current fiscal year, exacerbating budget challenges. Nevada's per-pupil funding remains about $4,000 below the national average, and the current financial constraints may hinder efforts to close this gap.
ECONOMY
Lombardo economic development bill targets child care, high-tech business, rural housing Governor Lombardo has introduced SB461, a wide-ranging economic development bill aimed at reducing the state's reliance on tourism. The bill includes up to $12 million annually in tax credits to expand child care access, a critical need as over 70% of Nevada children lack licensed care. It also offers tax abatements to businesses in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and defense technology, with incentives for higher wages and local hiring. The proposal removes requirements for workforce diversity plans in some state grant programs. Estimated to cost $124 million over two years, the bill arrives just as the state anticipates a revenue downturn, raising questions about future budget impacts.
Nevada joins a dozen states in suing the Trump administration to stop tariff policy Nevada has joined a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration, arguing that the president overstepped his constitutional authority by imposing tariffs without congressional approval. Filed in the U.S. Court of International Trade, the suit contends that the administration's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to justify the tariffs is unlawful and has caused economic disruption. Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford criticized the tariffs as a "monumental overstep" that disrupts both the global economy and the daily lives of Nevadans. The lawsuit seeks to have the tariffs declared illegal and to prevent their enforcement, emphasizing that only Congress has the power to impose such trade measures.
ENVIRONMENT
‘Political realities’ killed Nevada bill that would permanently fund wildlife crossings AB486, which aimed to establish a permanent funding source for wildlife crossings through a $1 tire fee, was significantly altered due to political opposition and concerns from the trucking industry. The proposed fee was expected to generate $2–$3 million annually for projects designed to reduce the state's estimated 5,000 annual animal-vehicle collisions. However, the bill's tax component faced challenges, including the requirement of a two-thirds legislative majority for approval and Governor Lombardo's stance against tax increases. Consequently, the bill was amended to remove the tire fee and now focuses on transportation reporting requirements, including the progress of wildlife-related projects identified by the Nevada Department of Transportation.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Here’s what the Nevada Legislature is doing to expand, regulate the use of AI Nevada lawmakers are moving to regulate the fast-growing use of artificial intelligence with a series of new bills this session. One key proposal, SB199, would require AI companies to register with the state and restrict how insurers and landlords use AI-driven data without consumer consent. Other bills seek to limit AI’s role in healthcare decisions and emergency services, aiming to ensure human oversight remains in critical sectors. Lawmakers say the goal is to balance innovation with consumer protection as AI technologies rapidly evolve. Nevada's efforts reflect one of the most aggressive state-level pushes to oversee AI deployment.
HEALTHCARE
Top Nevada lawmaker seeks to cap insulin prices at $35 a month under private insurance Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager has introduced a bill aiming to cap insulin copays at $35 per month for Nevadans with private insurance. This initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burden on the state's estimated 270,000 adults diagnosed with diabetes, some of whom currently pay up to $500 monthly for insulin. The proposed legislation excludes Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program recipients, who typically have minimal or no copays for insulin
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Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions news roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
📖 The First Reckoning of the 83rd Nevada Legislative Session 📖
For those of us who live and breathe the Nevada Legislature, we know that this past week-- and today, Tuesday, April 22nd-- marks the first major reckoning of the 83rd Session.
Of the original 1,200 Bill Draft Requests, more than 600 bills remain alive. Most have been amended and now await favorable votes to move forward. The Nevada Independent lays out the legislative landscape—the survivors and the casualties. As we scan the scoreboard of bill sponsors and their focus areas, we can’t help but recall the Guinn Center’s recent talk on “What Makes an Effective Legislator?”
Interestingly, some of the most anticipated proposals are still in the wings. The Governor’s flagship bills on education, economic development, and healthcare—as well as Senate Majority Leader Cannizzaro’s key education initiative—have yet to be introduced. With the clock ticking, we wonder when they’ll make their debut. The Economic Forum, which will set the budget parameters for the new biennium, is announced May 1.
Several prominent policy themes have made it past the deadline. Among them:
The evolving role of AI
Energy reform and fair utility regulation
Modernizing Nevada’s business regulations
Increasing healthcare access and protections
Expanding access to fire insurance
Enhancing transparency in concert ticket pricing
Navigating the fine line between business-friendly policies and robust workplace and consumer protections
This session has also taken on a speculative tone, full of what-ifs. From conditional legislation exploring state laws that would address the dissolution of the Department of Education, to Assemblymember Monroe-Moreno’s late-night Ways and Means deep dive into the state’s historical responses to economic downturns and recession forecasts.
Still, what grounds me is the creativity and resilience I see in our communities. Spending time last week with MBA students from my alma mater 🐺, I was inspired by the innovative solutions they’re developing to tackle Nevada’s social challenges. Their ideas blend public policy insight with private-sector tools—and I can't wait to see how our generation rises to meet this moment.
Nevada is part of a 16-state coalition, led by New York, suing the Trump administration over its sudden halt of COVID-19 relief funds for schools. The Education Department recently reversed a decision allowing states to use the funds through March 2026, cutting off access to hundreds of millions in aid, including up to $12 million for Nevada. States say delays in hiring and procurement during the pandemic made extensions necessary. The funds were earmarked for pandemic recovery efforts like tutoring, facility upgrades, and support for homeless students. Attorney General Aaron Ford called the move "unlawful" and vowed to protect Nevada’s students. The lawsuit argues the reversal violates federal law and undermines critical school services.
EDUCATION
Bill seeks to ban immigration enforcement in Nevada schools after Trump opened door for it Nevada lawmakers are considering a bill to ban immigration enforcement activities in schools, following President Trump’s rollback of federal protections. Assemblymember Cecelia González’s AB217 would prohibit immigration officials from accessing school grounds without a warrant and make it a misdemeanor for school employees to share student information with immigration authorities.
ECONOMY
Should NV Energy help pay for fuel costs? Lawmakers say it’d help reduce bill spikes Lawmakers are considering a bill that would require state regulators to investigate how NV Energy passes fuel costs onto customers — and explore whether the utility should shoulder some of that burden. AB452, backed by Assm. Tracy Brown-May, doesn’t mandate changes but directs regulators to study a “fuel cost sharing” model to protect ratepayers from volatile spikes, like those that drove bills up dramatically in recent years. The idea is to give NV Energy more incentive to keep costs low. The utility opposes the measure, arguing it’s unnecessary and could lead to risky strategies. The bill also includes protections for overbilled customers and gives regulators more time to review utility filings.
Tax credits helped boost Nevada's solar industry. Now it's on Trump's chopping block Nevada’s booming solar industry — which supports over 8,500 jobs and powers a quarter of the state’s electricity — is at risk as congressional Republicans eye cuts to key tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The 45X manufacturing credit, 48E business investment credit, and 25D residential credit have fueled record growth, slashed costs, and expanded access, especially for low-income households through programs like Solar for All. Industry leaders warn that scaling back these credits could raise energy bills, slow solar adoption, and cost thousands of jobs, while even some Republicans, including Rep. Mark Amodei, caution that cuts could hurt energy affordability and manufacturing momentum in their districts.
ENVIRONMENT
Talks begin in Nevada Legislature about NV Energy's wildfire liability Lawmakers are quietly holding early talks about NV Energy’s potential liability for wildfires sparked by its equipment. While details are still emerging, sources say the discussions mirror efforts in other Western states where NV Energy’s parent company, Berkshire Hathaway, has pushed to limit utility liability through legislation. Similar models in Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho involve utility-backed wildfire funds or protections if companies follow mitigation plans. NV Energy recently proposed a $500 million self-insurance plan, funded by ratepayers, which is still pending approval. The behind-the-scenes talks could shape how Nevada handles future wildfire risks and utility accountability.
HEALTHCARE
Nevada senator demands answers after DOGE-led cuts to state health care grants Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto is demanding answers after federal grants supporting mental health and immunization programs in Nevada were abruptly cut, a move driven by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., she warned the cuts could harm vulnerable communities and disrupt vital services. Nearly 50 jobs were lost, and Cortez Masto argued the funding, originally tied to pandemic relief, was still essential for Nevada’s struggling health infrastructure. She urged the department to explain the decision and ensure continued support for critical care programs.
LEGISLATURE
Efforts to overhaul Nevada's boards and commissions faces significant test in Legislature SB78, a bill backed by Gov. Joe Lombardo and the Department of Business and Industry, would consolidate 20 occupational licensing boards into six larger entities and grant B&I expanded oversight powers. Proponents argue the bill could save up to $15 million annually and streamline accountability, calling the current system a “de facto fourth branch of government” with minimal oversight. The proposal has drawn significant opposition from board leaders and Democratic lawmakers, who worry the consolidation could dilute professional standards, reduce representation, and create inefficiencies. Critics say there’s been a lack of meaningful outreach and that merging boards with vastly different regulations and ethics codes could do more harm than good. While some groups, including the Vegas Chamber and ACLU of Nevada, support the bill, its path forward is uncertain — only one Democrat voted to keep it alive in committee.
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Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions news roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
When we feel down after watching committees all week, on Friday, March 14th, we’ll look up to see the blood-red Lunar Eclipse. It’s also Pie Day! 🥧
With just 84 days left in this legislative session, yes, we all can feel it – this session is moving quickly! The Nevada Independent highlighted exactly why it feels this way, noting the record pace at which bills have been introduced and the new deadlines LCB has enacted to bring bill language out faster.
Not only that, but bill hearings seem to be flying, with committee chairs setting limits on public comment early and moving through heavy topics with finesse.
Education and Medicaid seem to be major topics of discussion in the halls, but there are many others on the horizon. Film tax incentives, workforce development, affordable housing, childcare, and energy are among a few others that are getting attention. Will legislators try and curb AI's connection to social media and how will Nevada balance business-friendly practices and consumer protections?
Last week felt like education bills all day every day. However, we still have more to come; Governor Lombardo is expected to release his comprehensive education bill soon, with Senate Majority Leader Cannizzaro expected to bring one too.
We kicked off March with Reading Week, led by the Nevada Department of Education. This session is one with a heavy emphasis on literacy. Keep an eye out for bills like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (AB358) and the United Readers Program (SB146) which promote partnerships and programming that address reading literacy gaps throughout Nevada.
Next week is Children’s Week and their schedule reflects the many bills aimed at benefitting children in our state.
SOME REMINDERS: If you’re a legislator, your bill must be introduced by St. Patrick’s Day. 🍀
Every other bill (except for those matters deemed an emergency) has until March 24th.
And lastly, on April 11th, we will finally see the score card of how many bills survive, and how many fail this first major challenge.
Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford’s proposal to ban price fixing on essential goods and services has met strong resistance from business and industry groups, who argue it could unfairly penalize normal market activity. The bill, AB44, seeks to prohibit fraudulent price manipulation affecting necessities like food, housing, and utilities. Still, opponents, including telecommunications and housing organizations, warn it may function as a de facto price cap. Ford, a potential 2026 gubernatorial candidate, defended the measure as necessary to curb deceptive practices but signaled a willingness to amend it.
Trump administration briefing: Trump changes tack on tariffs – again – as US plans to close consulates Former President Donald Trump has delayed the implementation of tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, reversing course on his earlier stance. The decision comes amid a 1.8% drop in the S&P 500, though Trump denied any connection between the market decline and his policy shift. Investors have raised concerns over the administration’s economic approach, while attention has also turned to Elon Musk’s influence and plans to close U.S. consulates in Europe.
EDUCATION
Bill seeks to ban immigration enforcement in Nevada schools after Trump opened door for it Nevada lawmakers are considering a bill to ban immigration enforcement activities in schools, following President Trump’s rollback of federal protections. Assemblymember Cecelia González’s AB217 would prohibit immigration officials from accessing school grounds without a warrant and make it a misdemeanor for school employees to share student information with immigration authorities.
ENVIRONMENT
Audit shows Nevada forestry division failed to bill $33M in out-of-state firefighting costs A state audit has revealed that the Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) failed to bill for $32.7 million in out-of-state firefighting costs due to staff turnover, outdated billing practices, and lack of oversight. Lawmakers, who had previously approved millions in emergency funding for NDF, ordered the audit after concerns over financial mismanagement. The division has since implemented a new billing system and issued over $25 million in invoices, recovering $1 million so far. NDF is now working to address audit recommendations, with a corrective action plan due in April and a status report expected in October.
HEALTHCARE
Amid huge growth in Southern Nevada’s hospice industry, lawmaker pushes for more oversight Amid a surge in hospice providers in Southern Nevada, Assemblymember Rebecca Edgeworth is pushing for stricter oversight to combat fraud and protect patients. The number of licensed hospice providers has grown by over 350% since 2020, raising concerns about substandard care. Edgeworth’s bill, AB161, would require providers to accept Medicare, notify patients of billing, obtain national accreditation, and undergo enhanced oversight. The legislation follows reports of inadequate care and suspected fraud, mirroring issues uncovered in California.
Great Basin National Park faces a critical workforce shortage after five permanent rangers were terminated on February 14, cutting 20% of its staff. This reduction comes as the park, which has already had eight unfilled positions, prepares for peak summer visitation. The park's increasing popularity, with 143,000 visitors in 2023 contributing $15.4 million to the local economy, underscores the urgent need for staffing.
In response, the Great Basin National Park Foundation has invested $25,000 to create a Temporary Park Operations Team to maintain operations and continue serving visitors.
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Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions news roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
Today, February third in the year two thousand and twenty five, begins the 83rd Nevada Legislature.
You may have noticed the absence of the Roundup for the last 50 days or so. The Team at Tom Clark Solutions has been busy celebrating an amazing 2024 and preparing for what is setting up to be a phenomenal 2025.
Tired of playing "what can we rent this session" we leased a permanent "satellite" office in Carson City within a block or two of great food, cigar bars and of course the Capitol and Legislative buildings. Stop by the second floor of 318 N. Carson St. and say hello!
From left to right: Keith Lee, Tom Clark, Nicole Flangas, Ana Bonillas, Shelly Capurro, and Paul Young.
Renovations at the legislative building have come a long way in the last 60 days. Visiting "The Building" over the last couple of months it seemed unlikely that it would be ready. Kudos to the hard-working tradesmen and women that have delivered. It may seem a little unfinished from the outside but the improvements throughout are remarkable.
Insiders note: Some of the bathrooms that were once men's rooms are now women's. I learned this the hard way at the State of the State... 😂
Regular readers know that we don't use this forum to dive into issues. Rather, we use it as a tool for readers to find resources, links to stories we think you might like and a high level view of what's coming "from the Lobby."
Here are links to invaluable resources we use to keep our finger on the pulse of the NV State Legislature:
NELIS is the umbrella resource for "all the things."
Personalized Legislative Tracking is free and gives you the ability to track your favorite Bills and BDR's. When you sign up you'll get notified when meetings are scheduled, links to watch the action and more.
"View Scheduled Meetings" provides you with a list of hearings, floor sessions, etc. along with links to watch live and agendas. Each agenda will also provide you with the instructions for testifying either by phone, video or in person.
Want to see a list of lobbyists and who they represent? Click here and in the upper right corner you can search by company or lobbyist name.
The best hashtag: #nvleg
Finally, there is one trusted resource for all the news you really need:
The Nevada Independent is a free news website (though I encourage everyone to donate to support great journalism). Their dedicated journalists and photographers provide the best, unbiased, best-sourced news coming straight out of the capital.
It's going to be an exciting, unprecedented 120 days in Carson City!
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Welcome to the Tom Clark Solutions news roundup! Here is where we'll keep you informed on what is happening in Nevada politics.
Opening remarks
Former Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to President George W. Bush, Karl Rove once told me over breakfast that ballot initiatives drive people to vote, especially when voters aren't keen on the people at the top of the ticket. Both political parties know this to be true and it explains at least two of the questions that will be on your ballot in November.
Question 6: Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to make abortion access an individual right. Nevada currently has language similar to the ballot question in our Nevada Revised Statutes, passage of this question would place that language in our Constitution.
Question 7: Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to require voter ID Nevada doesn't currently require voters to show an I.D. to vote. This topic has been debated for decades in the NV Legislature but hasn't succeeded.
These are both legitimate questions to ask voters. They are also very important to the political parties because voters that are not driven to polls by the personalities on their ballot could very well be motivated to vote based on these policies.
Both of these questions must pass in November and again in 2026 to be "baked" into the Constitution.
There will be a total of seven ballot questions for voters to ponder this Election and I encourage folks to do their homework. You can follow this link to the Secretary of State's Office guide to the questions. The document lays out the exact language of each question as well as the arguments for and against each measure.
I would also encourage you to keep an eye on the Nevada Independent's ballot question page where you can read more about the questions. They are also producing cool videos that explain each one.
Indy Explains: No sales tax on diapers? Question 5 on the 2024 Nevada ballot Nevada voters will decide this November on Question 5, a measure that was placed on the ballot after it was introduced and passed at the 2023 Legislature and then signed by Governor Joe Lombardo to exempt diapers from the state's sales tax, which is currently 6.85%. If passed, the exemption would begin in 2025 and last until 2050, joining 19 other states in removing sales tax on diapers.
Gov. Joe Lombardo announces new economic development organization Governor Joe Lombardo has announced the launch of the Nevada Strategic Growth Initiative, a new private economic development organization designed to work alongside the state to foster job creation and sustainable business growth. The organization will operate as a nonprofit, collaborating with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, local and regional agencies, and chambers of commerce. Lombardo described the initiative as a key element in promoting Nevada as an ideal location for starting and growing businesses.
ENERGY
The Inflation Reduction Act may transform Nevada. Will voters care? The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden has brought significant federal investment to Nevada, spurring job creation and private investment in the clean-energy sector. The White House estimates that since the IRA's passage, private companies have invested nearly $10 billion into Nevada's battery, clean power, and electric vehicle industries, resulting in more than 20,000 jobs. Despite the IRA’s potential to transform Nevada’s economy, delays in tangible results, coupled with Republican threats to repeal the law, could undermine its impact.
ENVIRONMENT
Finalized federal plan outlines future of Nevada, Western solar development The Bureau of Land Management's final Western Solar Plan would increases the total acreage available for solar development from 22 million to 31 million acres of Nevada’s public lands for potential large-scale solar projects. This plan, which could disproportionately impact Nevada, has garnered support from solar developers and clean-energy groups but has drawn criticism from conservationists concerned about environmental impacts and restricted public access to these lands. The BLM, however, states that only an an estimated 700,000 acres of land may be needed for new solar projects through 2045, suggesting that much of the designated land may not be utilized
INFRASTRUCTURE
Google to spend $400 million to expand Nevada data centers Google has announced a $400 million investment in Nevada aimed at expanding its data center campuses in Storey and Clark counties to meet the growing demand for Google Cloud, AI innovations, and other digital services. This latest funding brings Google's total investment in Nevada to over $2.2 billion since 2019. The investment, praised by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo and former Governor Brian Sandoval, underscores the state's growing status as a technology hub. Google is additionally contributing $500,000 to the National Forest Foundation for wildfire prevention and water conservation in the Tahoe National Forest, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship.
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