The Assembly Committee on Ways and Means convened on March 28, 2025, to discuss critical legislative matters, particularly focusing on Assembly Bill 355, which aims to enhance funding mechanisms for rural school districts and tribal schools in Nevada. The meeting was chaired by Assemblywoman Danielle Monroe Moreno, who emphasized the importance of addressing existing gaps in funding and capital improvement projects.

The discussion began with a recap of previous legislative efforts, particularly highlighting the progress made on the Owyhee School project in Duck Valley. Monroe Moreno noted that the current session presents an opportunity to refine existing laws, particularly regarding the management of funds allocated for school improvements. Assembly Bill 355 proposes that any unspent funds at the end of a fiscal year should not revert but instead be carried forward, ensuring that resources remain available for ongoing projects.

The committee reviewed an amendment suggested by Will Adler, which aims to further support fundraising efforts for rural and tribal schools. This amendment is intended to facilitate the retention of funds in interest-bearing accounts, thereby encouraging additional savings for school construction and improvements.

Support for AB 355 was voiced by several stakeholders, including Brian Wallace from the Nevada State Education Association, who underscored the pressing capital needs of rural districts. Wallace urged the committee to continue its support for initiatives that address these needs across all counties in Nevada.

Representatives from the Shoshone Paiute Tribes also expressed their gratitude for the bill, highlighting the challenges faced in funding school projects due to the lack of a tax base. They emphasized the necessity of the proposed amendments to enable tribal contributions towards school funding, which would help bridge significant financial gaps in ongoing construction efforts.

Mary Pruzynski, representing the Nevada Association of School Superintendents, and other tribal leaders reiterated the importance of AB 355 in ensuring equitable educational facilities for all students, particularly in rural areas. They collectively urged the committee to support the bill, which they believe is crucial for the completion of various school projects, including the Duck Valley Indian Reservation school.

The meeting concluded with a call for further testimony and support for AB 355, as the committee aims to expedite the legislative process to address the urgent needs of Nevada's rural and tribal educational institutions. The next steps will involve reviewing the proposed amendments and preparing for a work session to finalize the bill's provisions.