White Pine County advocates push for Assembly Bill 224 to fund school capital improvements
May 24, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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The Assembly Committee on Ways and Means convened on May 24, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues impacting Nevada's healthcare and education systems. The meeting highlighted two significant legislative proposals: Senate Bill 87, concerning victim compensation funding, and Assembly Bill 388, aimed at expanding paid family medical leave.
A key discussion point for Senate Bill 87 revolved around the reimbursement process for forensic exams in Clark County. Liz Ortenberger, CEO of Safeness, reported that the current legislation limits counties to request only $10,000 or ten exams per year, which is insufficient given the estimated $700,000 needed for such services in Clark County. The committee expressed concern that without adequate funding, payments would cease once the allocated million dollars is exceeded, potentially leaving many victims without necessary support.
In the second part of the meeting, Assembly Bill 388 was presented by Assembly Member Selena LaRue Hatch. This bill proposes to expand paid family medical leave in Nevada, with an amendment to delay its implementation until January 1, 2028. This delay aims to allow businesses and state agencies time to prepare for the fiscal implications of the new policy. While supporters emphasized the importance of paid leave for working families, opponents raised concerns about the potential financial burden on businesses, particularly small enterprises that operate on tight margins.
The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and business representatives. Supporters of Assembly Bill 388 argued that paid family leave is essential for employee well-being and retention, while opponents warned of increased costs that could lead to job losses and reduced services.
The meeting concluded without any opposition to Senate Bill 87, while Assembly Bill 388 faced significant pushback from business groups concerned about its fiscal impact. The committee plans to continue discussions on both bills, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses the needs of victims and families while considering the economic realities faced by businesses in Nevada.
A key discussion point for Senate Bill 87 revolved around the reimbursement process for forensic exams in Clark County. Liz Ortenberger, CEO of Safeness, reported that the current legislation limits counties to request only $10,000 or ten exams per year, which is insufficient given the estimated $700,000 needed for such services in Clark County. The committee expressed concern that without adequate funding, payments would cease once the allocated million dollars is exceeded, potentially leaving many victims without necessary support.
In the second part of the meeting, Assembly Bill 388 was presented by Assembly Member Selena LaRue Hatch. This bill proposes to expand paid family medical leave in Nevada, with an amendment to delay its implementation until January 1, 2028. This delay aims to allow businesses and state agencies time to prepare for the fiscal implications of the new policy. While supporters emphasized the importance of paid leave for working families, opponents raised concerns about the potential financial burden on businesses, particularly small enterprises that operate on tight margins.
The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and business representatives. Supporters of Assembly Bill 388 argued that paid family leave is essential for employee well-being and retention, while opponents warned of increased costs that could lead to job losses and reduced services.
The meeting concluded without any opposition to Senate Bill 87, while Assembly Bill 388 faced significant pushback from business groups concerned about its fiscal impact. The committee plans to continue discussions on both bills, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses the needs of victims and families while considering the economic realities faced by businesses in Nevada.
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