The Assembly Committee on Ways and Means convened on May 31, 2025, to discuss critical issues impacting healthcare and labor in Nevada. The meeting featured testimonies from various representatives advocating for improved nurse staffing ratios and labor rights.

The session began with Carlos Hernandez, representing the Nevada State AFL-CIO, who expressed support for a bill championed by Senator Rochelle Wynne. Hernandez emphasized the importance of community backing for the legislation, aligning his testimony with previous statements made by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and National Nurses United.

Following Hernandez, Mark Ellis, president of the Communication Workers of America, acknowledged the late hour and the fatigue of attendees but reiterated the significance of the discussions at hand. His brief remarks underscored the collective urgency felt by labor representatives.

Ayesha Goins, first vice president of the NAACP Las Vegas, provided a passionate testimony advocating for justice and equality in healthcare. Goins highlighted the critical nature of safe nurse-to-patient ratios, framing the issue as one of dignity and respect for both patients and healthcare professionals. She argued that adequate staffing not only enhances patient care but also allows nurses to perform their duties effectively, thereby improving overall health outcomes.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and advocacy for the proposed legislation, emphasizing the need for systemic changes in healthcare staffing practices. The discussions underscored a unified front among labor organizations and civil rights advocates, aiming to ensure that healthcare workers and patients receive the attention and care they deserve.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these testimonies may influence future legislative actions and community engagement in support of healthcare reforms in Nevada.