The Senate Committee on Revenue and Economic Development convened on June 1, 2025, to discuss several legislative matters, including Assembly Bill 243, which focuses on providing support for Gold Star families in Nevada.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding the status of Gold Star families, defined as those who have lost a loved one in military service. Over the past 25 years, there have been 57 Gold Star families identified in the state. However, data on the marital status of spouses within these families is not systematically collected, leaving uncertainty about how many may still be unmarried.

Bridal Hebbets, a committee member, raised a question about the lack of inflation adjustment for the proposed partial tax exemption related to this bill. It was clarified that the exemption is linked to the tax exemption for veterans who are 100% disabled, indicating that any changes to that status would affect the proposed exemption.

Andrew Lee Pilbitt, chairman of the United Veterans Legislative Council for Nevada, expressed strong support for Assembly Bill 243. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting Gold Star families, noting that many of the fallen service members were young and likely not married, which could limit the number of spouses affected by the bill. Pilbitt highlighted the ongoing suffering of these families and the moral obligation to provide them with support.

The committee then opened the floor for public commentary. There were no opposing voices or neutral testimonies presented during the meeting, indicating a consensus in support of the bill.

Following the discussion on Assembly Bill 243, the committee closed the hearing and transitioned to Assembly Bill 471, continuing their agenda for the day. The meeting underscored the commitment of Nevada's legislative body to address the needs of veterans and their families, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.