Senate introduces bill to enhance civic literacy and establish advisory council in Nevada
May 31, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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The Assembly Committee on Ways and Means convened on May 30, 2025, to discuss key legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing civic education in Nevada. The primary focus of the meeting was Senate Bill 245, presented by a committee member who expressed enthusiasm for the bill's potential impact on civics literacy.
Senate Bill 245 builds upon previous efforts to strengthen civic knowledge among students, particularly following the 2021 enactment of Senate Bill 194, which established a state seal of civics program. This program recognizes high school graduates who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in civic education by awarding seals on their diplomas.
The new bill proposes the creation of an advisory council on civics education. This council will assist in developing and implementing the civic seal program, which includes establishing an application process for students, defining the criteria for earning the seal, and creating excellence awards for schools, student leaders, and educators.
Additionally, Senate Bill 245 includes a financial appropriation of $20,000 to support the program's needs. This funding will cover expenses such as graduation cords, seal designs, printing, and the development of a dedicated website. The Nevada Center for Civic Engagement will serve as the fiscal agent for the program, collaborating with the Nevada Department of Education to ensure effective implementation.
The discussions highlighted the importance of civic knowledge and engagement, referencing a 2012 report by the Educational Testing Service that raised concerns about the lack of civics knowledge among students in the United States. The committee's bipartisan efforts reflect a commitment to addressing these issues and fostering a healthier democracy through improved civic education.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing legislative commitment to enhancing civic literacy in Nevada, with Senate Bill 245 poised to play a crucial role in this initiative. Further steps will be taken to advance the bill through the legislative process.
Senate Bill 245 builds upon previous efforts to strengthen civic knowledge among students, particularly following the 2021 enactment of Senate Bill 194, which established a state seal of civics program. This program recognizes high school graduates who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in civic education by awarding seals on their diplomas.
The new bill proposes the creation of an advisory council on civics education. This council will assist in developing and implementing the civic seal program, which includes establishing an application process for students, defining the criteria for earning the seal, and creating excellence awards for schools, student leaders, and educators.
Additionally, Senate Bill 245 includes a financial appropriation of $20,000 to support the program's needs. This funding will cover expenses such as graduation cords, seal designs, printing, and the development of a dedicated website. The Nevada Center for Civic Engagement will serve as the fiscal agent for the program, collaborating with the Nevada Department of Education to ensure effective implementation.
The discussions highlighted the importance of civic knowledge and engagement, referencing a 2012 report by the Educational Testing Service that raised concerns about the lack of civics knowledge among students in the United States. The committee's bipartisan efforts reflect a commitment to addressing these issues and fostering a healthier democracy through improved civic education.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing legislative commitment to enhancing civic literacy in Nevada, with Senate Bill 245 poised to play a crucial role in this initiative. Further steps will be taken to advance the bill through the legislative process.
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