Nevada Consumer Affairs recovers over $1M for consumers in 2024

The Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor convened on February 5, 2025, to discuss several key issues affecting consumer protection, workplace safety, and regulatory oversight in Nevada. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts of various state divisions to enhance services and address challenges faced by consumers and businesses alike.

A significant focus was placed on consumer health and advocacy, particularly for minority groups. The Nevada Consumer Affairs team reported recovering over $1 million in 2024 from more than 3,500 complaints. Miriam Higgerson, representing the investment in consumer affairs for minorities, emphasized the importance of education and outreach programs aimed at supporting these communities.

The meeting also addressed the Nevada Office of Boards, Commissions, and Council Standards, which oversees over 267,000 licensees across the state. Deputy Director Nikki Hague noted that while the office was established through legislation in 2023, it lacked sufficient funding and staff. Proposed legislation, S.B. 78, aims to enhance accountability and streamline operations for the various boards and commissions.

Perry Fagan, Deputy Director of Business and Industry, provided insights into the Division of Industrial Relations, which is responsible for workplace safety. The division manages approximately 2,800 licenses related to mechanical compliance and conducts safety inspections across Nevada's mining sector. In 2024, they conducted over 1,500 training sessions for miners, reinforcing their commitment to worker safety.

The Nevada Housing Division was also discussed, with a focus on the Home Means Nevada initiative, which is distributing approximately $1 billion in American Rescue Plan Act funds. The division licenses over 650 businesses and individuals in the manufactured housing sector and anticipates completing fund distribution by the end of 2026.

The meeting further covered the regulatory roles of the Nevada Transportation Authority and the Division of Insurance. The Transportation Authority oversees various transportation services, including taxis and charter buses, while the Division of Insurance licenses over 265,000 entities in a $25 billion industry. Challenges such as inadequate technology and regulatory gaps in rural areas were highlighted, alongside ongoing discussions about auto insurance and wildfire coverage.

In conclusion, the Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor's meeting underscored the state's commitment to consumer protection, workplace safety, and regulatory efficiency. The proposed legislative measures aim to address funding gaps and improve services for both consumers and businesses in Nevada.