Governor proposes $500K annual boost for Nevada Destination Development Grant Program

A significant funding boost for Nevada's tourism sector was approved during the Senate Finance and Assembly Ways and Means Subcommittee meeting on April 11, 2025. The subcommittee endorsed an additional $500,000 in room tax revenue each year for the 2025-2027 biennium, aimed at enhancing the Destination Development Grant Program. This initiative is designed to promote travel and tourism, particularly in rural communities, which have seen a resurgence in visitor spending post-COVID-19.

The Governor's proposal increases the annual funding for the program by 50%, raising it from $1 million to $1.5 million. This funding is crucial for rural areas that rely on tourism to diversify their economies and showcase their unique attractions. The program's impact has already been notable, with the number of communities benefiting from the grants projected to rise from 15 in fiscal year 2024 to 21 by fiscal year 2027.

During discussions, it was highlighted that without these grants, many small towns would struggle to compete for tourism revenue, limiting their economic potential. The subcommittee unanimously approved the funding increase, emphasizing its importance for the resilience and sustainability of these communities.

In addition to the tourism funding, the meeting also addressed staffing needs at the Nevada State Museum in Las Vegas. The Governor recommended funding for a new custodial worker position to maintain cleanliness amid increasing visitation, which is expected to rise by 20% in the upcoming biennium. The subcommittee approved this recommendation, recognizing the necessity of adequate staffing to support the museum's operations.

Another key decision involved the elimination of a vacant retail storekeeper position at the museum, which has been unfilled for over a decade due to insufficient sales. The subcommittee opted to retain this position in the budget, allowing for future hiring if revenue conditions improve.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to bolstering Nevada's tourism infrastructure and ensuring that state museums can effectively serve the public while adapting to increased visitor demands.