Assembly members support funding for Nevada higher education in key bills

In a recent meeting of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, key discussions centered around several significant bills impacting education and public safety funding in Nevada. The meeting, held on June 1, 2025, addressed multiple appropriations aimed at enhancing the state's educational infrastructure and addressing public health concerns.

One of the primary topics was Senate Bill 468, which proposes a $17 million general fund appropriation for the State Public Charter School Authority. This funding is designated for transportation costs for charter school students. The bill passed without amendments, reflecting a consensus on the importance of supporting student transportation needs.

Another critical piece of legislation discussed was Senate Bill 487, which allocates $9 million to modernize the business licensing system under the Office of the Secretary of State. This investment aims to streamline processes and improve efficiency in business operations across the state. Like the previous bill, it also passed without amendments, indicating strong support for enhancing state services.

Senate Bill 260 was introduced to address air quality concerns, particularly regarding wildfire smoke. This bill mandates that employers implement measures to protect employees from poor air quality when the Air Quality Index reaches hazardous levels. The committee recognized the growing importance of workplace safety in the face of environmental challenges, and the bill passed with unanimous support.

Additionally, Senate Bill 427 proposed a total of $22.8 million in appropriations to various institutions within the Nevada System of Higher Education. This funding includes significant allocations for planning projects at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the University of Nevada, Reno, as well as improvements at several community colleges. A conceptual amendment was made to redirect funds from bonds to general appropriations, which was well-received by committee members, highlighting a shift towards more sustainable funding practices.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on Senate Bill 74, which was also heard by the committee, although details on this bill were not fully addressed during the session. Overall, the committee's actions reflect a proactive approach to addressing educational needs and public safety in Nevada, with a clear commitment to improving infrastructure and services for residents. As these bills move forward, their implementation will be closely watched for their potential impact on the state's educational landscape and public health initiatives.