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Nevada workers urge 'Workplace Psychological Safety Act' at commerce and labor interim committee
Summary
Workers and advocates told the joint interim Commerce and Labor Committee about alleged psychological abuse in Nevada workplaces — including performing arts and broadcast — and urged lawmakers to introduce a Workplace Psychological Safety Act to recognize and prevent psychological harm.
Dozens of public commenters told the Joint Interim Commerce and Labor Committee in Las Vegas that Nevada needs a law to recognize and prevent psychological harm in the workplace.
Terry Chee, who identified themself as a whistleblower at Vegas PBS and Nevada bill director for End Workplace Abuse, said chronic psychological harassment caused medical issues and called for the committee to introduce a “workplace psychological safety act.” “It’s time our laws reflect the reality that psychological harm is real harm,” Chee said.
Several performers described similar claims. Donna Weegert, who said she originated and starred in a show at Wynn Las Vegas until her termination, described repeated complaints to internal HR and attempted EEOC filings that she said were not pursued: “HR deemed that all 3 instances did not warrant their involvement,” she told the committee, adding that the system “enables silence.” Bridget (stage name Bridgetix) Scheiner recounted alleged retaliation after reporting safety and harassment concerns, denied accommodations for a costume-related injury and said she suffers lasting spine damage.
Caller Monique Smith Sarr, a workforce development professional, framed the proposal in public-policy terms, citing American Psychological Association research on chronic workplace stress and urging legislative clarity and accountability so employers can intervene earlier and reduce costly escalation. “The workplace psychological safety act would provide clarity, shared expectations and accountability,” she said.
Chair Marzola thanked speakers and said the committee would examine legislative options. “We will, as a committee, look into anything that we can do to help through legislation,” the chair said, inviting commenters to submit written materials.
Next steps: The chair closed the public-comment block and moved the committee to its scheduled presentations. The committee did not take formal legislative action during this meeting; any bill introduction would be a future decision.
