RAN April 2024

Retail’s Contribution to Public Funds: A Pillar of Nevada’s Economy

By Bryan Wachter

NEVADA’S BUSTLING STREETS, VIBRANT communities, and flourishing public services are underpinned by an economic powerhouse often taken for granted: the retail sector. This vital industry does more than just fill our shopping bags; it is an essential service that fills the state’s coffers, supporting public services and infrastructure critical to our daily lives. In 2023, Nevada’s retail sector made a monumental contribution to the state’s economy by injecting $943.7 million into the State General Fund through various taxes. This figure represents a significant 16.5 percent of the total State General Fund, underscoring the sector’s pivotal role in Nevada’s financial health and community well-being.

Understanding the Backbone of Retail’s Fiscal Contribution

The substantial $943.7 million contributed by the

retail sector to Nevada’s economy comes from a blend of taxes, including the Sales & Use Tax, Cigarette Tax, Liquor Tax, Commerce Tax, and Modified Business Tax. These taxes, while diverse in their application, share a common purpose: to fund the public services and infrastructure that Nevada’s residents rely on every day. From roads and bridges to schools and parks, the retail industry’s tax contributions touch every corner of the state, making a direct impact on the quality of life for every Nevadan.

Sales & Use Tax: The Cornerstone of Retail’s Tax Contributions

A closer look at the Sales & Use Tax reveals its significance as the cornerstone of retail’s tax contributions. Focused analysis on sales from 11 categories defined by the Census Bureau as the retail industry provides insight into how everyday purchases translate into substantial support for the state’s budget. When Nevadans

Bryan Wachter

Nevada Voices: Nevada Department of Taxation

By Yvonne Nevarez-Goodson

THE NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION IS RESPONSIBLE

for the administration, collection and distribution of state and local revenue from 21 different taxes and 3 fees. In Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23), the Department collected $9.9 billion from these taxes and fees for distribution across various state and local governments. Nevada does not impose an income tax on its residents, instead relying heavily upon its other tax types, with sales and use tax (SUT) serving

as its primary revenue source. For the privilege of selling tangible personal property at retail, a sales tax of 2 percent (2%) of gross receipts is imposed on all retailers. Moreover, an excise tax (use tax) is imposed on tangible personal property purchased from any retailer for storage, use or other consumption in this State at the rate of 2 percent (2%) of the sales price when acquired out of state in a transaction that would have been

Retail’s Contribution

shop for groceries, clothing, electronics, and other goods, they are not just taking items off the shelf; they are contributing to the state’s fiscal health and, by extension, their own community’s prosperity.

The Economic Ripple Effect: From Purchase to Public Benefit

Every purchase made in Nevada’s retail sector starts a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial transaction. These contributions fund a wide array of public services, from education to emergency services, and infrastructure projects that drive the state’s

taxable in the State. In addition to the 2% tax imposed by the State for distribution to the State General Fund, additional tax rates are imposed on retail sales to establish

Continued from page 1

economic growth and quality of life. The $943.7 million generated in 2023 demonstrates the significant impact that retail-related taxes have on enabling these essential services and projects to flourish.

Retail’s Role in Nevada’s Future

The retail sector’s contribution to Nevada’s State General Fund is more than just a financial boon; it’s a testament to the industry’s role as a cornerstone of the state’s economy and community well-being. The retail industry was

among the few industries that continued to serve our population throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that essential food and medical services continued to be available to our residents.

As Nevada continues to grow and evolve, the retail industry will remain a critical partner in funding the public services and infrastructure that keep the state thriving. The direct line from everyday purchases to community benefits underscores the importance of supporting local retailers and recognizing the

the minimum statewide SUT rate of 6.85 percent (6.85%) for distribution to local governments. Counties may also impose additional optional sales tax rates.

The relationship between SUT and Nevada’s retailers is inextricably intertwined. In FY23, SUT made up 70.5% of the overall tax revenue collected by the Department. The Department has further identified that the food and beverage industry, specifically 722 sector

Continued on next page

sector’s contribution to our collective prosperity. Nevada’s retail sector is a foundational element of the state’s economy, contributing significantly to the public funds that support essential services and infrastructure. The $943.7 million generated from retail-related taxes in 2023 highlights the industry’s vital role in enhancing Nevada’s quality of life. As we move forward, it’s crucial to acknowledge and support this industry, understanding the direct impact our shopping habits have on the fabric of our community and the well-being of our state. ■

Yvonne Nevarez-Goodson

Nevada Voices

(food services and beverage places) of the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), has the highest taxable sales in Nevada in the current fiscal year, which has experienced a 4.1% increase in FY24 yearto-date.

Additionally, for FY24, to date, general merchandise stores, clothing and accessories stores, food and beverage stores and miscellaneous retailers are in the top 10 industries with the highest taxable sales in Nevada. In observing economic trends in Nevada, there is an obvious correlation between increases in the retail industry (primarily food and beverage) and the increase in our overall state tourism industry, in particular in Clark County.

Continued from previous page

The State’s live entertainment tax (LET) is a tax imposed at the rate of 9 percent (9%) on the admission charge to certain facilities that provide live entertainment.

These events spur economic vitality in this State, especially in certain retail industries. In FY24, to

the State.

“Nevada’s reliance on SUT as its primary source of revenue is vital to the economic stability of the State.”

date, LET has experienced a 55 percent (55%) increase over the prior fiscal year, in part as the economy recovered from the pandemic, but also in response to many new major live event centers in Nevada.

Nevada’s reliance on SUT as its primary source of revenue is vital to the economic stability of

The more revenue Nevada generates in SUT as a result of a robust retail industry, the more funding it has to achieve Governor Lombardo’s strategic priorities to support education and workforce initiatives; increase economic growth and business development; provide health and wellness; improve government support services; and ensure public safety and infrastructure.

Yvonne NevarezGoodson, Esq., CPM, serves as the Chief Deputy Executive Director of the Department of Taxation. In this role, she supports the strategic, legal, administrative, budgetary, legislative and communication efforts of

the Department’s Director, Shellie Hughes, Esq., on behalf of the Governor, the Nevada Tax Commission and the Department. Her duties include advising and managing day-to-day operations; devising strategic plans; developing and reviewing technical bulletins, legislation and regulations; developing communications and outreach; liaising with the Nevada Attorney General’s office on legal matters affecting the Nevada Tax Commission and the Department; and administering the Department’s roles for the State Board of Equalization (SBE), the Committee on Local Government Finance (CLGF), the Mining Oversight and Accountability Commission (MOAC), and the Appraiser Certification Board (ACB). ■

Workplace Violence Prevention

HAS SOMEONE EVER ENTERED

your store or office that just seemed a little… off? Even if unexpected or unusual visitors don’t mean any harm, these instances are becoming more common across many industries. An event

like this would make you wonder how far into the building they might get and how your employees would be affected, doesn’t it? And of course, if someone enters your business with criminal intent, prior evaluation of your facility’s vulnerabilities and prior planning on response procedures play

an even more a critical role. To evaluate facility vulnerabilities, examine building characteristics such as: clear visibility of main exterior doors, whether through cameras or windows; access to employee-only areas protected with a locked door; locked doors remaining closed

and latched; ease of employee evacuation from a breached area; and systems in place to warn employees in the event of unauthorized access. To evaluate your response plans, ask yourself if employees have a clear understanding of topics like types of

Industry Updates

NACDS URGES BIDEN ADMINISTRATION TO ACT AGAINST PBMS

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) urges President Biden to address the stalling tactics of pharmaceutical benefit middlemen (PBMs) in implementing reforms.

NACDS highlights PBMs’ harmful practices, including inflating drug costs, limiting medication choices, and diminishing pharmacy access. Despite previous efforts, PBMs continue aggressive tactics, hindering pharmacy sustainability and impeding care access. NACDS calls on the Administration to take immediate action and support bipartisan reform efforts.

NRF ECONOMIST HIGHLIGHTS IMPACT OF INFLATION AND INTEREST RATES ON ECONOMY

National Retail Federation (NRF) Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz recently highlighted the continued

significance of inflation and Federal Reserve policies in shaping the economy. While January’s 3.1% year-over-year inflation rate showed slight improvement from December, it still falls below the Fed’s target of 2%. Kleinhenz emphasized the disparity between service and commodity-based prices, with services experiencing a 4.9% increase compared to a minimal rise in retail goods prices. He suggested that consumer spending shifting towards services, coupled with persistent inflation in this sector, warrants caution from the Fed regarding potential rate adjustments. Kleinhenz predicted the Fed might maintain rates in March but could consider a quarterpoint rate cut by April or June if inflation indicators remain strong, followed by further cuts in subsequent months.

RETAILERS ASK SCOTUS: OVERTURN HARMFUL 9TH CIRCUIT DECISION

The Retail Litigation Center (RLC) and the Retail Industry

Leaders Association (RILA) submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court challenging a Ninth Circuit decision on managing public encampments. The case, Grants Pass v. Johnson, questions the feasibility of the court’s requirements for municipalities addressing homelessness through local laws.

RILA’s Vibrant Communities Initiative, which seeks to enhance safety around retail areas by addressing crime and vagrancy through collaboration, is cited as an example of why flexible, community-tailored regulatory tools are essential.

The brief argues that the Ninth Circuit’s ruling is unconstitutional and impractical, urging the Supreme Court to allow for a multifaceted approach to complex social issues like homelessness.

Workplace Violence Prevention

behavior that should be reported; the RunHide-Fight paradigm and when to apply each step; communication and social media protocols; evacuation rally points; and interacting with responding law enforcement personnel.

The potential for Workplace Violence is becoming a greater hazard for many industries that have enjoyed a peaceful existence in past decades.

Taking intentional steps for prevention and response helps ensure you and your employees don’t need to

FMI APPLAUDS INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS CHALLENGES WITH FDA’S FOOD TRACEABILITY RULE

The Food Industry Association (FMI) supports the Food Traceability Enhancement Act proposed by Reps. Franklin, Bishop, and Panetta to simplify compliance with the FDA’s Food Traceability Rule. FMI emphasizes the industry’s commitment to safety and the need for realistic regulations that don’t overburden the supply chain. The current rule, according to FMI, is overly complex and its demands on technology and data management by 2026 are unfeasible. The association urges pilot projects for better implementation and encourages Congress to pass the act to ensure food safety without unnecessary costs or challenges. ■

Continued from page 3

live in fear. Instead, you can be prepared to confidently respond to unexpected visitors to your facility, regardless of their intent.

For more information on facility vulnerability assessments and workplace violence

response planning, or any other safety questions or concerns, please contact PGM Safety Services, an affiliate company of Pro Group Management. We will be happy to assist when you visit us at www. pgmnv.com or call (800) 859-3177. ■

Critical Changes Needed for Patient Care in Nevada

THE NEVADA PHARMACY ALLIANCE, NEVADA

Chronic Care Collaborative, and Retail Association of Nevada argue that Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are hindering patient access to treatments and negatively impacting pharmacies. They support the Advocates for Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs and Patient Access to push for legislation addressing these issues. Other states have taken steps to regulate the practices and transparency of PBMs, and it’s time Nevada did the same to protect its patients.

Originally, PBMs were meant to negotiate contracts for their clients (health plans), but they have since developed conflicts of interest and a lack of transparency. They play a central role in setting prices, demanding rebates, determining pharmacy reimbursements, and making decisions on

drug formularies. Their unfair practices have intensified with the growth of vertical integration, where health plans benefit financially from owning PBMs. Major mergers, such as CVS with Aetna Inc., Cigna with Express Scripts, and the pre-existing affiliation of OptumRx with UnitedHealthcare, have led these three largest PBMs to cover over 180 million people, or 75% of the market. These entities have become so profitable that they’re now ranked higher than the drug manufacturers they were supposed to

Liz MacMenamin

necessitating action from elected officials.

Nevada has a 30% rate of “pharmacy shortage areas,” affecting 33% of the population and 971,705 residents. The state must foster the growth of

including providers, hospitals, manufacturers, and insurance companies. PBMs have remained opaque and unregulated, but nationwide actions by State Attorneys General, Insurance Commissioners, State Legislatures, and Governors aim to create transparency and stop unfair PBM practices. Patients and advocates are also challenging PBMs through lawsuits.

It’s time for Nevada’s PBMs to be held to the same standards as the rest of the healthcare industry. We encourage support for legislation addressing this issue and urge business owners and patients in Nevada to contact their elected officials about the high costs of prescription drugs, advocating for legislative action in the next session.

“Originally, PBMs were meant to negotiate contracts for their clients (health plans), but they have since developed conflicts of interest and a lack of transparency. They play a central role in setting prices, demanding rebates, determining pharmacy reimbursements, and making decisions on drug formularies.”

regulate, according to the Massachusetts Patients Not PBMs coalition.

As these large insurers profit, Nevada’s patients face higher costs for health insurance and prescription drugs. Nevada ranks low in protecting its citizens from these cost increases,

pharmacies in these areas to ensure medication access for those in “pharmacy deserts.”

The majority of pharmacy counter prices are determined by PBMs, highlighting the need for scrutiny across all healthcare sectors,

SOURCES:

1. Community Pharmacists Association

2. National Community Pharmacists Association

3. 3 Axis Advisors: Unraveling the Drug Pricing Blame Game ■

TSA INTRODUCES SELFSCREENING LANES IN LAS VEGAS AIRPORT

Federal airport security officials have launched TSA passenger self-screening lanes at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, aiming to boost efficiency and potentially roll out the system nationwide. These lanes, initially for TSA PreCheck customers, allow travelers to navigate screening independently, utilizing futuristic technology including automated tray returns and UV light sanitation. The system, resembling a scaled-down medical MRI machine, conducts body scanning in glass booths using millimeter wave technology, reducing direct interaction with officers. Testing and evaluations will continue throughout the year to assess efficiency and passenger experience, with hopes of modernizing airport security while prioritizing convenience and safety. RetailWire

NEVADA LAUNCHES PHASE ONE OF $72 MILLION UNEMPLOYMENT SYSTEM UPGRADE

Nevada initiates the first phase of a $72 million project to modernize its unemployment insurance system, aimed

Nevada News

at addressing weaknesses exposed during the pandemic-era surge in claims. The new system, expected to offer improved usability, security, and compatibility with existing Windows-based systems, initially impacts only state employers. With federal funds allocated and a focus on stability, officials anticipate better handling of future claim surges, addressing past challenges of delays and system limitations.

The Nevada Independent

NEVADA ETHICS PANEL CLEARS LEGISLATOR IN NONPROFIT JOB ACCEPTANCE

The Nevada Commission on Ethics ruled that Assemblywoman Michelle Gorelow’s acceptance of a nonprofit position after a legislative appropriation did not breach ethics laws. The panel found no evidence of improper influence or misuse of governmental resources, dismissing a complaint filed by Republican operative Chuck Muth. Gorelow, who announced she would not seek reelection after news of her job emerged, emphasized the complaint’s lack of merit and her commitment to her nonprofit career. The commission’s decision highlighted

limitations on investigating legislative conduct, citing legal constraints on its jurisdiction.

Las Vegas Review-Journal

LAS VEGAS POLICE ADDRESS RETAIL THEFT AMID SHOPLIFTING THRESHOLD CONCERNS

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) continues to combat retail theft, with concerns raised over Nevada’s $1,200 felony shoplifting threshold possibly attracting criminals. LVMPD’s Organized Retail Theft unit observes professional thieves or “boosters” targeting multiple stores and implementing tactics like sweep thefts. While some thieves travel from other states, boosters from California migrate due to stricter anti-theft measures there. Despite the threshold increase, LVMPD charges suspects with felonies if their total theft surpasses the limit, resulting in significant recoveries since the unit’s reactivation.

KSNV News 3 Las Vegas

AUDIT REVEALS MIXED RESULTS ON EDUCATION FUNDING IMPACT

An internal audit of Nevada’s public and

charter schools suggests that increased education funding doesn’t always correlate with improved student outcomes, emphasizing the importance of targeted spending over simply allocating more money.

Presented by Internal Audits Administrator Craig Stevenson, the audit prompted discussions among state officials, with Governor Joe Lombardo expressing concern over the effectiveness of increased funding despite historic investment. The audit recommends better tracking of education spending and proposes changes to improve accountability and support programs like Read by Grade 3, aiming to enhance literacy rates among students.

Las Vegas Review-Journal

LOMBARDO ENDORSES SAM BROWN IN SENATE RACE

Governor Joe Lombardo has officially endorsed Sam Brown, a retired Army captain and leading Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate. Lombardo highlights Brown’s commitment to returning federal land to Nevada, securing borders, and reducing taxes. In response, Brown expresses

GROCERS ARE NAVIGATING AI

Grocery stores are embracing AI to improve operations but are also mindful of its impact on workers. Retailers like Wegmans prioritize the “human touch” while using technology to automate tedious tasks. Schnuck Markets values employee feedback to ensure tech solutions meet their needs, while Giant Eagle incentivizes workers to adopt new platforms like Axonify for training and communication. Despite some resistance, tech is improving retention rates and customer experiences. Personalization, facilitated by AI, strengthens customer relationships, with initiatives like Shipt’s “Cool Finds” program. Even robots like Stop & Shop’s Marty are humanized to enhance customer interactions and make technology more approachable.

Grocery Dive

TARGET UNVEILS AMBITIOUS EXPANSION PLANS

Target Corporation announces plans to open over 300 stores in the next decade and invest in store enhancements, including the addition of Ulta Beauty in-store shops. The retail giant aims to provide a welcoming,

National News

convenient, and enjoyable shopping experience for new customers. CEO Brian Cornell highlights the enduring significance of physical stores and projects substantial revenue growth as a result of this expansion initiative.

Chain Store Age

WALMART REPORTS HIGHER HOLIDAY SALES

Walmart reported a 4% increase in comparable store sales in the fourth quarter compared to the previous year, with a 4.3% rise in transactions offset by a slight decrease in average ticket prices. Online sales also surged, increasing by 17% in the U.S. and 23% globally, exceeding $100 billion.

The retailer attributed its strong performance to its emphasis on value, particularly in its grocery business, highlighting efforts to expand its private label offerings to cater to cost-conscious shoppers. Looking ahead, Walmart aims to retain customers gained during periods of high inflation while continuing to grow its sales and expand its store network.

The New York Times

WALMART TO ACQUIRE TV MAKER VIZIO FOR $2.3 BILLION

Walmart has

announced its acquisition of TV maker Vizio for $2.3 billion in cash, aiming to bolster its advertising business. The move, revealed alongside Walmart’s fourth-quarter earnings report, highlights the retail giant’s push to expand its media arm, Walmart Connect, leveraging Vizio’s SmartCast Operating System to offer adsupported content on TVs. With this acquisition, Walmart seeks to compete with Amazon’s growing ad segment, tapping into Vizio’s 18 million active accounts to enhance its advertising reach and provide innovative home entertainment experiences.

CNBC

TARGET INTRODUCES SUBSCRIPTION TO COMPETE WITH AMAZON PRIME

Target has announced the launch of Target Circle 360, a $99 annual subscription offering free unlimited delivery and rush shipping on online orders, aiming to rival Amazon Prime. Members will enjoy free two-day shipping and same-day delivery on orders over $35, with the plan set to debut on April 7 at a promotional price of $49 until May 18. This new offering combines elements of

Target’s existing delivery services, including Shipt membership benefits and free two-day shipping, without order minimums. With access to the Shipt Marketplace, Target Circle 360 aims to enhance customer convenience in an increasingly competitive e-commerce landscape.

The Verge

AMAZON INVESTS IN AI-POWERED ROBOTIC RECYCLING COMPANY

Amazon continues its commitment to sustainability with investments in innovative technologies, including Glacier, a company utilizing AI-powered robots for automated recycling sorting. Backed by the Amazon Climate Pledge Fund, Glacier’s technology identifies over 30 categories of recyclable materials in real-time, significantly improving sorting efficiency. Led by female co-founders Rebecca Hu and Areeb Malik, Glacier aims to enhance recycling rates and reduce landfill waste, aligning with Amazon’s pledge to achieve netzero carbon by 2040. With support from collaborators like PepsiCo, Glacier’s advancements contribute to a more sustainable future by

MAXIMIZING YOUR VISA/ MASTERCARD SETTLEMENT

As a result of the Visa/Mastercard antitrust settlement, Nevada retailers will be eligible to receive funds if they received income via Visa/Mastercard between 2004-2019. RAN is partnering with DCap Claims to help you capture the money you are owed. Join us for a 20-minute informative webinar, featuring the expertise of settlement specialists John Reighard, Matt Miller, and JR Long from DCap Claims. This session is specifically designed to guide our member companies through the settlement process, simplifying complex filings and maximizing recovery.

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

12:00pm - 12:30pm PDT

Online Zoom Webinar

Adapting to Innovation: Why Nevada Should Be Taxing Digital Goods

RAN Staff Report

could significantly enhance the state’s ability to support and expand public services. For example, additional funds could be allocated to improve public schools, expand healthcare access, and enhance public transportation systems. These investments are crucial for the well-being of Nevada’s residents and can lead to a more educated, healthy, and mobile society. Moreover, by broadening the tax base to include digital goods, Nevada can achieve these goals without disproportionately burdening any single sector or demographic, promoting a more equitable distribution of the tax load.

LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD

Furthermore, taxing digital goods ensures that all businesses, regardless of whether they operate online or have a physical presence, are treated equitably. This move can level the playing field, fostering healthy competition and innovation. Digital businesses have benefited from a rapidly growing

market with relatively few tax obligations, while traditional businesses have faced higher tax burdens. Correcting this imbalance would not only be fair but also encourage digital businesses to invest more in local economies, potentially leading to job creation and community development.

Taxing digital goods in Nevada is not just a matter of adapting to technological advancements; it’s about fairness, modernizing revenue systems, supporting public services, and ensuring a level playing field for all businesses.

By taking this step, Nevada can demonstrate its commitment to an equitable, sustainable, and forward-thinking tax policy that reflects the realities of the 21st-century economy.

As digital goods continue to play an integral role in our lives, it’s imperative that our tax codes evolve accordingly, ensuring that Nevada remains a vibrant, equitable, and prosperous state for all its residents. ■

NRS

Nevada News

gratitude and emphasizes prioritizing Nevadans’ needs. Recent polls show Brown and incumbent Jacky Rosen in a close race. Lombardo’s endorsement carries weight, given his previous electoral success. Fox Reno

NEVADA LAUNCHES

OPEN FINANCE PORTAL FOR INCREASED TRANSPARENCY

Governor Joe Lombardo and State Controller Andy Matthews have introduced a new finance portal aimed

Continued from page 6

at enhancing transparency in state spending. The website provides real-time data on various financial aspects, including the state checkbook, budget, payroll, and pension disbursements. Developed collaboratively, the portal reflects the administration’s commitment to accountability and integrity in government operations, praised by both Lombardo and Matthews for its significance in fostering transparent governance.

KRNV News 4

National News

Continued from page 7 increasing recycled content and expanding recycling capabilities.

Chain Store Age

HOME DEPOT SURPASSES EARNINGS EXPECTATIONS DESPITE DECLINING SALES

Home Depot reported a nearly 3% decline in quarterly sales but exceeded Wall Street’s earnings and revenue estimates. Chief Financial Officer Richard McPhail attributed the dip in demand to consumers returning to typical spending patterns and cited falling lumber prices and rising interest rates as contributing factors. Despite these challenges, Home Depot remains optimistic about returning to growth, projecting a 1% increase in total sales for fiscal 2024.

However, comparable sales are expected to decline by about 1% during this period.

The company’s net income for the fiscal fourth quarter fell to $2.80 billion, or $2.82 per share, compared to $3.36 billion, or $3.30 per share, a year earlier. Home Depot anticipates opening about a dozen new stores in the coming year as it navigates a shifting sales landscape influenced by inflation and housing market dynamics.

CNBC

TARGET ACHIEVES OVER 1 MILLION VOLUNTEER HOURS IN 2023

Target celebrates a significant milestone in 2023, as its team members volunteered for over 1 million hours across communities nationwide and globally. This achievement

TEACHERS UNION APPEALS DECISION ON BONUSES TO COURT

The Clark County Education Association (CCEA) is appealing the Nevada Government EmployeeManagement Relations Board’s decision allowing Clark County School District (CCSD) principals to distribute bonuses directly to teachers using specialized funding. The union contends that bonuses should be subject to collective bargaining, despite the board’s ruling

that bonuses funded through weighted student funding are exempt from negotiations.

CCEA filed a petition in Clark County District Court seeking review and alleging violations of statutory provisions and rights. The dispute arises amid ongoing tensions between the union and the school district, with previous grievances filed by both parties during contract negotiations.

Las Vegas Sun

reflects Target’s commitment to making a meaningful impact and highlights the dedication of its employees to serving the community. Examples include Jennifer M. and Pez E., whose personal experiences drove their involvement with organizations supporting hurricane relief and maternal health, respectively. Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer, Kiera Fernandez, and Vice President of Community Impact, Ron Brown, express gratitude for the collective effort in building stronger communities.

Target Corporation

MACY’S PLANS TO SHIFT FOCUS TO LUXURY BRANDS, CLOSING 150 STORES

Macy’s announces a strategic overhaul, intending

to close 150 department stores while prioritizing its luxury brands to adapt to changing consumer trends and boost sales. The company aims to reduce its footprint and invest in smaller-format Macy’s stores, alongside expanding Bluemercury and Bloomingdale’s locations. Despite challenges in the middle-market segment, Macy’s seeks growth opportunities in the beauty sector and upscale retail. The restructuring follows financial losses and a takeover attempt by investment firms, signaling Macy’s commitment to revitalizing its brand and appealing to modern consumers.

The Washington Post

Mary F. Lau President/CEO

Bryan Wachter Senior Vice President

Elizabeth MacMenamin Vice President of Government Affairs

Piper Brown Vice President, Finance and Administration

Megan Bedera Editor

Sue Arzillo, Alphabet Soup Inc. Newsletter Design & Layout

Understanding Nevada’s Two-Thirds Tax Law RAN Staff Report

NEVADA’S TWOTHIRDS TAX LAW, a vital piece OF fiscal policy, dictates that any bill proposing the creation, generation, or increase of public revenue—essentially, taxes—must secure a two-thirds majority vote in both legislative houses to pass. This requirement, established in 1996 via a constitutional amendment,

aims to prevent easy tax hikes, reflecting a cautious, libertarian approach to taxation. Nevada is among the few states enforcing such a legislative supermajority for tax increases, highlighting its unique political stance.

The law serves as both a safeguard and a challenge. It protects residents from hasty tax increases, ensuring only thoroughly vetted, necessary tax bills are

approved. However, this high vote threshold can also hinder the passage of crucial tax legislation aimed at funding vital public services like education and healthcare. The law’s rigidity was questioned in 2019 when the Nevada Supreme Court ruled that extending an existing tax rate did not require a two-thirds majority, sparking debate over its interpretation.

Nevada’s two-thirds

tax law exemplifies the delicate balance between fiscal prudence and the need for public resources, encapsulating the ongoing tension between individualism and collective need, progress and caution. As such, it plays a significant role in shaping the state’s public funding and reflects the complex dynamics of fiscal policy in Nevada. ■