A Test of Leadership: The 2025 Legislative Session Awaits
THE 2024 ELECTIONS DELIVERED RESULTS THAT largely aligned with projections, offering a sense of stability in the political landscape as we approach the 2025 session. While the outcomes maintain familiar dynamics, the focus now shifts to what lawmakers will do with the authority entrusted to them. Nevada’s legislators have the power to shape meaningful change and improve the lives of Nevadans — the question is whether they are ready to rise to that challenge.
One of the defining features of this election cycle was the impact of the 2021 redistricting. Democrats maintained a strong advantage, allowing them to secure their majorities in both chambers despite targeted efforts by Governor Lombardo’s team. Republicans flipped just one Assembly seat — District 35 — and one Senate seat — District 11, where Lori Rogich defeated incumbent Dallas Harris. These wins were significant, as they moved Republicans in both the Assembly
By Bryan Wachter
Bryan Wachter
and Senate out of superminority status, ensuring they have a stronger voice in the legislative process. While these gains represent progress for the GOP, they also highlight the uphill battle they face in a state where redistricting has created safe havens for Democratic incumbents.
On the other side, the Retail Association of Nevada celebrates that many incoming freshmen understand and prioritize retail-friendly policies, with the potential to be champions for a strong Nevada economy, which will be critical as the session unfolds. The 2025 session is expected to bring heavy workloads on issues that
matter deeply to Nevada’s families and businesses, and having knowledgeable allies in the legislature will be an asset. Leadership changes will also play a pivotal role in shaping this session. Senator Julie Pazina has been named the new chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor, and Senator Rochelle Nguyen will chair the Senate Committee on Growth and Infrastructure. Both committees handle issues central to the state’s economic development and the wellbeing of its workforce, and the leadership of Senators Pazina and Nguyen will be crucial in advancing effective policies. Continued on page 2
Unpacking the 2024 Election
By Mary Lau, RAN CEO
THE 2024 ELECTION SAW UNPRECEDENTED NATIONAL voter engagement, with over 152 million ballots cast—approaching the record set in 2020. This high turnout defied expectations that higher participation typically disadvantages Republicans. Notably, battleground states such as Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Wisconsin exceeded their previous vote totals from 2020, demonstrating a significant mobilization effort by both parties. Harris managed to match or exceed Biden’s vote counts in key states. However, Trump’s appeal led to greater overall support. Analysts noted that Trump’s ability to energize low-propensity
conservative voters was crucial in securing his victory.
The election highlighted a shift in Republican perceptions regarding voter turnout; many now believe that increased participation can benefit their party. Trump won both the popular vote and secured a substantial majority in the Electoral College. Pundits have described his victory as one of the most remarkable political comebacks in U.S. history. Following his win, Trump’s administration will face challenges related to maintaining unity within Congress while addressing pressing national issues such as foreign policy and economic stability.
The Democratic Party faces internal challenges
Mary Lau
as well, with Harris now leading the ticket after Biden withdrew from the race due to poor performance in primaries and debates. This transition reflects broader concerns within the party about appealing to a diverse electorate while addressing economic issues rather than solely focusing on cultural topics.
The 2024 presidential election reshaped the political landscape and
A Test of Leadership Awaits
underscored significant shifts in voter engagement strategies for both major parties. Trump’s return to power signals a potential realignment within American politics as Republicans seek to consolidate their gains among working-class voters while Democrats grapple with internal divisions and strategic recalibrations. The implications of this election will resonate through future electoral cycles as both parties navigate an increasingly polarized political environment.
Comedian Bill Maher observed that when you promise hope and change, and it only gets worse, hope and trust fade.
An interesting factor in the 2024 election was
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Continued on next page Their ability to collaborate with stakeholders and steer their committees toward actionable solutions could define the success of this legislative session.
The power dynamics in 2025 will look much like 2023, with Democrats holding their majority but Republicans strategically positioned to exert
influence. However, having the numbers is only part of the equation. Legislators from both parties must demonstrate they can work together and deliver results. The promises made during campaigns need to translate into meaningful action, whether that’s addressing infrastructure needs, supporting small businesses, or protecting workers.
Nevadans deserve a session that prioritizes their interests and solves real problems. This is the moment for lawmakers to step up and prove that they are ready to meet the demands of their constituents. The challenges ahead are substantial, but so is the opportunity to create
positive change. We hope this session will be remembered not for gridlock or missed chances but for decisive action that benefits everyone in our state.
The eyes of Nevada are on the Legislature. Here’s to hoping they’re up to the task.
Strengthening Community Healthcare with PBM Reform
AS THE 2025 NEVADA LEGISLATIVE SESSION
approaches, the rising cost of prescription medications and the growing strain on community pharmacies have emerged as critical issues demanding action. At the heart of these challenges lies the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), powerful intermediaries that control much of the prescription drug supply chain. PBM reform is
RAN Staff Report
essential to curbing outof-control drug prices, ensuring transparency, and preserving access to local pharmacies that serve as lifelines for healthcare in Nevada communities.
HOW PBMS CONTRIBUTE TO RISING COSTS
PBMs were established to negotiate discounts with drug manufacturers and administer prescription drug plans, intending to reduce costs and improve efficiency. However, over
time, these entities have consolidated power, and their practices now often prioritize profits over affordability for consumers.
One of the ways PBMs inflate costs is through opaque rebate systems. PBMs negotiate rebates from drug manufacturers based on the medications they include in formularies (the list of drugs covered by insurance). While these rebates should theoretically lower costs for patients, PBMs often retain the majority of the savings. This
Unpacking the 2024 Election
Nevada’s notable absence of the coattail effect, where a popular presidential candidate typically boosts the electoral fortunes of other candidates from the same party. Despite Donald Trump’s victory in Nevada, down-ballot Democratic candidates, particularly in the Senate and House races, performed surprisingly well. This phenomenon can be attributed to several key factors.
lack of transparency means consumers pay higher prices at the pharmacy counter while the true extent of the PBMs’ profits remains hidden.
Additionally, PBMs manipulate pricing through spread pricing, where the amount charged to health plans exceeds what the PBM reimburses the pharmacy for a medication. This markup allows PBMs to pocket the difference, driving up costs for employers, insurers, and ultimately patients.
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Additionally, incumbency played a significant role, as all congressional candidates were incumbents. Local campaigning also had a strong impact. Gerrymandering and structural advantages play a huge role in election outcomes. Challengers must exceed the numeric advantages of these
Nevada has long been a “split-ticket” state. We are not famous for “Blue No Matter Who” or “Red Until You’re Dead.” This independent attitude may have contributed to the failure of Question 3 and Ranked Choice Voting. This attitude is also evident in the high number of ballot roll-offs (voting for the Presidential race but skipping the rest of the ballot).
districts, not just perform well. Importantly, nonpartisans played an increasingly significant role. Campaigns struggled to identify their target audience due to motor-voter automatic enrollment at the DMV and voter fatigue from excessive campaign materials. These factors collectively illustrate how local dynamics can significantly impact electoral outcomes, even amidst a favorable national climate for one party’s presidential candidate. Beyond the presidential races, Nevada’s elections ran smoothly, with no significant issues. There are certain to be efforts in the next legislative session to further improve the process.
Please refer to Bryan Wachter’s article and information included in this newsletter. Thank you to all RAN members who participated in the process. You responded to polls, action items, and correspondence. The 2025 Legislative Session promises to be eventful, and your RAN Government Affairs Team is already hard at work.
Nearly 1.9 Million Shoppers in Nevada Participate in Thanksgiving Weekend and Cyber Monday Shopping
In-Store Shopping Outpaces Online Deals
DURING THANKSGIVING WEEKEND AND CYBER
Monday, nearly 1.9 million shoppers in Nevada spent over $444 million on gifts for friends and family, according to the Retail Association of Nevada (RAN). Across the country, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reported 197.0 million shoppers over the long holiday weekend. This total was the second highest in the
survey’s history following last year’s record of 200.4 million. It also exceeded NRF’s initial projection of 183.4 million by over 7 percent.
“Nevada’s retailers saw an incredible turnout this Thanksgiving weekend, with nearly 1.9 million shoppers spending over $444 million,” said Bryan Wachter, Senior Vice President of the Retail Association of Nevada.
“In-store shopping made a strong comeback this year,
underscoring the value Nevadans place on the experience of shopping locally. With consumers continuing to invest in meaningful gifts for loved ones, we’re optimistic about the momentum carrying through the rest of the holiday season.”
The NRF survey reported that most purchased gift categories included clothing and accessories (49 percent), toys (31 percent), gift cards (27 percent), food and candy
(23 percent), and personal care or beauty items (23 percent).
Adobe Digital Insights reported $41.1 billion in U.S. online sales during Cyber Week (Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday), a 7.9 percent increase from the prior year. Black Friday generated $10.8 billion in online sales, a 10.2 percent increase from 2023, while Cyber Monday achieved $13.3 billion in sales, a 7.3 percent yearover-year increase.
Organized Retail Crime Puts Consumers At Risk
ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME (ORC)
ISN’T just a problem for businesses—it’s a direct threat to consumers across Nevada. When criminal networks target retailers, the consequences ripple through every household, raising prices, creating safety concerns, and diverting tax revenue that supports essential public services. Addressing this growing problem is more than a law enforcement issue; it is a critical consumer protection measure.
To safeguard Nevada’s families and communities, it’s time to establish and fully fund a statewide taskforce to combat organized retail crime. This initiative would provide a coordinated, comprehensive approach to stopping these sophisticated criminal operations, ensuring a safer, fairer marketplace for everyone.
HOW ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME HURTS CONSUMERS
While ORC may sound like a business issue, its effects are felt most acutely by consumers. These criminal organizations steal large quantities of goods
RAN Staff Report
from retailers, selling them on secondary markets at cut-rate prices. This not only undermines the legitimate marketplace but also drives up costs for law-abiding shoppers. Retailers lose billions of dollars annually to ORC, and those losses are passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Nevada families, already grappling with rising costs for essential goods, bear the financial burden of these thefts. Additionally, ORC drains state tax revenues, which are critical for funding public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
THE IMPACT EXTENDS BEYOND FINANCES
Organized retail theft can escalate into dangerous situations, such as violent altercations during store robberies. This puts shoppers and employees at risk, creating an unsafe environment in places where families should feel secure.
WHY A STATEWIDE TASKFORCE IS KEY TO PROTECTING CONSUMERS
A statewide taskforce would act as a powerful tool for defending Nevada consumers against the
far-reaching effects of ORC. This taskforce would bring together law enforcement, retailers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to address the issue in a unified and effective way.
1. ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY
ORC often involves not only theft but also violence and other dangerous activities. A dedicated taskforce would prioritize disrupting these networks, making shopping centers and communities safer for everyone.
2. KEEPING PRICES FAIR
By reducing the prevalence of organized theft, the taskforce can help stabilize retail prices, ensuring Nevada consumers aren’t paying more because of criminal activity.
3. PRESERVING PUBLIC FUNDS
ORC deprives Nevada of tax revenue that would otherwise support schools, public health, and infrastructure projects. A taskforce would work to reclaim these lost funds, benefiting all residents.
4. PREVENTING FRAUDULENT AND UNSAFE PRODUCTS
Goods stolen through ORC often end up on unregulated secondary markets, where quality and safety are not guaranteed. Consumers who unknowingly purchase these items may face health or safety risks. A taskforce would target these illicit marketplaces, protecting consumers from harm.
FUNDING THE TASKFORCE: A SMART INVESTMENT FOR CONSUMERS
A fully funded statewide taskforce is essential to achieving meaningful results. Combatting ORC requires advanced tools, specialized training, and coordinated efforts across jurisdictions. Without sufficient resources, Nevada risks falling behind in addressing a problem that is growing more complex by the day.
Investing in this taskforce would provide law enforcement with the expertise and technology needed to dismantle organized retail theft rings. It would also allow for public education campaigns to raise awareness about the issue and encourage consumer participation in reporting suspicious activities. Continued on page 8
RECORD TURNOUT IN 2024 ELECTION BOOSTS REPUBLICANS
The 2024 presidential election saw near-record turnout, with over 153 million ballots cast, challenging the notion that high voter participation benefits Democrats. President-elect Donald Trump secured victories in both the popular and Electoral College votes, gaining momentum in battleground states like Nevada, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. In Nevada, Republican turnout topped 87%, outpacing Democrats’ 80%. Republicans embraced strategies like early and mail-in voting, traditionally dismissed in past cycles, to engage infrequent voters. Experts suggest this surge, combined with targeted voter outreach, reshaped the election dynamic, underscoring a shift in the GOP’s ability to thrive in high-turnout contests.
Nevada Independent
THOUSANDS OF NEVADA BALLOTS REJECTED DUE TO SIGNATURE ISSUES
Around 9,000 mail-in ballots in Nevada went uncounted in the 2024 election due to unresolved signature issues, despite efforts to notify voters to “cure” their ballots before the November 12
Nevada News
deadline. While over 23,000 ballots were successfully cured—72% of those needing correction—Clark County, the state’s largest, had the lowest cure rate at 66%, leaving 7,500 ballots uncounted. Nonpartisan and minor party voters made up the majority of uncured ballots, followed by Republicans and Democrats. Smaller counties like Nye and Washoe achieved higher cure rates of 96% and 85%, respectively, showcasing variability in voter outreach and response.
Nevada Current
DEMOCRATS
FALL SHORT OF SUPERMAJORITIES IN NEVADA LEGISLATURE
Nevada Democrats failed to secure twothirds supermajorities in the state Legislature, ensuring Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo retains his veto power. Republicans won 15 seats in the 42-member Assembly and eight in the 21-member Senate, preventing Democrats from overriding vetoes. While Democrats maintained control of both chambers, Lombardo has positioned himself as a crucial check, having vetoed 75 bills in 2023, including measures on housing reforms, prescription drug costs,
and universal school meal funding. Democrats plan to reintroduce many of these bills in 2025. The competitive cycle saw close races, with Republicans leveraging moderate candidates to block one-party rule.
Nevada Independent
NEVADA LAWMAKERS TACKLE EDUCATION, CRIME, AND ONLINE SAFETY
Nevada lawmakers have filed 160 bills ahead of the 2025 Legislative Session, addressing critical issues like education, crime, and online safety. Key proposals include SB52, which introduces exceptions to Nevada’s “Read by Grade 3” law, and AB48, which allows school reassignments for bullies instead of their victims. On crime, SB60 expands harsher penalties for offenses targeting seniors, doubling sentences for residential burglary, while SB63 establishes the Nevada Youth Online Safety Act, requiring social media age verification and parental consent. Other bills focus on issues such as price gouging (AB44), synthetic media disclosures in campaigns (AB73), and increased accountability for PAC funds (AB79). Lawmakers are preparing for a heavy
session with over 1,000 bills expected.
8 News Now
LOMBARDO APPOINTS COMPLIANCE MONITOR FOR CLARK COUNTY SCHOOLS
Gov. Joe Lombardo and the Nevada Department of Education have appointed Yolanda King as a compliance monitor to oversee the Clark County School District (CCSD) following significant budget errors. CCSD faces scrutiny for an $11 million shortfall caused by misallocations affecting teacher salary raises and funding for atrisk students. These issues were discovered only after budgeting decisions for the 2024-25 school year had been made. The district must submit a corrective action plan by January 9, with a draft due December 27, while King, paid at $160/hour, will ensure compliance. Further state audits and legislative hearings are planned to address transparency and accountability in school funding.
Nevada Independent
JACKY ROSEN WINS
NEVADA’S SENATE RACE, SECURES NARROW VICTORY Democratic incumbent Jacky Rosen has retained
HOLIDAY SHOPPERS FLOCK TO DEALS
DESPITE INFLATION CONCERNS
Nearly 197 million Americans shopped during Thanksgiving weekend through Cyber Monday, slightly fewer than last year’s record of 200 million but exceeding expectations, according to the National Retail Federation. Consumers spent more overall, with online sales up 15% and in-store sales growing modestly by 0.7%, reflecting a 3.4% total increase. Shoppers, mindful of inflation, focused on snagging deals, with nearly equal numbers shopping online and in stores. Spending averaged $235 per person, with clothing and accessories topping gift lists. Retailers noted earlier shopping due to early discounts, and while holiday sales are expected to grow by 3.5%, the pace aligns with prepandemic trends.
New York Times
CYBER MONDAY HITS
RECORD $13.3 BILLION IN ONLINE SALES
Cyber Monday raked in $13.3 billion in online sales this year, a 7.3% increase from last year, surpassing Adobe Analytics’ $13.2 billion
National News
forecast. Mobile shopping dominated, accounting for 57% of sales ($7.6 billion), up 13.3% from last year and significantly higher than 2019’s 33%.
The five-day Thanksgivingto-Cyber Monday stretch brought over $41 billion in online spending, with total holiday sales from November 1 to December 2 reaching $131.5 billion, a 9% rise year-over-year. Buy Now, Pay Later usage also hit an all-time high, with $991.2 million spent, largely on mobile, as consumers sought flexible payment options to manage holiday budgets.
Retail Dive
EARLY PAY LATER OPTIONS BOOST HOLIDAY SPENDING
A new report reveals that early visibility of “Pay Later” options is key to attracting holiday shoppers, with 68% of credit card installment users deciding to use these plans before checkout and 43% of consumers saying such options influence where they shop. Promoting these financing choices earlier in the shopping journey not only increases adoption but also drives customer loyalty and conversion rates. Flexible payment plans are especially valued
during the holidays, with consumers prioritizing merchants offering these options. By strategically positioning Pay Later solutions, businesses can capture more sales and retain shoppers in a competitive market.
PYMNTS
GEN Z RETAIL WORKERS RELUCTANT TO REPORT WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
Without Anonymity
A Traliant survey highlights that nearly half of Gen Z retail workers (49%) would only report workplace violence anonymously, compared to 78% of Baby Boomers who are comfortable reporting openly. Additionally, 38% of Gen Z retail employees have witnessed workplace violence in the past five years, a significantly higher rate than older generations. The study underscores the need for retailers to address generational differences in workplace violence prevention, as only 38% of all retail workers feel their employers promote a strong “speakup” culture. Enhanced training and anonymous reporting mechanisms could improve safety and reporting transparency in the retail sector.
Retail Customer Experience
TRUMP’S TARIF PLAN COULD SPIKE GROCERY PRICES
President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on imported goods could drive up grocery prices, economists warn, as the U.S. increasingly relies on imported food. Imports now account for 17% of U.S. food consumption, with products like fresh fruits (60%) and vegetables (40%) heavily sourced abroad. While Trump aims to boost domestic production with tariffs of up to 60% on imports, these measures are likely to raise costs for consumers since grocers typically pass added expenses to shoppers. Economists argue this approach may backfire, further inflating prices for items like coffee and produce, which the U.S. cannot produce locally. Grocers may offset costs with smaller packaging or other adjustments, but experts remain skeptical that tariffs will lower grocery bills.
Grocery Dive
POOR
CUSTOMER SERVICE MAY COST U.S. BUSINESSES
$1.4 TRILLION
Negative customer experiences are expected to put $1.4 trillion in U.S.
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PBM Reform
THREATS TO COMMUNITY PHARMACIES
Community pharmacies are essential healthcare providers, offering services that go beyond filling prescriptions. They provide vaccinations, assist in managing chronic diseases, and serve as accessible, trusted healthcare providers, especially in underserved areas. Despite their critical role, these small businesses face increasing financial pressure from PBMs.
PBMs often reimburse pharmacies at rates below the cost of acquiring medications, making it financially unsustainable for many to remain in business. On top of this, PBMs impose retroactive fees, known as “clawbacks,” long after a prescription is filled. These fees not only create uncertainty for pharmacy owners but also contribute to inflated costs for consumers.
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The financial toll of these practices has forced many pharmacies to close, especially in rural areas where alternatives are limited. For residents in these communities, the closure of a local pharmacy can mean traveling significant distances to access medications and basic healthcare services. This disruption disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, lowincome families, and those with chronic illnesses.
THE NEED FOR REFORM IN 2025
The upcoming legislative session presents a pivotal opportunity for Nevada to address these issues. Meaningful PBM reform can bring muchneeded transparency to the prescription drug market, ensuring that savings negotiated by PBMs are passed along to consumers. Establishing fair reimbursement
practices can help stabilize community pharmacies, allowing them to continue serving patients without fear of financial ruin.
States across the country have begun implementing reforms to tackle PBM abuses, and Nevada has the chance to lead in this effort. For example, laws in other states now require PBMs to disclose pricing structures and prohibit exploitative practices like clawbacks. By enacting similar measures, Nevada can protect its residents from escalating drug costs and safeguard the pharmacies that play a vital role in local healthcare systems.
WHY THIS MATTERS
PBM reform is about more than dollars and cents—it’s about protecting access to essential healthcare. When Nevadans are forced to choose between paying for medications and meeting other basic needs,
Organized Retail Crime
Most importantly, this investment would pay dividends for Nevada’s residents. By reducing theft-related losses, stabilizing prices, and recovering stolen tax revenues, the taskforce would directly benefit consumers while fostering
a safer, more equitable shopping environment.
A Safer,
Fairer Nevada
Organized retail crime is more than an attack on businesses—it’s an assault on the fairness and safety of Nevada’s economy. Shoppers deserve to browse shelves without
it undermines public health and exacerbates inequality. Similarly, when local pharmacies close due to unsustainable business practices, it weakens the healthcare infrastructure, leaving communities vulnerable.
Addressing the unchecked power of PBMs is not just a healthcare priority; it’s a matter of economic and social equity. Nevada legislators have a responsibility to create a fairer, more transparent system that prioritizes the well-being of consumers and small businesses.
As the 2025 session begins, PBM reform stands out as a critical step toward making prescription drugs affordable and preserving the vital role of community pharmacies. By taking bold action now, Nevada can set a precedent for other states and ensure a healthier, more equitable future for all its residents.
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fear, pay prices that reflect honest competition, and trust that their tax dollars are being used to support public services—not lost to criminal activity.
A statewide taskforce to combat ORC is a critical step toward protecting Nevada consumers. By
working together to address this issue, we can ensure that our communities remain safe, our marketplace stays fair, and our state continues to thrive. The time to act is now, and the responsibility to protect consumers has never been clearer.
Industry News
RILA APPLAUDS COURT DECISION TO BLOCK OVERTIME RULE
A U.S. District Court in Texas has vacated the Department of Labor’s overtime rule, which aimed to raise the minimum salary threshold for overtime eligibility. Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) praised the decision, calling the rule “overzealous” and “unworkable.” RILA argued that the policy would have created uncertainty for employers and ignored economic realities. Retailers emphasize the need for flexible, growthoriented workforce policies and plan to collaborate with the DOL on more practical overtime standards. This ruling is seen as a win for both retailers and workers, alleviating potential economic strain on the industry.
RETAILERS URGE SENATE TO ADDRESS INFLATIONARY SWIPE FEES
Retailers are calling on the Senate Judiciary Committee to pass the Credit Card Competition
Act (CCCA) to reduce growing credit card swipe fees, which reached $172 billion last year. These fees, controlled by Visa and Mastercard, inflate consumer prices by over $1,100 annually for the average family and are among retailers’ highest expenses. The proposed CCCA aims to introduce competition by requiring major banks to process credit card transactions on at least two networks, potentially saving $16.4 billion annually. The act targets large banks while exempting community banks and credit unions, ensuring credit card rewards remain unaffected. Retailers argue this bipartisan reform is essential to curbing inflationary pressures and creating a fairer payment system.
NRF SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS TOP HOLIDAY GIFTS AND SHOPPING TRENDS
This holiday season, U.S. shoppers are expected to spend a record $902 per person on gifts, decorations, and seasonal items, with total spending projected to reach up to $989 billion, according to
the National Retail Federation (NRF).
Popular gift categories include clothing (54%), gift cards (44%), and toys (36%), with Lego, Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Disney items topping kids’ wish lists. Online platforms remain the leading source for gift inspiration, while younger shoppers increasingly turn to TikTok and Instagram. Gift cards remain a favorite, with spending expected to hit $28.6 billion. Most consumers will use debit (44%) or digital wallets like PayPal and Apple Pay (57%) to manage purchases. Alongside shopping, 66% of consumers plan to give back through charitable activities, embracing the spirit of the season.
Despite concerns about rising food prices, shoppers feel confident managing grocery budgets this holiday season, according to The Food Industry Association’s (FMI) 2024 U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends report. With 73% expressing excitement for the holidays, many are stocking up early, shopping for deals, and integrating prepared foods into their meals. Retail food service, including deli-prepared items, has seen a 1.4% sales increase in 2024, reaching $50.9 billion, as more families adopt hybrid meal preparation approaches to save time and money. Nearly 60% of shoppers value family time over elaborate homemade meals, with many turning to convenient, budgetfriendly prepared options to enhance celebrations without stress.
FMI 2024 REPORTS ANALYZE CONSUMER’S HOLIDAY BEHAVIOR
Important Information for SIG Members
NRS requires all existing members of a self-insured group to be notified of all new members. NRNSIG new members are listed below.
Crazy Horse Truck Repair LLC
NRNSIG members who wish to register a negative vote on a new group member, please write NRNSIG at 575 S. Saliman Road, Carson City, NV 89701, indicating which member and the reason(s) for the negative vote.
New Year’s Eve!
It’s no secret that New Year’s Eve is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world. It’s a fresh start, another year of surviving the crazy world we live in, a time to refocus on the things we want for ourselves, a celebration with those we love … the list goes on.
Dozens of countries welcome the New Year with over-the-top parties and celebrations. Because it’s a public holiday, many offices, businesses, and schools close for the day. As you think about your plans for this holiday, here are some fun facts about New Year’s that might surprise you!
Can you guess what the most common New Year’s resolutions are? You may already have one or two of these on your own personal list. The top five New Year’s resolutions are: to quit smoking, get a new job, lose weight, increase personal savings, and return to school. Just remember that coming up with a concrete plan to reach your goals is the surest way to achieve your resolutions!
About one million people brave the cold to watch the New Year’s Eve ball drop in New York City’s Times Square in person. Yes, that’s one million! This event is one of the most iconic celebrations in the world. People travel from all over just to experience it, but you can watch from the warmth and comfort of your living room.
New Year’s Eve is a time to enjoy the company of your friends and family. Don’t forget to send warm wishes to your loved ones, and snag a midnight kiss with that special someone if you can!
Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New Year from RAN!
www.RANNV.org.
Nevada News
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The Center Square
NEVADA PROJECTS
$12.4
BILLION BUDGET
Gov. Joe Lombardo and Nevada lawmakers
National News
Continued from page 7 her U.S. Senate seat in Nevada, narrowly defeating Republican challenger Sam Brown by about 1%. Despite her win, Republicans now hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate. Rosen, who emphasizes priorities like lowering costs, expanding healthcare, affordable housing, abortion rights, and border security, expressed gratitude to Nevada voters and pledged continued progress. Brown, a Purple Heart recipient and political newcomer, thanked supporters, calling the campaign an honor. Rosen’s win highlights Nevada’s tight political landscape and her ongoing focus on bipartisan issues like fentanyl prevention and border funding.
sales at risk by 2025, according to a Qualtrics study. Globally, $3.8 trillion is at stake, with bad experiences prompting 53% of consumers to reduce spending, particularly with fast food brands, department stores, and online retailers. Top complaints include service delivery issues (46%), communication failures (45%), and poor employee interactions (39%). While reports of bad experiences have slightly decreased, the percentage of consumers reducing their expenses after such interactions has risen, especially with department stores and online retailers. Brands that ensure
will manage a record $12.4 billion general fund budget for the next two years, reflecting a 7% revenue growth from the last cycle. This forecast, approved by the state’s Economic Forum, highlights steady revenue from key sources like the gaming percentage fees tax ($2 billion) and Nevada’s sales and use tax ($3.8 billion). However, factors like slowing international tourism, the end of major Las Vegas
residencies, and cooling consumer spending temper growth expectations. Other notable contributors include the insurance premium tax ($1.4 billion, up 13.2%) and the modified business tax ($1.9 billion). Despite economic uncertainties, including potential impacts from President-elect Donald Trump’s policies, state revenues remain robust, supporting priorities in the upcoming legislative session. Nevada Independent
reliable service, clear communication, and value are more likely to retain customer loyalty during this crucial holiday period.
Chain Store Age
IN-STORE AUDIO BOOSTS SALES AND ENGAGEMENT
In-store audio is emerging as an affordable and effective way for grocers to kick-start retail media efforts, especially for smaller stores without the resources for hightech installations like digital screens. Leveraging existing PA systems, artificial intelligence (AI) audio platforms like Qsic help retailers deliver targeted, timed audio ads
that align with natural shopping behaviors, such as promoting coffee in the morning. These ads are costeffective, with higher ROI than screens, and can be localized for better audience connection. By automating volume control and integrating audio with visuals, retailers can create a balanced, engaging shopping experience while boosting customer recall and sales.
Grocery Dive
AMAZON EXPANDS CASH EBT PAYMENT OPTION TO 17 STATES AND
D.C.
Amazon now accepts Cash EBT payments in 17
states and Washington, D.C., allowing customers to use federal benefits to buy a wide range of products beyond food, including electronics, toys, and home goods. The payment option, accessible through Amazon Access, also covers shipping fees and third-party items, aiming to make online shopping more affordable and inclusive for low-income customers. This move builds on Amazon’s early adoption of SNAP EBT payments through the USDA’s SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. By expanding federal benefit payment options, Amazon continues to enhance convenience and accessibility for underserved communities. Chain Store Age
Nevada News
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
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