RAN March 2023

Update From The Capitol

By Bryan Wachter

THE 82ND SESSION OF THE NEVADA LEGISLATURE is off to a snowy start in Carson City. I can’t recall another legislative session where work was called off for the day (let alone more than one) because Southwest couldn’t get legislators from Las Vegas to Reno due to weather. This has caused a few delays on bill introductions, but as of when I’m writing this update, there is no intention of extending the session past the 120th day on June 5th.

As we look ahead, the bill introduction deadline is March 20th. Your RAN team is reviewing the 1,000+ bills expected to be filed, and we have a few bills we are actively supporting, opposing or working through amendments, with topics ranging from the creation of a new statewide Organized Retail Crime task force, ongoing

changes to tobacco law, and the registration of out-of-state pharmacists filling mail-order prescriptions, and there are several BDRs on our radar with no language yet. Unlike most years, the budget won’t be debated due to lack of state revenue, instead there is a budget surplus and just as many new ideas of how to spend it. We’re expecting much of the proposed new spending to take place after the Economic Forum on May 1st when legislators get a look into the future and whether the revenue surplus is

expected to continue. One of the more interesting bills we are watching this session is the Culinary Union’s efforts to create a state lottery to fund mental health and homelessness. I won’t say they’re at odds with the Nevada Resort Association; however, this does not appear to be a unified effort. As a constitutional amendment, it will require two affirmative votes by the legislature before going to the voters in 2026. Today Nevada is one of only five

Bryan Wachter

Update From the Capitol

Continued from page 1 states without a state lottery, and RAN is requesting feedback from our members who do business in states with lotteries before engaging in this conversation.

The question on everyone’s mind continues to be whether there will be a showdown between Democratic leadership and Republican Governor Lombardo. I can think of a few bills moving through the

legislature that may cause some heartburn for Republican voters if the Governor doesn’t veto them, but we’ve yet to see the Governor or Republican leadership draw any lines in the sand for upcoming bills.

When it comes to Democratic leadership, leaders of both houses tend to be pragmatic in their legislating. That along with the election of Assemblywoman Daniele Monroe-Moreno to chair of the state party, defeating the socialist incumbent,

may be an indication that the Democratic party could be rolling back some of their most radical agenda. We’re still early in the 82nd Legislative Session, but it is clear that there is a new guard of legislators who are, for better or worse, throwing out the rulebook written by Bill Raggio and Joe Dini. Term limits combined with Nevada’s changing demographics are bringing new faces to Carson City who want to see different procedures in the building. Industries

from top to bottom and left to right are having to forge new relationships and navigate new ways of communicating with legislators, and that is bound to cause some fireworks when time starts to run out in June.

Your RAN Team is on the ground in Carson City. If you have questions or concerns, contact the office at Info@RANNV. org, and we’ll get back to you. With your help and support, we will continue to ensure business has a voice at the table. ■

Bill Highlights

RAN Staff Report

ASSEMBLY BILL 50

Sponsored by the Assembly Committee On Judiciary

On Behalf Of The Attorney General

AB50 would authorize the Attorney General’s office to create an Organized Retail Crime task force to investigate and prosecute organized retail theft in Nevada. This bill will allow the AG’s office to better support the local and federal investigations that are identifying and shutting down these crime rings across the state. Your RAN

team has been working with the bill sponsor and appreciates Attorney General Ford’s efforts to include the retail industry in this legislation. The bill had a positive first hearing, and we are working on an amendment to provide the funding necessary for the task force that will send the bill to Ways & Means, tentatively in May.

SENATE BILL 201

Sponsored by Senators Stone, Goicoechea and Hansen

SB201 addresses the

expanding role of the community pharmacist by clarifying the authority of a pharmacist to perform and order laboratory tests rather than being limited to a fingerstick or oral/ nasal swab. The bill also clarifies insurance plans to cover certain services provided by a pharmacist. The RAN team is working with bill sponsors and the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor to support the bill.

ASSEMBLY BILL 107

Sponsored by Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor

AB107 codifies some of the issues RAN has been working on with the State Board of Pharmacy in the interim. We appreciate the Democratic stakeholders for working with the industry to agree that a mail-order pharmacy will require a minimum of one managing pharmacist who is registered in Nevada and is responsible for the pharmacy personnel filling Nevada prescriptions.

NICK STOSIC Interim Commissioner

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY DIVISION OF INSURANCE

Media Contact: Liz Martins, Public Information Officer FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 8, 2023

Nevadans urged to evaluate their flood risk and explore flood insurance options amid changing weather patterns (CARSON CITY, NV) – Floods can happen anytime, anywhere, sometimes with little to no warning; and Nevada is certainly no exception.

Last summer unexpected heavy rains gushed onto Las Vegas casino floors and flooded homes; and just this past month our neighbors in northern California were hit with unprecedented back-to-back floods lasting several days, resulting in over 20 fatalities, billions of dollars in damage, and thousands of residents being displaced from their homes. These flood victims are now faced with the daunting challenge of how to recover and rebuild.

Changing weather patterns and an increase in severe weather events such as these, simply can no longer be ignored and should be taken into consideration when evaluating your property’s flood risk and considering your flood insurance options.

Flood damage is not covered under standard homeowners’, commercial, and renters’ insurance policies. Even when a federal disaster is declared, aid is usually provided in the form of low-interest loans which must be paid back and are likely to only cover a portion of your costs.

Flood insurance can protect your home or business and its contents; providing the added financial assistance you may need to help you recover faster. Keep in mind, there is typically a 30-day waiting period for policies to take effect.

Policies are available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurance companies. Contact your insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider to find a provider.

FLOOD FACTS:

• Flooding is the nation’s #1 most frequent and costly natural disaster.

• 98% of counties in the U.S. have experienced a flood.

• Just 1 inch of water can cause up to $25,000 worth of damages.

• 40% of NFIP flood insurance claims occur outside of designated high-risk flood zones

For more information on flood insurance visit the Division’s website and check out the Nevada Consumer’s Guide to Flood Insurance Additional resources are listed below.

Additional Resources:

Nevada Division of Insurance

https://doi.nv.gov/

Toll Free: 1-888-872-3234

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

https://www.floodsmart.gov/

Toll Free: 1-877-336-2627

FEMA Flood Information

https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance

Toll Free: 1-800-427-4661

FEMA Disaster Assistance

Toll Free: 1-800-621-3362

Email: floodsmart@fema.dhs.gov

GOV. LOMBARDO TO AUDIT PUBLIC SCHOOL FINANCES

In an executive order, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo is calling for a review of the state’s public school district’s finances. According to the governor’s directive, by March 1, each of Nevada’s 17 public schools and the state’s charter school authority must submit their external, third-party audits from the previous year to the Governor’s Finance Office for examination. The governor’s Division of Internal Audits will analyze the audits, identify flaws, and make recommendations to Lombardo by December 29 in a summary.

Las Vegas Review-Journal

SENATE BILL PROPOSES REGULATING SIDEWALK VENDORS IN NEVADA

A bill has been introduced in the Nevada State Senate to legitimize sidewalk vendors and provide them with legal protections. The bill would require cities and municipalities to establish a permitting process for sidewalk vendors and to provide clear guidelines on where and when vendors can operate. The move is seen as a way to support small businesses

Nevada News

and to promote economic growth, particularly in low-income and minority communities. However, some business owners and residents have expressed concerns about the potential impact on public safety and quality of life. Proponents of the bill argue that proper regulation can address these concerns while still providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses. The bill is part of a larger trend towards more progressive policies on issues such as labor and economic justice, with lawmakers across the country seeking to support workers and promote equitable growth.

KUNR

BILL PROPOSED TO REDUCE NUMBER OF UNIVERSITY REGENTS

A bill has been introduced in the Nevada State Legislature that would reduce the number of regents overseeing the state’s university system. The bill proposes to cut the number of regents from 13 to 9, with the goal of increasing efficiency and reducing costs. The move is also seen as a way to improve accountability and oversight of the university system, which has faced criticism in recent years over issues such as governance and

transparency. However, some lawmakers and advocates for higher education have expressed concern about the potential impact of the bill, arguing that it could lead to a loss of diversity and representation on the board of regents. The bill is part of a broader effort to reform the state’s higher education system and to address long-standing issues of accessibility and affordability.

Las

Vegas Review-Journal

NEVADA SECRETARY OF STATE $30M PROPOSAL TO UPDATE VOTER DATABASE

The Nevada Secretary of State has requested $30 million to upgrade the state’s voter registration database, which is seen as outdated and vulnerable to hacking and cyberattacks. The proposed upgrade would include modernizing the software and hardware systems used for voter registration and election management, as well as adding new security features and protocols. The move is seen as a necessary step towards ensuring the integrity and security of the state’s elections, particularly in light of concerns over foreign interference and cyber threats. The proposal is part of a

broader trend towards improving the nation’s election infrastructure and addressing the challenges and risks posed by new technologies and changing political dynamics. The request for funding will need to be approved by state lawmakers before it can be implemented.

Government Technology

NEVADA SOS PUSHES FOR TRAINING AND EDUCATION OF ELECTION OFFICIALS

The head of Nevada’s elections is pushing for the development of a training manual to help election officials and poll workers prepare for future elections. The move comes amid concerns over high turnover rates among election staff and the need for more standardized and consistent training across the state. The manual would cover topics such as election laws and regulations, poll worker duties and responsibilities, and best practices for conducting elections. The goal is to improve the quality and consistency of election administration in the state and to ensure that all voters have access to fair and secure elections. The proposal is part of a broader effort to reform the state’s election

KROGER BOOSTS DIGITAL FARMERS MARKET PILOT

Kroger is expanding its digital farmers market pilot program to offer customers access to fresh, locally sourced produce from small-scale farmers. The program enables customers to purchase fruits and vegetables online through Kroger’s website or app and have them delivered to their homes. The expansion will increase the number of participating farmers to over 100, allowing Kroger to offer a wider selection of locally sourced products to its customers. The move is part of Kroger’s efforts to meet the growing demand for locally sourced and sustainable food options while supporting small farmers and local communities.

Grocery Dive E-GROCERY SALES TO GROW AT 12% ANNUAL RATE OVER 5 YEARS

According to a new report, online grocery sales in the US are projected to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 12% over the next five years, reaching $162 billion by 2025. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift to online grocery shopping, with many consumers adopting the practice for

the first time. The report suggests that this trend is likely to continue even as pandemic-related restrictions ease. The convenience and timesaving benefits of online grocery shopping are cited as key drivers of the growth, as well as the increasing availability of same-day and onehour delivery services. The report also notes that retailers will need to continue investing in their online grocery operations and improving the customer experience to remain competitive in this rapidly growing market.

Grocery Dive

SHOPPERS TURN TO DOLLAR STORES AMID RISING FOOD PRICES

As food prices continue to rise, more consumers in the US are turning to dollar stores to purchase groceries. According to industry analysts, dollar stores are expanding their food offerings and investing in private label products to meet the growing demand for affordable food options. Dollar stores are also expanding their fresh food offerings, with some stores now selling produce, meat, and dairy products. The trend towards shopping at dollar stores is seen as a response to food inflation, which is being driven by

factors such as supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and higher production costs. While dollar stores offer cheaper prices, critics warn that the quality of the products may be lower and that consumers may be sacrificing nutritional value for affordability.

CNBC

DESPITE COOLING INFLATION, HIGH PRICES PERSIST

While there are signs that inflation in the US is starting to cool, experts predict that high prices are likely to persist for some time. Factors contributing to inflation include supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising production costs, as well as increased demand for goods and services as the economy rebounds from the pandemic. While the Federal Reserve has signaled that it will raise interest rates in response to inflation, some economists argue that this may not be enough to fully address the issue. In the meantime, consumers are likely to continue feeling the impact of higher prices, particularly in areas such as food and energy. However, some experts suggest that the trend towards higher prices may ultimately drive innovation and efficiency in the

economy, as businesses seek to find new ways to reduce costs and increase productivity. CNBC

WALMART INCREASES MINIMUM WAGE TO $14/HOUR

Walmart is raising its minimum wage to $15 per hour for over 565,000 of its employees. The move comes as the retail labor market remains tight, with many employers struggling to attract and retain workers. In addition to raising wages, Walmart is also offering bonuses and incentives to encourage employees to stay with the company. The move is part of a larger effort by Walmart to improve working conditions and opportunities for its employees, as well as to remain competitive in a rapidly changing retail landscape. Supporters of the move argue that it is a positive step towards improving the lives of Walmart employees and setting a new standard for other employers in the industry.

CNBC

‘EGGFLATION’ IS HERE TO STAY

Farmers are struggling to meet demand, sending egg prices continue

Retail Management Skills Certificate at TMCC

Retail Management Skills Certificate Requirements

Here’s what you need to take (all classes are three credits and are available online):

» BUS 111 Workplace Communications

» BUS 117 Business Calculations and Methods

» IS 101 Introduction to Information Systems

» MGT 171 Supervision and Human Relations

» MGT 212 Leadership and Human Relations

» MGT 283 Introduction to Human Resources Management

» MKT 127 Introduction to Retailing

» MKT 210 Marketing Principles

Steps to complete the certificate:

» Follow the registration steps at stepstoenroll.tmcc.edu

» Successfully complete the required classes

» Present your transcript and completed WAFC Industry Certificate application to your human resources department so your WAFC retail management certificate and cash honorarium can be requested.

To register for classes at TMCC, please follow the easy Steps to Enroll at stepstoenroll.tmcc.edu!

If you have any questions, please contact the Retail Management Coordinator at 775-674-4836.

Endorsed by Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC)

Josh

for SIG Members

Everyone is Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day!

If you aren’t – not to worry because the Irish believe “Everyone is a little Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day”. Each year March 17th is celebrated not only in Ireland but throughout the world by Irish and non-Irish alike. In fact it is the most widely celebrated saint’s day on the planet.

Nevada News

system and to address long-standing issues of voter suppression and disenfranchisement.

KTNV Las Vegas

NEW CHAIR OF THE NEVADA STATE DEMOCRATIC PARTY Assemblywoman

Daniele MonroeMoreno (D-Las Vegas)

Continued from page 7

has been elected as the new chair of the Nevada State Democratic Party, ousting the incumbent and progressive leader, Judith Whitmer. The shift is seen as a move towards more moderate politics within the party, with Monroe-Moreno pledging to focus on unity and winning elections in

National News

soaring. Prices are unlikely to recover to where they were before last year’s highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak, which resulted in the slaughter of more than 58 million birds, according to the CDC. As long as supply remains constrained, Kevin Bergquist, Wells Fargo’s Agri-Food Institute sector manager, said this so-called ‘eggflation’ or continuous increase in egg prices might carry over for many months. Policymakers and consumer advocacy groups are pressing the federal government to take action against egg companies which they regard as a monopoly exploiting consumers in an already troubled market.

Food Dive

the state. Despite some progressives expressing disappointment with the outcome, others view it as an opportunity to bridge the divide within the party and to focus on issues such as healthcare and climate change. The election is also being closely watched as a potential bellwether for

Continued from page 8

RETAILERS INVEST TO MEASURE PHYSICAL STORE PERFORMANCE

Technology companies are developing new tools to help retailers measure the effectiveness of their physical stores in the same way that they measure the performance of their websites. These tools include sensors, cameras, and other data-gathering devices that can track customer behavior and collect data on metrics such as foot traffic, dwell time, and conversion rates. The goal is to help retailers make data-driven decisions about store design, layout, and product placement, as well as to improve the overall customer experience. While some retailers have been slow to adopt these technologies, experts predict that the trend towards more data-driven retail will continue to

grow as retailers seek to remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry. However, concerns around privacy and data security remain a major concern, and retailers will need to take steps to ensure that they are collecting and using customer data in a responsible and ethical manner.

Modern Retail

DIGITALLY NATIVE RETAILERS LOOK TO BRICK AND MORTAR TO PREVENT BANKRUPTCY

Digitally-native retailers, including Wayfair and The RealReal, are facing an increased risk of bankruptcy as they struggle to manage rising costs and meet the demands of an increasingly competitive market. These retailers, which rely heavily on online sales, have been

the future of the Democratic Party, as tensions between the progressive and moderate wings continue to play out at the national level. The move is part of a broader trend towards more centrist politics in some parts of the country.

The Nevada Independent

hit hard by supply chain disruptions and rising production costs, as well as increased competition from traditional brick-andmortar retailers that have rapidly expanded their online offerings. Additionally, some analysts suggest that the novelty of online shopping is starting to wear off, leading consumers to shift back to more traditional shopping methods. While some digitally-native retailers have been able to pivot successfully, others are facing significant challenges, with many struggling to turn a profit or meet their financial obligations. The trend towards bankruptcy among digitally-native retailers is likely to continue, with experts predicting that only the strongest and most innovative companies will survive.

Retail Dive

Celebrate National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is Fuel for the Future. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has created a toolkit full of resources, including PSAs, tip sheets, activity handouts, and more at sm.eatright.org/NNMresources