Retail is the Gateway to Career Growth
By Mary Lau
SEPTEMBER IS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MONTH—A TIME TO spotlight the opportunities, training, and partnerships that prepare Nevadans for success in the workplace. In a state where retail is one of the largest private-sector employers, this month holds special meaning. Retail is not only an economic driver, it is one of the most important entry points into the workforce, especially for young people, career changers, and those reentering employment.
For many, that first job in retail is the first step toward a lifetime of professional growth. Behind the cash register, on the sales floor, or in the stockroom, employees are learning far more than how to process transactions or restock shelves. They are gaining skills that form the foundation for any career: customer service, problem-solving, time management, teamwork, and adaptability. A cashier greeting a customer learns communication and empathy. An associate managing inventory develops organizational and analytical skills. A team
Mary Lau
member working in online order fulfillment gains experience in logistics and technology integration. These skills are transferable across industries, opening doors well beyond retail.
Retailers understand the significance of this role. For decades, the industry has been the training ground where Nevadans learn not only how to work, but how to thrive in a professional setting. Many store managers, corporate leaders, and business owners began in entry-level retail positions, carrying forward the lessons of service, responsibility, and leadership that retail work instills.
Yet, in today’s fastchanging economy, retailers also recognize that entrylevel experience is only
the beginning. Workforce development is about creating opportunities for continued learning and advancement. Across Nevada, retailers are investing in employee training programs, mentorship opportunities, and education benefits. Some offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing degrees or certifications. Others partner with community colleges and workforce agencies to provide specialized training in areas like supply chain management, data analytics, and digital marketing. The goal is not simply to fill a position, but to help employees build a career pathway that aligns with their ambitions and
Nevada Needs Retailers and Business Leaders in the Legislature
RAN Staff Report
IF YOU’VE EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STEPPING INTO PUBLIC SERVICE ,
2026 is your moment. Nevada’s elections are fast approaching, and our state needs more voices from the business community— especially retailers—in the Legislature. The stakes for our industry have never been higher, and the next legislative session will bring decisions that directly affect how we hire, operate, and grow. The time to prepare is now, and the Retail Association of Nevada is ready to help you take that first step.
Public policy in Carson City shapes every aspect of doing business in our state. Workers’ compensation rules, employment laws, sales tax policy, organized retail theft legislation— each of these decisions made under the dome directly influences bottom lines and business viability. When lawmakers have realworld experience running businesses, the debate gains a grounding in practicality that no briefing or policy paper can fully provide. Retailers and business leaders know the realities of managing payroll, balancing fluctuating costs, complying
with evolving regulations, and still serving customers effectively. That insight ensures laws are not just wellintentioned but workable, avoiding unintended consequences that can stall economic growth. The 2025 session proved how quickly the business climate can change. While RAN’s advocacy protected many industry priorities, having legislators who live the impact of these laws every day adds credibility and urgency that can sway votes and shape amendments.
At the same time, the pace of innovation in retail is accelerating— introducing new payment technologies, advanced logistics, and complex e-commerce taxation issues. Without leaders who understand these challenges, outdated or misaligned regulations can hinder Nevada’s competitiveness.
Nevada’s Legislature works best when it reflects the full spectrum of our state’s experience. Business leaders add a critical dimension to that mix— bringing economic insight,
Continued on page 11
Retail is the Gateway to Career Growth
Continued from page 1 the evolving needs of the industry.
This commitment to continuing education pays dividends—not just for the individual worker, but for the business and the community. Employees who are trained, supported, and encouraged to grow are more engaged and more likely to stay with their employer. Businesses benefit from a skilled and loyal workforce, and communities gain residents with greater earning potential, stability, and pride in their contributions.
Workforce Development Month also underscores the importance of policy and partnerships in sustaining this momentum. Programs that promote career and technical education in high schools, encourage employer-led training initiatives, and provide financial incentives for upskilling are vital to Nevada’s long-term economic health. The
Retail Association of Nevada advocates for such measures, ensuring that state policy supports a talent pipeline capable of meeting both today’s staffing needs and tomorrow’s business challenges.
The truth is, retail has always been more than a job—it is a launchpad.
For countless Nevadans, that first retail paycheck marked the beginning of a career journey, whether they stayed in the industry or carried
their skills into new fields. By celebrating Workforce Development Month, we acknowledge that our economy’s strength lies in these beginnings and in the commitment to helping every employee take the next step forward. In Nevada, when retailers and workers grow together, the entire state benefits. That is why retail’s role as both an entry point and a career builder remains one of our most powerful tools for economic resilience.
SNAP Changes Bring New Responsibilities and Challenges for Nevada
By Bryan Wachter
AS FEDERAL LAWMAKERS RESHAPE
NATIONAL
policy through H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) stand out as among the most consequential for everyday Nevadans. While the broader package focuses on economic growth and fiscal restructuring, the revised approach to food assistance carries significant downstream implications, particularly for low income households, frontline retailers, and state administrators.
The legislation expands work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents, raises documentation thresholds, and limits eligibility through tighter income and asset rules. It also reassigns greater responsibility for SNAP administration to state governments, including the design and management of
new verification systems, without clear increases in federal support to offset those new obligations.
For a state like Nevada, where the economy is heavily reliant on service, tourism, and retail jobs, these policy shifts are likely to be felt swiftly and broadly. Many workers in these industries rely on SNAP to help manage periods of fluctuating hours, seasonal employment, or temporary layoffs. As eligibility narrows and benefit access becomes more complex, household purchasing power will be affected, and so will the businesses that serve these households.
Retailers, especially those operating in underserved communities, may experience the most
immediate impact. Stores where a meaningful share of transactions are SNAP supported could see declines in sales, and
Bryan Wachter
the reduction in foot traffic may further strain small operators already navigating a tight margin environment. While larger retailers may absorb such changes more gradually, the broader economic ripple effect should not be underestimated.
Beyond economic implications, the administrative side of these reforms presents real considerations for Nevada’s leaders. The state will be required to assume more of the workload in verifying compliance, enforcing work requirements, managing appeals, and adapting systems to align with new federal expectations. Without increased federal funding or flexibility, this could stretch public agencies and delay service delivery
at a time when reliability and responsiveness are critical.
It is important to note that while federal policy sets the framework, the local impact depends heavily on how states choose to implement and support these changes. That makes planning and resource allocation at the state level essential.
Nevada’s economy is as diverse as its communities, and programs like SNAP have long served as stabilizers not only for households, but for the retail businesses that support them. The coming changes represent a meaningful shift in that equation.
As implementation moves forward, state leaders, business stakeholders, and service providers would be well served by evaluating how best to mitigate disruptions and support those most affected. Ensuring that Nevada can meet new administrative demands while preserving access and economic participation for vulnerable populations will require both coordination and foresight.
“One Big Beautiful Bill Act” H.R. 1 Summary
RAN Staff Report
THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT, FORMALLY
KNOWN AS H.R. 1 OF Congress, represents one of the most ambitious and sweeping pieces of legislation in recent federal history. Introduced earlier this year and signed into law on July 4, the bill consolidates wide-ranging reforms across tax policy, social programs, energy, defense, and workforce regulations—all within a single reconciliation package.
OVERVIEW AND LEGISLATIVE SCOPE
Structured under the budget reconciliation process, H.R. 1 draws together policy recommendations from multiple House committees and blends them into a singular legislative effort. Its passage was driven by the majority party’s desire to reshape federal priorities through fiscal and regulatory realignment, utilizing a process that limits Senate debate and allows passage by a simple majority.
RETAIL-RELEVANT PROVISIONS
Several provisions within the bill will have
direct and indirect impacts on Nevada’s retail industry. Most notably, the legislation makes permanent a number of tax provisions initially introduced under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. These include expanded standard deductions, lower individual income tax rates, and enhanced deductions for certain business income— changes that could benefit retailers structured as pass-through entities. Newly introduced tax exemptions for tips and overtime pay may also provide financial relief to hourly retail workers and service staff. Such provisions could help attract and retain talent in a sector already challenged by labor shortages.
However, the bill also includes changes with more complex implications. It phases out a variety of clean energy tax credits, alters Medicaid
eligibility, and institutes new work requirements for certain federal assistance programs. These shifts may create fiscal pressures for lowerincome workers and consumers, particularly in Nevada’s rural and underserved communities.
ECONOMIC AND FISCAL IMPLICATIONS
H.R. 1 is projected to significantly increase the federal deficit over the next decade. While supporters argue that tax relief and deregulation will spur economic growth, critics have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of such an approach. The expected reduction in health insurance coverage and cuts to social safety nets have drawn particular scrutiny.
For Nevada’s retailers, the economic ripple effects could be mixed. On one hand, increased take-home pay and reduced business tax
liabilities could help stimulate local commerce and hiring. On the other hand, cuts to federal assistance programs may reduce consumer spending power among key demographic groups.
STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS FOR RETAILERS
Retailers in Nevada should monitor how the bill’s provisions are implemented over the coming months. Businesses operating in areas with large populations reliant on federal assistance should prepare for potential shifts in purchasing behavior. At the same time, opportunities to reinvest tax savings into workforce development and expansion should be explored.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a defining policy moment with implications that will unfold over the next several years. For Nevada’s retail sector, it offers both opportunities and challenges. RAN will continue to evaluate the legislation’s effects and advocate for policies that promote a balanced, pro-growth environment for all retailers across the state.
Prescription for a Stronger Workforce: Why PBM Reforms Matter Now
By Liz MacMenamin
FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
ACROSS NEVADA, WORKFORCE
development isn’t just about finding talent—it’s about keeping it. Competitive wages, training opportunities, and career pathways are all part of the equation, but there’s another critical factor that often determines whether an employee stays or goes: affordable health care. Within that, prescription drug coverage plays an outsized role in both cost and employee satisfaction. Without reforming how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) operate, many small businesses will remain at a disadvantage when it comes to building and maintaining a strong workforce.
The challenge is especially stark for the smallest firms. According to The Burden of Health Insurance Premiums on Small Business (June 26, 2024), businesses with less than $600,000 in annual revenue face a median health insurance payroll burden of nearly 12 percent—almost double the 7 percent burden experienced by firms with revenues over $2.4 million. That imbalance leaves smaller employers with fewer resources to invest in the very things that drive workforce
growth, from skills training to performance-based pay.
PBMs were originally created to help manage prescription costs and improve efficiency. Over time, however, their operations have become opaque and riddled with conflicts of interest. Many PBMs negotiate rebates with drug manufacturers but fail to pass those savings fully on to employers or patients. In some cases, PBMs steer patients toward higher-cost drugs that generate larger rebates—decisions that drive up insurance premiums and reduce benefit affordability.
For a small business, the ripple effects are immediate. Higher prescription costs don’t just raise premiums; they can also limit the ability to expand benefits, increase wages, or fund training initiatives. When employees feel their health coverage is too costly or inadequate, they’re more likely to seek opportunities elsewhere— adding recruitment and onboarding costs to an already strained budget.
Reforming PBMs can be a game-changer for workforce development. Transparency requirements—disclosing negotiated prices, rebate amounts, and spread pricing practices—would give small business owners the
Liz MacMenamin
data they need to choose the most cost-effective health plan options. Rules that ensure fair access for local pharmacies would protect employee convenience and continuity of care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Eliminating “gag clauses” would allow pharmacists to tell employees about lowercost alternatives, reducing financial stress and improving adherence to treatment.
This is also a critical legislative issue. RAN deeply appreciates the work of our state leaders who have recognized the need for PBM reform and taken meaningful steps toward addressing it.
The 2025 legislation, while well-crafted, unfortunately failed to pass—by no fault of its own—due to the competing demands and constraints of the session. However, the fight is far
from over. RAN is actively monitoring how PBMrelated policies and positions develop in the 2026 election cycle, and we are committed to ensuring this issue remains a priority heading into the 2027 legislative session.
When prescription costs are under control, small businesses can reinvest in their people. That could mean more funds for upskilling programs, more flexibility to offer familyfriendly scheduling, or better retirement contributions— benefits that make retail jobs not just a paycheck, but a career path.
The connection between PBM reform and workforce stability is clear: affordable, accessible health benefits help businesses retain their employees and reduce costly turnover. By acting on PBM reform, policymakers can give Nevada’s small businesses the tools to compete for talent on a more level playing field and strengthen the longterm outlook for our local workforce.
In today’s competitive labor market, PBM reform isn’t just a matter of cutting costs—it’s a workforce development strategy that will pay dividends for years to come.
NEVADA CONSIDERS SPECIAL SESSION FOR FAILED 2025 BILLS
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo and legislative leaders are actively discussing the possibility of convening a special legislative session later this year to revive key measures that failed during the 2025 regular session. Among the top priorities under consideration are Lombardo’s omnibus crime bill—targeting enhanced public safety, particularly along the Las Vegas Strip—and a film tax credit proposal aimed at supporting the development of a new film studio in Summerlin, backed by the Howard Hughes Corporation along with Warner Bros. and Sony Pictures. While these businessoriented initiatives may be revisited, critical fiscal items such as education and Medicaid funding cuts related to the “One Big Beautiful Bill” are expected to be deferred until the 2027 legislative session. A formal proclamation to call the special session would follow an agreement between the governor and legislative leaders, and if held, it would also trigger a fundraising blackout for all legislators involved. KTNV Las Vegas
REPUBLICANS CRITICIZE
PARTISAN SHIFT IN LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION
Nevada Senate Republicans voiced strong concerns over what they call a lack of transparency in changes to the state’s Legislative Commission, reigniting
Nevada News
tensions from the final day of the 2025 legislative session.
Senate Minority Leader Robin Titus criticized Democrats for passing last-minute resolutions on June 2 that altered the commission’s partisan makeup, shifting it from an even party split to an 8-4 Democratic majority. Republicans argue the vote on the resolution occurred after the session’s constitutional midnight deadline and therefore violated procedure. Titus also alleged that Republican Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony was blocked from re-entering the Senate chambers during the final minutes, though Democrats refuted this claim. Despite procedural disputes and calls for legal action, Titus said Republicans will instead appeal to public opinion. Monday’s meeting proceeded with the appointment of new commission leaders and review of regulations.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
AUDIT REVEALS MISUSE AND POOR OVERSIGHT IN NDOT
A legislative audit has revealed significant misuse of state resources and poor oversight within the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). The report, released by the Legislative Counsel Bureau, found accounting failures related to $25 million in stockpile materials during the 2023 fiscal year, along with instances of state vehicle misuse. Auditors highlighted inaccurate records, unapproved
modifications, and fictitious approvals, including a signature from “Jonny Appleseed” used to bypass oversight rules. In one case, nearly $20,000 was spent modifying an NDOT truck for a holiday party car show before it was purchased by a supervisor. Another vehicle was used for personal purposes 83% of the time over four months, a cost estimated at $5,000 annually. While no fraud was identified, auditors called the actions abusive and stressed the need for stronger controls, especially in light of past fraud cases. NDOT accepted all 10 of the audit’s recommendations and must report back on its progress by October 14.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
FORD TO CHALLENGE LOMBARDO IN HIGHSTAKES NEVADA RACE
Nevada’s 2026 governor’s race is shaping up to be a closely watched battle, with Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford announcing his candidacy against Republican incumbent Governor Joe Lombardo. Ford becomes the highest-profile Democrat to enter the race in a state narrowly won by Donald Trump in 2024, where the GOP saw gains among younger voters, non-college-educated voters, and communities of color. Ford’s campaign will focus on economic fairness, housing costs, education, and public safety. Lombardo, who has cultivated a moderate image, will likely benefit from incumbency but faces a tough
contest in a politically divided state. The race comes at a time of national uncertainty for Democrats, who are seeking to rebuild after 2024 setbacks. Recent polling shows tepid public approval of Trump’s economic and policy impact. Notably, Lombardo recently vetoed a GOP-backed voter ID bill he had once supported, citing concerns over mail-in ballot security. If elected, Ford would become Nevada’s first Black governor .AP News
WASHOE COUNTY COMMISSIONER PLANS DEMOCRATIC RUN FOR NEVADA GOVERNOR
Washoe County Commission Chair Alexis Hill has announced plans to run for Nevada governor, setting up a competitive Democratic primary against Attorney General Aaron Ford in 2026. Hill, a two-term commissioner representing Incline Village and Crystal Bay, cited frustration with the state government’s limited support for local issues as a key reason for her decision. A lifelong Nevadan and former city planner, Hill plans to focus her campaign on affordable housing, sustainable development, and increased state support for counties. While she won’t resign her current post to run, Hill said she hopes to bring her bipartisan experience from a politically split county board to state leadership. If both Hill and Ford move forward, the race will pit two prominent Democrats
TARIFF PRESSURES SQUEEZE U.S. RETAILERS
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of U.S. retail businesses have already seen profits decline due to tariffs, according to a new study by rebate and pricing platform Enable. With 30% of average retail costs tied to tariffs, 90% of retailers are worried about the financial impact in the year ahead, and one-third are “extremely concerned.” While most companies plan to raise prices to cope, many face delays in adjusting pricing, giving faster competitors a potential edge. To manage the pressure, 57% are cutting costs, and 45% may reduce or exit high-tariff markets. The study also found that 79% of businesses are worried about losing customers over price hikes, and 69% plan to invest in better pricing tools as market volatility continues. Experts say pricing agility is becoming critical to surviving ongoing trade tensions.
Chain Store Age
STORE INEFFICIENCIES NOW COSTING RETAILERS
MORE THAN THEFT, STUDY FINDS
While organized retail crime has dominated headlines, new research shows that in-store inefficiencies like poor staffing, pricing errors, and inventory mismanagement are responsible for more inventory loss—known as “shrink”—than theft. A study by Coresight Research found that U.S. retailers are losing an average of 5.5% of gross sales to operational failures, up
National News
from 4.5% last year, with total losses potentially reaching $162.7 billion. Experts say loss prevention needs to evolve from just catching criminals to improving overall store performance. Many retailers are now turning to AI and data tools to track mistakes and spot loss patterns, but staffing remains a key issue. Industry veterans argue that decades of labor cuts, especially since the Great Recession, have made backrooms harder to manage, directly increasing shrink. As technology helps break down silos between operations, HR, and loss prevention, the focus is shifting toward holistic, margin-protecting strategies. Retail Dive
APPAREL AND DEPARTMENT STORE FACE PROFIT HIT AS TARIFFS AND WEAK DEMAND PERSIST
U.S. apparel, footwear, and department store retailers are among the hardest hit by current trade policies, with tariffs significantly squeezing profits, according to a new report from Moody’s Ratings. As these companies sell through older inventory, import duties are cutting into margins, and with limited ability to raise prices, revenue growth is expected to max out at just 3%. The sector holds a negative outlook, with department stores showing year-over-year sales declines nearly every month in 2025. Value-driven retailers like Walmart and off-price
chains are faring better, while companies like Target are struggling due to their reliance on discretionary goods. Though recent tariff delays have eased projected EBIT declines from over 10% to 3–5%, Moody’s warns that further tariff hikes could worsen the outlook. Broader economic pressures like high interest rates and rising unemployment are compounding challenges, especially for consumers already cutting back on nonessentials. Yahoo Finance
WALMART ROLLS OUT AI ‘SUPER AGENTS’ TO TRANSFORM SHOPPING AND STORE OPERATIONS
Walmart is introducing a new generation of “super agents” powered by agentic AI to streamline how customers, employees, and partners interact with the company. Unveiled last July 24, 2025, these AI tools will serve as centralized assistants across the business helping shoppers reorder products, plan events, or get recipe ideas using computer vision, while also supporting employees with HR tasks and suppliers with sales data access. Walmart says the move comes as consumers grow increasingly comfortable with AI and reflects a broader push to make eCommerce half of its sales within five years. Tools like “Sparky,” Walmart’s customer-facing AI assistant, and new agents for associates, sellers, and developers are part of the rollout. While Walmart did not clarify whether the
agents would replace jobs, it said new roles would be created. The shift comes as Amazon makes similar AIdriven investments, signaling a structural transformation in modern retail. PYMNTS
WALMART
EXPANDS
WELLNESS OFFERINGS
Walmart is significantly expanding its wellness product assortment, adding brands like Nutrafol and Ritual to meet growing consumer interest in gut health, supplements, and whole-body wellness. According to Kristin Piper, Walmart’s VP of wellness merchandising, the retailer is focusing on clinically backed, research-driven products that align with rising customer expectations. Nutrafol, known for its hair growth supplements, and Ritual, recognized for its transparent and sciencebacked vitamins, are now available online. The company has launched 50 wellness brands over the past two years and revamped private label Spring Valley packaging to highlight benefits like “Sleep” and “Immunity.” Walmart is also introducing curated in-store experiences like a “Greens Destination” section and exclusive offerings from brands such as BelliWelli and Wonderbelly. The move reflects Walmart’s broader strategy to make wellness accessible, convenient, and personalized across all demographics and shopping channels.
Drug Store News
Nevada Families Projected to Spend $522.4 Million on Back-to-School and College in 2025
Back-to-College Spending Sets Record
AS NEVADA
STUDENTS
SHARPEN PENCILS AND prep for another academic year, their families are projected to spend a combined $522.4 million gearing up learners from kindergarten through college, according to the Retail Association of Nevada (RAN).
Nationwide, consumers are expected to spend $128.2 billion, according to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF). Consumers are shopping earlier this year due to ongoing economic uncertainty, according to the NRF. This pattern started in 2020 with pandemic-related disruptions, continued through 2021 with supply chain issues, persisted in 2022 due to inflation, and is accelerating this year amid concerns over rising prices from tariffs. Over two-thirds of consumers (67 percent) began their back-to-school shopping by early July, the highest percentage ever recorded by the NRF survey, up from 55 percent in 2023 and 2024.
Nationally, families with K-12 students are projected to spend a total of $39.4 billion this year, a 1.5 percent increase from last year. On average, households will spend about $857, down 2.0 percent from last year’s $875.Nevada families preparing K-12 students for school are expected to spend $361.9 million, a decrease of 1.9 percent compared to last year. Despite the overall dip in spending, electronics continue to top shopping lists, accounting for about a third of total spending, with an estimated $124.9 million in expenditures. Clothing and accessories are next at $105.3 million, followed by shoes ($71.4 million), and school supplies ($60.7 million). Across the nation, collegerelated spending is
expected to total $88.8 billion, up 2.5 percent from last year. On average, households will spend around $1,326 per college student, a 5.9 percent annual decline.
Meanwhile, college students in Nevada will
projected at $37.5 million. Dorm and apartment furnishings followed with ($23.2 million), along with clothing and accessories ($20.1 million), food and snacks ($17.0 million), and personal care items ($14.3 million).
push back-to-school spending to record highs, with projections reaching $160.5 million – up 2.8 percent compared to last year due to rising enrollment. Electronics lead the way among spending categories, with total expenditures
Online shopping remains the favored choice for both K-12 (55 percent) and college shoppers (48 percent). Other popular shopping locations for K-12 families include department stores (48 percent), discount stores (47 percent), and clothing stores (41 percent). College families similarly favor discount stores (36 percent), department stores (35 percent), and college bookstores (27 percent).
Federal Court Ruling on Debit-Card Fees Could Deliver Future Relief For Nevada Retailers
RAN Staff Report
ARECENT FEDERAL COURT DECISION
could lay the groundwork for long-term cost savings for Nevada’s retail industry, though the immediate impact remains on hold pending appeals. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor in North Dakota granted summary judgment in a case challenging the Federal Reserve’s decade-old rule on debit-card interchange fees, commonly known as “swipe fees.” The case, brought by Corner Post, a truck stop and convenience store in Watford City, N.D., is already being described as a potential game-changer for merchants nationwide.
While the court vacated the current fee cap, Judge Traynor stayed that order until higher courts weigh in, meaning retailers will not see immediate changes at the checkout counter. Still, the decision has the potential to pave the way for a future regulatory framework that brings swipe fees more in line with actual processing costs—offering Nevada retailers breathing room amid rising wages, rent, and inventory expenses.
NEVADA’S STAKE IN THE ISSUE
Debit-card processing fees represent one of the largest operating costs for merchants after payroll and occupancy. Even modest reductions could translate into millions in retained earnings for Nevada retailers—savings that could be reinvested in staffing, price stability, or store expansions.
Industry advocates within the state, including members of the Retail Association of Nevada, have long argued that the Federal Reserve’s current fee formula allows banks to recover costs beyond what Congress intended when it passed the Durbin Amendment in 2010. Reducing these costs could strengthen competitiveness and consumer value across the state’s retail market.
THE LEGAL BATTLE: FROM FILING TO FINAL JUDGMENT
Corner Post’s 2021 lawsuit targeted Regulation II, the Federal Reserve’s rule implementing the Durbin Amendment of the Dodd-Frank Act. The amendment requires debitcard interchange fees to be “reasonable and proportional” to the costs incurred by card issuers in processing
transactions. The 2011 rule capped fees at 21 cents per transaction plus small fraud-related adjustments—a structure retailers argued was too high because it included unrelated costs such as fixed infrastructure and network operations. Initially, the case was dismissed in 2022 under the Administrative Procedure Act’s six-year statute of limitations. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that dismissal, but the U.S. Supreme Court reversed in 2024, ruling that the six-year clock starts only when a plaintiff is actually affected by the regulation. That allowed Corner Post, which opened in 2018, to proceed with its claim.
JUDGE TRAYNOR’S FINDINGS
In his August 6 opinion, Judge Traynor found that the Federal Reserve exceeded its authority by including unauthorized cost categories, failed to tailor fees to specific issuer expenses, and could no longer rely on judicial deference following the Supreme Court’s Loper Bright v. Raimondo decision earlier this year. Although he vacated the regulation, he stayed the order during appeals to avoid market disruption.
RETAIL INDUSTRY REACTION
National trade groups, including the National Retail Federation and the Merchants Payments Coalition, welcomed the decision as a long-overdue correction to a system they say has favored large banks over merchants for more than a decade. Nevada retailers share that optimism, seeing the potential for a revised fee structure that better reflects the actual cost of processing transactions— particularly beneficial for high-volume sectors such as grocery, convenience, and big-box retail.
WHAT COMES NEXT
The Federal Reserve may still move forward with a 2023 proposal to lower the debit-card fee cap. If the courts ultimately uphold Judge Traynor’s ruling, Nevada retailers could find themselves in a more competitive cost environment, with the possibility of passing some savings on to consumers. For now, industry stakeholders across the state are watching closely, knowing that while relief is not immediate, the decision could reshape a major operating expense for years to come.
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.
Bighorn ATV & Small Engine Repair LLC
Comstock Construction Services LLC
El Dorado Black 55 LLC
Haught Horizon Home Setting & Service LLC
High Desert Feeds
Lendell Living LLC
Mil-Spec Paint 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.
September’s Labor Day Holiday
Labor Day is a national holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the first Monday of September every year. The holiday is dedicated to American workers and their contributions to the country’s economy and social well-being. This year, Labor Day falls on September 5th.
The origins of Labor Day can be traced back to the late 19th century when the labor movement in the United States was gaining momentum. The idea for a day to honor American workers was first proposed by the Central Labor Union in New York City in 1882. The idea quickly spread to other cities and states, and by 1894, Congress passed an act making Labor Day a national holiday. While Labor Day is a uniquely American holiday, many other countries around the world also celebrate their own versions of Labor Day or International Workers’ Day. In the United States, Labor Day is a time to reflect on the importance of work and the value of the American worker. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of the labor movement and to look forward to a future of continued progress and prosperity for all.
Information: Find out more about RAN’s self
group. Call Pro Group, 800-859-3177, or the RAN office at 775-882-1700 (toll free in Nevada 800-690-5959). Don’t forget to check out our website, www.RANNV.org.
Nevada Needs Retailers and Business Leaders in the Legislature
operational know-how, and a focus on practical solutions that complement the perspectives of educators, healthcare professionals, public servants, and others. This diversity of backgrounds produces better-informed debates and more durable policy, ensuring that laws strengthen both our communities and our economy.
Encouraging retailers and executives to step into public service also strengthens the fabric of our business community. It signals to employees and customers that companies are committed to shaping a stronger Nevada. It deepens relationships between the private sector and policymakers, laying the groundwork for more productive collaboration on
Nevada News
with different backgrounds and statewide recognition levels against each other for the chance to challenge incumbent Republican Governor Joe Lombardo. Hill, who plans to officially launch her campaign in the coming weeks, emphasized the need for bold, solution-focused leadership in Nevada.
Nevada Independent
TRUMP-ERA FEDERAL CUTS COULD HIT NEVADA HARD ON MEDICAID, GAMBLING, AND CLEAN ENERGY
Major elements of former President Donald Trump’s sweeping new federal law are converging in Nevada, where state leaders warn the financial impact could be especially severe. The law imposes sharp cuts to Medicaid and food aid by introducing
Continued from page 6
new work requirements and restricting state health care funding mechanisms. With roughly one-third of Nevadans on Medicaid, up to 100,000 residents could lose coverage, and the state’s lack of an income tax or easy paths to raise revenue limits its ability to respond. Additional tax provisions target Nevada’s gambling industry, capping deductions for losses at 90%, a move critics say threatens professional gamblers and the state’s casino economy. Trump’s popular “no tax on tips” policy allows workers to deduct up to $25,000 in tipped income, but experts note most tipped workers already pay no federal income tax and won’t benefit. Meanwhile, the law halts clean energy funds tied to the Inflation Reduction Act, which could lead to
Continued from page 2
future challenges.
If you’ve ever said, “Someone in the Legislature should understand what it’s really like to run a business,” consider that someone could be you. The decisions made in Carson City over the next decade will define Nevada’s business environment for generations. Our industry needs champions who know the difference
between theory and reality—and who are ready to lead.
Contact Bryan Wachter at the Retail Association of Nevada today to explore how you can turn your business experience into public service and help shape the future of our state.
rising power bills and job losses in Nevada’s solar sector. Lawmakers and economists alike say the changes could dramatically alter Nevada’s economic landscape.
NBC News
NEW LAW ALLOWS EARLIER CONSTRUCTION START TIMES TO PROTECT WORKERS FROM HEAT
Nevada has enacted a new statewide law allowing commercial and infrastructure construction projects to begin as early as 5 A.M. from April through September, aiming to reduce heat-related risks for workers. Signed by Gov. Joe Lombardo and supported unanimously by lawmakers, Assembly Bill 478 overrides previous local noise ordinances that often barred construction before 7 A.M. near residential areas. The change follows a sharp
rise in heat-related complaints and injuries reported to Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration, with 485 such complaints filed in 2024, the highest ever. Labor leaders and safety officials say earlier start times are essential to avoid peak afternoon temperatures, which are especially dangerous on asphalt and pavement worksites. While the law is expected to bring more early-morning noise near homes, supporters argue that the temporary disruption is necessary to safeguard worker health. The bill was championed by Assemblymember Sandra Jauregui, who emphasized that commercial construction workers deserve the same protections as those in residential construction. Nevada Current
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AI in Retail: Preparing Nevada’s Workforce for the Shift
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS MOVING
RAPIDLY FROM concept to practice in retail, and in Nevada, its impact is no longer theoretical. From the Las Vegas Strip to smalltown main streets, AI is being integrated into store layouts, pricing systems, inventory management, and customer interactions. This is reshaping the way stores operate—and the way Nevadans work in retail.
AI tools are already redefining roles on the sales floor. Lowe’s, for example,
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uses AI to adapt store layouts based on local buying patterns and seasonal trends.
Business Insider reports that the company creates virtual “digital twins” of stores to test new designs before making physical changes, reducing planning time from weeks to days. Its Mylow Companion, deployed in more than 1,700 locations, gives associates voice-enabled, real-time guidance—allowing even new employees to provide accurate, project-specific advice from their first day. Similar trends are unfolding at Walmart, which
is applying machine learning to predict product demand, automate stocking decisions, and speed up order fulfillment. As the company notes in its “Retail Rewired” initiative, these efficiencies free associates from repetitive tasks and allow them to focus on customer engagement and problemsolving.
For Nevada’s workforce, this shift means that traditional retail skills— like product knowledge and customer service— must now be paired with digital literacy, data interpretation, and the ability to adapt to changing tools. A cashier might be expected to explain AIdriven recommendations to customers. A stock associate could be tasked with interpreting AI forecasts to prioritize deliveries. Even behind the scenes, support roles are evolving. The National Retail Federation reports that retail legal teams are now using AI to draft contracts, summarize depositions, and manage document workflows, freeing time for strategic decisionmaking