RAN September 2023

When Legislation Becomes Regulatory Reality

By Bryan Wachter

WHEN THE GAVEL FALLS AT THE CLOSE OF THE Nevada Legislative Session, it marks not a conclusion but the commencement of a critical new chapter in the policy-making world. The term ‘sine die’ – indicating the session’s end – ushers in the challenging task of turning legislatively passed bills into the functional reality for businesses and consumers. In essence, the work leaves the confines of the Nevada Legislature and enters the territories of regulatory interpretation and implementation.

As the dust settles in Carson City following the legislative frenzy, the baton is passed on to regulatory agencies and the business community. Regulations rise to the forefront, navigating the path for legislative mandates to morph from a conceptual framework into a set of practical guidelines that businesses and consumers must adhere to.

However, even the bestintentioned legislation can stumble in the face of reality, primarily when it provides

too many restrictions or too little guidance for practical implementation. The idea behind Senate Bill 92 was admirable - legitimize street vendors and ensure they are operating safely and legally as businesses. The initial implementation, however, hasn’t gone as anticipated when a high-profile case ended with an altercation with law enforcement and the involvement of U.S. Customs and Immigration officers. The Nevada Independent summed the situation up well when they wrote, “the vendor’s lawyer attributes the situation to confusion about a new, but not fully implemented law regulating the once

marginalized street vending industry.”

The process of regulatory interpretation involves translating statutory language into specific terms that are more readily operational. It is a meticulous task that requires a deep awareness of economic concerns, industryspecific nuances, and broader legislative intent. As we are seeing with Senate Bill 92, there’s no guarantee that a law on paper will translate seamlessly into the everyday life of business operations or consumer behaviors.

Bryan Wachter

Industry Updates

ILA, NDAA LAUNCH NATIONAL STORE WALK MONTH

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) and the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) have announced a new initiative called National Store Walk Month, set to kick off this September. The aim of the program is to address retail crime and its impact on communities by fostering collaboration between local prosecutors and retail management teams. Throughout the month, District Attorneys will visit retail stores to gain insights into the challenges faced by retailers and work collectively to find solutions. The initiative

aims to go beyond just reducing crime rates— it seeks to enhance community well-being by creating safer, healthier, and more vibrant local communities. The effort is part of a broader, holistic approach to tackle the challenges posed by retail crime, which extends beyond economic impact to include risks to frontline workers and the community at large.

RETAIL SALES ROSE SHARPLY IN JULY AMID PRIME DAY, BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALES AND RISING WAGES

Retail sales in the U.S. saw a positive turnaround in July, boosted by special

Regulatory Reality

Such situations underscore the need for diligence not only during the legislative session but also during the regulatory and interim period where substantial collaboration between regulatory agencies and the business community is critical in the implementation of new laws. Regulations should be shaped flexibly, allowing for adjustments in their application based on field experiences.

The perceived realities

of business leaders, like those involved with the RAN team, and the new guard of legislators may differ significantly when it comes to interpreting and implementing the laws. Melding legislative intent with the practical realities of business operations demands continuous communication, negotiation, and often, compromise.

In essence, when laws become reality, they crystallize the

promotions like Prime Day and an increase in wages, according to an August 15, 2023 news release from the National Retail Federation (NRF). Overall retail sales for July were up 0.7% from June and 3.2% year-over-year, doubling the increases seen in the previous month. When looking at core retail sales, which exclude categories like automobile dealers and gasoline stations, the NRF reported a 1% increase from June and a 3.8% year-over-year increase. These numbers reflect a three-month moving average up 3.9% as of July and a 4% increase for the first seven months of the year. Sales increased in

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framework that shapes the business landscape, governs consumer and societal behavior, and influences fiscal dynamics. Therefore, it is imperative that this process be balanced, rigorous in legal interpretation and simultaneously supportive of field realities.

As with any process that involves cooperation and collaboration across a spectrum of stakeholders, converting legislative concepts into reality

five out of nine retail categories on an annual basis and were led by online sales, health and personal care, and general merchandise. Online and non-store sales saw an 11.8% year-over-year increase, while health and personal care stores rose by 8.3%. Some categories, such as electronics and furniture, did see declines. Overall, the data suggests consumer spending remains resilient and continues to fuel the economy despite economic pressures. The U.S. economy is still growing, but at a slower pace than earlier this year, according to Jack Kleinhenz, Chief

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can bring its fair share of challenges. However, the regulatory process following the legislative session underscores the importance of organizations like the Retail Association of Nevada.

As laws transition from legislative agendas to real-world applications, RAN is pivotal in helping its members navigate the foreseeable and unforeseen currents, ensuring a thriving Nevada retail industry.

Historical Lookback: Labor Rights and Economic Prudence in the O’Callaghan Era

RAN Staff Report

IN THE ANNALS OF NEVADA’S HISTORY,

THE PERIOD FROM 1971 to 1979 under Democratic Governor Donal Neil “Mike”

O’Callaghan is marked by significant upheaval in labor rights legislation. His vigorous push for collective bargaining for public employees sparked an enduring debate that encapsulates the intricate

balance between labor rights and economic growth.

Sam McMullen, a seasoned lobbyist for Nevada’s thriving gaming industry, became a figurehead for those advocating economic prudence. He embodied the concerns of the business community, asserting that a sudden shift in labor dynamics could destabilize a

carefully calibrated economic landscape.

On the other side of the battlefield was the fiery Al Bramlet, head of the Culinary Workers Union. He saw in O’Callaghan a staunch ally, one that shared his vision of enhanced rights for workers. But to McMullen and the business community, this vision threatened to upset the state’s economic

equilibrium.

The tension reached a boiling point during the 1975 legislative session. McMullen, armed with financial forecasts and backed by the collective might of the business community, opposed O’Callaghan’s proposed legislation. He painted a vivid picture of an economy burdened with increased costs,

Industry Updates

Continued from page 2

grew by only 0.4% in July, personal spending increased by 0.8%, causing the savings rate to dip to 3.5% from 4.3% in June. This suggests consumers are digging into their finances to maintain spending levels.

2023 retail sales over 2022. Given the recent slowdown and rising interest rates, Kleinhenz says it’s more likely that sales will be at the lower end of that forecast, if not lower.

Inflation remains a concern, with high prices affecting the composition of consumer spending, which now leans more toward services than retail goods. Although wages

Consumer confidence has declined due to high prices and interest rates. Despite this, core retail sales increased by 3.8% year over year in July, boosted by special promotions like Amazon’s Prime Day. However, the spending on services grew at a slower pace, from 3% in Q1 to 1.6% in Q2.

NRF had earlier predicted a 4-6% increase in

CDC ACTS ON NACDS’ CONCERNS, REMOVES

RSV VAX BARRIER

Continued on page 11 Economist at the National Retail Federation (NRF) in a September 7, 2023 news release. While the economy hasn’t halted, there is a noticeable slowdown, with the GDP growing at a revised rate of 2.1% rather than the initially reported 2.4%. The economy added 187,000 jobs in August, an increase from July but below the yearly average, and the unemployment rate ticked up to 3.8%.

In an update shared on September 5, 2023, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) announced they have successfully prompted action from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to improve access to

the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine at pharmacies. After NACDS and its members reached out to government agencies, the CDC updated its Immunization Schedules webpage and several sub-pages to align with NACDS recommendations. This update clarifies the role pharmacies play in RSV vaccinations and makes it more difficult for insurance companies to deny coverage. CMS also reminded Medicare Part D plans to cover RSV vaccinations without cost-sharing, in accordance with the Inflation Reduction Act.

Organized Retail Crime News

FEDERAL, NEVADA LEADERS ADDRESS SURGING ORGANIZED RETAIL THEFT

Government officials are working together to address the growing problem of organized retail theft through the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act. Lawmakers, police, and retail representatives gathered for a discussion led by Scott Glenn from Home Depot, where they explored strategies to confront this issue. Congresswomen Dina Titus and Susie Lee, along with Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, support legislation to make certain theft crimes federal offenses, enabling prosecution for those selling or trafficking stolen goods. With retailers noting increased risks and the online resale of stolen items, local, state, and federal agencies are collaborating to combat this criminal trend in Nevada.

News 3 Las Vegas

RETAILERS DRIVE LEGISLATION TO COMBAT ORGANIZED THEFT

Retailers are driving a wave of legislation to combat organized theft, aiming to reduce rising crime rates and protect their industry’s contribution to the economy. Walmart’s CEO, Doug McMillon, highlighted the potential impact of unchecked

theft on consumer prices and store closures. Nine states—Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia—have enacted harsher penalties since 2022 to deter organized retail crime., often with support from local retail associations. Legislation like the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act proposes stiffer penalties and enhanced coordination among retailers and law enforcement. However, critics raise concerns about the impact on marginalized groups, and some experts caution that while these measures target repeat boosters, they may not effectively address the root causes of organized retail crime, similar to challenges faced in the fight against the drug trade.

CNBC

HOME DEPOT OPTIMISTIC ABOUT NEW LAW IN FIGHT AGAINST ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME

Home Depot is determined to counter inventory “shrink” resulting from theft and organized

retail crime, with hopes pinned on the recently enacted Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces (INFORM) Consumers Act to aid in curbing the issue. This legislation aims to enhance transparency in online transactions and deter criminals from selling stolen, counterfeit, or unsafe items on e-commerce platforms. Ann-Marie Campbell, Home Depot’s Executive Vice President of U.S. stores and international operations, emphasized the importance

incidents and associated violence. MSN

GROCERS EMPLOY TECHNOLOGY TO CURB THEFT AT SELF-CHECKOUT

of initiatives like the INFORM Act in combating organized retail crime during a conference call discussing the company’s Q2 results. Campbell acknowledged the retail sector’s efforts to mitigate shrink and called for government collaboration to address the problem. The broader retail industry has faced growing inventory shrink due to theft, with the National Retail Federation highlighting the rise of organized retail crime

Retailers are adopting innovative measures to combat theft at selfcheckout stations. Harris Teeter, a Kroger-owned supermarket chain, has installed smart video cameras above selfcheckout stations in some stores, notifying customers through alerts if items are missed during scanning and even summoning employees for assistance. This move mirrors Kroger’s partnership with Everseen in using artificial intelligence to reduce theft at self-checkout stations. As self-checkout becomes increasingly common, concerns about theft have risen, prompting retailers to balance convenience and loss prevention. Research from Auror reveals that 39% of thefts within grocery stores occur at selfcheckout, with some repeat offenders exploiting the system. Experts anticipate ongoing efforts to deter theft through advanced technology and data collection to track patterns and repeat offenders.

Grocery Dive

Insurance Bill Creating Concerns for Nevada Businesses

By Jesse Wadhams, Esq., Black & Wadhams Attorneys at Law

ASSEMBLY BILL 398 OF THE 2023 LEGISLATIVE

Session has created concerns with businesses and organizations regarding the continued availability and affordability of certain lines of insurance coverage.

As passed, the bill bans “defense inside the limits,” a policy provision in which amounts paid by the insurer to defend the insured against a claim correspondingly reduce the policy’s applicable limit of insurance. Essentially, as the lawyers begin to exchange letters and legal pleadings on a case, those costs are applied against the overall amount of coverage – potentially leaving less coverage available for settlement or exposing the insured to any overage.

Most typically these types of policies are used in complex areas of legal exposure such as directors and officers coverage (e.g. business decisions and shareholder disputes) or professional liability (e.g. medical or legal malpractice.) Cyber liability is a newer type

of coverage that can be offered as a “defense within limits” policy to businesses.

On July 21, 2023, the Nevada Division of Insurance (DOI) responded to concerns by adopting an Emergency Regulation (LCB File No. E002-023A). In the regulation, the DOI cited “grave concerns regarding carriers leaving the Nevada market altogether due to the impact of this new legislation,” among other things.

The underlying issue is that “defense within limits” policies are generally more inexpensive as the extent of legal work is limited to a known cost for the insurer. An increase in the cost of legal work must be priced into the policy – potentially far more than the liability amount of the policy. This cost increase will be passed on to the insured in the form of higher premiums and deductibles. The other issue is that some insurers may not be able to reprice and rerate their policies for Nevada businesses

and have started to simply leave the marketplace.

The DOI hosted a workshop on August 10, 2023 to review a proposed permanent regulation to replace the Emergency Regulation. These regulations are

retention group captive insurers (NRS 694C.060) that provide third-party liability coverage.

l Any insurer with a current policy in place must provide its insured 60 days’ notice that the policy will be altered or nonrenewed.

designed to communicate concerns to lawmakers, as well as to provide clarification and guidance on the applicability of the law. A hearing was held on September 12, 2023, to take further comment from interested parties. During the workshop and hearing, members from the business community voiced their concerns over increased rates or a potential loss of coverage while insurers echoed concerns over selling policies in the Silver State. The bill becomes effective on October 1, 2023. A few things to note with AB398:

l Applies to policies of liability insurance issued by authorized insurers (NRS 679A.030) and non-risk

l As insurers approach the need to reform and reprice policies on such short notice, it has become clear that the admitted market may no longer have an adequate, healthy, and competitive insurance market.

l AB398 in conjunction with the proposed regulation would make defense coverage separate from the liability – and an insurer must offer some availability of defense coverage, but it need not be unlimited.

To date, the DOI has extend the comment period on the AB398 regulation to September 27th. Nevada businesses should immediately consult with their insurance brokers and risk managers to determine if they have policies in place effected by AB398.

NEVADA DEMOCRATS REJECT USE OF FEDERAL COVID FUNDS FOR PRIVATE SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS

Democratic legislators in Nevada have voted against Governor Joe Lombardo’s proposal to allocate unallocated federal coronavirus relief funds, totaling $3.2 million, to support a private-school scholarship program. The state’s Interim Finance Committee, in a party-line vote, declined the governor’s plan aimed at sustaining existing scholarships. Originally seeking to expand eligibility and add $50 million to the Opportunity Scholarship program, which provides tax credits for businesses contributing to private and religious school tuitions for low-income students, Lombardo later sought to maintain funding and eligibility levels. Critics argue the program is broken, with a single organization disproportionately receiving funding. This decision highlights the ongoing debate over school choice, echoing national discussions on public funding for private education. Associated Press

LOMBARDO ANNOUNCES SHORT-TERM SOLUTION FOR OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP STUDENTS

Governor Joe Lombardo has unveiled a temporary

Nevada News

solution to the Opportunity Scholarship crisis after legislative Democrats removed scholarship funding from the governor’s education bill (AB400) and voted against using unallocated federal COVID relief funds to maintain Opportunity Scholarship funding for the 20232024 school year. The AAA Scholarship Foundation has volunteered to use reserve funds to ensure that eligible students maintain access to their scholarships for the current school year. However, with funding reductions from the prior biennium and reserve depletion, many more students could be at risk of losing scholarships next year. Lombardo called for long-term cooperation from legislative Democrats to find a sustainable solution that aligns with students’ educational needs.

Carson Now

NEVADA MOVES AHEAD OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN GOP EARLY VOTING

The Nevada GOP announced that its 2024 presidential caucuses will take place on February 8, preceding the South Carolina primary for the first time in an open race since 1988. The GOP primary puzzle for 2024 is falling into place, with Iowa’s caucuses scheduled for January 15 and South Carolina’s primary set for February 24. New

Hampshire’s primary date is yet to be announced but is expected to be around January 23. Nevada’s caucus date positions it between New Hampshire and South Carolina, highlighting the state’s significance in the national political landscape. Nevada passed a law for a state-run presidential primary, but Republicans are focusing on the caucuses, which will determine delegate allocation. This extended early-state schedule could impact candidates’ ability to stay in the race. Politico

LOMBARDO FINED $20,000 FOR CAMPAIGN ETHICS VIOLATIONS

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has been fined $20,000 for breaching campaign ethics laws and censured for using images of himself in his Clark County sheriff’s uniform. The Nevada Commission on Ethics issued the penalty after the governor allegedly violated campaign ethics laws in 68 social media posts that featured him in uniform. The punishment was reduced from an initial proposed fine of $1.665 million, with four violations confirmed instead of 68. Lombardo’s lawyers won summary judgment on the claim that he gained an “unwarranted advantage” from wearing his uniform.

8 News Now Las Vegas

F1, SUPER BOWL SECURITY COSTS RESULT IN $500K BILL FROM NEVADA NATIONAL GUARD

The costs tied to the Formula One (F1) race scheduled for November are accumulating, as the Nevada National Guard seeks $330,933 to cover security and emergency services during the event in Clark County. Additionally, the National Guard is requesting $179,863 for providing the same services during the Super Bowl in February 2024. The Las Vegas Grand Prix is expected to generate a $1 billion economic impact over three days, yet concerns about expenses persist. This includes a recent request for $40 million in taxpayer funds to cover half the $80 million infrastructure cost for the race route.

8 News Now Las Vegas

THOUSANDS OF MAIL-IN BALLOTS ARRIVED LATE, UNCOUNTED ACROSS LAS VEGAS AREA

An audit of the Clark County Election Department revealed that nearly 5,000 voters in the 2022 midterm election submitted their mail-in ballots after the mandated four-day postelection deadline, leading to their votes being disqualified. Nevada law stipulates that all mail-in ballots must be

AMAZON UTILIZES AI TO SUMMARIZE CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Amazon has introduced generative artificial intelligence to create concise summaries of customer reviews, aiming to provide valuable insights to shoppers. The newly launched feature employs AI to synthesize verified customer reviews into brief paragraphs displayed on product pages, enhancing the shopping experience. Currently being tested with selected U.S. mobile customers across product categories, Amazon plans to expand this tool to a wider audience and more product types soon. Retail Dive

WALMART’S WELLNESS DAY PROMOTES HEALTH FOR BACK-TOSCHOOL SEASON

Walmart hosted Wellness Day last August 19th, offering families an opportunity to prioritize their health as the new school year approaches. The event includes free health screenings for glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index, and vision, along with affordable immunizations for various illnesses, including flu, HPV, and more. Collaborating with the American Cancer Society, Walmart aims to educate communities about preventing HPVrelated cancers and will offer educational resources on HPV

National News

at selected stores. With over 4,600 Walmart pharmacies participating, families can engage in health discussions, access immunizations, and explore new over-thecounter health and wellness options. This initiative has provided over 5 million free health screenings since 2014, emphasizing the company’s commitment to community well-being.

Walmart News Release

WALGREENS INTRODUCES NEW VACCINATION AND TESTING OPTIONS

In preparation for the upcoming fall respiratory virus season, Walgreens is launching several initiatives to provide accessible and convenient health services. The pharmacy chain is facilitating vaccinations through its employer program via in-store vouchers and off-site clinics. Additionally, a cost-effective 2-in-1 test for flu and COVID-19, providing results within 30 minutes, will be administered by pharmacists for individuals aged 3 and above. A survey reveals people consider pharmacies as efficient and easy places for vaccinations, prompting Walgreens to enhance its services. The pharmacy chain also plans to offer COVID-19 and flu treatments, ensuring comprehensive care for customers. Business Wire

ONLINE GROCERY SALES EXPECTED TO FACE CHALLENGES UNTIL 2024

Grocery e-commerce sales experienced a 7% year-over-year decline in July, totaling $7.2 billion, primarily due to reduced order frequency across all fulfillment methods and a decrease in average digital transaction value. While the number of households making online grocery purchases increased by 5% compared to the previous year, pickup services saw a 7% rise in monthly active users, even as delivery experienced a 1% decline. According to Brick Meets Click partner David Bishop, online grocery sales are anticipated to continue facing challenges in 2023, as shoppers prioritize cost savings over convenience. Grocery Dive

GROCERY RETAILERS EMBRACE RETAIL MEDIA INTEGRATION IN 2023

As the retail landscape evolves, grocery retailers are increasingly embracing retail media to enhance their connection with shoppers, stay competitive, and strengthen brand partnerships. Regional and specialty grocers like Sprouts Farmers Market and Giant Eagle have launched their retail media networks, while national companies like Albertsons are advocating for industry-wide metric standardization. Third-party

companies are also entering the scene, offering real-time data and mobile solutions. Retail media is not limited to the online sphere; it’s also influencing the instore experience with the introduction of smart carts, interactive kiosks, digital screens, and even aisleroaming robots. With retail media spending exceeding $40 billion in 2022, the trend is set to continue in 2023 and beyond. Grocery Dive

HOME DEPOT ENHANCES ON-SHELF AVAILABILITY WITH COMPUTER VISION TECHNOLOGY

Home Depot is leveraging computer vision technology to bridge the gap between in-stock inventory and onshelf availability. The retailer has introduced a machine learning-powered app called Sidekick that guides associates to restock shelves with high-demand products and locate excess items on overhead shelves. Associates use HD phones to capture images of store bays, and these images integrate into Sidekick, providing a real-time inventory view. Powered by machine learning, Sidekick continuously improves its accuracy as more data is collected. This approach has led to improved on-shelf availability, increased associate engagement and productivity, and higher customer service

The Power of the Ballot Measure in Nevada for Citizen Engagement

RAN Staff Report

AS THE 2024 ELECTION CYCLE LOOMS

large on the horizon, the political landscape is not the only thing under scrutiny in Nevada. The mechanisms through which its citizens engage in direct democracy—particularly initiative petitions and referendums—are equally compelling aspects of the state’s governance model. These tools enable Nevadans to directly influence legislation and constitutional amendments, effectively shaping their state’s future. In a state known for its glittering spectacles and gaming, it is perhaps these democratic tools that stand as its most impactful and enduring features. This article delves into these processes, examines their challenges, and highlights their crucial role in Nevada’s vibrant democratic tradition. There are two primary mechanisms for Nevadans to engage in direct democracy: initiative petitions and referendums. Initiative

petitions, both statutory and constitutional, enable citizens to propose new laws or constitutional amendments. Conversely, referendums allow voters to approve or reject laws enacted by the legislature. The process begins when citizens gather signatures for a petition. For statutory initiatives, the proposed law is submitted to the state legislature upon gathering enough verified signatures, which amounts to 10% of the total votes cast in the last preceding general election in at least 13 of Nevada’s counties. If the legislature fails to enact the proposal, the measure appears on the next general election ballot for voters to decide.

For constitutional initiatives, the bar is set higher. These require approval in two successive general elections, ensuring that proposed amendments reflect sustained public sentiment. Referendums go directly to voters for affirmation or rejection after enactment, acting as a public veto over legislative actions and thereby reinforcing a

robust system of checks and balances.

Despite its apparent straightforwardness, the process is fraught with challenges. Drafting effective policy language is complicated, and the logistical burden of gathering the required signatures is significant. Additionally, the system is susceptible to manipulation by special interest groups, who may have the resources to steer the process in their favor.

Nevertheless, the ballot measure process in Nevada embodies the spirit of direct democracy, empowering citizens to shape their state’s destiny and invigorating public discourse. It also highlights the importance of representative institutions. The continuous dialogue between citizen initiatives and legislative actions forms the cornerstone of Nevada’s democratic system.

As we draw closer to the pivotal 2024 election cycle, Nevada’s mechanisms for direct democracy—its initiative petitions and referendums—take on

heightened significance. These tools offer a complex yet illuminating glimpse into the state’s unique democratic fabric, serving as both a gauge and a driver of public sentiment.

The ongoing interplay between grassroots initiatives and institutional responses serves as a real-world laboratory for democracy in action. While Nevada may be globally recognized for its entertainment and gaming industries, it is this robust democratic process that offers the most enduring impact, both for its citizens and for a nation grappling with questions about democratic participation.

So, as candidates prepare their platforms and voters tune in for what promises to be an electrifying electoral season, the real unsung story may very well be how Nevadans themselves are actively shaping their state’s future and, in the process, contributing invaluable lessons to the American democratic experiment.

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.

Giles Enterprises LLC dba Auto Graphics

Inyo Fine Cannabis LLC dba Inyo

MMI Lake Tahoe LLC dba Blind Fox

Movik Signs LLC dba Signarama

Space Wrangler Group Inc dba Mountain High Sandwich Co

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

Fun Facts About September

1.The name “September” comes from an old Roman word, “septem,” which actually means 7. That’s right –September was the seventh month of the year on the Roman calendar. It did not become the ninth month until the advent of the Gregorian calendar.

2. The Romans believed that September was looked after by the god of fire. So they always expected fires and volcanic eruptions to occur during this month.

3. Out of all 12 months of the year, September is spelled with the most letters. It contains nine letters, and it happens to be the ninth month of the year. No other months have the same amount of letters as their number in the calendar year.

Find out more about RAN’s self insured group. Call Pro Group, 800-859-3177, or the RAN office at 775-882-1700.

Nevada News

postmarked by Election Day and received within four days after that. The audit found that 4,903 mail-in ballots arrived between November 13 and November 17, after the November 12 deadline. The audit emphasized the necessity of continued voter education and outreach regarding submission deadlines. Despite the total mail-in ballot turnout of 340,508, around half of Nevada’s 2022

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general election ballots were cast by mail. Nevada is one of the eight states with universal mail balloting, allowing voters to choose in-person or mail voting.

8 News Now Las Vegas

NEVADA SENATE GOP RACE GROWS AS REPUBLICANS SEEK TO UNSEAT JACKY ROSEN

The Nevada Senate race is shaping up to be a competitive contest

National News

as Republicans aim to challenge incumbent Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and regain control of the Senate in the upcoming election. Despite recruiting their top candidate, retired Army Capt. Sam Brown, other Republican contenders have entered the fray, including former U.S. ambassador to Iceland Jeff Gunter and retired Air Force Lt. Col. Tony Grady. The increasing number of candidates

presents a challenge for Senate Republicans to avoid a divisive primary that could weaken the eventual nominee’s prospects in the general election. As the race unfolds, GOP strategists are striving to strike a balance between supporting their candidates and preventing a fractured primary outcome. The effort to unseat Rosen is pivotal for the Republican Party’s bid to shift the Senate majority.

The Hill

scores. Home Depot views this technology as a means to enhance the associate experience and overall customer satisfaction.

TARGET REPORTS PROFIT BOOST FROM REDUCED DISCOUNTS

Target exceeded Wall

Street profit estimates for the quarter due to reduced discounts and improved inventory management, despite a 5% drop in sales. The decline in sales was attributed in part to the backlash against its Pride merchandise line, which led to the removal of certain items due to customer-

employee confrontations and merchandise being mishandled. Target’s CEO, Brian Cornell, acknowledged the need for caution in partnerships and emphasized the importance of “celebrating heritage moments.” The retailer experienced softer sales in June, driven by ongoing

O’Callaghan Era

Continued from page 7 slowed growth, and a disrupted balance of power between labor and management.

In response, O’Callaghan and Bramlet argued for the principle of fairness, suggesting that public employees should be granted the same rights as their privatesector counterparts. Yet, McMullen countered

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that the issue was more nuanced, emphasizing the potential economic fallout that could come from a sudden shift in labor policy.

The debate was intense, personal, and polarizing. Eventually, O’Callaghan’s stance prevailed, and the legislation was passed.

To many, this marked a

victory for labor rights. To others, like McMullen and his supporters, it represented a departure from a policy approach that prioritized economic stability.

In retrospect, the O’Callaghan era serves as a pivotal chapter in Nevada’s history, showcasing the constant negotiation between

consumer spending challenges, but saw improvement in July. Despite the profit boost, Target adjusted its annual sales and profit expectations, anticipating a decline in comparable sales for the year and narrowing its adjusted profit per share range for 2023.

Reuters

labor rights and economic pragmatism. It underscores the delicate balancing act that all legislators must perform – reconciling the pursuit of social progress with the preservation of economic health. As Nevada continues to grow and evolve, the lessons from this period remain as pertinent as ever.