The G3Wire- December 10, 2021

This week, the Economic Forum met and heard presentations from government officials and financial analysts about the condition of the Nevada economy, including how tax revenues during the pandemic are outperforming expectations, the impact of federal stimulus dollars and a slow recovery in the casino and hotel industry. The Forum is a panel of state-appointed economists who provide forecasts of tax revenue streams used to determine the state’s budget. The Economic Forum typically meets in December before legislative sessions and in May during a legislative session to set the revenue projections on which the state budget is based. The panel also meets in June and December on off-years to discuss general economic trends and year-to-date tax performances. In fiscal year 2021, which ended in June, state general fund revenues brought the state $220 million more than it expected, surpassing projections from the Economic Forum’s May meeting.

Also this week, Governor Sisolak announced the launch of a $30 million grant program called the “Community Recovery Grant.” This grant program, which will be funded by American Rescue Plan dollars, is aimed at utilizing existing non-profits in the State to provide direct and immediate community services.

The program was presented to the Nevada Legislature’s Interim Finance Committee and applications are now live at NevadaRecovers.com. Applications will be open until January 3^rd and will be evaluated on an individual basis based on highest community needs and guidelines from the U.S. Treasury to ensure funding is spent appropriately. Grant amounts will vary based on application and need and will be brought forward to IFC in February for approval.

News from the Governor’s Office

Governor Sisolak, Department of Health and Human Services announce funding to address children’s mental health

Vax Nevada Days report indicates vaccine incentive program helped inoculate close to half a million Nevadans

Governor Sisolak announces appointments for the month of November

Governor Newsom and Governor Sisolak Announce I-15 Expansion Project to Tackle Congestion at California-Nevada Border

Federal Updates

Cortez Masto Announces $1.1 Million to Help Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Quickly Process Sexual Assault Kits and Other Forensic Evidence

Cortez Masto Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Small Business Loan Program

Rosen Questions Defense, Environmental Protection Officials on Toxic PFAS Contamination at Nevada Military Bases and Improving Federal Response

Amodei Statement On National Defense Authorization Act

Congressman Horsford Introduces WaterSMART Access for Tribes Act to Help Tribal Communities Respond to Historic Drought

Congressman Horsford Votes for Landmark Bill to Prevent Abuse of Presidential Power and Strengthen American Democracy