In 2019, former Governor Steve Sisolak expanded collective bargaining to state employees through Senate Bill 135 (SB 135). Recently, Governor Joe Lombardo vetoed Assembly Bill 224 (AB 224), which aimed to extend these rights to the Nevada System of Higher Education. This veto is part of a record-setting 75 vetoes issued by Lombardo during the 82nd Legislative Session.
AB 224 sought to allow a government board, rather than employers, to oversee related disputes in higher education. Critics argued that this would place the government inappropriately within self-governing entities. Gov. Lombardo’s veto was described as a measure to safeguard Nevada’s fiscal future and prevent potential financial strain on the state.
The debate around AB 224 largely focused on unions’ roles in government and their impact on public spending. Proponents of the bill cited market equilibrium theories similar to those of Adam Smith, suggesting that it would balance power within the free market system. However, Gov. Lombardo emphasized that Nevada’s state workers already receive compensation packages among the highest nationwide, with a significant wage disparity favoring them over private-sector peers.
“Before the implementation of collective bargaining in 2019, Nevada’s public sector compensation was already disproportionately high,” Gov. Lombardo stated. “The veto of AB 224 is a decisive step to prevent further escalation of taxpayer burdens and restore fiscal responsibility.”
Unions have considerable influence in Nevada politics, contributing significantly to Democratic lawmakers’ campaigns during election cycles. In the recent cycle alone, unions donated more than $1.4 million, predominantly supporting Democratic candidates.
Gov. Lombardo warned that expanding union control over government spending without corresponding revenue increases could lead to higher taxes or reduced services for Nevadans. He highlighted previous expansions’ effects on elevating state worker compensation above private sector levels.
The veto aims to maintain fiscal responsibility and transparency in government operations by preventing undue influence from special interest groups and ensuring prudent allocation of public funds.
Nevadans are encouraged to support Gov. Lombardo’s vetoes by contacting elected representatives through Nevada Policy’s Action Center, emphasizing fiscal discipline and transparency for long-term economic stability and prosperity.
