In recent years, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Nevada has actively participated in legislative sessions to advocate for small business interests. The organization has played a crucial role in various legislative outcomes that have affected the business community.
During the August 2020 Special Legislative session, a bill was passed to protect businesses from lawsuits related to COVID-19. According to NFIB, “Businesses are immune from civil liability for personal injury or death resulting from exposure to COVID-19, if the business substantially complies with controlling health standards.” This measure aimed at shielding compliant businesses from frivolous legal claims.
In 2019, NFIB worked to exempt small businesses from a paid leave mandate. Initially, the legislation targeted companies with 25 or more employees; however, NFIB succeeded in exempting those with 50 or fewer employees and temporary workers. The same year saw the passage of AB 456 which increased the minimum wage. NFIB is monitoring potential legal challenges against this legislation.
From previous sessions, notable achievements include Senate Bill 160 signed by Governor Sandoval in 2017. It requires state agencies to post new regulations online three days before hearings. Assembly Bill 94 made NV Grow Program permanent and funded Small Business Development Centers.
NFIB also influenced Assembly Bill 436 requiring state entities to inform small businesses about financing programs. They opposed efforts like Assembly Bill 462 which would have weakened construction defect reforms.
Another legislative victory involved Assembly Bill 113 on nursing mothers’ accommodations. After discussions with Assemblywoman Ellen Spiegel, NFIB helped amend it to apply only to employers with over fifty employees.
The organization opposed mandatory participation in equal pay surveys as proposed by Assembly Bills and Senate Bills during earlier sessions but succeeded in making them voluntary after negotiations with key sponsors.
Throughout various legislative sessions dating back several years, NFIB’s efforts included stopping bills that could increase operational costs for small businesses such as tax increases and healthcare mandates while supporting initiatives like improving Nevada’s construction defect law and advocating for independent contractors’ rights.
