Nevada Legislature Still Exempting Themselves from Public Records Law: What Are They Trying to Hide? | Nevada News

The Nevada Legislature is exempt from public records laws, preventing the public from accessing emails or investigative documents on legislators’ misconduct. Assemblymember Heidi Kasama introduced legislation to require transparency in the Legislature, but it failed to pass. The bill would have also mandated disclosure of any conflicts of interest and required bills to be available 72 hours before voting. However, Speaker Steve Yeager criticized the bill for not applying to other agencies and for not allowing amendments. Kasama argued for transparency and accountability in the Legislature, but Democratic leadership opposed the bill. The Legislative Counsel Bureau claimed that applying public records laws to legislative materials would interfere with constitutional powers. Advocates argue that increased transparency is crucial for informed decision-making and lobbying efforts. Despite the bill’s failure, efforts to promote transparency in the Legislature continue. Bob Conrad of This Is Reno emphasized the importance of public access to legislative deliberations. The bill’s failure highlights challenges in promoting government transparency and accountability. Email whataretheyhiding@reviewjournal.com to share stories of denied access to public records. For more information, contact Jessica Hill at jehill@reviewjournal.com.

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