During Nevada’s legislative interim, committees meet to listen, learn, and begin shaping the future of policy in our state. These meetings take place primarily in Las Vegas and Carson City, bringing together lawmakers, advocates, experts, and community members.

This week, Pastor Paul will be listening in on several key interim bodies, including the Regional Rail Transit Advisory Working Group, the Interim Standing Committee on the Judiciary, the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Commerce and Labor, and the Interim Finance Committee.

Unlike the legislative session, interim committees do not vote on specific bills. Instead, they hear testimony on pressing issues facing Nevadans. That testimony—along with research and expert input, helps shape interim reports, typically released in the fall. These reports often become the foundation for legislation in the next session.

For example, last week Pastor Paul attended the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Commerce and Labor. This meeting is especially important as Nevada continues to grapple with a deepening housing crisis. Lawmakers heared recommendations from partners like the Nevada Housing Coalition and the Nevada Housing Justice Alliance, as well as research from the Guinn Center and University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Why the Interim Matters

The interim is one of the most important, and often overlooked, opportunities for advocacy.

• For returning legislators, it’s a chance to reflect on past sessions and begin shaping what comes next.
• For candidates, it’s a critical time to learn about the issues before they take office—and to build relationships with advocates.
• For outgoing legislators, it’s a valuable moment to gather insight while their experience is still fresh.

In other words: this is where the groundwork is laid.

How LEAN is Engaging

Over the coming weeks, Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) will be tracking interim charges and hearings closely. We’ll highlight areas that need focused energy and identify opportunities for meaningful engagement.

If you come across an issue or interim charge that speaks to you, reach out:

• If we’re already working on it, we’ll plug you in.
• If we’re not, we’ll connect you with trusted partners who are.

This Is a Season of Possibility

This time of year can feel wide open, full of possibility, even in a challenging political climate. That’s true for those we agree with and those we don’t. Everyone is preparing. Everyone is organizing.

So should we.

Lean into this moment. Engage deeply. Build relationships. Share your story.

And let us know how we can support your work.