As Nevada’s interim committees wrap up their work, their final meetings often include work sessions where legislators decide which proposals to advance as Bill Draft Requests, or BDRs. These recommendations grow out of months of testimony from community members, advocates, public agencies, and people with expertise in the issues.

Last week, several committees considered proposals that matter to the communities Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) serves.

The Joint Interim Standing Committee on Revenue approved a drafting request to repeal Nevada’s tax abatements for data centers and establish a statewide moratorium on the construction or expansion of these facilities. The proposal targets NRS 360.754, which authorizes partial tax abatements for qualifying new or expanded data centers. This brings questions about public resources, responsible development, and care for creation directly into the conversation for 2027. Read more about the proposal.

The Joint Interim Standing Committee on the Judiciary unanimously approved a drafting request to strengthen oversight of automated license plate readers, including Flock cameras. The proposal calls for written policies, training, independent audits, and annual reporting. For LEAN, protecting public safety also requires protecting privacy, civil rights, and public accountability. Read more about the proposed safeguards.

The Joint Interim Standing Committee on Government Affairs also considered changes to improve public participation at the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada. Advocates called for meeting times accessible to working people, reliable phone and virtual participation, simpler written comments, and better language access. People whose household budgets are affected by utility decisions deserve a meaningful opportunity to be heard. This BDR was not acted on.

These are steps toward legislation. Approving a BDR authorizes a bill to be drafted; the proposal still must move through the legislative process before becoming law.

The 2027 Legislative Session may still be months away, but the decisions shaping that session are already underway. Our call to love our neighbors includes paying attention, asking questions, and helping ensure their experiences shape public policy.