January isn’t just the turning of the calendar—it’s also a season of new beginnings for our shared life together. As people of faith, we know that laws are not abstract policies; they shape real lives, real families, and real communities. Scripture reminds us that God’s concern is always for the flourishing of the neighbor—especially those most vulnerable among us. As several new laws from the 83rd Nevada Legislative Session take effect this January, we give thanks for ways these policies reflect care, dignity, and justice.

• Senate Bill 348 aligns Nevada with nationally accepted standards for newborn screening. From a faith perspective, this affirms the sacred worth of every child. Our tradition teaches that life is a gift from God, and ensuring early, comprehensive screenings is one way our society helps children begin life with care, attention, and the support they need to thrive.
• Senate Bill 138 streamlines Medicaid enrollment for eligible women and children at the time of delivery. This reflects our calling to accompany families during moments of vulnerability. Access to healthcare—especially during childbirth and postpartum care—is a matter of justice, compassion, and love of neighbor.
• Assembly Bill 163 allows licensed professional counselors from participating states to practice in Nevada without unnecessary barriers. As people who believe in caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—this expansion of mental health access supports healing, wholeness, and community well-being.
• Assembly Bill 367 strengthens Nevada’s language access laws for elections by requiring ballots and materials in more languages. In our faith tradition, participation and voice matter. This law honors the dignity of every voter and reflects our commitment to inclusion, hospitality, and a democracy where all can fully participate.
• Assembly Bill 220 authorizes the creation of identification cards for Nevadans experiencing homelessness. Scripture consistently reminds us that God is near to those pushed to the margins. Identification is often the first step toward housing, healthcare, employment, and stability—this law helps restore dignity and access for neighbors too often excluded.

Together, these laws reflect the values we lift up in faith: care for the vulnerable, justice for the marginalized, and systems shaped by compassion rather than indifference. At Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada, we believe advocacy is one way we live out our baptismal call—to serve all people, strive for justice and peace, and participate faithfully in the public square for the sake of our neighbors.

Colorado River Conference (Las Vegas / Henderson): Second Annual MLK Celebration

• Sunday, January 18, 2026 • 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time
• New Song Church, Henderson, NV
• 1291 Cornet Ave, Henderson, NV 89052

The Colorado River Conference invites you to a festive worship celebration featuring guest preacher Rev. Dr. James Thomas, author of A Rumor of Black Lutherans: The Formation of Black Leadership in Early American Lutheranism. Worship will be followed by a reception and conversation/book study with Dr. Thomas.

We apologize for the confusion.

Where is your faith calling you?

Maybe it’s something as simple as:

• Writing a letter or sending an email to your elected officials
• Learning more about an ELCA Social Statement and connecting with our Advocacy Director
• Showing up to testify when the time comes
• Talking with your congregation about the issues impacting your neighbors

As Lutherans, we believe faith is not just something we hold—it’s something we live out.
We are deeply concerned about our neighbors, especially those who are struggling, marginalized, or unheard.

When we speak up, organize, and act together, we participate in God’s ongoing work of justice, compassion, and love in the public square.

Your voice matters. Your faith matters. Your advocacy matters.

Are you interested in being a Congregational Liaison? 

Join Pastor Paul for our first time together for a monthly roundtable. We will talk about what it means to be a Liaison. We will discuss what LEAN following in 2026.

Here is a look at what Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada has been doing in 2025.

Lutherans and Episcopalians from across Nevada showed up in force for Lutheran Lobby Day at the Nevada Legislature. On an ordinary day, something extraordinary happened in Carson City, people of faith gathered to share their stories, name the issues that brought them to the Capitol, and meet directly with legislators. It was a powerful reminder that when we come together as neighbors, rooted in faith and shared values, meaningful change is possible.

Since that day, LEAN has continued to meet and preach in congregations across Nevada, helping to build a growing grassroots movement grounded in justice, dignity, and care for our neighbors. We are grateful for a productive Legislative Session, and a Special Session, that included numerous bills on which LEAN advocated faithfully and persistently.

From rising costs of living and threats against social programs, attacks on our most vulnerable communities, and the escalating housing and climate crises, Nevadans have shown what happens when faith is put into action. We have witnessed the everyday struggles faced by individuals and families across our state, and we remain committed to advocating for policies that protect Nevadans, lower costs, and advance justice for all.

LEAN is deeply thankful for the leaders who serve on our Policy Board and for the congregations and advocates who continue to show up, speak out, and pray with their feet.

In 2026, we invite you to deepen this work by welcoming our Advocacy Director, Pastor Paul Larson, to your congregation for preaching, teaching, or conversation. To schedule a visit, contact paullarson@leanforjustice.org.

Join us as we continue to make an impact on the Nevada Community. Together, we continue to live out our faith, boldly, publicly, and in love for our neighbors.