The 78th Session of the Nevada Legislature will convene on February 2, 2015, for 120 days. As a true biennial state, the Nevada Legislature convenes every other year. In 1998 the voters approved a constitutional amendment limiting the session to 120 days. Despite the short period of time, what happens at the session is likely to have a significant impact on Nevada businesses, big and small. The Legislature is expected to consider matters of taxation, infrastructure, education and a variety of other issues related to employment and economic development. Whether you wish to promote a specific agenda or you simply want to keep abreast of the legislative developments and their impact on the local business climate, early involvement is the best way to protect your business’s interests. There are three key things businesses can do now and during the session to help navigate the legislative process.

Evaluate your own interests -

The most persuasive individuals are those who know themselves and can clearly articulate their needs. Spend some time considering your own business and its requirements. Then, consider how your business is impacted by current and proposed policy. Have recent changes in the business climate affected (or not affected) you in the way you had hoped? Where does your company stand on current voter initiatives such as Question No. 3 on the ballot, which seeks to impose a 2 percent margin tax on certain businesses in Nevada? What policy changes, if enacted, would help or hinder your business?

Originally published in the Northern Nevada Business Weekly - Business Law Guide (2014).