During the 2018 campaign for Governor, then-Commissioner Steve Sisolak gave many clues that he would place a high priority on the protection of our state’s air, land, water & wildlife. Now that the 2019 Legislative Session has concluded, it is clear that Governor Sisolak is a conservation champion. From the State of the State to the end of the session, Governor Sisolak made issues like climate change and the promotion and protection of our public lands top priorities. Our evaluation of Governor Sisolak is below in four key areas.
Leadership
Governor Sisolak has been committed to reducing Nevada’s greenhouse gas emissions from day one. He joined our state in the U.S. Climate Alliance and the Nation’s Clean Car Promise. He also met with other Governors to help launch the National Governors Association’s Outdoor Recreation Learning Network to promote economic growth through the outdoor industry. Furthermore, Sisolak has been a strong voice in opposition to storage of nuclear waste at Yucca Mountain and the shipment of dangerous plutonium to the state. Finally, he has taken a clear stand on multiple occasions against the expensive and environmentally damaging water pipeline. A
Administration
The Governor has made good personnel decisions, with excellent and conservation-friendly directors at the Department of Wildlife, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the Governor’s Office of Energy. His administration continues to have an open door and willingness to work with advocates from many different organizations. A
Appointments
Recent appointments to the Public Utilities Commission will help continue to pave Nevada’s path towards a clean energy future, however Governor Sisolak has not made a significant amount of appointments to other boards and commissions. We look forward to his future selections of conservation champions. Incomplete
Legislative Session
Governor Sisolak prioritized conservation issues this legislative session. He supported and signed multiple bills to increase clean energy, like SB358 to raise the Renewable Portfolio Standard & AB465 to expand solar access. He also sponsored AB84, renewing NV's Conservation Bonds program to fund parks, trails, and more; and supported AB 486 to create a state Office of Outdoor Recreation to bolster NV's booming outdoor industry! Governor Sisolak proudly signed every pro-conservation bill that came across his desk. A
Final Grade: A