Governor Lombardo continues to demonstrate a mixed record on environmental issues. He and his administration have taken some positive steps, particularly in their support of the state’s clean energy economy, but they have also opposed public land protections and promoted polluting, out-of-state fossil fuels. While we have seen improvement from Governor Lombardo and his administration over the last two years, there is room for growth. We encourage the Governor to take bold action to expand Nevada’s clean energy economy, protect our public lands and natural resources, and ensure all Nevadans have access to a healthy environment.
Climate & Clean Energy:
After taking down the previous administration's robust and forward-thinking climate plan, we were disappointed to see Governor Lombardo’s “Climate Innovation Plan” published with no consultation or collaboration from everyday Nevadans, community organizations, or conservation leaders. The document also lacked substance and urgency and looked backward at what has already been done, rather than charting a path forward for our state. Additionally, the climate plan and other communications from the Governor’s office continue to promote the use of out-of-state fossil fuels like methane gas. We appreciate that the Governor sent a letter to the Department of Interior Secretary, Doug Burgum, expressing concerns about the effects the department's policies are having on solar energy development. This was a reassuring first step, and we encourage the Governor to lean in on bipartisan efforts to expand homegrown clean energy that creates good-paying jobs, reduces harmful pollution, and saves Nevadans money.
Public Lands & Natural Resources:
While we were happy to see the Governor recommit to the Nevada Shared Stewardship Agreement, an initiative aimed at protecting and restoring landscapes while reducing the risk and impact of catastrophic wildfires, Governor Lombardo has repeatedly spoken out against public lands protections. He opposed national monument designations, arguing that they would limit economic growth, despite outdoor recreation and tourism playing a significant role in our state’s economy. Additionally, his eagerness to sell off public lands for development is concerning and against the values of Nevadans across the state, who have repeatedly expressed support for the protection of our treasured open spaces.
Agencies & Administration:
The conservation community has continued to enjoy good working relationships with key agency and department heads on a wide variety of important environmental issues. These relationships have deepened over the last few years, and we appreciate the willingness to collaborate. From launching the Outdoor Education and Recreation Grant Program to publishing the Wildlife Connectivity Plan and working with partners and community members on the Priority Climate Action Plan, our state agencies have made meaningful progress. While we may not always agree, we’ve appreciated an improvement in communication and an openness to discuss issues that matter to Nevadans.
Legislative Session:
This legislative session, NCL was successful in passing five pieces of priority legislation and we’re grateful that Governor Lombardo signed all five. Additionally, he signed important bills addressing water conservation, clean energy, and outdoor recreation. Of the 17 pro-environmental bills included on our scorecard, he signed 15, while vetoing two. Unfortunately, he also signed a bill backed by Southwest Gas that reduces oversight and has the potential to increase energy bills. Overall, the 2025 session was positive, but some opportunities were left on the table from the Governor’s veto pen.