Gov. Joe Lombardo has been flexing his veto power during the last legislative session, setting a new record for the most bills vetoed in a single session. With the current session ending on June 2, the question remains: will he top his own record in the coming weeks? The Republican governor has wasted no time in taking action, vetoing Assembly Bill 306, which aimed to expand access to ballot drop boxes across the state. On the flip side, he has signed off on a few bills that allow local governments to extend existing taxes.
Bills have been flying back and forth between both houses, with many requiring amendments before heading to the governor’s desk for approval. Some noteworthy bills that have passed both chambers and are either awaiting the governor’s signature or already on his desk include the following:
Database for mass casualty victims: AB 50, which passed unanimously, aims to improve the reunification of victims in mass casualty events and provide them with long-term support. This bill is a direct response to the challenges faced during the aftermath of the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting. Clark County Fire Chief Billy Samuels emphasized the importance of having a system in place to track victims and coordinate their identification and reunification with their families.
No semi-automatic rifles or shotguns for those under 21: AB 245, sponsored by Democratic Assemblymember Sandra Jauregui, prohibits individuals under 21 from purchasing or possessing certain firearms. The bill also includes penalties for those who sell or barter these firearms to minors. It’s worth noting that this bill mirrors a previous one vetoed by Gov. Lombardo in the last session due to constitutional concerns.
No more animal testing for cleaning products: SB 167 seeks to ban the importation and sale of household cleaning products tested on animals, with some exemptions. The bill passed with some opposition in the Senate and Assembly and is now awaiting final approval from the governor.
Sample ballots before mail ballots: AB 148, which passed unanimously, ensures that sample ballots are sent out before the official mail-in ballots ahead of an election. This bill aims to prevent confusion among voters by providing them with necessary information in a timely manner.
Protecting reproductive health care providers: AB 235, sponsored by Democratic Assemblymember Erica Roth, focuses on safeguarding the personal information of reproductive health care providers. The bill allows providers to request the sealing of their personal records and the display of an alternate address on their driver’s license.
Opting out of sex ed: AB 205 proposes changing the consent form for sexual education classes to a refusal form, allowing parents to opt their children out of such courses. This bill has sparked debates along party lines and is currently awaiting further discussion in the Assembly.
With the legislative session drawing to a close, all eyes are on Gov. Lombardo to see which bills he will sign into law and which ones will face the dreaded veto stamp. Stay tuned for more updates as the session wraps up and decisions are made.
