Undocumented immigrants to get driving privileged under new law
05/31/2013 — Governor Sandoval signed Senate Bill 303 into law, allowing all Nevadans regardless of legal status to apply for Driver Authorization Cards. Reuters with the story.
Sandoval signs bill fixing infamous crimes against nature law
05/30/2013 — It’s no longer a crime for same gender couples under 18 but over the age of consent to engage in consensual sex acts. The Las Vegas Review Journal provides coverage.
Bills on marriage and DNA win approval
05/25/2013 — The Reno Gazette Journal has the story on bills, some good and some bad, that are still alive in the Nevada legislatue
Sex education bill dies in committee
05/24/2013 — Despite our best efforts and being assured the bill would pass, the Senate majority voted to kill the sex education bill that would provided life-saving health information to thousands of Nevada’s student. Las Vegas Sun with the story.
Future looks bright for ‘Briana’s Law’
05/17/2013 — The controversial law to create a DNA dragnet in Nevada may pass this session. Reno Gazette Journal with the story.
Nevada marriage equality bill passes Assembly committee
05/17/2013 — Senate Joint Resolution 13 continues to move forward. Equality on Trial with the story.
3 Great Testimonies for Marriage from Young People
05/14/2013 — Another moving hearing on marriage equality. The Advocate shares video from some young Nevadans.
‘Brianna’s Law’ hits some bumps in Assembly
05/09/2013 — The Senate Bill to create a DNA dragnet is facing some opposition. Reno Gazette Journal with the story.
Mining officially opposed to mine tax measure
05/02/2013 — The Las Vegas Sun reports that the Nevada mining industry FINALLY makes public their true feelings on Senate Joint Resolution 15. Elko Daily Free Press reports on the Assembly hearing too.
Long road ahead for marriage equality in Nevada
04/28/2013 — The Reno Gazette Journal looks at the multi-step process to achieve marriage equality in Nevada.
Opponents, supporters of ‘Gang of 8′ proposal weigh in
04/18/2013 — The Senate’s long awaited immigration proposal is finally out, and with it, strong opinions about the bill and immigration in general. Las Vegas Sun. Las Vegas Review Journal.
Vegas family spotlighted in immigration reform
04/17/2013 — Martin Martinez and his US citizen wife Blanca went to Metro for a background check required for filing residency paperwork. Instead of helping, Metro called Immigration and Martin was handcuffed and taken away in front of their young son. Martin’s story is tragic but not unique; the new Senate immigration bill looks to help people like the Martinez family. Las Vegas Sun.
Sandoval’s tax break for businesses faces opposition
04/16/2013 — Tucked away in a bill that will extend Nevada’s sunset taxes is a nearly $25 million dollar tax cut proposal, Senate Finance committee is not too happy about it. Las Vegas Sun.
Senator Reid featured in immigration video and Attorney General Cortez Masto agrees with reform
04/11/2013 — April 10th was a national day of action for immigration reform with thousands of people traveling to Washington, DC for an immigration reform rally. Check out this video about the DREAM Act to see Las Vegan Rafael Lopez who was in DC to represent PLAN and DREAM Big Vegas. Las Vegas Sun.
Nevada state senate passes amended marriage equality bill
04/11/2013 — What was once an effort to remove discriminatory language from our constitution became an effort to recognize and legalizes ALL marriages in the state of the Nevada. Nevada Appeal. Las Vegas Sun. Seattle Post Intelligencer. Pink News. LGBTQ Nation.
Brianna’s Law’ passes first test at the legislature
04/11/2013 — A proposed law that would force all those suspected of a crime to submit DNA evidence passed its fist hurdle. Reno Gazette Journal.
Las Vegans make a whirlwind trip to Capitol for immigration rally
04/10/2013 — April 10th a huge rally was held in Washington, DC to call on Congress to pass immigration reform this year, the time is now! Two Las Vegans made the trip to represent PLAN. Las Vegas Review Journal.
Immigration reform protest planned for May Day
04/10/2013 — Wednesday May 1st immigration reform activists will take to the streets of Downtown Las Vegas to demand Congress pass legislation this year that provides a clear road map toward citizenship for the 11 million undocumented people living in the United States. Las Vegas City Life.
Nevada program would buy underwater mortgages
04/09/2013 — It’s no secret that homeowners in Nevada are struggling thanks to Wall Street banks that ruined our economy one lousy mortgage at a time. Nevada’s attorney generals Home Means Nevada program looks to help Nevadans navigate the many government programs to find the right one for their family. Las Vegas Review Journal.
Concerns raised over plans to bury bomb-usable nuclear material in Nevada
04/09/2013 — Here we go again. Another attempt to store nuclear waste in Nevada. Here’s hoping we can stop this too. Las Vegas Review Journal.
5 ways the GOP’s Roberson is invading Democrats’ territory
04/07/2013 — It’s cute that some angry conservatives refer to Senate Minority Leader Michael Roberson was “Roberson R-PLAN”. Republican or Democrat, we want justice. Senator Roberson has proposed some ideas that we are cool with. Las Vegas Sun.
Nevada’s modern mining war: State lawmakers from both parties want to see mining taxes raised.
04/06/2013 — Nevadans from all over the political spectrum recognize the mining industry is essentially looting our state. Now is the time to step up and do something about the valuable natural resources being taken from us before its too late. Reno Gazette Journal.
Nevada Energy: Coal out, renewables in
04/04/2013 — After years of saying they wouldn’t, Nevada Energy is finally willing to close the toxic Reid Gardner coal plant. But their intentions are definitely not pure. Nevada Appeal.
Roberson seeks to ‘take politics out’ of Las Vegas water rate hikes
04/01/2013 — This is no joke, but yet another issue Senator Michael Robers and PLAN agree on: the Southern Nevada Water Authority needs oversight; one person shouldn’t wield so much power over our resources. Las Vegas Sun with the details.
Nevada Senate approves Senate Joint Resolution 15
04/01/2013 — Senate Joint Resolution 15 will remove the mining industry’s tax protections from our states constitution. It passed through the state senate with just four ultra-conservative senators voting against it. Nevada Appeal.
Cultural changes alter views at Nevada Legislature
03/31/2013 — The demographics of the Nevada Legislature continue to change, and with that change brings legislation that better represents modern Nevada’s values. Las Vegas Review Journal.
A very bad day for mining
03/31/2013 — The mining industry didn’t do very well during the first hearing for Senate Joint Resolution 15, but that’s a good thing for all Nevadans! The Las Vegas Review Journal recaps the hearing.
Dozens rally saying now is the time for immigration reform
03/30/2013 — Our Las Vegas office is more than a place where our PLAN staff comes to work, it’s a place for community groups to use for meetings and rallies that this one that took place over the weekend. Coverage from the Las Vegas Sun and 13 Action News.
Heller urges Nevada legislators to be less divisive than Congress
03/28/2013 — Senator Dean Heller delivered a speech to the Nevada legislature where he blamed Hollywood for gun violence, but the most important part of this story is the mention of Senator Heller receiving an Easter basket full of personal stories from immigrant and undocumented Nevadans. Las Vegas Sun.
Solitary confinement of Nevada inmates could be limited
03/27/2013 — A Senate bill in the Nevada Legislature could put use of solitary confinement in Nevada prisons under close scrutiny. CarsonNow.org
Lawmakers not buying mining lobbyist defense of tax shield
03/26/2013 — The hearing for Senate Joint Resolution 15 was a sight to see. Mining lobbyists tried their best, but the Senate Revenue committee was not falling for any of it, and passed SJR15 unanimously out of committee. Las Vegas Sun with the story.
Nevada Senate measure would help clear way for marriage equality
03/19/2013 — Senate Joint Resolution 13 would repeal the language from our state’s constitution that defines marriage as being between one man and one woman. HispanicBusiness.com carried the Las Vegas Sun story.
Moms of murdered daughters push for Nevada DNA bill
03/14/2013 — Should law enforcement be allowed to take DNA samples from you before you even convicted of a crime? That’s what Brianna’s Law will do. USA Today has the story.
Right Wing, Left Hook
03/14/2013 — Seems that many on the far right are starting to see things from our point of view. Reno News & Review.
When it comes to the tax debate we have heard it all before
03/13/2013 — 10 years ago Nevada lawmakers passed the states largest tax increase but have since lost the appetite to do anything to properly fund our state. Las Vegas City Life with the story.
Mining tax proposal has surprising sponsors, critics
03/07/2013 — Republicans step up and declare support for Senate Joint Resolution 15, and if that wasn’t enough, propose a separate tax on the mining industry. KOLO 8 News Now.
Latest tax idea comes from…the GOP?
03/07/2013 — Yes, we were shocked too to learn that someone in the Nevada Legislature was stepping up to create more revenue, and that somebody was the Republicans! Las Vegas Review Journal.
Nevada Senate GOP targets mining as tax alternative
03/06/2013 — Nevada’s Senate Republicans took everyone by surprise (even members of their own caucus) with the announcement that they support Senate Joint Resolution 15, to remove the mining industry’s tax protections from the state’s constitution, as well as a new mining tax. Bloomberg Businessweek. Seattle Post Intelligencer. Las Vegas Review Journal. Slash Politics. Ralston Reports.
Margins Tax Debate Lands in Carson City
03/05/2013 — The proposal to tax corporations in Nevada to fund education has the support of the voters, but will the legislature act? CBS Las Vegas has the story.
Services tax a can of worms yet to be opened?
02/24/2013 — As lower and middle income Nevadans struggle to get by in our revenue starved state, politicians propose a regressive, unfair service tax. Coverage from the Las Vegas Sun.
PLAN uses Valentine’s Day to ask the mining industry to divorce itself from Nevada’s Constitution
02/14/2013 — On Valentine’s Day PLAN, our member groups, and about 50 PLAN activists from all over Nevada stood in front of the Legislative building in Carson City and asked Nevada’s mining industry to divorce itself from our state’s constitution. Check out coverage from the following sources:
ABC Reno, KOLO, CBS Reno, Ralston Reports, The Agenda, Businessweek, Nevada Appeal, Las Vegas Review Journal.
Want to navigate the dark cave that is the Nevada Legislature? Here’s a flashlight
02/12/2013 — Check out this “how-to” guide on how to get what you want, or at least how to try without completely embarrassing yourself. Las Vegas Sun.
Las Vegas man among 23 who sat in Presidential box during State of the Union address
02/12/2013 — Alan Aleman was Nevada’s first DREAMer to receive a work permit from President Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, and he was invited to be a guest of First Lady Michelle Obama to watch the president’s State of the Union Address. Alan’s family watch the speech in Las Vegas with PLAN. Las Vegas Review Journal.
Obama’s push for gay rights in immigration reform prompts GOP opposition
02/07/2013 — President Obama’s immigration proposal includes recognition of and protections for same sex couples. Naturally, conservatives are mad. Las Vegas Sun.
Obama’s DREAMers
01/29/2013 – The Guardian with coverage from our Keeping Families Together campaign launch, that includes interviews with local DREAMers and their parents.
Latinos have high immigration expectations for Obama’s speech
01/28/2013 — Today PLAN launched the ‘Keeping Families Together’ campaign in Reno and Las Vegas. Here is a report from Las Vegas’ Fox 5 News. And from the Las Vegas Sun.
Obama to back Senate immigration effort in Las Vegas on Tuesday
01/28/2013 — The Review Journal came to our campaign launch this afternoon, here is Laura Myer’s report.
PLAN starts “Keeping Families Together”campaign
01/28/2013 – Coverage from Reno’s local CBS station of PLAN’s immigration reform organizing
Sandoval puts education high on his 2013 agenda
01/13/2013 – The Las Vegas Review Journal previews Governor Brian Sandoval’s 2013 State of the State speech and reminds readers (and the governor) of our Progressive State of the State that called for tax reform to fund our broken education system.
Tax the rich!
01/13/2013 — Conservative activist and Las Vegas Review Journal columnist continues his most conservative man on earth act, this time attacking Sheila Leslie for speaking the truth about the state of Nevada’s economy.
Governor Sandoval receives revenue advice on state of Nevada
01/10/2013 – Public News Service examines the 2013 Progressive State of the State and the state of Nevada’s revenue pool and tax structure.
What Sandoval should say
01/10/2013 — Former state senator Sheila Leslie used her weekly Reno News and Review column to share the 2013 Progressive State of the State address.
Leslie, PLAN call for tax increases on rich, mining in Nevada
01/09/2013 — Judging by the headline, it’s clear the Las Vegas Review Journal missed the point of our 2013 Progressive State of the State. It’s not about “taxing the rich”; its all about tax equity. Low income Nevadans pay 10% of their income in taxes while the wealthiest Nevadans only pay 1%.
Leslie challenges law makers to make corporations pay their ‘fair share’
01/09/2013 – The Las Vegas Sun looks at our 2013 Progressive State of the State address and highlights the challenges we pose to our lawmakers
Nevada 2013 Progressive State of the State Address this Wednesday
01/08/2013 — Our friends at the Nevada View preview the 2013 Progressive State of the State
Reno’s Leslie gives ‘Progressive State of the State’ in Las Vegas
01/07/2013 –Ray Hagar of the Reno Gazette Journal provides a preview of the 2013 Progressive State of the State address
Nevada Democrats still afraid of the “T-word”
01/06/2013 — Can you solve Nevada’s problems when you can’t even openly and seriously talk about them? The Las Vegas Sun talks to Nevada’s Democrats about our state’s revenue problem.
‘Fiscal cliff’ deals tax hike for many Nevadans
01/06/2013 – Ed Vogel of the Las Vegas Review Journal reviews the fiscal cliff deal and what Nevadans should expect as a result. PLAN’s Laura Martin (misidentified as PLAN’s Stacey Shinn) talks about the political conventional taxation wisdom to soak the poor instead of asking mega corporations to pay their fair share.
Missouri Water in Nevada?
12/27/2012 — Its a desert out here, and instead of conserving our water it seems Nevada’s knee-jerk reaction is to just take it. Dennis Myers of Reno News & Review looks at water grab proposals and talks to our executive director.
Spotlight on Medicaid co-pay proposals
12/26/2012 — Some legislators (and Governor Brian Sandoval) don’t seem to understand (or do they care?) that Medicaid recipients are on Medicaid because they are incredibly poor. Our chief lobbyist Stacey Shinn said it best in this Review Journal article: A co-pay is almost a regressive tax on them, and instead of requiring the “most poor” to provide state resources, the Legislature needs to require the mining industry to pay more and support a business margins tax
Bob Fulkerson gets ‘To the Point’ on Medicaid expansion and “shared responsibility”
12/14/2012 — Our director Bob Fulkerson sat down with Anjeanette Damon on her show, To the Point, to talk about Governor Brian Sandoval’s recent decision to expand medicaid in Nevada and called out politicians like Sandoval who think the poorest among us should “share responsibility” yet never ask corporations or the mining industry to do the same. Check out the clip on our youtube page.
Voter ID laws’ aims to restrict voting
12/08/2012 — Judith Browne-Dianis of the Advancement Project our our State Director Bob Fulkerson penned this OpEd (opinion editorial) in the Reno Gazette Journal on voter ID laws and their (not-so-hidden) agenda.
Young, progressive Las Vegas organizer wins national award for activism
12/06/2012 — Tovin Lapin of the Las Vegas Sun provides a wonderful feature story in the Las Vegas Sun about our very own Howard Watts III winning a very prestigious award.
Van Jones, award recipients speak at 16th annual Mario Savio Memorial Lecture
11/29/2012 — One of those award recipients was our Field Director Howard Watts III! Read more about the award and Mario Savio from The Daily Californian.
Nevada’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients are eligible for driver’s licenses
11/29/2012 — Governor Brian Sandoval says he won’t stop DACA recipients from obtaining a Nevada driver’s license. Governor Sandoval came out against DACA when the president first announced it in June of this year, and during his run for governor in 2010 he stated he was against non US citizens obtaining driver’s licenses. He has also said he does not support the DREAM Act. This change in policy is great news to DREAMers across Nevada. Now, if we could only get the Las Vegas Sun to stop using the I-word…
Local Progressive activist wins prestigious national award
11/20/2012 — That’s our own Howard Watts III getting a shout out from Jon Ralston of Ralston Reports for being awarded the Mario Savio Young Activist Award.
Nevada is still suffering from the economic crisis
11/13/2012 — You will need to speak German or have a translator handy for this article from Jan Tussing with Radio Germany, but its a great report on how the economy affects politics and might affect the outcome of the election.
Cash gives Legislature winners advantage
11/12/2012 — The Review Journal’s Ed Vogel on how the candidate with the best fundraising team–not necessarily the best candidate–can win election in the Silver State. As our Southern Nevada Director, Mike Ginsburg say, “Incumbency and money wins.”
Latino groups demand President makes good on promises
11/09/2012 — The Latino community came out in record numbers this election cycle, immediately following, President Obama re-promised to focus on immigration reform. Latino and immigration advocates in Nevada are going to hold him to his word. Check out this Fox Reno report with input from our organizer and board president.
PLAN to Focus on Immigration Reform After the Election
11/08/2012 — After winning reelection the President said his top priority in his second term is immigration reform. PLAN will be right there making sure the reform doesn’t separate families and provides a pathway to citizenship for undocumented youth brought to the US by their parents. Check out this report from Reno’s 2 News.
Informed at the Polls: Ward-only vs Citywide City Council Elections
11/06/2012 — Ward voting is the only way to ensure the people of Nevada (and for this KUNR piece, Washoe County) have a representative from their city council ward representing them, and not just the candidate who can raise the most money.
Make Your Voice Heard at the Polls
11/05/2012 — Our State Director and Judith Browne Dainis of the Advancement Project penned this editorial for the Reno Gazette Journal to remind everyone to use their voice and vote tomorrow. Do you have a plan to vote? Polls are open from 7:00am to 7:00pm.
Ready to vote? Rampant suppression threatens already tight race
11/02/2012 — The Nation takes a look at voter registration fraud and voter suppression and intimidation around the country. They include Reno intern Kate Sedlinger’s blogging on the issue.
America: What went wrong, and how do we fix it?
11/01/2012 — Our State Director Bob Fulkerson was one of six essayists to be featured in this Reno News and Review piece that dives into a wide range of issues as Nevadans struggle to find answers to our state, and our country’s, problems.
How can Barack Obama or Mitt Romney help Nevada?
10/28/2012 — There are many ways the presidential candidates can both help and hurt our state should they be elected. Our Executive Direcor Bob Fulkerson talks about a few of those ways with the Reno Gazette Journal’s Ray Haygar.
Supression Surges as Election Nears
10/26/2012 — PLAN Intern (or, PLANtern, if you will) Kate Sedlinger with an update on voter supression in Nevada, please get a sneak peek at PLAN’s GOTV (get out the vote) ad we produced with Cuentame. Read all about it on Colorlines.com.
As voter restrictions swirl nationwide, Nevada’s doing OK — for now
10/17/2012 — Las Vegas City Life takes a look at the past, present and future state of voting rights in Nevada. Are Nevada’s elections honest? Is there a pattern of fraud when it comes to voter registration? Former PLANista Launce Rake takes a look.
Nevada disenfranchises its poor electorate
10/09/2012 — And not “poor electorate” as in us poor Nevadans who are subjected so constant political advertising, calls and knocks at the door, but poor as in low income. Nevada’s tax structure coupled with the failed Bush Tax Cuts for the wealthiest 2% of Americans has grown the income divide in our great state. And it is the “poor” or Nevadans with very little income who have the least amont of access to our political system. Our Reno intern Kate Sedenger penned this article about the very subject. You can Kate’s work in The Nation and Color Lines.
Soledad O’Brien examines the chase for Latino voters in Nevada and beyond
10/02/2012 — Nearly 60,000 Latinos turn 18 each month in the United States. CNN continues its examination of the rapid growth of America’s Latino population and how they’ve become one of the most desireable swings votes in the nation, especially here in Nevada. View the three minutes Latino in America clip here.
It’s the immigration, stupid, say Latino voters in Nevada
10/02/2012 — CNN has been in Nevada this election cycle collecting stories from voters on the ground. They take a look at the growing Latino population in Nevada and the political power they wield. You’ll catch a glimpse of PLAN staff and volunteers registering voters in this CNN clip.
Religious, progressive groups join fight against Wynn tip-sharing mandate
10/02/2012 — PLAN has joined other community organizations in filing a brief to prevent the bosses over at the Wynn from taking tips from hard-working low wage casino workers. Vegas Inc has the full story.
Blocking the Vote
10/01/2012 — The Hill takes a look at the effort to prevent otherwise qualified Americans from voting in this election. The article also include an incident in Reno where a man who was only registering Republicans made threatening gestures toward PLAN staff and volunteers who were also out registering voters.
Mining prosperity has spread south
09/27/2012 — The Review Journal has gone all in with their support of the mining industry. In this editoral that sounds like it was written by Tim Crowley himself, they attack PLAN supporters as a small army of ‘education and welfare’ advocates. And we know there’s nothing the RJ hates more than education and people who need state assistance. Read the editorial here and feel free to comment or send a letter to the editor using this link. We may be a small army, but this PR blitz by the mining industry and fluffing by the RJ makes it clear we may be small, but we’re effective.
Howard Watts III on The Agenda talking housing
09/24/2012 — PLAN is organizing homeowners in Nevada to demand swift and bold justice for homeowners affected by illegal and corrupt practices by big banks that caused the housing crisis. Watch the clip on our youtube page.
Nevada’s constitution hinders efforts to raise mining taxes
09/23/2012 — And this is why Nevadans want SJR15 to pass. Senate Joint Resolution 15 is a three-stop nine year process that will remove the paragraph in our state’s constitution that gives mining their sweet heart tax deal. Read the Review Journal aticle here. You might notice a few other articles in the RJ pumping up mining, it’s a disturbing pattern.
How the mortgage crisis in Nevada will affect voters at the polls
09/18/2012 — Our field director Howard Watts III was interviewed along with other Nevadans on the upcoming election and how the housing crisis in Nevada will effect the out come. Watch the PBS report here.
Jump in gold price could mean tax boost for Nevada
09/12/2012 — The value of gold has jumped 10% in two months, but as Ed Vogel in this Review Journal article says, it’s hard to determine how much revenue that means for our state. We know its because the mining industry will find ways to pay as little as possible.
Barack Obama struggles to inspire voters on the campaign trail
09/01/2012 — Our executive director Bob Fulkerson offers his thoughts on the upcoming presidential election between President Barack Obama and former Governor, Mitt Romney. Check out the full story on The Guardian’s website.
Ballot Measure that Would Modify Reno City Council Elections Draws Fire
08/22/2012 — PLAN has fought long and hard to fix ward voting, but now that the ballot language is out, it seems that some people are committed to protecting the status quo that makes it nearly impossible for minorities in Reno to win city council seats. The Reno Gazette Journal has the story.
Nevada Lobbyist for Apple Inc Also Has Contract with State Economic Development Agency
08/18/2012 — A veteran Nevada lobbyist helped Apple Inc score a sweet tax deal in Nevada, while that may sound like just another day in the Silver State, this case is a little more interesting. As our executive director points out it “demonstrates the incestuous nature of Nevada politics,”. Read more about this “bad apple” from The Republic, via the Associated Press.
The Pit Lake Challenge
08/16/2012 — What’s to be done with the water left behind by mining? Right now the “extremely dangerous after effect of mining” is just being fenced off. Read Reno’s News Review article on the damage mining corporations are causing to Nevada.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
08/15/2012 — On June 15th President Obama announced ‘deferred action’. A program that would protect DREAM Act eligible people living in the United States from deportation and provide them with the opportunity to obtain a work permit. The PLAN offices in Reno and Las Vegas hosted press conferences to provide information on Deferred Action and organizations around the state who are providing or low-cost assistance with Deferred Action paperwork processing. Here’s the coverage from that day:
Local Group Celebrates Immigration Law Change, My News 4 – NBC Reno
Hope Replaces Deportation Fears for Undocumented Immigrants, Las Vegas Review Journal
Start of Deferred Action Program Gives Immigrants a Reason to Celebrate, Las Vegas Sun
Thousands of Nevadans Able to Apply for Deferred Action, KOLO TV, ABC Reno
A New Program Gives Young Illegal Immigrants One Shot at Legitimacy, Las Vegas City Life
Nevada takes more on goods, but taxer far fewer of them
08/06/2012 — Ed Vogel of the Las Vegas Review Journal takes a look at Nevada’s sales tax structure and how it compares to other states.
Democrats sharpen voter registration edge in Nevada
08/03/2012 — PLAN and many non-partisan 501 (c)(3) are working hard to registering voters across the state of Nevada. The Las Vegas Review Journal looks at it from a partisan stance by crediting the state Democratic Party for registering new voters, but we’re just thrilled by the numbers. New voters, new voices added to the dialogue demanding our elected officials act on our behalf to create a more fair and just Nevada.
Nevadans ponder dueling plans to extend the Bush Tax Cuts
08/01/2012 — Last week the US Senate voted to end the Bush Tax Cuts for the wealthiest 2% of Americans by passing the Middle Class Tax Cut Act, and this week the bill heads to the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. Public News Service takes a look at the bill and how the Bush Tax Cuts help and hurt Nevada. Fox Reno also provided coverage on August 6, 2012
Mining Claims
07/26/2012 — Former Nevada Mining Association president Mark Amodei is a Congressman representing Nevada’s district two. His mining claims bill makes it clear he hasn’t abandoned his duties as NMA’s top cheerleader. Reno News and Review has the scoop on Rep Amodei’s bill whose fate now rests on the Senate.
Advocacy groups call for public forums on police use of force
07/23/2012 — PLAN partnered with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Nevada to host a series of community forums to discuss use of force issues with Metro. The Las Vegas Review Journal has the story, as does the Las Vegas Sun.
New policy leads to confusion, concerns of legal fraud
06/29/2012 — On June 15 President Obama announced a Department of Homeland security’s rule change that would save DREAM Act eligibile youth from deportation and make them eligible for a two-year work permit. In the wake of the announcement, lawyers and notarios have found a new way to glean money from our most volunerable communities. Tovin LaPan of the Las Vegas Sun has the story.
SCOTUS rules the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to be constitutional
06/28/2012 — On the last day of their term the Supreme Court handed down one of the most contreversial rulings since Bush v Gore in 2000.
Nevada groups react to US Spreme Court Decision on Health Care Law – Nevada News Bureau
Health Care, the reactioning – Slash Politics, Steve Sebelius, Las Vegas Review Journal
Governor, lawmakers to decide Medicaid expansion for low-income Nevadans – Las Vegas Sun
Nevada won’t automatically expand Medicaid – Las Vegas Review Journal
Supreme Court upholds Affordable Care Act – Lahontan Valley News
Nevada faces uncertain furture under health care ruling – Las Vegas Review Journal
La Supreme Corte emite su veredicto sobre reforma salud – Univision Las Vegas
Affordable Care Act ruling gives many guide to insurance – My News 3, Las Vegas NBC
Business owners react to health care ruling – 8 News Now, Las Vegas CBS
Health ruling has big impact on Nevada – Reno Gazette Journal
Not Breaking: Nevada mining corporations still not paying their fair share
06/27/2012 — Kersten Communications put together a tax report for PLAN showing how the mining industry gets away with not paying their fair share in taxes by taking advantage of Nevada’s many (MANY) corporate tax loopholes. Check out coverage from the Nevada News Bureau, also printed in the Tahoe Daily Tribune. The Public News Services website includes an audio interview.
SCOTUS strikes down three of four provisions in Arizona’s repugnant immigration law
06/25/2012 — The United States Supreme Court ruled that three of four provisions in Arizona’s immigration law, SB1070, were unconstitutional. Leaving in place the provision that allows law enforcement to check immigration status of an individual who is arrested for breaking other laws such as a traffic violation. Check out the press coverage here:
Las Vegas reacts to Supreme Court’s immigration decision – Las Vegas Sun
Governor: Supreme Court rejection of immigration law shows need for reform — Tahoe Daily Tribune
Local leaders react to Arizona immigration ruling – 8 News Now, CBS Las Vegas
Locals respond to Supreme Court immigration ruling – Fox 5, Las Vegas
Activistas locales reaccion ante la ley SB1070 de Arizona – Univistion, Reno
Reaccion ante le polemica ley 1070 de Arizona – Univision, Las Vegas
Obama Policy Could Spare DREAMers from deportation
06/15/2012 — DREAM Act eligible youth gathered at the Las Vegas PLAN office to watch President Barack Obama announce Department of Homeland Security policy changes that would spare them deportation and provide the opportunity to obtain a work permit. DREAMers, their families, friends and supporters watch the announcement live; there was a mix of tears, laughter, relief and caution. Check out some of the great reporting from the momentus day:
8 News Now
My News 3
My News 3 (additional coverage)
KTVN Reno
Fox 5 News
Fronteras
Fox Reno
Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas Sun (additional coverage)
Las Vegas Review Journal
Reno Gazette Journal
El Sentinel (Spanish)
Dario Las Americas (Spanish)
Las Vegas Univision (Spanish)
Reno Univision (Spanish)
Public News Service
Bob talking teachers, taxes and primaries on The Agenda
06/11/2012 — The day before the primary election in Nevada our executive director Bob Fulkerson sat down with The Agenda co-hosts Hugh Jackson and Elizabeth Crum to talk abou the AFL-CIO and Nevada State Education Association tax initiative as well as offer his observation on some of Nevada’s primary races. Go to our youtube page to watch Bob on The Agenda.
The Tax Code is Rigged to Help the Rich Get Richer
05/19/2012 — We’re preaching to the choir here, right? We know that Nevada’s tax structure is unfair, made to protect the richest among us and the corporations that settle here, while we lose essential services and are hit with sales tax increase and “fees”. Our executive director Bob Fulkerson penned this opinion piece for the Reno Gazette Journal on how and why Nevada’s tax code isn’t meant to benefit us.
What will it take for Nevada to allow ALL residents and visitors to marry?
05/19/2012 — In 2009 PLAN helped pass the nation’s strongest domestic partnership laws here in Nevada; even overruling then-Governor Jim Gibbon’s veto. But for many same sex couples, it’s still a second class designation. Britney Spears can drunkenly get married in Las Vegas at the spur of the moment, but loving couples in long term committed relationships are forced to deal with a separate and not so equal designation. So what will it take to make all couples equal in Nevada? The Reno Gazette Journal’s Ray Hagar talks to Nevadans including our technology director Joe Edson and executive director Bob Fulkerson.
More on lobbying loopholes: Hiding gifts
05/14/2012 — Reno’s My News 4 continues its look at Nevada’s reporting standards for lobbyists. This clips includes more from the interview with our executive director Bob Fulkerson, as well as interviews with Assemblyman Pat Hickey, Senator Sheila Leslie and Assemblyman Tick Segerblum who have promised in some way or another to pass comprehensive lobbying reform. Go to our youtube page to see My News 4′s report.
The Battle Born state is a battleground for presidential campaigns
05/11/2012 — Four years ago then Senator Barack Obama became the first African American to be elected president of the United States by pummeling the McCain/Palin campaign. That historic victory included wining the battle ground state of Nevada by 12 percentage points. Now in the middle of his reelection campaign, can President Obama make the magic happen again? Foreclosures, unemployment, and mass deportations stand in the way of Team Obama and victory. Our executive director Bob Fulkerson talks to the Nevada Appeal on the eve of the President’s vist to Reno. The Times-Picayune of New Orleans also picked up the story.
President Obama becomes the first sitting president to endorse same sex marriage
05/09/2012 — President Barack Obama becomes the first sitting president to publicly endorse same-sex marriage. But what does that mean for for Nevada? A state that over 10 years ago amended their consitution to declare that marriage is between one man and one woman, but then passed a domestic partners bill in 2009 that considers a domestic partner a “spouse”. Lambda Legal has sued the state of Nevada over the issue of marriage. The Reno Gazette Journal talks to PLAN executive director Bob Fulkerson about the evolution of President Obama and Nevada on marriage equality.
PLAN Reno hosts mining accountability forum
04/24/2012 — Tonight at 5:30pm PLAN will host a mining accountability forum at the Hyatt Place Reno-Tahoe airport in Reno, NV. This forum is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend to hear different prespectives on mining in Nevada from historians, indengenous Nevadans and mine owners. Here is a report from Reno’s News 2.
SNWA’s greedy water grab is challenged in court
04/23/2012 — PLAN joined allies including environmental groups, several rurual counties and nearly 300 individuals to fight back against the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s attempt to take water from rural Nevada for Las Vegas. Read Las Vegas Sun Cy Ryan’s report on the water grab and while so many Nevadans are fighting back HERE.
Competing headlines from the Sun, but one thing is clear: Fixing Nevada’s tax system won’t be easy
04/22/2012 — The Las Vegas Sun’s top notch political reporters had two different points of view on tax initiatives that were filed by wealthy conservative businessman Monte Miller. Anjeanette Damon says ‘Mining, Gaming Tax Initiatives Might Have Some Life Left in Them’ and David McGrath Schwartz says ‘The Nevada Tax Battle is Over for Now,’. Our director Bob Fulkerson is quoted in both stories making one thing perfectly clear: fixing Nevada’s broken tax system will not be easy. The sliver of hope on this “tax battle”? Mr. Miller abandoning his self-serving tax initiatives will allow PLAN and its allies to have a laser focus on the SJR15 that will, if passed by the legislature one more time then voted on by the people, would remove mining special tax privledges they wrote for themselves in the constitution.
Michael Ginsburg on The Agenda talking taxes
04/18/2012 — Michael Ginsburg was a guest on The Agenda talking about Monte Miller’s gaming and mining tax initiatives. There was no mourning going on here, as these tax initiatives by the wealthy conservative were just meant to cover his own behind, not address Nevada’s broken tax system. Watch the clip on our youtube page.
We may see a battle over medicaid co-pay idea
04/05/2012 — Nevada has the nation’s highest unemployment rate, the second highest foreclosure rate and a regressive tax system that leaves too many vital services underfunded. Instead of finding more revenue or fixing our tax system, conservatives time and time again chose to pick the pockets of the poorest among. This time, they want medicaid recipients to start paying copays. Our director Bob Fulkerson calls them out on their “reverse Robin Hood”. Read the Reno Gazette Journal story HERE.
Jan Gilbert’s thoughts on the possibility of the Supreme Court rulling Obamacare unconstitutional
04/01/2012 — Last week the Supreme Court of the United States heard arguements for and against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (aka, Obamacare) and they will determine whether parts of the law are unconstitutional, the entire thing must be thrown out or if it’s fine just the way it is. Jan Gilber offered her thoughts on what overturning the law might mean to rural Nevadans, families with children and Nevadans who are enjoying lower prescription drug costs thanks to Obamacare. The Las Vegas Sun has the story.
Jan Gilbert gets ‘To the Point’ on the Affordable Care Act
03/31/2012 — Retiring PLAN lobbyist and co-founder Jan Gilbert sat down with Anjeanette Damon on her weekend show To the Point to talk about the Affordable Care Act and what it would mean to Nevadans if the Supreme Court of the United States ruled it unconstitutional. Watch the clip HERE.
DREAM Act walkers visit PLAN on their way to Washington, DC
03/29/2012 — DREAM Act activists are embarking on a march across America, from California to Washington DC, to call attention to the need for better immigation policies. They stopped in Reno and hung out at our PLAN office. We were thrilled to have them and support their efforts. The United States need comprehensive immigration reform that is humane and doesn’t punish children. Fox Reno. Daily Sparks Tribune. Univision. KTVN – CBS Reno.
Elvira Diaz honored by the White House as a Cesar Chavez Champion of Change
03/30/2012 — PLAN organizer Elvira Diaz was honored by the White House for her work in Reno registering voters, advcated for the Latino community and immigrants and educating Nevadans about the new health care laws. Here is the Las Vegas Review Journal’s report. And here is a report from the Las Cruces-Sun News.
Trayvon Martin Rally in Reno and Carson City
03/29/2012 — Reno and Carson City held rallies to bring awareness to Trayvon Martin’s murder and demand justice. On February 26th 17 year old Trayvon was carrying only a cell phone, bag of candy and a can of tea was he walked to his home in Sandford, FL when he was murdered by a self-appointed neighborhood watch captain. The gunman was never arrested or charged because of Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law; Nevada has a similar law that passed during the 2001 legislative session. Watch KTVN’s report, that includes an interview with our executive director Bob Fulkerson HERE.
PLAN stands up to Affordable Care Act Lies
03/23/2012 — On the two year anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act being signed into law, Dean Heller, Mark Amodei and Reince Preibus held a press conference to stir up more fear and toss out misinformation. Joe Heck wasn’t there becaue he was back in DC submitted a bill to repeal the law that has provided life-saving care for thousands of Nevadans. PLAN was there to set the record straight. Read the Review Journal’s report HERE.
PLAN, allies and health care adovcates hold a rally to protect the health care law
03/23/2012 — PLAN, Nevada PEP, Planned Parenthood, Know Your Care and health care consumers came together to talk about the benefits of the Affordable Care Act and to push back against talk of repeal. Read the Las Vegas Review Journal’s report HERE. Andrew Davey, the Nevada Progessive, also covered the event, his report includes video clips HERE.
Michael Ginsburg on The Agenda
03/22/2012 — Our Southern Nevada director sat down with The Agenda hosts Hugh “The Gleaner” Jackson and Elizabeth Crum to talk about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care act. Watch the clip HERE.
Michael Ginsburg on Face to Face
03/21/2012 — “Obamacare” is just a word, but the Affordable Care Act means life or death to thousands in Nevada. Education is key and Mike went on Face to Face to clear up some misinformation, present some facts and make a compelling case for protecting the law. Watch the clip HERE. Mike’s interview starts at 8:53
Jan Gilbert is honored by White House as a ‘Champion of Change’
03/20/2012 — Jan Gilbert, PLAN co-founder and northern Nevada director, was honored by the White House this week as a ‘Champion of Change’ for her work advocating for health care access. We are so proud of Jan for this achievement, check out coverage from our local press: Associated Press. KRNV News 4 Reno. Las Vegas Review Journal .Las Vegas Sun. Reno Gazette-Journal. And watch a great report from KOLO that includes an interview with Jan after she returned home from the White House. Watch it HERE
Nevada named 9th most corruptable state government
03/19/2012 — Our southern Nevada director Michael Ginsburg provided insight on Nevada for the State Integrity Investigation. To read the report click HERE. Watch Reno’s My News 4′s report on our youtube page. Read the Las Vegas Review Journal’s report HERE.
Crowd of about 3,000 to 4,000 start Selma march
03/04/2012 — PLAN staff Elvira and Stacey headed to Alabama this weekend to participate in the recreation of the historic march from Selma, AL to Montgomery. Birmingham News is providing updates and some great pictures HERE. Keep an eye on the blog for Stacey’s updates.
Biggest Green Groups Get the Most ‘Greenbacks’
03/02/2012 — A new report indicates that environmental groups are getting the most charitable dollars. Our executive director Bob Fulkerson talks about the work grassroots organizations do to protect the environment. Check out the entire article HERE.
Housing Settlement Just the First Step in Bringing the Banks to Justice
2/26/2012 — PLAN’s Director, Bob Fulkerson writes about the foreclosure settlement deal in the LV Review Journal. Read the article HERE.
PLAN’s Michael Ginsburg Joins Hugh Jackson on The Agenda to Discuss the Nevada Mining Industry’s Taxes and the Foreclosure Settlement
2/24/2012 — Hugh Jackson of the The Agenda is joined by Michael Ginsburg to discuss the new mining tax ballot initiative and the legal challenges it will face along with the upside of the Nevada joining with 49 other states to sign off on the mortgage servicing settlement. Watch the entire show HERE.
PLAN’s Laura Martin Speaks About Foreclosures in Nevada and the Foreclosure Settlement
2/23/2012 — Laura Martin talks to Rick Smith about the 49-state settlement with the largest servicing providers. Listen to entire show HERE.
State. Local Leaders Speak Out About Sen. Raggio
2/25/2012 — Statements of condolence on the passing of Senator Bill Raggio. Read the whole story HERE.
Some Happy News on Valentine’s Day
02/14/2012 — Domestic Partnerships in Nevada are going strong, they have a higher success rate than marriage. Maybe its time to revisit our consitutional ban on marriage? Check out the Las Vegas Sun’s Valentine’s Day story HERE.
AG Settlement a Down Payment on Justice
02/09/2012 — Here’s a statement on the foreclosure settlement that includes some facts. Curcial to the success of this settlement is public education. We’ve seen a lot of people argue over what’s not even in the statement, click HERE to find out what it actually does.
Howard Watts III on The Agenda with Hugh Jackson
01/19/2012 — PLAN organizer sat down with Hugh Jackson, aka the Gleaner, on The Agenda to talk about voter suppression. Watch the clip on our youtube page.
Bob Fulkerson has a chat with Tim Crowley on KNPR
01/19/2012 — PLAN executive director Bob Fulkerson was interviewed on KNPR (Las Vegas’ NPR station) ‘State of Nevada’ with Nevada Mining Association President Tim Crowley. Listen to the audio HERE.
PLAN to Vice President Biden: Investigate these banks!
01/19/2012 — Vice President Joe Biden arrived at Galena High School in Reno, NV and was greeted by a group of PLAN activists demanding the Obama Administration do everything in their power to investigate the Wall Street banks who wrecked our economy, one lousy mortgage at a time. The Reno Gazette Journal has the story HERE
Progressive Radio is Coming to Nevada!
01/05/2012 — The FCC has granted PLAN a broadcasting license. Reno News and Review has the story on PLAN radio HERE.
