Nevada Assembly Bill AB98

Nevada 2025 Regular Session

• Refer: 1/13/25
• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Report Pass: 4/7/25
• Engrossed: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/16/25
• Report Pass: 5/19/25
• Enrolled: 5/27/25
• Vetoed: 6/2/25
• Failed: 6/3/25

Caption

Creates a day of observance for labor leader, Dolores Huerta. (BDR 19-642)

Summary

Assembly Bill 98 requires the Governor to annually proclaim April 10 as “Dolores Huerta Day” in Nevada. Dolores Huerta is identified in the bill caption as a labor leader, and the measure places her among the people and occasions recognized in Nevada’s statutory days of observance. The bill also directs the proclamation to encourage public schools and educational institutions to recognize Dolores Huerta and educate students about her life, accomplishments, and contributions to the United States. The bill amends Chapter 236 of the Nevada Revised Statutes by adding a new observance day. It does not create a new regulatory program, funding source, or enforcement mechanism; instead, it adds a ceremonial and educational proclamation requirement for the Governor and a corresponding encouragement for schools and educational institutions. Its legal effect is to expand the state’s list of official observances and to promote classroom and campus recognition of Huerta’s legacy.

Impact

AB98 would add a new state observance to NRS Chapter 236 and require an annual gubernatorial proclamation on April 10. The measure affects state ceremonial practice and public education messaging, but it does not impose mandates on private parties or alter substantive rights, benefits, or liabilities. Public schools and educational institutions are encouraged, rather than required, to recognize and teach about Dolores Huerta.

Sentiment

The bill appears to have received generally favorable support, as reflected in its passage in both chambers. It passed the Assembly 27-15 and the Senate 17-4, indicating majority support but some opposition. The available record does not include committee testimony, so the public rationale in the transcripts is not available, but the vote margins suggest the measure was broadly accepted while still somewhat divisive.

Contention

The main point of contention appears to be whether the state should create another official day of observance and direct public institutions to highlight a specific historical figure. Supporters likely viewed the bill as a recognition of labor history, civil rights, and educational value, while opponents may have objected to adding a commemorative observance or to the use of state authority to promote a particular individual. The recorded votes show that opposition existed in both chambers, though not enough to block passage.