Problem

Our 2020 election cycle faced an unprecedented public health crisis that forced cities and states to act immediately to not only protect citizens’ right to vote but their health and safety while exercising that right. Last year, nearly half the nation voted by mail or absentee ballots. 

 

Solution

In Nevada, in the midst of a statewide shutdown, our Secretary of State and election officials worked around the clock to conduct a primary election by mail– something that our state has never done. After the primary election, the state legislature passed emergency legislation to ensure mail-in ballots would be available in the general election as the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic still remained. With record voter turnout and an electorate eager for more options to cast their ballots, we passed legislation to make our emergency measures permanent. Now every single eligible voter will automatically receive a mail-in ballot for every local and state election

Problem

We must lift the veil of secrecy that surrounds the activities of groups working to influence the political process. At a time of increased misinformation and distrust it is more important than ever that the public is provided the information they need to make informed decisions on the policies that impact their lives. Full disclosure will improve the credibility of the government and enhance the public’s trust.

Solution

I introduced a bill that requires that election infrastructure vendors disclose financial ties for approval as a vendor by the Secretary of State; requires report of known or suspected security incidents involving election systems to the Division of Elections. I also introduced a second bill which makes various changes to reporting requirements for independent expenditure committees; establishes reporting requirements for policy impact committees.