Nevada Assembly Bill AB396

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Report Pass: 6/2/23
• Engrossed: 6/3/23
• Refer: 6/3/23
• Report Pass: 6/4/23
• Enrolled: 6/9/23
• Chaptered: 6/16/23
• Passed: 6/16/23

Caption

Makes appropriations to Clark County and the Cities of Reno and Sparks for programs for rental assistance to certain persons. (BDR S-1011)

Impact

This funding is designed to directly impact the aforementioned communities by enabling local governments to provide critical support to vulnerable populations. The bill mandates that the respective entities receiving the funds must report on their expenditures, ensuring accountability and oversight. This aligns with state efforts to alleviate housing insecurity exacerbated by economic challenges, which have intensified in recent years due to various factors including the aftereffects of the pandemic.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 396 is a legislative measure that makes appropriations from the State General Fund specifically aimed at assisting Clark County, the City of Reno, and the City of Sparks in their rental assistance programs. The bill allocates a total of $12 million over two fiscal years, with $6 million each for Clark County and $1.5 million for the cities of Reno and Sparks annually. The intent is to provide support to elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and families encountering unforeseen emergencies that threaten their housing stability.

Conclusion

Overall, AB396 represents a significant legislative step towards providing direct financial support for rental assistance programs in key Nevada communities. By targeting specific demographics such as the elderly and disabled, the bill seeks to not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to broader discussions about housing policy and economic support systems.

Contention

While the bill received unanimous support during voting, it does raise some underlying issues related to ongoing housing crises across the state and how effectively such funds are allocated and utilized. The requirement for regular reporting and auditing of spending could foster transparency but may also require additional administrative efforts from local governments to comply. However, the main point of contention is how effectively these funds can address the urgent needs of those facing housing instability, and whether the allocated amounts are sufficiently reflective of the populations that are in need.