Key Environmental and Energy Bills Led by Assemblymember Watts in Nevada's 2023 Session

In the 2023 Nevada Legislature, Assemblyman Howard Watts played a leading role in advancing significant environmental and energy legislation, continuing the state's commitment to sustainability and clean transportation. 

AB220: This major water conservation bill empowers the Southern Nevada Water Authority to curtail excessive water use amid shortages on the Colorado River, facilitates a transition away from septic tanks and enhances groundwater regulation. It was signed into law.

AB184: Also signed into law, this legislation establishes a Clean Trucks and Buses Incentive Program, promoting the adoption of zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles with federal funding from the Biden Administration.

AB112: This legislation creates an account to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by constructing dedicated wildlife crossings, enhancing habitat connectivity and safety. It also funds the account with $5 million, which can leverage $95 million in federal infrastructure dollars from the Biden Administration to construct these crossings. This bill was passed unanimously and signed into law.

AB221: Addressed a gap in state law that doesn’t list butterflies and other insects in need of protection as “wildlife.” Unfortunately, this bill did not pass the Legislature.

AB387: Sought to ensure state regulators use the "best available science" for water management decisions. It ultimately did not pass the legislature.

AB524: Requires more rigorous planning processes for NV Energy, emphasizing renewable energy generation and greenhouse gas emission reductions. It passed overwhelmingly and was signed by Governor Lombardo.

Assemblyman Watts's leadership on these bills reflects Nevada's proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges, from water scarcity and clean transportation to energy sustainability and wildlife conservation.

Read More: The Nevada Independent