Folks, I’ve always believed that labor unions are the backbone of Nevada.

Because of their resilience, the labor movement secured us many of the rights that we too often take for granted today. Work breaks, paid sick leave, weekends off, workers’ compensation, minimum wage, health care coverage, vacation time, and so much more are now commonplace in the workplace.

It’s because of the sacrifices of labor union activists that Nevadans can enjoy many of the benefits that they look for in a workplace environment.

We cannot mistake the heroic progress of the men and women in the labor movement as a sign that the fight is over. It’s imperative that we continue the fight to secure every workplace protection and right for working people. Leading by example, Nevada’s prominent hospitality unions have famously led the way on workplace reform and protections.

A few weeks back, I signed Assembly Bill 190 into law which supports Nevada caregivers by giving them flexibility with paid sick leave to take care of family members with medical needs. This new legislation, which is a major step forward for some of Nevada’s heroic workers, wouldn’t have been passed if labor unions hadn’t paved the way beforehand.

There’s a lot of work left to be done to fully guarantee the rights of every worker in Nevada and across the country. But, today, I remain in awe of the progress made by labor unions which has transformed the American workforce and protected working people.

As Governor, I’ll continue to uplift and stand alongside labor priorities in Nevada because every person deserves a fair wage, benefits, and protections in the workplace. I hope you’ll join me in this commitment.

In solidarity,

Steve Sisolak