Bi-state cooperation and SB271The League’s number one priority in 2012 is to ensure that Nevada and California continue to work together, while pushing for a new regional plan that protects and enhances Tahoe’s unique environment. A new Nevada law, SB271, not only threatens to withdraw the state from the Compact, but also made clear that lawmakers want to see progress on the passage of a new regional plan. The League has been invited to participate in a bi-state working group that includes interest group representatives, elected officials, and state and agency staff who are tasked with tackling the important issues raised by SB271. The aim is to formulate reasonable solutions for a regional plan that both states can embrace, including appropriate growth and environmental safeguards. Unity is more important than ever, as threats to Lake Tahoe like new invasive species, urbanization and climate change are also greater than ever before. In June, 2011 Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval signed into law SB271, a bill that withdraws the state from the Tahoe Regional Planning Compact in 2015 unless California and Congress agree to certain demands. The bill would change the voting structure of the TRPA governing board in a way that will make it easier to approve development, and weaken environmental standards and regulations. SB271 passed in the final 15 minutes of the 2011 Nevada Legislative Session, despite much opposition from a broad coalition of conservation groups and scientists. Read the League's comments on SB271. |
