MARCH 2015
Research Shows Nevadans Support Education Reform, Less Enthused About Tax Reform SUPPORT DIVIDED ON RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION, BUT STRONG FOR EXPANDING BACKGROUND CHECKS ON GUNS By Mary Lau he Retail group participants were to a school of their choice. Association of asked to discuss the Also popular was all-day Nevada (RAN) education and tax reform kindergarten, state funding conducted a policies that are being for pre-K programs and Tseries of focus group sessions debated this Legislative expansion of the classroom in February to assess Nevada Session and to give their breakfast program. voters’ views on public policy views on other important Participants were issues relevant to the current topics, such as construction less enthused about tax Legislative Session. The defect reforms and reform, with many viewing sessions were conducted transportation network “tax reform” as meaning by Moore Information in companies, such as Uber. “tax increases.” There was both Las Vegas and Reno, Two topics that were widespread opposition in all and members of the Nevada discussed in great depth groups to increasing sales Legislature and the media were education reform taxes, property taxes and were invited to observe the and tax reform, since both motor vehicle taxes. Less than sessions and a full report on topics are the primary focus Continued on page 2 the results was released. of the Governor and the For the past several years, Legislature. Education reform RAN has conducted polls in was a primary interest of INSIDE advance of the Legislative participants, most of whom Sessions to gain insights gave Nevada schools an into the views of the public unsatisfactory rating. In 2015 Legislative on issues of importance. keeping with results of Update...... 2 However, in general, focus prior RAN polls, focus group groups allow for more in- participants were more Prescription depth discussion of policy enthusiastic about reforming Drug Abuse...... 4 issues. With so many new education rather than issues coming before the simply increasing funding. Legislative Legislature that the public In general, participants Chairmen...... 5 had not heard discussed overwhelmingly supported during the election, RAN concepts such as merit pay Prescription decided that the focus for teachers and abolishing Drug Diversion...... 6 group format would allow teacher tenure. A significant for greater public input and majority in these groups also WIC Open discussion of a number of supported the concept of Enrollment...... 7 complex topics. school vouchers, or allowing Specifically, the focus money to follow the student Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org 2015 Legislative Session Update By Lea Tauchen ort Reform proposes to cap the was printed. Read the on February 23. RAN Measures: amount of a bond that bill language at: http:// testified in support of Senate an appellant is required www.leg.state.nv.us/ this bill. The Committee Majority to pay to secure a stay Session/78th2015/Bills/ had not taken any further TLeader Michael Roberson of execution of certain SB/SB134.pdf action on this bill at the has sponsored a number judgments. The cap would time this newsletter of tort reform measures be set at the lessor of SB160—Trespassers was printed. Read the this legislative session. $50,000,000 or the amount Senate Bill 160 proposes bill language at: http:// Three have been drafted of the judgment. For a to adopt the common law www.leg.state.nv.us/ into bills and several small business appellant, principle for determining Session/78th2015/Bills/ more remain as bill draft the cap would be set at the duty of care owed SB/SB160.pdf requests without language the lessor of $1,000,000 by an owner, lessee, or yet. However, with or the amount of the occupant of any premises SB161—Product Republicans controlling judgment. This bill was to a trespasser. This Liability the Assembly and the heard in the Senate means that, under certain Senate Bill 161 proposes Senate, the environment Committee on Judiciary on conditions, the possessor to revise provisions is friendly for the pursuit February 19. RAN supports of the property owes no governing product of civil justice reform, so this bill, along with many duty of care to a trespasser liability. More specifically, these bills will most likely other members of the and is therefore not liable this bill prohibits a civil move quickly through the business community. should the trespasser product liability action process. The Committee had suffer physical harm on against the seller of the not taken any further the property. This bill product except in certain SB134—Bond Caps action on this bill at the was heard in the Senate circumstances. However, Senate Bill 134 time this newsletter Committee on Judiciary Continued on page 3
Research Shows... Continued from page 1 half favored higher taxes in the Las Vegas groups you make, the more you operate in Nevada as long on insurance companies or but Reno participants were pay.” At the same time, as they were subject to the on businesses in general. divided. This proposal was hesitancy seemed based same rules as cab and limo At the same time, there explained as a change on lack of knowledge/ companies. Marijuana was widespread support to the current business understanding of the legalization for recreational for increases on cigarette licenses fee of $200 per structure of such a tax and use was supported by taxes, gaming taxes and year on all businesses, how it works, and there about half of participants on tickets to outdoor live regardless of size or was a healthy level of and expanding entertainment events. revenue, to a fee ranging concern for businesses that background checks on gun Although the “sunset taxes” from $400 to $4 million might be losing money sales to include private- were a topic of many dollars, depending on but would still be subject party sales was supported election campaigns, no business classification and to the gross receipts tax. by a four-to-one margin. participants could identify annual revenues. Participants were very Participants in the those taxes and less than Support for this type supportive of various three focus groups were half supported continuing of reform stemmed from proposals to reform taken from registered them. participants’ desire for construction defect voters. Each group was A new business and bigger businesses to “pay legislation and most screened to include a license fee based on gross their fair share” as well as supported companies such mix of gender, age and receipts was well received the theory that “the more as Uber being allowed to Continued on page 3 2 ◆ Stress Continued from page 4
www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada
Legislative Update Continued from page 2 it does allow such action worked in a proposes to authorize a to be brought upon the week. This private employer to adopt manufacturer or a seller bill has been an employment policy with substantial control referred to that gives preference in over the aspect of the the Senate hiring to a veteran or the manufacture, construction, Committee on spouse of a veteran. The design, etc. This bill Commerce, Office of the Governor has was heard in the Senate Labor, and sponsored this legislation Committee on Judiciary Energy, but has as part of a larger package on February 26. RAN not yet been of veterans’ policy changes. testified in support of scheduled for This bill was heard in the this bill. The Committee a hearing. RAN Assembly Committee on had not taken any further plans to testify Commerce and Labor on action on this bill at the in support, February 4. time this newsletter as this will RAN testified in was printed. Read the provide for support, as veterans bill language at: http:// more flexibility bring valuable skills and www.leg.state.nv.us/ in scheduling training to the workplace Session/78th2015/Bills/ employees’ Amelia McLear, Director of Public Affairs and Government Affairs for and this bill allows such SB/SB161.pdf shifts. Read Walmart, and Caleb Cage, Director of Military and Veterans Policy for the hiring preferences to be Office of the Governor, discuss veterans’ initiatives. the bill voluntary, not mandatory. Various Employment language employer does not offer The Committee had Provisions: at: http://www. such benefits. This bill not taken any further SB193—Overtime leg.state.nv.us/ has been referred to the action on this bill at the Sponsored by the Session/78th2015/Bills/ Senate Committee on time this newsletter Senate Committee on SB/SB193.pdf Legislative Operations was printed. Read the Commerce, Labor, and and Elections, but has not bill language at: http:// Energy Senate Bill 193 SJR8—Minimum Wage yet been scheduled for www.leg.state.nv.us/ proposes to remove the Sponsored by Senator a hearing. RAN plans to Session/78th2015/Bills/ current provision for the Segerblom testify in opposition. Read AB/AB89.pdf compensation of overtime Senate Joint Resolution the bill language at: http:// If you have any for more than eight 8 proposes to amend the www.leg.state.nv.us/ questions or would like hours worked during a Nevada Constitution to Session/78th2015/Bills/ additional information calendar day, meaning a increase the minimum SJR/SJR8.pdf about these bills, please 24-hour period. This bill wage $15 per hour, if contact Lea Tauchen at would instead require the employer provides AB89—Hiring [email protected]. n compensation for overtime qualified health benefits, Preference for more than 40 hours or $16 per hour, if the Assembly Bill 89
Research Shows... Continued from page 2 participation in the not participate in that February 7, 2015 (at 10 (7:00 PM). All three groups November 2014 general election). Two focus AM and 12:00 PM) and were moderated by Bob election (including groups were conducted one group in Reno on Moore, President of Moore voters who did and did in Las Vegas on Saturday, Monday, February 9, 2015 Information, Inc. n ◆ 3 Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org Prescription Drug Abuse: Joining the Fight to Save Lives By Stacy Ward, Drug Abuse Prevention Coordinator, Reno Police Department Continued from page 3 Prescription Drug Abuse ore and decision whether or not to prescription drugs that are treating chronic pain, use more abuse it, and prescription abused are not obtained of opioid medications, with drugs are simply not through prescription fraud and prescription drug each viewed as harmful at all. or pharmacy robbery, dependence and Mpassing year, our nation’s A local survey of Washoe but through legitimate addiction, the better focus shifts to the growing County middle and high prescriptions. In some equipped they will be epidemic of prescription school students found that instances the patients to join in this effort. Well drug abuse. Seldom 34% of youth who admit themselves overuse or educated physicians do more than a few to abusing prescription abuse their medications. can talk to their months pass without the drugs also answered “no” In others, they share their patients about sharing appearance of another when asked whether medications with family prescriptions, secure high-profile story of a they use any drugsiii. This members or friends, or sell storage of medications, prescription drug overdose demonstrates the fact that them. Many times, patients and prescription drug death. The dependence public and “The majority of prescription drugs that are abused and addiction, media attention are not obtained through prescription fraud or pharmacy having a great to this issue robbery, but through legitimate prescriptions.” impact on the is warranted, public attitudes for a recent CDC study many youth do not even are simply unaware of about these medications. concluded that one person consider prescription drug the caution they need to Fortunately, educational dies from prescription drug abuse to be a form of drug take in safely storing these opportunities abound. abuse every 19 minutes use, thus perpetuating medications, and as a One particular course was in the United Statesi. This their approval of it. result they are diverted out created by the University trend persists nationwide, Compounding the of the medicine cabinet of Washington School and Washoe County is no problem is the easy without the patient’s of Medicine. Their COPE- exception. Between 2009 availability of prescription knowledge. In all of these REMS training module and 2011, there were 110 drugs for abuse. In the cases, physicians have an is available online at no prescription drug overdose same Washoe County opportunity to make a charge, and is certified deaths in Washoe County student survey, the positive impact. to provide 4.0 AMA and 2,082 in the state of majority of respondents Practitioners are PRA Category 1 Credits Nevadaii. reported that it is “easy” to encouraged to take of continuing medical Perhaps the direst obtain prescription drugs, advantage of the many education for physicians. consequences of our and that they usually tools at their disposal In addition, it is one of society’s increased level of get the drugs from their in the fight against the few online courses on acceptance of the overuse homes or their friends. prescription drug opioid prescribing to have and abuse of prescription Without question, diversion and abuse. been tested and proven drugs are realized among medical professionals The first of these tools effective in a clinical trial. our youth. The perception are an integral part is awareness. The more This curriculum covers of harm related to a drug of the solution to this physicians are educated topics such as: effective is a huge factor in a teen’s problem. The majority of about issues such as Continued on page 7 4 ◆ www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada Legislative Chairmen Editor’s Note: It’s been almost 20 years since Assembly Republicans have had an opportunity to chair a legislative committee. While it’s been a shorter time for Senate members, due to term limits, none of the current Senate leadership has previously chaired a legislative committee. This is second in a series of profiles on the new legislative chairmen/women. Senate Committee Committee and passed by interning and fund- on Revenue out of the Senate to the raising for the Republican and Economic Assembly. Party. In 2000 he came Development “When it comes to to Las Vegas to visit and Overview: chairing the Revenue ended up staying. He Meets T, Th and F at Committee, it’s important passed the state bar exam 3:30 p.m. in Room 1214 that Democrats, as well as and joined the Kolesar and Chairman: Michael Republicans, feel invested Leatham business law firm. Roberson R-SD 20 in the outcome. He ultimately got involved Clark County (Majority “It’s the Governor’s in politics and in 2010 was Leader, Vice Chair of the budget and it’s important persuaded to run for the Finance Committee and that we pass it out. That State Senate. member of the Judiciary takes 14 votes,” he pointed After spending the Assemblyman Derek Armstrong Committee.) out. 2011 Legislative Session At present, there are 11 in the minority, Roberson shock to some old-timers. Republican senators and was determined that the “With my background 10 Democratic senators Republicans would take in economics and as – and some of those back the majority in the a tax attorney and Republicans are not wild Senate. It took him until accountant, I think I have about the budget. 2014 to accomplish that a knowledgeable base But Senator but he did succeed. His to discuss and work on Roberson is a man of next challenge? Those 14 the issues. I thank the accomplishment and he’s votes. Speaker (John Hambrick) beat tougher challenges in *LVRJ, 12/27/11 for having confidence in the past. me to handle this,” said According to the Las ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE Armstrong. Vegas Review-Journal* ON TAXATION: In fact, Armstrong is Senator Michael Roberson Roberson grew up Meets T, Th 1:30 p.m. one of the hardest working As the Senate’s top in Galena, Kansas, an Room 4100 legislators in the building. Republican lawmaker, economically poor town of Chairman Derek Arm- In order to understand Roberson’s schedule 3,000 people. His mother, strong R-AD 21 Clark exactly what might have is pretty much around a single parent, worked County (Member of gone on the past, he’s the clock. In addition three jobs to support Ways & Means Commit- spent hours watching to chairing the her three children. After tee and member of the tapes of past Taxation Senate Committee on graduating from high Education Committee.) Committee meetings, Revenue and Economic school, Roberson went Derek Armstrong reviewing minutes and Development, he on to graduate from the stands out among the speaking with staff. Not consistently shows up for University of Kansas with Assembly Republicans; only has it educated him the Finance and Judiciary degrees in Political Science not only was his election to the issues, but also he’s Committee hearings. But and Law. a surprise, as a freshman, had a chance to study the his most important goal He ended up in his appointment to chair committee process and is to get the Governor’s Washington, D.C. where he the Assembly Taxation the styles of the various budget through the got involved with politics Committee was almost a Continued on page 6 ◆ 5 Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org
Legislative Chairmen Continued from page 5 past chairmen/women. into being, specializing walking and talking to the mused. Derek Armstrong in the areas of tax and voters.” What kind of chairman is independent business law. Armstrong beat his will he be? and successful in “The practice has been opponent in the primary, “The Legislative accomplishing his goals successful and it finally got and then went on to process and parliamentary with an almost singular to the point where I could defeat the Democratic procedure is something I determination. As a Las take the time to run for of- incumbent with 50% of have to learn. I’ve talked Vegas native, he entered fice. That’s something I’ve the vote in a 3-way race. to Marilyn (Kirkpatrick) the Marine Corps following always wanted to do.” His campaign was and Irene (Bustamante graduation from high In the beginning, there centered around opposing Adams-former Taxation school. During those five was no political party all the tax questions on Chairwoman) as well as years, he earned the Navy support for Armstrong’s the ballot, but supporting having watched the tapes. Achievement and Korean campaign. the Governor’s goals in I have Randy Kirner for my Self Defense Medals. He “I decided to run any- education by increasing Vice Chair, as well as staff, then entered UNLV and way. This was a shoe-leath- revenue through to assist me.” graduated with a B.A. in er campaign. I walked the economic development. He chuckled a bit. “I Economics. He went on to district, and then I walked How he will vote on the guess I’ll be a mixture of the William S. Boyd School it again. I have friends who Governor’s tax proposal all the previous chairmen of Law, UNLV, where he donated their talents on only time will tell. with a bit of the Marine earned his Juris Doctorate. the computer and we had “The longer I’m here, Corps thrown in.” n In 2010, the law firm of some handouts,” he said the more I go back to my Arlint and Armstrong came grinning. “But mostly it was economics roots…” he
UPDATE ON FEDERAL LEGISLATION Prescription Drug Diversion By Liz MacMenamin n February The legislation directs issues of abuse and diver- drug abuse and diversion 12, 2015, the the different agencies; sion of prescription drugs. are necessary while still U.S. House Health and Human Ser- The National Associa- protecting and provid- Energy and vices, Drug Enforcement tion of Chain Drug Stores ing the therapy for those OCommerce Committee Administration, and Office (NACDS) submitted a letter patients with legitimate took a vote on H.R. 471, of National Drug Control to the committee in sup- needs. a bill the committee has Policy, to work together to port of this legislation and RAN will continue to been working follow H.R. on regarding “The legislation directs the different agencies; Health and Human 471 as the bill prescription drug Services, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Office of moves through diversion and National Drug Control Policy, to work together to identify the process. n abuse, which obstacles to patient access for legitimate use and also puts into place address the issues of abuse and diversion of prescription drugs.” protections that ensure patients that are in identify obstacles to pa- agreed that the policies need of these medications tient access for legitimate and strategies to address are able to obtain them. use and also address the the dangers of prescription 6 ◆ www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada WIC Open Enrollment Source: David Joseph, Vendor Coordinator, State of Nevada WIC Program he State of specific enrollment period 30, 2015 for the contract WIC Program may redeem Nevada WIC are only considered if the period from October 1, 2015 Nevada WIC benefits. Program Vendor Management staff through September 30, More information about considers determines there will be 2018. Any store interested the Nevada WIC program Tvendor applications every inadequate participant in being authorized as a requirements can be found three (3) years for the access to the program WIC Vendor must apply for at: http://nevadawic.org/ selection and authorization without the addition of new authorization. All existing vendors/nv-wic-upc- of WIC approved vendors vendors. vendors will need to reapply. food-list-database-and- during a specific enrollment The next open Only vendors that are info/ n period. Applications enrollment period starts authorized as WIC Vendors submitted outside of the April 1, 2015 through April by the State of Nevada
Prescription Drug Abuse Continued from page 4 patient communication patients’ controlled skills, elements of safe substance use, opioid prescribing, and allowing them to risks of serious adverse make informed outcomes from opioid use. decisions about Another vital tool whether to prescribe that all practitioners are certain medications strongly encouraged as well as creating to use is the Nevada an opportunity to Prescription Monitoring discuss potential Program (PMP). The PMP misuse and abuse is an electronic system with their patients that collects data on and assist them controlled substance in finding the prescriptions, and is necessary treatment available electronically resources. to practitioners 24 hours A new PMP per day, seven days a system, AWARxE, was The PMP is an iCDC Morbidity and Mortality week. The PMP allows implemented in Nevada invaluable tool for Weekly Report, January 2012 a healthcare provider to in December 2013. This practitioners to utilize in iiSubstance Abuse Prevention pull up a report listing all system includes features combating the scourge of and Treatment Agency 2012 the controlled substances such as simple password Community Profile, May 2012 prescription drug abuse, iiiSurvey conducted by the dispensed to his or her retrieval, an email address and saving lives. For more University of Nevada, Reno as patients, including those as the User ID, the ability information and to sign a component of the Bureau of prescribed by other of practitioners to approve up for the new AWARxE Justice Assistance Smart Policing practitioners. This tool will two staff members to have program please visit: Initiative, 2010-2011 assist healthcare providers independent accounts, http://bop.nv.gov/links/ in monitoring their and a 24 hour Help Desk. PMP/ n ◆ 7 Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org Nevada Notes Smith’s to open six l 2255 Las Vegas Blvd. North He noted Downtown including the Retail new rebranded l 4965 E. Sahara Ave. Project, Tony Hsieh’s $350 Association of Nevada, the stores in Las Vegas l 8180 Las Vegas Blvd. South million redevelopment Reno Sparks Chamber of Smith’s opened six new As part of its grand initiative along the East Commerce, the Nevada rebranded Southern Nevada opening, Smith’s donated Fremont corridor, is not Taxpayers Association and stores on March 4. $25,000 to Communities in financing any of the new the city of Henderson, The new Smith’s locations Schools of Nevada to help Juhl tenants. He added the supported the resolution. were formerly Food 4 support its partner schools Juhl is 95 percent occupied. Amanda Schweisthal, Less stores. The brand, an in neighborhoods around DK Las Vegas also owns representing the retail affiliated division of Smith’s each new store. Smith’s will the Ogden condominiums association, said the under Kroger Co., left the donated 50 bicycles to Big in downtown several blocks proposal is not a tax area. All 800 Food 4 Less Brothers Big Sisters. to the north. DK Las Vegas increase. It would require employees were trained and Press Release spent more than $1 million the collection of taxes that moved into positions with renovating the 275-unit are already due, she said. Smith’s stores, including the Juhl apartments Ogden. Many online retailers, six new locations. greeting new Vaknin said 27 including Amazon and There were more than retailers, units have been sold Zappos, collect and remit $4 million in renovations at restaurants at the Ogden, which the sales taxes now. But each of the stores. It took a while, but the is transitioning from others do not. The new Smith’s stores upscale Juhl apartment apartments to condos. Gov. Brian Sandoval include pharmacy, deli building near the Bonneville The Ogden also has supports the Marketplace and bakery counters, Transit Center in downtown commercial space on its Fairness Act. service meat and seafood Las Vegas will be welcoming ground floor, which is leased LVRJ departments, floral a half-dozen stores and to Downtown Project. selections and self-checkout restaurants on the ground LVRJ Reno denies stations. The new location at floor in the spring. giant mall sign 8180 Las Vegas Blvd. South The 341-unit building’s Bill pitched on Sierra Summit mall will also offer fresh sushi, owner, DK Las Vegas LLC, Internet Sales Tax won’t be able to build a Boars Head deli meat, and announced that leases have Sen. Joyce Woodhouse giant digital sign on its the first Murray’s Cheese in been signed with a variety is again pushing a resolution property along Interstate Nevada. of retail shops, restaurants this session that would urge 580 following a Reno City “We are delighted to and a landscaper. Congress to pass legislation Council decision to deny the bring new services and a The owner is also allowing states to tax all mall a special use permit. wider selection of items negotiating to rent six live- Internet sales to level the The mall’s quest for for our new customers and-work spaces, which playing field with Nevada- the special use permit by opening these six could be used for a coffee based “brick and mortar” generated intense public new stores throughout shop, fitness concept or businesses. outcry, with the non-profit the Valley,” Jay Cummins, pet business and allows the Senate Joint Resolution group Scenic Nevada Smith’s president, said in a business owner to live in the 4 was heard in the Senate leading the opposition. statement. building. Legislative Operations and Scenic Nevada, which Smith’s currently Uri Vaknin, a DK Las Elections Committee. A previously led a successful operates 37 locations in Vegas partner, said the similar resolution passed the ballot initiative to limit the Southern Nevada. The six tenant variety fits the Nevada Legislature in 2013, number of billboards in new stores are at: building, which is located but Congress adjourned in Reno, appealed a decision l 3030 W. Craig Road. between the evolving 2014 without passing the by the planning commission l 4001 S. Decatur Blvd. hipster East Fremont and Marketplace Fairness Act. to approve the special l 3602 E. Bonanza Road. the Arts districts. A range of groups, Continued on page 11 8 ◆ www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada National Notes West Coast ports of “pockets of merchandise.” Be sure she or he has an IRS strategy or trust structure labor dispute ends Reuters/LVRJ preparer tax identification that reduces taxable income LOS ANGELES — A group number. seems too good to be of shipping companies and a DIRTY DOZEN 5 Offshore tax true, check it out before powerful dockworkers union OF TAX SCAMS avoidance — Americans pursuing it. If the strategy reached a tentative labor deal The nation’s tax agency who have foreign accounts uses unnecessary steps or in February after nine months released its annual list of “dirty must report them to the IRS a form that doesn’t reflect of negotiations, settling a dozen” tax scams. and disclose income on the its substance, the IRS could dispute that disrupted the 1 Phone scams —There’s assets. The Department of deem it abusive. flow of cargo through 29 U.S. been a surge in aggressive Justice has prosecuted dozens 10 Falsifying income to West Coast ports and snarled and threatening phone calls of violators in a multiyear claim tax credits — Don’t trans-Pacific maritime trade by scam artists who imper- crackdown on offshore tax heed anyone who advises you with Asia. sonate IRS agents and falsely evasion. to “invent” income as a way to The agreement, warn of potential arrest, de- 6 Inflated refund qualify for federal tax credits. confirmed in a joint statement portation or license revoca- claims — Taxpayers should 11 Excessive claims for by the two sides, was reached tion. beware of a preparer or fuel tax credits — These three days after U.S. Labor 2 Phishing — Don’t be anyone else who promises credits are generally restricted Secretary Thomas Perez fooled by fake e-mails or web- larger-than-expected refunds. to off-highway business use, arrived in San Francisco to sites purportedly asking for Be wary of anyone who asks such as on farms. broker a deal with the help a Social Security number or you to sign a blank tax return 12 Frivolous tax of a federal mediator who other identifying information. or promises a large refund arguments — Be skeptical had joined the talks six weeks The IRS does not send unan- without first examining your about anyone who cites earlier. nounced e-mails or other financial records. claims or programs that The White House called electronic communications 7 Fake charities — say you’re not required to the deal “a huge relief” for the about tax bills or refunds. Taxpayers should be on pay taxes. Many of these economy, businesses and 3 Identity thefts — guard against groups that arguments have been workers. President Barack Scammers who obtain Social falsely pose as charitable dismissed by court rulings. Obama urged “the parties to Security numbers and per- organizations and seek There’s a $5,000 IRS penalty work together to clear out sonal information are increas- donations that could justify for filing a frivolous tax return. the backlogs and congestion ingly using the information to tax deductions. Check the tax- Remember that age-old in the West Coast ports as steal taxpayer identifications exempt status of all groups advice: Don’t mess with the they finalize their agreement,” and submit false tax filings before giving. Instructions at taxman — and woman. the White House said in a seeking refunds. Despite its an IRS website show how. IRS Press Release statement. crackdowns on the fraud, 8 Hiding income The 20,000 dockworkers the IRS estimates it paid $5.2 with fake documents — Raley’s Celebrates covered by the tentative five- billion in improper identity Falsifying financial documents 80th Anniversary year labor accord have been theft refunds during the 2013 to reduce taxable income From its humble without a contract since July. tax-filing season. is illegal. Beware of a tax beginnings, Raley’s Family of The dispute had 4 Return preparer preparer or anyone else Fine Stores has evolved to reverberated throughout the fraud — Most tax profession- who advises you to do become an integral part of U.S. economy, extending to als are honest professionals. this. Taxpayers are legally many California and northern agriculture, manufacturing, But taxpayers should beware responsible for the accuracy Nevada communities. retail and transportation. of some who betray their of all information on the tax Raley’s Family of Fine Wal-Mart Stores Inc, the clients’ trust by committing returns. Stores is commemorating its world’s largest retailer, said refund fraud or identity theft. 9 Questionable tax 80th anniversary this week the dispute had caused delays Choose preparers carefully. shelters — If a tax-shelter with a look-back on its first Continued on page 11 ◆ 9 Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org
Important Information for SIG Members NRS requires all existing members of a self-insured group to be notified of all new members. NRNSIG new members are listed below.
4 Seasons Total Home Care
Afrayed End Productions LLC dba Saint James Infirmary
ARRYN Inc dba New Fifi Market
Co Auto LLC
Help is on the Way, Inc. dba Dave’s Window Cleaning
Marmot REOF 3, LLC
Nite Tours International
Petting Zoo 2U
Ruby Consumer Lending LLC dba American Title Loans
Southwest Modular & Office Design
Vinylsay LLC TO ORDER GO TO http://www.wecard.org/ NRNSIG members who wish to register a negative vote on a new group member, please write NRNSIG at 575 S. Saliman Road, Carson City, NV 89701,
Membership Information: Find out more about RAN’s self insured group. Call Mike Olson, 800-859-3177, or the RAN office at 775-882-1700 (toll free in Nevada 800-690-5959). Don’t forget to check out our website, www.RANNV.org. 10 ◆ www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada
Nevada Notes Continued from page 8 use permit and waged an center at Planet Hollywood Adding more space Significant retail and intense public relations averages more than 72,000 and retail tenants will not office development appear effort against the sign. shoppers per day. This be exclusive to the Miracle to be on the horizon and In a unanimous vote, the year, Miracle Mile Shops Mile Shops and the Forum should bring good news in Reno City Council denied is scheduled to begin Shops in the near future, the coming months. the special use permit, construction to convert a as residential growth NAI Carson City Presser finding that the signs would 60,000-square-foot area on throughout Las Vegas will not be compatible with the Harmon Avenue into an produce more retail projects UPCOMING surrounding neighborhood. entertainment and dining and national retailers will RGJ destination. continue to expand into EVENT Across the way at the valley. FMI CONNECT 2015 Retail ‘rush’ is on the Forum Shops, the Las Vegas Business Press June 8–11, 2015 Retail is back with demographic of shoppers McCormick Place (South Hall) vengeance in Las Vegas as is 80 percent tourists and Carson City Retail Chicago, IL companies are snatching up 20 percent locals. This year, Market Report An exciting new program properties and redeveloping the Forum Shops will add Carson City retail called the FMI Connect existing locations across several new tenants to its recovery has been slow, Business Exchange (CBX) the valley. roster. steady and in-line with will include Innovation Starbucks is looking for The retail market will the economic recovery. Talks, Meet the Retailer more than 15 new locations see a lot of redevelopment The retail vacancy rate opportunities and Partnering Meetings — for the coffee chain. as companies tend to stores has dropped from 19.76% Scheduled one-on-one At the Miracle Mile that were neglected during in 2009 to 16.85% in meetings with potential Shops, the shopping the recession. December 2014. business partners.
National Notes Continued from page 9 day of business, which took employees, the privately the wedding registry contribute to larger items like place on Feb. 16, 1935, when owned, family-operated www.BestBuy.com/ tablets. There’ll also be free Thomas P. Raley opened company has stores in WeddingRegistry in shipping on all gifts with no his first store on Main St. in northern California and January. The retailer will also minimum purchase. Placerville and advertised it Nevada under four banners: have kiosks in its 1,000-plus Among some of the as “the nation’s first drive-in Raley’s, Bel Air Markets, Nob large-format U.S. stores by most popular items sold on market.” Hill Foods and Food Source. early April, where customers Best Buy’s registry program “My family and I are Progressive Grocer can check out the registries through MyRegistry.com proud of how the company that will give them access to so far: GoPro Hero3 cameras, has grown over the last Best Buy — The year all the items online and in Sony PlayStation 4 consoles eight decades, and proud of the Groom stores and allow them to print and Apple TVs. Overall, that we continue to provide Move over china and out lists. They won’t be able to MyRegistry.com noted a 30 high-quality, fresh and local pretty linens. Best Buy Co., use the kiosks to order. percent increase last year products and exceptional the nation’s largest consumer The move comes as Best from the prior year in items customer service – just like electronics chain, has Buy is trying to look for new like tool sets and Kobalt my grandfather set out to launched its first wedding ways to increase sales and fiberglass digging shovels do in 1935,” said Mike Teel, registry, catering to couples make itself more relevant to often associated with male president/CEO of the West interested in the latest shoppers, particularly those shoppers. Sacramento, Calif.-based gadgets, from flat-panel TVs in their 20s and 30s who are Miami Herald regional retailer. to Apple iPads. digital natives. With 128 stores and The Minneapolis-based There’ll be a group gifting approximately 13,000 chain quietly launched option for those who want to ◆ 11 Retail Association of Nevada PRESORTED 410 South Minnesota Street STANDARD Carson City, Nevada 89703-4272 U.S. POSTAGE PAID RENO, NV PERMIT NO. 931 Nevada News
Nevada News is published by the Retail Association of Nevada, a nonpartisan, nonprofit corporation founded in 1969 representing the Retail Community, the Chain Drug Council and the Grocery Industry Council. Mary F. Lau President/CEO Bryan Wachter Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs Elizabeth MacMenamin Vice President of Government Affairs Lea Tauchen Vice President of Administration/ Government Affairs Amanda Schweisthal Public Affairs Manager Piper Brown Office Manager Mike Olson Account Executive / Workers’ Comp Ande Engleman Newsletter Editor Sue Arzillo, Alphabet Soup Inc. Newsletter Design & Layout
WASHINGTON RETAIL INSIGHT National Retail Federation Joins Retailers at White House Cybersecurity Summit he National approach and proposing flexible and nimble companies and customers Retail the creation of new information-sharing -- over 2,000 alerts have Federation Information Sharing and platforms to combat cyber been provided to retailers ISSUED THE Analysis Organizations, threats in the future. since its inception. Tfollowing statement where companies can “The NRF information- “The retail industry is from President and share information about sharing platform, committed to safeguarding CEO Matthew Shay on cyber threats with the established and consumer data and looks the White House Summit government and across operational since mid- forward to working with on Cybersecurity and sectors of the economy. 2014, is a joint private/ the president and Congress Consumer Protection at “The executive order public partnership and to achieve practical Stanford University: is very much in line with includes alerts from both solutions to this serious “We commend the what we are already doing government and non- problem. Whether it’s PIN- White House and President to identify, classify and government sources, and-Chip credit cards or Obama for providing disseminate intelligence on including the U.S. adoption of point-to-point solution-based leadership actual and potential cyber Department of Homeland data encryption, retailers around the significant threats to more than 150 Security and U.S. Secret are leading the fight for threat posed by hackers of the best-known retail Service. This real-time stronger cybersecurity.” and other cybercriminals. brands and companies, and actionable alert NRF is the world’s We are encouraged that large and small. It is an system helps retailers and largest retail trade the administration is acknowledgement that merchants prevent and association. n pursuing a comprehensive industries need more combat threats to their