Nevada’s Legislative Identity: Small, Efficient, and Distinct
Nevada has always done things differently. As one of only two states born during the Civil War—alongside West Virginia—our “Battle Born” identity is more than a motto on our license plates. It’s embedded in our state constitution, which took effect on October 31, 1864, a date we honor each year as Nevada Day.
Our constitution is a key reason Nevada stands apart. It established a republican form of government with three branches: the Governor, the Supreme Court, and a bicameral Legislature. With just 63 seats, Nevada’s Legislature is the third smallest of its kind in the country. It consists of the State Senate with 21 members and the State Assembly with 42 members. The Legislature meets only once every two years for a 120-day session. Only three other states follow this biennial model.
Why such a lean structure? The framers of Nevada’s constitution prioritized limited government and low costs. That principle still guides us today.
Legislators are paid only during the session. They earn $150 per day for the first 60 days and receive a $142 per diem for all 120 days. In total, most lawmakers take home around $9,000 per session. They don’t do it for the paycheck—they do it to serve their communities.
The 83rd Legislative Session concluded on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. Lawmakers passed more than 400 bills, which were sent to the Governor for action. These bills can be signed into law, vetoed, enacted without a signature, or passed into law despite a veto.
As we close this session and look ahead to the Fourth of July, we thank our elected officials for their service. Nevada remains a unique reflection of the American experiment—resilient, independent, and proudly different.
Best regards,
Dallas Haun, Chairman