One APIA Nevada, a leading advocacy organization representing Nevada’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, reflects on the conclusion of an eventful legislative session and two special sessions, commending the hard-won successes of state legislators, including those in the AANHPI Legislative Caucus. While there were many wins for Nevada’s AANHPI community it is essential to address the missed opportunities resulting from the vetoed policies and legislation by the Governor, which would have significantly improved the lives of hardworking AANHPI Nevadan families. Notably, AB246 and AB251, both language access bills, were among those vetoed.
“Language equity encompasses more than just providing materials for somebody in a different language,” says One APIA Nevada Acting Executive Director Eric Jeng. “Language access empowers our communities to make informed decisions without concerns about the accuracy or source of the information provided. Without official resources, our communities rely on word-of-mouth, online translators, or unofficial translated sources, often leading to mistranslations and misinformation.”
Outlined below are the missed opportunities that One APIA Nevada will continue to address moving forward:
AB246: this legislation sought to surpass the federal mandate set by the Voting Rights Act Section 203 by requiring counties to provide translated election materials to a broader range of communities. Despite the strong community support for electoral language access, it is disappointing that the Governor overlooked this critical issue.
However, One APIA Nevada remains committed to collaborating with local counties, particularly Clark County, as they voluntarily begin to provide translated materials in Chinese for the 2024 Election. We have already initiated conversations with the Clark County Registrar’s Office on implementation and outreach to the Chinese-speaking community.
AB251: This bill aimed to ensure pharmacies offer translated prescription labels in the most commonly spoken languages among Limited English Proficient Nevadans.
One APIA Nevada will persist in working alongside legislators and stakeholders to implement language access parameters for prescription medications effectively.
AB319: The proposed legislation sought to provide universal free school breakfasts and lunches for Nevada students.
One APIA Nevada firmly believes that no student in our state should experience hunger due to financial constraints. We will continue advocating for equitable access to nutritious meals for all pupils.
AB366: This bill proposed revisions to the Task Force for the Keep Nevadans Working Act.
One APIA Nevada stands as a strong supporter of the Keep Nevadans Working Act and the UNLV law clinic. We firmly believe in sustained investments in resources that benefit immigrant communities.
SB419: This legislation aimed to expand Medicaid coverage for minors, irrespective of their immigration status. Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and our most vulnerable communities often bear the burden of inequitable policies.
One APIA Nevada firmly opposes any barriers based on immigration status and believes everyone should have equal access to healthcare.
“While we express our disappointment over the missed opportunities to enhance the livelihood of AANHPI families in Nevada directly, one APIA Nevada remains unwavering in our commitment to advocating for the needs of the AANhPI community. Our ongoing priorities include championing language access, promoting healthcare equity, and ensuring equal access to education,” the organization said.
