Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) applauded the Biden administration for heeding her call to protect the millions of U.S. jobs that rely on American whiskey and spirits producers. Earlier this month, Cortez Masto led a bipartisan group of Senators urging the administration to take urgent action in response to the European Union (EU)’s to implement a 50% tariff on American whiskey imports on January 1, 2024, and today the EU announced they would pause these retaliatory tariffs for 15 months in response to U.S. pressure. “There are more than 19,000 Nevadans whose jobs depend on the American spirits industry, and I’m pleased to see the Administration taking action to protect them from these harsh new tariffs on our exports,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I will continue to advocate to protect this vital industry, which helps drive our economy in Nevada and across the country.” Retaliatory tariffs by the EU have cost domestic sprits distillers and winemakers billions of dollars since 2018, and the U.S. needs a permanent solution to safeguard over 1.7 million production, distribution, and hospitality jobs that rely on the industry. The spirits industry supports over 19,000 jobs and over $1.6 billion in economic activity in the state of Nevada alone. The senators’ bipartisan letter urges U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to negotiate a deal to permanently remove retaliatory tariffs on all American-made sprits and wines.
Rosen Secures $3 Billion for Historic High-Speed Rail in Las Vegas
Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced that, after months of pushing the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Biden Administration, she secured $3 billion to begin construction of the Brightline West high-speed rail system in Las Vegas. This funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Senator Rosen played a leading role to write and pass. This project will connect Las Vegas and Southern California, which will help bolster Southern Nevada’s tourism economy and reduce congestion on the Interstate-15 corridor. Brightline West estimates it will remove 3 million cars from I-15 annually, reducing more than 400,000 tons of carbon emissions each year, and creating 35,000 good-paying, union jobs. For months, Senator Rosen led the efforts in Congress to make this project a reality. Earlier this year, Senator Rosen sent a letter urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to stand ready to receive the Nevada Department of Transportation’s application for funding to build Brightline West. After this application was submitted, she led a bipartisan group of colleagues in voicing their strong support of the project. In August, she led a press conference in Las Vegas with Brightline CEO Michael Reininger, Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft, Nevada Department of Transportation Director Tracy Larkin Thomason, President and CEO of the Vegas Chamber Mary Beth Sewald, and President of the Transportation Trades Department for the AFL-CIO Greg Regan to call on DOT to approve the application to build Brightline West and provide the funding. In March, she applauded the news that the Southern Nevada Building Trades had reached an agreement with Brightline to ensure this high-speed rail system would be constructed with union labor. Throughout the process, Senator Rosen has been in regular contact with Administration officials and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, urging them to approve this funding for the Brightline West project. “This historic high-speed rail project will be a game changer for Nevada’s tourism economy and transportation. It’ll bring more visitors to our state, reduce traffic on the I-15, create thousands of good paying jobs, and decrease carbon emissions, all while relying on local union labor,” said Senator Rosen. “For decades, Nevadans have heard about the benefits of high-speed rail, and I’m proud to have led the charge for months to push the U.S. Department of Transportation to secure critical funding to make this a reality. I’ll always fight to support Nevada’s tourism economy and create good-paying, union jobs.” Senator Rosen, chair of the Senate subcommittee overseeing tourism, has been a champion for Nevada’s travel and tourism economy. Earlier this year, she hosted a field hearing in Las Vegas that examined ways to attract large sporting and entertainment events to the U.S., with a focus on Las Vegas’ experience, and the impacts that sporting and live entertainment events have on the local economy. Last year, Senator Rosen passed the bipartisan Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act to boost the travel and tourism industry.
Giving Tuesday 2023 Is Here, Familia!: MRNV
Here’s what’s new at UnidosUS
The New Americans Campaign Becoming U.S. citizens is a dream for many immigrants in the United States. It is a pivotal moment where individuals not only secure the same rights and responsibilities as U.S.-born citizens but contribute to the vibrancy and strength of the nation. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) estimates 9.5 million lawful permanent residents (LPRs), also known as “green card” holders, are eligible to naturalize. While the road to becoming a U.S. citizen can be filled with challenges and complexities, the New Americans Campaign (NAC) stands at the forefront of this transformative journey. By bringing together community organizations and social services providers, the New Americans Campaign is creating a community of collaboration that not only makes this dream more achievable but also enriches the fabric of American society. The New Americans Campaign is a diverse nonpartisan national network of respected immigration organizations, legal services providers, faith-based organizations, immigrant rights groups, foundations, and community leaders. Since its founding in 2010, this collaborative effort has connected more than 606,000 eligible lawful permanent residents with trusted legal support and critical information that simplifies the naturalization process. Despite more than 9 million LPRs being eligible for U.S. citizenship, only 10 percent complete the naturalization process annually. The Campaign aims to increase the number of eligible LPRs that apply for citizenship through a network of local partners in more than 20 metropolitan areas that provide application assistance for free or at minimal cost. UnidosUS joined over 200 organizations from across the country at the NAC National Naturalization Practitioners’ Conference on October 11-14, 2023 in Houston, Texas. The NAC Conference is the only national conference dedicated exclusively to exploring best practices for promoting U.S. citizenship, preparing applicants for the naturalization application process, and encouraging civic engagement. The convening’s theme was “Rising Together: Mobilizing 9 Million on the Path to Citizenship.” Through panels, presentations, discussions, and on-site training, attendees learned from experts and leaders in the field of naturalization and connected with a community of providers. The conference ended with a naturalization workshop in a local community center, where attendees volunteered to support hundreds of aspiring U.S. citizens with the naturalization application process, free of charge. “Our annual conference brings together New Americans Campaign (NAC) partner organizations from around the country to discuss and share expertise on supporting people eligible to apply for naturalization,” stated the New Americans Campaign Director Lucia Martel-Dow. “Eligible immigrants often don’t know how to take that final step since our immigration system is a myriad of confusing forms and policies. Thus, building a network of trusted naturalization providers is crucial to meet the demand for services.” “The NAC Conference is always well organized, and the culture of the conference is very inviting. It is nice to hear from other people as to what they do and how they work in their community for the people wanting to naturalize,” shared Jacqueline Gonzalez-Vega, Program Manager (Immigration) and Department of Justice (DOJ) Accredited Representative at Redlands Christian Migrant Association, an UnidosUS Affiliate and NAC local partner in Florida. “I really enjoyed the session on collaborating with community partners for outreach and services. I did not know we could add pro bono opportunities to our state, county and local bar associations… I also did not know we could join AILA as a nonprofit and that they have a pro bono liaison.” UnidosUS is proud a national partner of the New Americans Campaign. “NAC partners are not only trusted community-based organizations whose assistance and expertise are sought out by permanent residents, but many of them have also developed strong partnerships with local and state elected officials and offices,” said Laura Vazquez, UnidosUS Director of Immigrant Integration. “NAC partners have worked with city and state officials to promote citizenship services. State and local governments have an opportunity to move the needle on naturalization by funding immigration legal providers. Actions taken right now will yield a lifelong benefit for the person naturalizing and at the same time of tremendous economic and civic benefits for the state and locality.” The work of the New Americans Campaign stands not only as a gathering of minds and experts but as a testament to the unwavering commitment to empowering and supporting those on the path to citizenship. The shared vision and dedication to this movement demonstrate that, through collaborative efforts and a united community, the path to U.S. citizenship is made more attainable
Nevada State AFL-CIO Welcomes Oakland A’s to Las Vegas
Today marks a historic moment as the MLB unanimously greenlights the relocation of the Oakland Athletics to the vibrant city of Las Vegas. The Nevada State AFL-CIO is thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the A’s as they embark on their new journey to make Las Vegas their new home. For the first 112 years of our city’s existence there were no major pro sports teams and in the last 6 years alone, our players have managed to pull off 5 series championship finals—3 of which we’ve successfully won. This significant milestone gives Las Vegas a golden opportunity to not only add winning championship titles, but to also do well for our community. Building a new stadium that meets the standards of a Major League Baseball team is a momentous undertaking that will utilize the construction and service trades for both the groundbreaking and the maintenance required. The Oakland A’s coming to Las Vegas is not just a sports story; it’s the chance to set a standard of economic growth that hardworking union members will benefit from. Among the standout initiatives the A’s have pledged are comprehensive benefits, paid time off, and ensuring a livable wage. The Athletics entered into a project labor agreement with the Southern Nevada Building Trades Unions to guarantee that the project would create good-paying union jobs for members, in addition to reaching a deal with Culinary Workers Union 226 to ensure that service workers who are employed by the stadium have the right to organize and negotiate union contracts. The Athletics are not coming to Las Vegas only to play ball, they are coming to Las Vegas to be exceptional members of our community and be an integral part of what makes Las Vegas home.
Rep. Titus Announces Critical Funding for Southern Nevada Through EDA’s Build to Scale Program
Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, announced $ 1.1 million for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) through the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Build to Scale Program to drive growth and development in Southern Nevada. The Build to Scale program, part of the EDA’s commitment to strengthening regional economies, empowers startups and entrepreneurs through the Venture and Capital Challenges offering new sources of early-stage capital. Earlier this year, Congresswoman Titus advocated with the Economic Development Administration in support of applications submitted by UNLV for projects, including the “Accelerate Electric Nevada” and the “Scarlet Venture Fund” which will play vital roles in driving innovation in Nevada’s alternative energy sector and offer support, mentorship, and funding for startups. “As the Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee that oversees the Economic Development Administration, I am proud to have advocated for UNLV’s projects to expand access to early-stage funding for innovative clean energy companies and open opportunities for cutting-edge entrepreneurs. These projects align with our vision to diversify Nevada’s economy, combat the climate crisis, bolster workforce development, and promote economic growth,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus. “EDA is proud to partner with this year’s ‘Build to Scale’ grantees as they fuel regional innovation hubs and technology-based economic development strategies throughout the U.S.,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “Investing in scalable startups and expanding access to entrepreneurial capital will yield good-paying jobs, economic resiliency, and equitable growth in communities throughout America.”
Cortez Masto Highlights Support for Nevada’s Growing Battery Manufacturing and Recycling Industry
Today at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) highlighted her work to support Nevada’s battery manufacturing and recycling industry and the good-paying jobs it creates. “Nevada is leading the nation in battery manufacturing and recycling,” said Cortez Masto. “We have the capacity to support the entire supply chain right in my home state. For example, Nevada has enough lithium to supply the world for 85 years. And in the last [eight] years, we’ve seen the clean transportation and battery industry create more than 7,400 new jobs in Nevada and deliver $13 billion of investment.” The Senator highlighted Nevada companies benefiting from her legislation and creating thousands of jobs, including American Battery Technology, Redwoods Materials, and others. Under Secretary Crane agreed, calling Nevada “a critical part in the critical mineral supply for batteries.” He also assured Cortez Masto the Department will remain invested in the battery supply chain and will continue to invest in emerging manufacturing industries in Nevada and across the country. Senator Cortez Masto has consistently worked to create good-paying clean energy jobs across Nevada. Since the start of her Innovation State Initiative, Senator Cortez Masto has been a proponent of renewable and sustainable energy, passing bipartisan legislation to promote Nevada’s mining and emerging battery industries and set up a sustainable critical mineral supply chain, and leading efforts in the Senate to create good-paying solar energy jobs. She wrote the battery manufacturing and recycling program that is funding numerous projects in Nevada. Last year, she helped cut through red tape to ensure Fulcrum BioEnergy’s new Sierra BioFuels Plant in Storey County could launch operations, protecting more than 100 permanent jobs.
Cortez Masto Hosts Las Vegas High School Mariachi Joya at the U.S. Senate
Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) celebrated the close of Hispanic Heritage Month by hosting Las Vegas High School Mariachi Joya at the U.S. Senate and presenting them with a Congressional Record Statement honoring their cultural contributions to the U.S. The ensemble played for Senator Cortez Masto, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and Nevadans in the United States Senate, before touring the U.S. Capitol. “My grandfather used to play the guitar for me and my sister when we were little, and I know musical ensembles like Mariachi Joya are so important to families across our state and the country. That’s why I’m proud to bring these students to our nation’s capital to highlight our Latino community and our impact on this country,” said Senator Cortez Masto. Composed of 20 young Latino artists playing the guitarron, violins, and trumpets, Mariachi Joya is known as America’s premiere mariachi youth ensemble. It has been recognized by the Grammy Awards and performed virtually for the President’s Inauguration. They are part of a growing Mariachi student program in Southern Nevada, where the first high school mariachi program started in 2002 with only 250 students and expanded to 7,000 students today. “We’re so grateful to Senator Cortez Masto for opening the halls of Congress to our young students and allowing them to showcase their talent,” said Stephen Blanco, Las Vegas High School Mariachi Joya Director. “Mariachi music is a longstanding tradition in our Latino community, and it helps our young students build key skills to follow their dreams. The kind of support the Senator provides makes a great difference in their lives.” A third generation Nevadan, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto is the first and only Latina in the U.S. Senate. She is leading the charge in Congress to build the National Museum of the American Latino, which would recognize and commemorate the history and achievements of Latinos in the U.S.
Inaugura Alcaldesa Goodman nueva Subestación de Policía en plena Fremont Street Experience
La Alcaldesa Carolyn G. Goodman, acompañada del Sheriff Kevin McMahill, así como el Presidente de la Fremont Street Experience , Andrew Simon, inauguraron oficialmente la nueva subestación de policía localizada sobre la Fremont Street en pleno Downtown. En el lugar se encontrarán agentes del Departamento de Policía Metropolitana, a los Marshall y personal de seguridad del lugar, brindando así un lugar al que pueden acudir los visitantes del distrito en busca de asistencia y apoyo. El evento de inauguración al que también asistió la Concejal por el Tercer Distrito, Olivia Díaz marcó un logro significativo en los esfuerzos continuos para fortalecer la seguridad y la tranquilidad de los visitantes al sector.
Educational Sessions For Students And Teachers Featured At The 2023 Las Vegas Book Festival
The annual Las Vegas Book Festival returns Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with workshops and sessions for students and educators. The free event is held downtown at the Historic Fifth Street School, 401 S. Fourth St., and is open to all ages. This year’s festival headliners include “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” author Terry McMillan, bestselling author and terrorism/counter-terrorism/extremism consultant Malcolm Nance, “Fourth Wing” author Rebecca Yarros and Reese’s Book Club pick Ana Reyes. At noon, popular children’s authors Daria Peoples and Ken Lamug will lead an exciting game of draw-off moderated by Nikki Bylina-Streets. Middle-grade readers can hear from authors Shelly Brown, Michael Leali, Lindsey Leavitt, Chad Morris and Lakita Wilson at 1:15 p.m. The festival is offering continuing education workshop opportunities for educators including: Those interested in receiving up to eight hours of continuing education credit must register for workshops online. Graphics for these sessions are available here. A full schedule of festival activities is available online. For updates and more information on the book festival, visit www.lasvegasbookfestival.com. Keep up with festival news on Facebook and X (#VegasBookFest). Produced by the city of Las Vegas, Nevada Humanities and The Mayor’s Fund for Las Vegas LIFE, the Las Vegas Book Festival also is supported by media sponsors, including the Las Vegas Review-Journal/Las Vegas Sun, Audacy Radio and The CW/News 3. For updates and information, visit lasvegasbookfestival.com.