Sisolak calls for economic diversification in State of the State

Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak speaks during a news conference on the state's response to the coronavirus outbreak at the Grant Sawyer State Office Building on March 17, 2020
Photo credit Ethan Miller/Getty Images

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Governor Steve Sisolak laid out ambitious plans Tuesday to create programs to spur job growth and attract new industries to Nevada as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the state’s tourism-driven economy. In his State of the State address, Sisolak pledged to invest heavily in job training, infrastructure and renewable energy to stimulate the economy.

He acknowledged the devastation caused by the pandemic and conceded that it was far from over. Sisolak said Nevada can't just aim for reopening its economy but must have an economy that will prosper in the future.  He also addressed the need to get kids back into classrooms.

The Governor also addressed many portions of the $8.6 billion dollar budget plan he released Monday.  It included what he called smart investments, including $25 million to complete the UNLV Medical School building.

The Governor's address was pre-taped over the weekend due to the pandemic and broadcast statewide Tuesday night.