LAS VEGAS (AP) — Gov. Steve Sisolak says Nevada school funds are safe, no matter what happens with a lawsuit by Senate Republicans challenging the constitutionality of extending a state payroll tax.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports the Democratic governor issued a statement Monday saying the state has other funds amounting to the $98 million it expects to receive from the tax over the next two years.
A lawsuit filed Friday in Carson City challenges the Legislature's extension of the modified business tax and a $1 technology fee on DMV transactions without two-thirds votes by lawmakers.
Republicans argue the extensions are tax issues that required a two-thirds vote.
Democrats say that extending an existing tax requires just a simple majority.
Sisolak and Democrats earmarked the money for teacher pay raises and school safety funds.