With over 95% of ballots counted, the results for Nevada’s ballot measures are now determined, revealing key decisions by the electorate.
Among a total of seven statewide questions presented to voters, five received approval while two were turned down. Additionally, a funding measure for libraries in Washoe County also faced rejection, signaling varying priorities among residents.
Nevada Question 1 — Nevada Board of Regents oversight — FAILED
A “yes” vote would have empowered the Nevada Legislature to exercise greater oversight over the Board of Regents, the crucial governing authority for the state’s institutions of higher education.
- Yes: 587,161 votes (45.3%)
- No: 707,837 votes (54.7%)
Nevada Question 2 — disabilities language — PASSED
- Yes: 856,123 votes (65.8%)
- No: 444,974 votes (34.2%)
Nevada Question 4 — slavery language — PASSED
A “yes” vote successfully removed language from the Nevada Constitution that authorized slavery as a criminal punishment, aligning state laws with contemporary human rights standards. It will be enacted this year.
- Yes: 797,153 (60.5%)
- No: 520,827 (39.5%)
Nevada Question 5 — diapers tax — PASSED
A “yes” vote will exempt sales taxes on child and adult diapers, a significant step toward easing the financial burden on families and individuals requiring these essential products. It will also take effect this year.
- Yes: 899,392 (68.4%)
- No: 416,283 (31.6%)
Nevada Question 6 — abortion — PASSED
A “yes” vote added the right to abortion up to “fetal viability,” approximately 24 weeks, to the Nevada Constitution, strengthening existing protections against potential future legal challenges. This amendment must gain affirmation again in 2026 to fully alter the Constitution.
- Yes: 860,866 votes (64.1%)
- No: 482,998 votes (35.9%)
Nevada Question 7 — voter ID — PASSED
A “yes” vote mandates voters to present a photo ID when casting their ballots in person or to furnish specific personal details when voting by mail. Similar to the abortion question, this measure will require another vote in 2026 for constitutional amendment.
- Yes: 986,039 votes (73.3%)
- No: 359,554 votes (26.7%)
Washoe County Question 1 — library funding — FAILED
A “yes” vote aimed to secure a dedicated funding source from property taxes, extending support for the library system by an additional 30 years. Conversely, a “no” vote will allow the Washoe County Board of Commissioners to allocate those funds at their discretion.
- Yes: 107,578 votes (48%)
- No: 116,741 votes (52%)
Mark Robison is the state politics reporter for the Reno Gazette Journal, with occasional forays into other topics. Email comments to [email protected] or comment on Mark’s Greater Reno Facebook page.
2024 ballot measures
**Interview Transcript: Nevada Ballot Measures Update**
**Host:** Welcome to our special segment on Nevada’s recent ballot measures! Joining us today is political analyst, Sarah Reynolds. Thanks for being here, Sarah.
**Sarah:** Thank you for having me! Excited to discuss the recent outcomes.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. With over 95% of the ballots counted, we see the results indicating that five out of seven measures were approved. What does this tell us about voter priorities in Nevada?
**Sarah:** It’s quite telling! The approval of five measures suggests that voters are in favor of progressive changes, especially those concerning social issues. Measures like the removal of slavery language from the state Constitution and the exemption of sales tax on diapers show a clear alignment with contemporary values and support for families in need.
**Host:** Speaking of which, let’s discuss Nevada Question 4. The removal of slavery language was a significant step. Why do you think this measure gained such support?
**Sarah:** Historically, that language has been an anachronism. As society evolves, so do our laws. The fact that nearly 60.5% of voters supported its removal demonstrates a strong consensus on human rights issues. Voters recognized that perpetuating such outdated language has no place in modern governance.
**Host:** On the other hand, Nevada Question 1, which sought to increase legislative oversight of the Board of Regents, failed rather significantly. What do you think was behind that decision?
**Sarah:** The failure of Question 1—receiving just over 45% support—suggests a lack of confidence in additional legislative control over educational institutions. Many voters likely believe that the Board of Regents should retain autonomy to manage higher education without excessive government oversight. There can also be concerns about potential political influence in educational governance.
**Host:** That makes sense. Additionally, there was a negative outcome for a library funding measure in Washoe County. What does this imply about local funding priorities?
**Sarah:** It indicates some tension around budget allocation at the local level. While education and literacy are essential, voters might be prioritizing other immediate needs, particularly in a climate where economic issues are affecting many households. This rejection might signal that residents feel other services or projects should take precedence.
**Host:** Very insightful, Sarah. Before we wrap up, what do these results suggest for future ballot measures in Nevada?
**Sarah:** I think we will continue to see a trend towards social reforms and fiscal responsibility. Voters seem determined to tackle pressing social issues while scrutinizing how public funds are managed. Future measures may need to clearly communicate community benefits to gain traction.
**Host:** Thank you, Sarah, for your analysis and insights into the Nevada ballot measures. We appreciate your time!
**Sarah:** Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss these important issues.
