AB328 =

AN ACT relating to education; creating the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission within the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs; prescribing the membership, powers and duties of the Commission; creating the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Fund; creating the Subcommittee to Study and Develop Policy Recommendations for African-Americans of the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Education to conduct a study during the 2025-2026 interim; prescribing the membership, powers and duties of the Subcommittee; and providing other matters properly relating thereto.

Based on recent surveys, about 16% of Americans say they don’t understand Juneteenth at all, while 64% feel they “fully” or “mostly” understand it. Awareness has increased since Juneteenth became a federal holiday, but gaps remain across age groups and regions.

Breakdown by Age Group

·         Seniors (65+): Older Americans are less likely to celebrate or be familiar with Juneteenth compared to younger generations.

·         Adults (40–64): Awareness varies, with many supporting education on Juneteenth but not necessarily celebrating it.

·         Youth (18–39): Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, show higher awareness and engagement.

Regional Differences

·         South: Higher awareness due to historical ties, but not all states emphasize education on Juneteenth.

·         North & East: Moderate awareness, with some states integrating Juneteenth into school curricula.

·         West: Growing recognition, especially in states with diverse populations and strong advocacy efforts.

How These Numbers Were Determined

These estimates come from polls and surveys conducted by organizations like YouGov and Newsweek, which track public awareness and attitudes toward Juneteenth 2. The data reflects responses from thousands of Americans across different demographics.

Several organizations have conducted surveys on Juneteenth awareness:

·         YouGov: Their recent survey found that 90% of Americans are now aware of Juneteenth, compared to 74% in 2022.

·         The Hill: Reports indicate that 77% of respondents know at least a little about Juneteenth, while 17% say they know a lot.

·         Educational and Trivia Platforms: Websites like SmartClass4Kids and Antimaximalist provide Juneteenth trivia and reflection questions, which can indirectly gauge public knowledge3.

1. Awareness by Age Group

·         Seniors (65+): Lower awareness, with many having grown up in eras where Juneteenth was not widely taught.

·         Adults (40–64): Moderate awareness, with increasing recognition due to federal holiday status.

·         Young Adults (18–39): Higher engagement, especially among Millennials and Gen Z, who actively participate in Juneteenth events.

2. Awareness by Region

·         South: Strongest awareness, given Juneteenth’s Texas origins and historical ties to emancipation.

·         North & East: Moderate awareness, with some states integrating Juneteenth into school curricula.

·         West: Growing recognition, particularly in states with diverse populations and strong advocacy efforts.

3. Sources of Data

·         YouGov Survey: Found that 90% of Americans are now aware of Juneteenth, compared to 74% in 2022.

·         Census Bureau: Tracks historical trends in African American migration and Juneteenth celebrations.

·         National Museum of African American History & Culture: Provides educational resources and digital toolkits on Juneteenth.

If we shift the focus from awareness to understanding or knowledge of Juneteenth’s history, the percentages would likely be significantly lower. Here’s why:

Estimated Knowledge Levels

·         YouGov Survey: While 90% of Americans are aware of Juneteenth, only 77% say they know at least a little about it, and 17% claim to know a lot.

·         Gallup Poll (2021): Found that more than 60% of Americans knew “nothing at all” or only “a little bit” about Juneteenth.

·         Marist Poll (2022): Indicated that 40% of Americans were unfamiliar with Juneteenth, and only 12% said they knew “a lot”.

Breakdown by Demographics

·         Black Americans: 32% say they know a lot about Juneteenth.

·         Hispanic Americans: 22% report strong knowledge of Juneteenth.

·         White Americans: Only 13% say they know a lot about Juneteenth.

Regional & Educational Impact

·         Southern States: Higher familiarity due to historical ties.

·         Northern & Western States: Growing awareness, but knowledge gaps remain.

·         Education Levels: Those with higher education tend to have greater historical knowledge of Juneteenth.

1. States with Strong Juneteenth Education Initiatives

·         Texas: As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Texas has integrated Juneteenth history into school curricula and hosts large-scale celebrations.

·         California: Offers Juneteenth education through cultural programs and community events.

·         New York: Includes Juneteenth in state history lessons and promotes awareness through public schools.

2. States with Limited Juneteenth Education

·         Southern States (excluding Texas): While Juneteenth is recognized, some states have limited formal education on its significance.

·         Midwestern States: Some states acknowledge Juneteenth but lack structured educational programs.

3. States Facing Restrictions

·         States with Critical Race Theory Bans: Some states have passed laws restricting discussions on race, which impacts Juneteenth education.

·         Legislative Pushback: Certain states have proposed bills limiting how Juneteenth and racial history are taught.

4. National Efforts to Expand Juneteenth Education

·         National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF): Advocates for Juneteenth education in schools and provides curriculum resources.

·         NEA & Zinn Education Project: Offer teaching guides and historical context for educators

Here’s a deeper look at how different states are incorporating Juneteenth into education:

1. States with Strong Juneteenth Education Initiatives

·         Texas: As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Texas has integrated Juneteenth history into school curricula and hosts large-scale celebrations.

·         California: Offers Juneteenth education through cultural programs and community events.

·         New York: Includes Juneteenth in state history lessons and promotes awareness through public schools.

·         Nevada: Recently made Juneteenth a state holiday, requiring public schools and government offices to observe it.

2. States with Limited Juneteenth Education

·         Southern States (excluding Texas): While Juneteenth is recognized, some states have limited formal education on its significance.

·         Midwestern States: Some states acknowledge Juneteenth but lack structured educational programs.

3. National Efforts to Expand Juneteenth Education

·         National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF): Advocates for Juneteenth education in schools and provides curriculum resources.

·         NEA (National Education Association): Offers teaching guides and historical context for educators.

·         American Spaces Program: Provides lesson plans, videos, and exhibits to recognize Juneteenth’s role in U.S. history.

Here’s a deeper look at specific state policies and educational programs related to Juneteenth:

1. States with Formal Juneteenth Education Policies

·         Texas: Requires Juneteenth history to be taught in schools, given its origins in Galveston.

·         California: Offers Juneteenth education through cultural programs and community events.

·         New York: Includes Juneteenth in state history lessons and promotes awareness through public schools.

·         Nevada: Recently made Juneteenth a state holiday, requiring public schools and government offices to observe it.

2. States with Limited Juneteenth Education

·         Southern States (excluding Texas): While Juneteenth is recognized, some states have limited formal education on its significance.

·         Midwestern States: Some states acknowledge Juneteenth but lack structured educational programs.

3. National Efforts to Expand Juneteenth Education

·         National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF): Advocates for Juneteenth education in schools and provides curriculum resources.

·         American Spaces Program: Provides lesson plans, videos, and exhibits to recognize Juneteenth’s role in U.S. history.

·         State-Level Advocacy: Some states are pushing for Juneteenth to be included in broader African American history curricula.

4. Challenges to Juneteenth Education

·         Critical Race Theory Restrictions: Some states have passed laws limiting discussions on race, which impacts Juneteenth education.

·         Legislative Pushback: Certain states have proposed bills limiting how Juneteenth and racial history are taught.

Nevada has taken significant steps to integrate Juneteenth education into its policies and public awareness efforts. Here’s a breakdown of how the state is addressing Juneteenth education:

1. Juneteenth as a State Holiday

·         Assembly Bill 140 (AB140): Signed into law in 2023, making Juneteenth an official state holiday.

·         Public School Closures: Schools, government offices, and courts must close on Juneteenth, ensuring statewide recognition.

2. Juneteenth Educational Initiatives

·         Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE): Committed to inclusion, diversity, and equity, promoting Juneteenth awareness across its institutions.

·         Juneteenth Nevada Organization: Provides educational programs, youth mentorship, and cultural initiatives to preserve Black heritage.

·         Legislative Subcommittee on African American Education: Established in 2025 to study policies and develop recommendations for African American students, including Juneteenth education.

3. Challenges and Future Efforts

·         Funding Concerns: Some programs rely on community investment and sponsorships rather than state funding.

·         Legislative Adjustments: The Juneteenth Educational Economic Commission was introduced to facilitate discussions on funding for Juneteenth celebrations.

·         Expanding School Curriculum: Efforts continue to integrate Juneteenth history into Nevada’s K-12 education system.

Nevada is making strides in Juneteenth education and recognition, but challenges remain in securing consistent funding and curriculum integration.  

Texas California

Here’s how Texas and California are incorporating Juneteenth into education:

Texas

·         State Curriculum: Texas mandates Juneteenth education in public schools, ensuring students learn about its historical significance.

·         Juneteenth Education Summit: Texas Southern University hosts an annual summit discussing education policies, including Juneteenth’s role in history.

·         Community Engagement: Local governments and organizations fund Juneteenth events, lectures, and museum exhibits.

California

·         Legislative Recognition: Senate Concurrent Resolution 86 officially recognizes Juneteenth and urges Californians to celebrate and reflect on African American contributions.

·         School Observance: Some districts close schools or host educational programs on Juneteenth.

·         Public Awareness: Museums, universities, and cultural institutions promote Juneteenth education through exhibits and discussions.

Nevada has taken significant steps to recognize and educate about Juneteenth, particularly through legislation and community initiatives.

1. Juneteenth as a State Holiday

·         Assembly Bill 140 (AB140): Signed into law in 2023, making Juneteenth an official state holiday in Nevada.

·         Observance Requirements: All state, county, and city offices, courts, public schools, and higher education institutions must close on June 19 unless it falls on a weekend.

2. Juneteenth Education Initiatives

·         Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE): Committed to inclusion, diversity, and equity, promoting Juneteenth awareness across its institutions.

·         Juneteenth Nevada Organization: Provides educational programs, youth mentorship, and cultural initiatives to preserve Black heritage.

·         Legislative Subcommittee on African American Education: Established in 2025 to study policies and develop recommendations for improving educational opportunities, including Juneteenth-related curriculum.

3. Challenges and Future Efforts

·         Funding Concerns: Some initiatives, like the Juneteenth Educational Economic Commission, faced budgetary debates before securing funding.

·         Expanding Curriculum: While Juneteenth is recognized, formal integration into school curricula is still developing.

·         Community Engagement: Organizations like Juneteenth Nevada continue to push for broader awareness and participation.

Nevada is making strides in Juneteenth education, but there’s still work to be done in ensuring consistent and comprehensive historical instruction. Would you like details on how specific schools or universities are implementing Juneteenth education?

UNLV, UNR, CSSD

Here’s how UNLV, UNR, and CCSD are engaging with Juneteenth education and celebrations:

University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)

·         Juneteenth Recess: UNLV officially closes campus for Juneteenth, recognizing it as a holiday.

·         Student Diversity & Social Justice Initiatives: The office hosts virtual and in-person events, including educational videos and discussions on Juneteenth’s significance.

·         Community Engagement: UNLV collaborates with local organizations to promote Juneteenth awareness and cultural events.

University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)

·         Juneteenth Awareness Programs: UNR integrates Juneteenth into its diversity and inclusion efforts, though specific programs are less publicly documented.

·         Student-Led Initiatives: Various student groups advocate for Juneteenth education and cultural recognition on campus.

Clark County School District (CCSD)

·         Juneteenth Book Bus: CCSD participates in Juneteenth celebrations by providing books and educational materials at community events.

·         School Curriculum: Some schools incorporate Juneteenth history into lesson plans, though district-wide implementation varies.

(Reprinted with amendments adopted on May 29, 2025)     2025 SECOND REPRINT A.B. 328 ASSEMBLY BILL NO. 328–

ASSEMBLYMEMBERS D’SILVA AND JACKSON MARCH 3, 2025 ____________ JOINT SPONSOR: SENATOR NEAL ____________ Referred to Committee on Education SUMMARY—Creates certain commissions and subcommittees for the purpose of educating the general public concerning certain cultural affairs relating to African-Americans. (BDR 18-619) FISCAL NOTE: Effect on Local Government: No. Effect on the State: Yes. ~ EXPLANATION – Matter in bolded italics is new; matter between brackets [omitted material] is material to be omitted. AN ACT relating to education; creating the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission within the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs; prescribing the membership, powers and duties of the Commission; creating the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Fund; creating the Subcommittee to Study and Develop Policy Recommendations for African-Americans of the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Education to conduct a study during the 2025-2026 interim; prescribing the membership, powers and duties of the Subcommittee; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Legislative Counsel’s Digest: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Existing law creates the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs whose duties include, without limitation, the oversight of plans for tourism, publications and cultural affairs. (NRS 231.8117, 231.8131) Section 1.6 of this bill creates the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission within the Department and provides that the membership of the Commission consists of: (1) three members, each of whom is from the African-American studies department or similar cultural studies program at the Nevada State College, The University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the University of Nevada, Reno, respectively; (2) one representative of Juneteenth Nevada, or any successor nonprofit organization in this *AB328_R2* mission is focused on Juneteenth Day education, unity and diversity; (3) one 10 member who represents a professional association representing African-American 11 businesses; (4) one member who represents an African-American cultural 12 awareness advocacy group; (5) one member who represents an educational 13 advocacy group with a statewide presence; and (6) one member who represents a 14 museum or cultural history organization in this State. To the extent that funding is 15 available, section 1.6 requires the Department to provide administrative support to 16 the Commission. 17 Section 1.7 of this bill requires the Commission to: (1) create and distribute 18 written, electronic or printed materials to educate the public on the history and 19 meaning of Juneteenth Day in the State of Nevada and the United States; (2) 20 develop strategies with businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups 21 to support education on the significance of Juneteenth Day; (3) support the efforts 22 of businesses, community groups and local governments to establish events and 23 programs relating to Juneteenth Day throughout the State; and (4) support programs 24 in the arts to celebrate Juneteenth Day. 25 Section 1.8 of this bill creates the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Fund 26 for the support of the Commission. 27 Sections 1.2-1.5 of this bill define certain terms relating to the Commission. 28 Existing law creates the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Education and 29 authorizes the Committee to: (1) evaluate, review and comment upon issues related 30 to education in this State; (2) conduct investigations and hold hearings in 31 connection with such duties; and (3) make recommendations to the Legislature 32 relating to the improvement of public education. (NRS 218E.320, 218E.615) 33 Existing law requires the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Education to 34 prepare and submit to the Legislature a comprehensive report of its activities in the 35 interim and its findings and any recommendations for proposed legislation. (NRS 36 218E.330) Section 1.9 of this bill creates the Subcommittee to Study and Develop 37 Policy Recommendations for African-Americans of the Joint Interim Standing 38 Committee on Education to conduct the study set forth in section 2 of this bill 39 during the 2025-2026 interim. Section 1.9 prescribes the membership and officers 40 of the Subcommittee and the compensation of the members. Section 1.9 also 41 provides for the filling of vacancies and requirements for meetings. 42 Section 2 requires the Subcommittee to: (1) study certain matters relating to 43 historical discrimination in this State and the related economic effects of the 44 discrimination to present day society in this State; and (2) present its findings and 45 make recommendations relating to its findings to the Joint Interim Standing 46 Committee on Education, for inclusion in its 2026-2026 interim report, for methods 47 to educate the general public about the findings and recommendations of the 48 Subcommittee, advancement of racial healing, understanding and transformation 49 and the form and scope of rehabilitation or restitution to the descendants of 50 formerly enslaved Africans, if warranted, based on the findings of the 51 Subcommittee. Section 2 authorizes the Subcommittee to collaborate and consult 52 with and invite participation by historians, scholars and other interested parties and 53 requires state agencies to provide any information requested by the Subcommittee 54 relating to its duties. Section 2 also authorizes the Subcommittee to: (1) request 55 assistance from the Division of State Library, Archives and Public Records of the 56 Department of Administration, which is required to provide assistance to the extent 57 that resources are available; and (2) direct the Legislative Counsel Bureau to assist 58 in its research investigations, review and analysis. 59 Section 2 further authorizes the Subcommittee to apply for and accept certain 60 funds for the Subcommittee in carrying out its duties. 61 – 3 – - *AB328_R2* THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND ASSEMBLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Chapter 231 of NRS is hereby amended by adding 1 thereto the provisions set forth as sections 1.1 to 1.8, inclusive, of 2 this act. 3 Sec. 1.1. As used in sections 1.1 to 1.8, inclusive, of this act, 4 unless the context otherwise requires, the words and terms defined 5 in sections 1.2 to 1.5, inclusive, of this act have the meanings 6 ascribed to them in those sections. 7 Sec. 1.2. “Commission” means the Juneteenth Educational 8 and Economic Commission created by section 1.6 of this act. 9 Sec. 1.3. “Department” means the Department of Tourism 10 and Cultural Affairs. 11 Sec. 1.4. “Director” means the Director of the Department. 12 Sec. 1.5. “Fund” means the Juneteenth Educational and 13 Economic Fund created by section 1.8 of this act. 14 Sec. 1.6. 1. The Juneteenth Educational and Economic 15 Commission is hereby created within the Department. 16 2. The Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission is 17 composed of eight voting members appointed by the Governor 18 based on recommendations from the Director, as follows: 19 (a) One member from the African-American studies 20 department or similar cultural studies program at the University of 21 Nevada, Las Vegas; 22 (b) One member from the African-American studies 23 department or similar cultural studies program at the University of 24 Nevada, Reno; 25 (c) One member from the African-American studies 26 department or similar cultural studies program at the Nevada 27 State College; 28 (d) One representative of Juneteenth Nevada or any successor 29 nonprofit organization in this State whose mission is focused on 30 Juneteenth Day education, unity and diversity; 31 (e) One member who represents a professional association 32 representing African-American businesses; 33 (f) One member who represents an African-American cultural 34 awareness advocacy group; 35 (g) One member who represents an educational advocacy 36 group with a statewide presence; and 37 (h) One member who represents a museum or cultural history 38 organization in this State. 39 3. The term of each voting member of the Commission is 4 40 years. Members may be reappointed for 1 additional term of 4 41 years. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the 42 – 4 – - *AB328_R2* Commission must be filled in the same manner as the original 1 appointment. 2 4. The Commission shall meet once each calendar quarter. At 3 the first regular meeting of each year, the members of the 4 Commission shall select a Chair and Vice Chair by majority vote 5 who shall serve until the next Chair and Vice Chair is elected. 6 5. A majority of members of the Commission constitutes a 7 quorum for the transaction of business, and a majority of those 8 members present at any meeting is sufficient for any official 9 action taken by the Commission. 10 6. To the extent that funding is available, the Department 11 shall provide administrative support to the Commission as 12 necessary for the Commission to carry out its duties. 13 Sec. 1.7. The Commission shall to the extent practicable: 14 1. Create and distribute written, electronic or printed 15 materials to educate the public on the history and meaning of 16 Juneteenth Day in the State of Nevada and the United States; 17 2. Develop strategies with businesses, nonprofit organizations 18 and community groups to support education in this State on the 19 significance of Juneteenth Day; 20 3. Support the efforts of businesses, community groups and 21 local governments to establish events and programs relating to 22 Juneteenth Day throughout the State; and 23 4. Support programs in the arts to celebrate Juneteenth Day. 24 Sec. 1.8. 1. There is hereby created the Juneteenth 25 Educational and Economic Fund in the State Treasury, to be 26 administered by the Director, for the support of the Commission. 27 2. Any interest earned on money in the Fund must be credited 28 to the Fund. 29 3. Money that remains in the Fund at the end of a fiscal year 30 does not revert to the State General Fund, and the balance in the 31 Fund must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. 32 4. The Director may accept gifts, bequests, grants, 33 appropriations and donations from any source for deposit in the 34 Fund. 35 5. Local governments that celebrate Juneteenth Day shall, to 36 the extent practicable, contribute to the Fund and otherwise 37 collaborate on the development and coordination of formal 38 celebrations for Juneteenth Day. 39 Sec. 1.9. 1. The Subcommittee to Study and Develop Policy 40 Recommendations for African-Americans of the Joint Interim 41 Standing Committee on Education is hereby created to conduct the 42 study described in section 2 of this act during the 2025-2026 43 interim. 44 – 5 – - *AB328_R2* 2. The Subcommittee consists of the following ten members 1 appointed by the Chair of the Joint Interim Standing Committee on 2 Education: 3 (a) Two members of the general public from a list of at least 4 three persons recommended by the President of the University of 5 Nevada, Las Vegas, or his or her designee; 6 (b) Two members of the general public from a list of at least 7 three persons recommended by the President of the University of 8 Nevada, Reno, or his or her designee; 9 (c) Two members of the Senate recommended by the Majority 10 Leader of the Senate; 11 (d) Two members of the Assembly recommended by the 12 Speaker of the Assembly; 13 (e) One member of the Senate recommended by the Minority 14 Leader of the Senate; and 15 (f) One member of the Assembly recommended by the Minority 16 Leader of the Assembly. 17 3. Members of the Subcommittee must be recommended and 18 appointed on the basis of their education, training and experience in 19 the fields of African-American studies or reparatory justice or any 20 interrelated disciplines or subject matter areas or any other relevant 21 policy or professional experience. 22 4. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the 23 Subcommittee must be filled in the same manner as the original 24 appointment. 25 5. For each day or portion of a day during which a member of 26 the Subcommittee who is a Legislator attends a meeting of the 27 Subcommittee or is otherwise engaged in the business of the 28 Subcommittee, the member is entitled to receive: 29 (a) The compensation provided for a majority of the Legislators 30 during the first 60 days of the preceding regular session; 31 (b) The per diem allowance provided for state officers and 32 employees generally; and 33 (c) The travel expenses provided pursuant to NRS 218A.655. 34 6. While engaged in the business of the Subcommittee, the 35 members of the Subcommittee who are not Legislators are entitled 36 to the per diem allowance and travel expenses provided for state 37 officers and employees generally. 38 7. All compensation, per diem allowances and travel expenses 39 provided pursuant to subsections 5 and 6 must be paid from the 40 Legislative Fund. 41 8. The Chair of the Joint Interim Standing Committee on 42 Education shall appoint a Chair and Vice Chair of the Subcommittee 43 from among the members of the Subcommittee appointed pursuant 44 to paragraphs (c) to (f), inclusive, of subsection 2. The Chair of the 45 – 6 – - *AB328_R2* Subcommittee must be appointed from one House and the Vice 1 Chair of the Subcommittee from the other House. If a vacancy 2 occurs in the office of the Chair or Vice Chair of the Subcommittee, 3 the vacancy must be filled in the same manner as the original 4 appointment. 5 9. Except as otherwise ordered by the Legislative Commission, 6 the Subcommittee shall meet not earlier than November 1, 2025, 7 and not later than August 31, 2026, at the times and places specified 8 by a call of the Chair. 9 10. A majority of the members of the Subcommittee constitutes 10 a quorum, and a quorum may exercise all the powers and authority 11 conferred on the Subcommittee. 12 Sec. 2. 1. The Subcommittee created by section 1.9 of this 13 act shall study: 14 (a) The economic, political, social, educational and historical 15 impacts of slavery, Jim Crow laws, de jure and de facto racial 16 segregation and other forms of racial discrimination in the State of 17 Nevada, as well as the prior organized and unorganized territories 18 that constitute a part of the current state boundaries of the State; 19 (b) Discriminatory habits or practices, including, without 20 limitation, forced slavery, chattel slavery, indentured servitude, 21 redlining, segregated school systems and segregated public goods 22 and spaces, that may have caused significant economic or societal 23 disparities of formerly enslaved Africans or their descendants; and 24 (c) The related economic effects to present day society in the 25 State of Nevada as a result of the matters studied pursuant to this 26 subsection. 27 2. On or before August 31, 2026, the Subcommittee shall 28 present its findings and make recommendations, including specific 29 policy recommendations, relating to its findings to the Joint Interim 30 Standing Committee on Education for: 31 (a) Methods to educate the general public of the State of Nevada 32 of the Subcommittee’s findings and recommendations; 33 (b) Advancement of racial healing, understanding and 34 transformation; and 35 (c) Forms of rehabilitation or restitution to the descendants of 36 formerly enslaved Africans, if warranted, based on the findings 37 of the Subcommittee. If the Subcommittee finds that any form of 38 rehabilitation or restitution is warranted, then the form and scope of 39 such measures. 40 3. The Joint Interim Standing Committee on Education shall 41 include the findings and recommendations of the Subcommittee 42 presented pursuant to subsection 2 in the report for the 2025-2026 43 interim submitted by the Joint Interim Standing Committee on 44 Education pursuant to NRS 218E.330. 45 – 7 – - *AB328_R2* 4. The Subcommittee may conduct investigations and hold 1 hearings in connection with its functions and duties and exercise any 2 of the investigative powers set forth in NRS 218E.105 to 218E.140, 3 inclusive. 4 5. The Subcommittee may collaborate and consult with and 5 invite participation by historians, scholars and any other interested 6 parties. 7 6. Each state agency, as defined in NRS 277.186, shall 8 cooperate with the Subcommittee and timely provide any 9 information that may be requested by the Subcommittee relating to 10 its duties. 11 7. The Subcommittee may: 12 (a) Request assistance from the Division of State Library, 13 Archives and Public Records of the Department of Administration. 14 Upon such a request, the Division shall provide to the 15 Subcommittee such assistance to the extent that resources are 16 available. 17 (b) Direct the Legislative Counsel Bureau to assist in its 18 research, investigations, review and analysis. 19 8. The Subcommittee may apply for any available grants and 20 accept any gifts, grants or donations to assist the Subcommittee in 21 carrying out its duties. 22 Sec. 3. (Deleted by amendment.) 23 Sec. 4. (Deleted by amendment.) 24 Sec. 5. 1. This section becomes effective upon passage and 25 approval. 26 2. Sections 1.9 to 4, inclusive, of this act become effective on 27 July 1, 2025, and expire by limitation on December 31, 2026. 28 3. Sections 1 to 1.8, inclusive, of this act become effective on 29 October 1, 2025. 30 H 

A.B. 409 - *   2023

 ASSEMBLY BILL NO. 409–ASSEMBLYWOMAN THOMAS MARCH 27, 2023 ____________ Referred to Committee on Revenue SUMMARY—Creates the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission. (BDR 18-982) FISCAL NOTE: Effect on Local Government: No. Effect on the State: Yes. ~ EXPLANATION – Matter in bolded italics is new; matter between brackets [omitted material] is material to be omitted. AN ACT relating to cultural affairs; creating and setting forth the duties of the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission; creating the Juneteenth Educational and Economic Fund; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Legislative Counsel’s Digest: Existing law creates the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs whose 1 duties include, without limitation, the oversight of plans for tourism, publications 2 and cultural affairs. (NRS 231.167, 231.220) Section 7 of this bill creates the 3 Juneteenth Education and Economic Commission within the Department of 4 Tourism and Cultural Affairs and provides that the membership of the Commission 5 consists of: (1) three members, each of whom is from the African American studies 6 department or similar cultural studies program at the Nevada State College, the 7 University of Nevada, Las Vegas or the University of Nevada, Reno; (2) one 8 representative of Juneteenth Nevada, or a similar nonprofit organization in this 9 State whose mission is focused on Juneteenth education, unity and diversity; (3) 10 one member who represents a professional association representing African-11 American businesses; (4) one member who represents an African American cultural 12 awareness advocacy group; (5) one member who represents an educational 13 advocacy group with a statewide presence; and (6) one member who represents a 14 cultural history organization in this State. Section 7 of this bill requires the 15 Department to provide administrative support to the Commission. 16 Section 8 of this bill sets forth the duties of the Commission, which are to: (1) 17 create and distribute written, electronic or printed materials to educate the public on 18 the history and meaning of Juneteenth Day in the State of Nevada and the United 19 States; (2) develop strategies with businesses, nonprofit organizations and 20 community groups to support education on the significance of Juneteenth Day; (3) 21 support the efforts of businesses, community groups and local governments to 22 establish events and programs relating to Juneteenth Day throughout the State; and 23 (4) support programs in the arts to celebrate Juneteenth Day. 24 – 2 – - *AB409* Section 9 of this bill creates the Juneteenth Education and Economic Fund for 25 the support of the Commission. 26 Sections 3-6 of this bill define certain terms. 27 THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND ASSEMBLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Chapter 231 of NRS is hereby amended by adding 1 thereto the provisions set forth as sections 2 to 10, inclusive, of this 2 act. 3 Sec. 2. As used in sections 2 to 9, inclusive, of this act, unless 4 the context otherwise requires, the words and terms defined in 5 sections 3 to 6, inclusive, of this act have the meanings ascribed to 6 them in those sections. 7 Sec. 3. “Commission” means the Juneteenth Educational 8 and Economic Commission created by section 7 of this act. 9 Sec. 4. “Department” means the Department of Tourism and 10 Cultural Affairs. 11 Sec. 5. “Director” means the Director of the Department. 12 Sec. 6. “Fund” means the Juneteenth Educational and 13 Economic Fund created by section 9 of this act. 14 Sec. 7. 1. The Juneteenth Educational and Economic 15 Commission is hereby created within the Department. 16 2. The Juneteenth Educational and Economic Commission is 17 composed of: 18 (a) Eight voting members appointed by the Governor based on 19 recommendations from the Director, as follows: 20 (1) One member from the African American studies 21 department or similar cultural studies program at the University of 22 Nevada, Las Vegas; 23 (2) One member from the African American studies 24 department or similar cultural studies program at the University of 25 Nevada, Reno; 26 (3) One member from the African American studies 27 department or similar cultural studies program at the Nevada 28 State College; 29 (4) One representative of Juneteenth Nevada or any 30 successor nonprofit organization in this State whose mission is 31 focused on Juneteenth Day education, unity and diversity; 32 (5) One member who represents a professional association 33 representing African-American businesses; 34 (6) One member who represents an African American 35 cultural awareness advocacy group; 36 (7) One member who represents an educational advocacy 37 group with a statewide presence; and 38 – 3 – - *AB409* (8) One member who represents a cultural history 1 organization in this State. 2 (b) The following ex officio, nonvoting members: 3 (1) A representative of the Nevada Arts Council; and 4 (2) A representative of the Division Museums and History. 5 3. The term of each voting member of the Commission is 4 6 years. Members may be reappointed for additional terms of 4 7 years. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the 8 Commission must be filled in the same manner as the original 9 appointment. 10 4. The Commission shall meet once each calendar quarter. At 11 the first regular meeting of each year, the members of the 12 Commission shall select a Chair and Vice Chair by majority vote 13 who shall serve until the next Chair and Vice Chair is elected. 14 5. A majority of members of the Commission constitutes a 15 quorum for the transaction of business, and a majority of those 16 members present at any meeting is sufficient for any official 17 action taken by the Commission. 18 6. While engaged in the business of the Commission, each 19 member is entitled to receive: 20 (a) A salary of $80 per day for each day’s attendance at each 21 meeting of the Commission; and 22 (b) The per diem allowance and travel expenses provided for 23 state officers and employees generally. 24 7. The Department shall provide administrative support to the 25 Commission as necessary for the Commission to carry out its 26 duties. 27 Sec. 8. 1. The Commission shall: 28 (a) Create and distribute written, electronic or printed 29 materials to educate the public on the history and meaning of 30 Juneteenth Day in the State of Nevada and the United States; 31 (b) Develop strategies with businesses, nonprofit organizations 32 and community groups to support education in this State on the 33 significance of Juneteenth Day; 34 (c) Support the efforts of businesses, community groups and 35 local governments to establish events and programs relating to 36 Juneteenth Day throughout the State; and 37 (d) Support programs in the arts to celebrate Juneteenth Day. 38 2. On or before July 1 of each year, the Commission shall 39 submit a written report to the Director of the Legislative Counsel 40 Bureau for submission to the Legislature, or if the Legislature is 41 not in session, the Legislative Commission. The report must 42 include, without limitation, a summary of the work of the 43 Commission during the past fiscal year and any recommendations 44 – 4 – - *AB409* for legislation to improve awareness of Juneteenth Day and 1 African American history in this State. 2 Sec. 9. 1. There is hereby created the Juneteenth 3 Educational and Economic Fund in the State Treasury, to be 4 administered by the Director, for the support of the Commission. 5 2. Any interest earned on money in the Fund must be credited 6 to the Fund. 7 3. Money that remains in the Fund at the end of a fiscal year 8 does not revert to the State General Fund, and the balance in the 9 Fund must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. 10 4. The Director may accept gifts, bequests, grants, 11 appropriations and donations from any source for deposit in the 12 Fund. 13 Sec. 10. The provisions of subsection 1 of NRS 218D.380 do 14 not apply to any provision of this act which adds or revises a 15 requirement to submit a report to the Legislature. 16 Sec. 11. This act becomes effective upon passage and 17 approval.