Affordable housing is a critical issue facing our state, and architects play a vital role in designing housing that is safe, sustainable, dignified, and accessible. AIA Nevada supports policies that increase access to affordable housing, including streamlined zoning regulations, reduced permitting costs, and incentives for developers to build these projects. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to take action to address the affordable housing crisis, working with architects and other stakeholders to develop policies that promote affordable housing and improve the quality of life for all Nevadans

Resiliency-focused design is a core tenet of an architect’s professional duty to help protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.  AIA Nevada advocates for swift implementation of the most current building codes, which prioritize safety and resiliency, ensuring that our built environment can withstand natural disasters, including wildfires, seismic activity, heat-island affect, and other hazards. AIA Nevada calls on the legislature to fully fund deferred maintenance in existing buildings to retrofit based on the most current building code to improve safety and functionality while also prioritizing the construction of new, more resilient buildings for our communities.

 Investing in education and workforce training programs for the future generation of architects is essential for creating a strong pipeline and retaining top talent in the state. Nevada's education system is facing significant challenges, and it is critical to ensure that students in K-12 and Higher Education have the skills and knowledge to be workforce ready. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to act by investing in education and training that is responsive to industry trends and will contribute to economic growth and innovation. This investment is essential for a strong future in Nevada's architectural profession and the built environment.

The regulation of the architectural profession is critical in ensuring those who practice in Nevada have the necessary qualifications, experience, and ethical standards to guarantee the public's well-being. AIA Nevada supports the robust regulation of the architectural profession, while also working on removing any barriers which keep qualified designers from attaining licensure. AIA Nevada calls on the legislature to support policies that streamline the architectural licensure process by investing in resources to get qualified designers licensed, strengthening reciprocal licensure agreements, and investing in technology to make the application and renewal processes more efficient.

Placemaking is the art and science of designing communities that inspire and promote community well-being, social equity, and economic growth.  As citizen architects, AIA recognizes the profession's critical role in addressing social, economic, and environmental issues to create thriving communities. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to leverage federal programs, such as opportunity zoning investments and programs alike, to support the design of more livable and inclusive communities for all Nevadans.

Public procurement processes that prioritize fees or bids over qualifications can lead to poor quality design in the built environment and can compromise the health, safety, and welfare of the public. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to adopt policies and regulations that support qualifications-based selection in public procurement processes, including clear and concise QBS criteria that encourage fair market competition. By prioritizing qualifications over fees or bids, the state can ensure that the built environment in Nevada is designed with the highest standards of quality and safety and that public funds are being used effectively and efficiently.

Tax policies can significantly impact the business climate and economic growth, especially for small businesses such as architectural firms. AIA Nevada believes in promoting a business-friendly tax climate that supports economic growth and development for the state. We oppose any proposals to expand the sales tax to professional services, including architectural services, as this would adversely affect small businesses and limit efforts to grow Nevada's economy. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to adopt policies that promote a fair and predictable tax code for businesses in the state, while also opposing any measures that could harm the business climate, such as expanding sales taxes to professional services.

Sustainable design and construction are critical to protecting the environment and promoting economic growth. Architects are key in designing sustainable buildings incorporating energy efficiency, water conservation, reducing waste, and promoting healthy living. AIA Nevada urges the legislature to increase funding for sustainable and net-zero building projects, as this investment can promote economic growth and create jobs while also protecting the environment. By prioritizing sustainable design and construction, Nevada can position itself as a leader in sustainability and innovation in the built environment.