Brian Sandoval in 2017 Governor's State of the State speeches

On Crime: Reform juvenile justice system to reduce recidivism

We know that some youth have multiple encounters with the courts, often leading to long-term supervision & incarceration. We can do better. That's why I'm introducing the Juvenile Justice System Reform Act, which streamlines and standardizes criteria to match youth with the most effective services.

To that end, my budget includes $1.5 million to implement a statewide risk assessment program. These changes should result in reduced recidivism rates and improved outcomes for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

On Drugs: Rid the state of the scourge of opioid abuse

One of the major achievements of the last legislative session was the passage of the Good Samaritan Overdose Prevention Act. This legislation increased enrollment in the prescription drug monitoring program from 16% to 81%, and has expanded access to lifesaving overdose-reversal medication.

I convened a statewide prescription drug summit with participation from 500 stakeholders, that included legislators, health care professionals, law enforcement, judges, and victims. Based on their recommendations, I will introduce the Controlled Substance Abuse Prevention Act, which provides more training and reporting and heightened protocols for medical professionals. I look forward to ridding the state of the scourge of opioid abuse.

On Drugs: I opposed legalization, but let's make pot market work well

My budget includes one new source of revenue, a 10% excise tax on all retail sales of recreational marijuana. The proceeds of this tax will be invested exclusively in education. This new tax is in addition to the existing 15% excise tax on wholesale marijuana transactions.

I will also create by executive order the task force on the implementation of Question 2. It will include stakeholders committed to fulfilling the requirements of Question 2, without compromising Nevada's commitment to public safety. Additionally, I will ask regulators to limit the sale of marijuana products and packaging that appeal to children or may be mistaken for candy. Let's work together to make sure Nevada's market for legal marijuana is restricted, responsible, and respected.

On Education: $115 million in new investments for higher education

My vision for our state is to put all Nevadans, regardless of age or circumstance, on a career pathway toward success. We can make that vision a reality by investing in higher education, closing the college attainment gap, expanding dual enrollment & growing career opportunities.

While many of these programs have been available for some, they are not yet accessible to all, due to financial barriers or other factors. My workforce agenda proposes removing those barriers, so that every student, in every classroom, has every opportunity to succeed. Our effort to prepare a modern workforce begins with our post-secondary institutions. My budget includes an increase of $115 million in new investments for higher education.

On Technology: $3.5M for cyberdefense against unprecedented threats

In our country, there are now five battlefields in our never-ending fight for safety and security--land, sea, air, space and cyberspace. I have allocated $3.5 million for the creation of Nevada's first cyberdefense center. The cyberdefense center will help Nevada detect, prevent, and respond to cyber-attacks and stand ready to partner with local governments and the private sector to minimize cyber risks.

On War & Peace: Inspired by Nevadans serving in 5 middle eastern countries

On Welfare & Poverty: $1.5M more for Meals-on-Wheels for seniors

Also in my budget is $1.5 million in new funding for the successful Meals on Wheels program. Helping our senior citizens lead independent, meaningful and dignified lives needs to be a priority for all of us.