THE FIFTY-FIRST DAY
Carson City(Tuesday), March 27, 2001
Senate called to order at 11:17 a.m.
President pro Tempore Jacobsen presiding.
Roll called.
All present.
Prayer by the Chaplain, Monte Fast.
An Irish Prayer
May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been.
The foresight to know where you’re going.
And the insight to know when you’ve gone too far.
Amen.
Pledge of allegiance to the Flag.
Senator Raggio moved that further reading of the Journal be dispensed with, and the President pro Tempore and Secretary be authorized to make the necessary corrections and additions.
Motion carried.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
Mr. President pro Tempore:
Your Committee on Government Affairs, to which were referred Senate Bills Nos. 164, 225, 272, 304, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass.
Ann O'Connell, Chairman
Mr. President pro Tempore:
Your Committee on Human Resources and Facilities, to which were referred Senate Bills Nos. 114, 223, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Do pass, and place on Consent Calendar.
Also, your Committee on Human Resources and Facilities, to which was referred Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 7, has had the same under consideration, and begs leave to report the same back with the recommendation: Be adopted.
Raymond D. Rawson, Chairman
MESSAGES FROM THE ASSEMBLY
Assembly Chamber, Carson City, March 26, 2001
To the Honorable the Senate:
I have the honor to inform your honorable body that the Assembly on this day passed Assembly Bills Nos. 29, 219; Assembly Joint Resolution No. 13 of the 70th Session; Senate Bills Nos. 7, 16, 29, 37.
Also, I have the honor to inform your honorable body that the Assembly on this day passed, as amended, Assembly Bills Nos. 13, 267.
Patricia R. Williams
Assistant Chief Clerk of the Assembly
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES
By Senators Raggio, Amodei, Care, Carlton, Coffin, Jacobsen, James, Mathews, McGinness, Neal, O'Connell, O'Donnell, Porter, Rawson, Rhoads, Schneider, Shaffer, Titus, Townsend, Washington, Wiener; Assemblymen Dini, Anderson, Angle, Arberry, Bache, Beers, Berman, Brower, Brown, Buckley, Carpenter, Cegavske, Chowning, Claborn, Collins, de Braga, Freeman, Gibbons, Giunchigliani, Goldwater, Gustavson, Hettrick, Humke, Koivisto, Lee, Leslie, Manendo, Marvel, McClain, Mortenson, Neighbors, Nolan, Oceguera, Ohrenschall, Parks, Parnell, Perkins, Price, Smith, Tiffany, Von Tobel and Williams:
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 25—Congratulating Dr. John H. Seinfeld for being selected as the recipient of the 2001 Nevada Medal presented by the Desert Research Institute and sponsored by the shareholders of Nevada Bell.
Whereas, The Nevada Medal is an honor presented by the Desert Research Institute of the University and Community College System of Nevada in recognition of outstanding scientific, engineering and technical achievements; and
Whereas, The Nevada Medal is sponsored by the shareholders of Nevada Bell, a brand of SBC Communications, Inc., and a provider of a variety of telecommunication services to northern Nevada; and
Whereas, Dr. John H. Seinfeld, Louis E. Nohl Professor and Professor of Chemical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology, has been named as the recipient of the 2001 Nevada Medal; and
Whereas, Dr. Seinfeld has contributed more to our understanding of urban and regional air pollution than any other person, and he has been credited with being the primary researcher to have made the study of air pollution a science; and
Whereas, After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree from Rochester University in 1964 and a Ph.D. from Princeton University in 1967, both in chemical engineering, Dr. Seinfeld joined the faculty of the California Institute of Technology; and
Whereas, During his years at the California Institute of Technology, Dr. Seinfeld was appointed Executive Officer for Chemical Engineering in 1973, became the Louis E. Nohl Professor in 1980 and is a former Chairman of the Division of Engineering and Applied Science; and
Whereas, Dr. Seinfeld’s early work led to his 1972 landmark papers on mathematical models for air pollution, the descendants of which are now the fundamental tools used in cities nationwide to describe and forecast potential air pollution threats and to design strategies to preserve air quality; and
Whereas, Dr. Seinfeld has been a leading figure in scientific advances in understanding the formation, growth and chemistry of aerosols, and he is one of the first scientists to describe the chemical processes leading to urban ozone; and
Whereas, In 1982, at the age of 39, Dr. Seinfeld was the youngest person ever elected to the National Academy of Engineering for outstanding contributions to understanding the atmospheric behavior of pollutants and to the development of estimation techniques for dynamic systems; and
Whereas, Dr. Seinfeld is a fellow of the National Academy of Arts and Sciences and has published more than 300 papers and 4 critically acclaimed books, including the textbook Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Pollution to Climate Change, which is considered the basic worldwide textbook on air pollution; and
Whereas, Dr. Seinfeld has received numerous national and international awards and honors, and presented many lectures and has served on or chaired many important national and international commissions and councils focusing on air quality research; and
Whereas, The many achievements and ongoing contributions of Dr. John H. Seinfeld have earned him the respect of his peers and the honor of being named as the recipient of the 2001 Nevada Medal, which includes a minted silver medallion and $10,000 prize; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of Nevada, the Assembly Concurring, That the members of the 71st session of the Nevada Legislature hereby congratulate Dr. John H. Seinfeld for being named the recipient of the 2001 Nevada Medal awarded by the Desert Research Institute; and be it further
Resolved, That Nevada Bell is hereby commended for its continued sponsorship of this medal, which offers well-deserved recognition to persons who have demonstrated outstanding scientific, engineering and technical achievement; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Dr. John H. Seinfeld.
Senator Raggio moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Senators Raggio and Jacobsen.
Senator Raggio requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Senator Raggio:
We are privileged, again, during our session to honor the recipient of the Desert Research Institute’s (DRI) Nevada Medal. As all of the Senators know, it is one of the highlights of each of our sessions that we are privileged to be in session at the time the Nevada Medal is awarded through the sponsorship of the Desert Research Institute and Nevada Bell.
This is one of the most prestigious awards that can be given to any scientist. Over the years, we have had a list of scientists who have been recipients of this award. That list is a Who’s Who in science of all kinds. We are fortunate to have Professor John H. Seinfeld, who is the fourteenth scientist to receive the Desert Research Institute’s Nevada Medal, here today.
Dr. Seinfeld is highly regarded for his pioneering work and is widely considered responsible for establishing the field of air quality research as a true science.
After earning a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Princeton in 1967, Professor Seinfeld joined the California Institute of Technology where he holds the Louis E. Nohl endowed chair in Caltech’s chemical engineering department.
Until recently, he served as the engineering school’s chairman, equivalent to dean in our own university system.
He is also a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Shortly after joining Caltech, Professor Seinfeld began applying advanced analytical methods from the chemical industry to the description of air quality.
In 1972, Professor Seinfeld introduced the first mathematical models that would allow scientists and air quality managers to simulate the chemical process of air pollution in the atmosphere. These managers could try out possible solutions on their computers and predict what might happen under various circumstances.This fundamental advancement in the battle for clean air has given air quality managers around the world the basic strategic tool for dealing effectively with the causes of air pollution.
Several of the Desert Research Institute’s own senior air quality scientists, entering the field only a few years behind John Seinfeld, have taken his models and applied them to new air quality tools.
Dr. Seinfeld was also one of the first scientists to describe the chemical processes leading to the formation of urban ozone.
He has been a leading figure in scientific advances toward understanding the formation and chemistry of aerosols, the microscopic particles and droplets that are the primary chemical components in the air. He is now involved in research examining the influence of these particles on the world’s climate. Yesterday afternoon, he presented the Nevada Medal Lecture on that topic at the Desert Research Institute.
Professor Seinfeld has published more than 300 papers and four critically acclaimed books. One of those books is universally considered the basic worldwide textbook in atmospheric science, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change.
Once again we are honored to bring before the Legislature one of the world’s foremost environmental scientists.
I want to express our appreciation to Professor Seinfeld for his contributions and to DRI and Nevada Bell, which sponsor the Nevada Medal program, for bringing him to Nevada to share his ideas with us.
Senator Jacobsen:
We are truly honored to have you here with us today. Looking outside, I can say the good Lord has smiled on you because the sun is shining, and we are pleased you received this award in our Chamber. Thank you for being with us today. Thank you to the people from Nevada Bell for sponsoring the program which offers a solution to the problem.
Resolution adopted.
Senator Raggio moved that all rules be suspended and that Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 25 be immediately transmitted to the Assembly.
Motion carried unanimously.
Senator Raggio moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
Motion carried.
Senate in recess at 11:32 a.m.
SENATE IN SESSION
At 11:35 a.m.
President pro Tempore Jacobsen presiding.
Quorum present.
Assembly Joint Resolution No. 13 of the 70th Session.
Senator Rawson moved that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Government Affairs.
Motion carried.
Senator Rawson moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
Motion carried.
Senate in recess at 11:42 a.m.
SENATE IN SESSION
At 11:43 a.m.
President pro Tempore Jacobsen presiding.
Quorum present.
Senator Rawson moved that the action whereby Assembly Joint Resolution No. 13 of the 70th Session was referred to the Committee on Government Affairs be rescinded.
Motion carried.
Senator Rawson moved that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
Remarks by Senator Rawson.
Motion carried.
INTRODUCTION, FIRST READING AND REFERENCE
Assembly Bill No. 13.
Senator Rawson moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Human Resources and Facilities.
Motion carried.
Assembly Bill No. 29.
Senator Rawson moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
Motion carried.
Assembly Bill No. 219.
Senator Rawson moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Government Affairs.
Motion carried.
Assembly Bill No. 267.
Senator Rawson moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Finance.
Motion carried.
GENERAL FILE AND THIRD READING
Senate Bill No. 27.
Bill read third time.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 27:
Yeas—21.
Nays—None.
Senate Bill No. 27 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senate Bill No. 46.
Bill read third time.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 46:
Yeas—21.
Nays—None.
Senate Bill No. 46 having received a two-thirds majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senate Bill No. 125.
Bill read third time.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 125:
Yeas—21.
Nays—None.
Senate Bill No. 125 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senate Bill No. 202.
Bill read third time.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 202:
Yeas—20.
Nays—Neal.
Senate Bill No. 202 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed, as amended.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senate Bill No. 234.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Senators Neal and Porter.
Roll call on Senate Bill No. 234:
Yeas—20.
Nays—Neal.
Senate Bill No. 234 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senate Bill No. 282.
Bill read third time.
Remarks by Senators Neal, Porter and James.
Senator James moved that Senate Bill No. 282 be taken from the General File and placed on the General File for the next legislative day.
Remarks by Senator James.
Motion carried.
Assembly Bill No. 84.
Bill read third time.
Roll call on Assembly Bill No. 84:
Yeas—21.
Nays—None.
Assembly Bill No. 84 having received a constitutional majority, Mr. President pro Tempore declared it passed.
Bill ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
MESSAGES FROM THE ASSEMBLY
Assembly Chamber, Carson City, March 27, 2001
To the Honorable the Senate:
I have the honor to inform your honorable body that the Assembly on this day adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 17.
Patricia R. Williams
Assistant Chief Clerk of the Assembly
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 17—Designating March 27, 2001 as Nevada Awareness Day.
Whereas, Diabetes is a serious and debilitating disease that poses a major health problem to the residents of the State of Nevada; and
Whereas, Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, with almost 16 million people having been diagnosed with the disease; and
Whereas, While 2,200 people are diagnosed with diabetes each day in the United States, many go undiagnosed because of lack of education and information regarding this disease; and
Whereas, In addition to the high mortality rate, diabetes has such life-threatening complications as blindness, kidney disease, nerve disease which may lead to lower limb amputations, heart disease and stroke; and
Whereas, Many people are unaware that there is an increased risk factor because of age, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle and that risk may be averted through known preventive measures; and
Whereas, Diabetes is one of the most costly health problems in the United States, running $98 billion annually for lost productivity and costs directly related to the disease; and
Whereas, It is estimated that the population of this state will double in the next 20 years, causing a great economic burden on the state and its residents, in addition to the human suffering, if this disease goes unchecked; and
Whereas, The cooperative efforts in the production of the “Nevada Diabetes Resource Directory” and the “Guidelines for Children with Diabetes in School” and statewide distribution of “Diabetes Patient Management and Physician Clinical Practice Cards” will have a great impact in reducing the incidence of diabetes by promoting community awareness; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That March 27, 2001, is hereby designated as Nevada Diabetes Awareness Day; and be it further
Resolved, That the Nevada Legislature hereby commends the Nevada Diabetes Council and the Nevada Diabetes Association for Children and Adults for their efforts to reduce the effects of diabetes on the residents of this state by supplying them with resources and information; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Carolyn Leontos, Chairperson of the Nevada Diabetes Council, and to Mylan Hawkins, Executive Director of the Nevada Diabetes Association for Children and Adults.
Senator Rawson moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Senators Rawson and O'Donnell.
Senator Rawson requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Senator Rawson:
Through all the history of mankind, there have been three significant plagues: fever, famine and war. Diabetes has caused as much suffering, hardship and trial as any of those conditions or famines.
Historically, people simply died from diabetes. With the discovery that there were extracts from pig pancreases that could ameliorate the disease, there was hope the disease was conquered. It was not. There were many people who were intolerant to the insulin. It took the development of new medications and new processes to be able to reach a wider group of people. We have had many false starts in being able to cure diabetes. With the intolerance of pig insulin, we have seen the use of human insulin, oral medications, diffusion pumps and the development of a broad range of knowledge about controlling diabetes through diet. This may well be the last generation to really suffer with diabetes. I hate to be one to predict a cure, but it is certainly on the horizon sometime, if not in our lifetime, soon.
Because of the number of people affected and because of the tremendous impact on our country, it is very appropriate that we recognize this resolution today. We need to raise awareness to this condition and to do all that we can within the State to put our resources into trying to take care of this dreaded but manageable condition.
I wholeheartedly ask your support of this resolution.
Senator O'Donnell:
Dreaded but manageable, those are the key words here. Endocrinology is the discipline that treats diabetes. I know first hand, because my family has diabetes. My brother, his daughters and my father have it. It is a terrible disease. But more so terrible, if a person does not know he or she has it and does not seek treatment. The consequences of this disease are devastating. With this Nevada Diabetes Awareness Day, I hope people take a serious view of their own health, and if they suspect they may have this disease, I encourage them to get tested and, if they are diagnosed, to get the proper treatment.
Resolution adopted.
Resolution ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
Senator Raggio moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
Motion carried.
Senate in recess at 12:14 p.m.
SENATE IN SESSION
At 12:44 p.m.
President pro Tempore Jacobsen presiding.
Quorum present.
MESSAGES FROM THE ASSEMBLY
Assembly Chamber, Carson City, March 27, 2001
To the Honorable the Senate:
I have the honor to inform your honorable body that the Assembly on this day adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 18.
Patricia R. Williams
Assistant Chief Clerk of the Assembly
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 18—Memorializing former Assemblywoman Jan Evans.
Whereas, On April 24, 2000, flags throughout the State of Nevada were lowered to half-mast in honor of the passing of one of this state’s most beloved and accomplished legislators, Jan Evans; and
Whereas, If ever there was a time when a person’s passing initiated a celebration of life, in addition to creating a cause to mourn an irreplaceable loss, the passing of Jan Evans was such a time; and
Whereas, Although few were aware of it, after her birth in Cleveland, Ohio, Jan grew up in foster homes, where her closest family and best friends were the animals in the barn, a circumstance that in no way embittered her, but rather caused her to work passionately on issues such as child abuse, domestic violence, education and juvenile justice to protect the rights of children; and
Whereas, After putting herself through the University of Northern Colorado, Jan taught in the Denver public schools until she moved to Reno in 1969, where she extended her education by earning a master’s degree in sociology from the University of Nevada, Reno; and
Whereas, After moving to Reno, Jan performed volunteer work in the community, and even before she began her career as a public servant upon being elected in 1986 to represent the residents of Sparks District 30 in the Assembly, she influenced the legislative process in the State of Nevada by spending time as a volunteer lobbyist; and
Whereas, During her tenure as an Assemblywoman, Jan distinguished herself by attaining the distinction of highest-ranking woman in the Assembly while serving as a member of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means and the Interim Finance Committee each session, as Vice Chair of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means for three sessions, as Committee Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and Assistant Majority Floor Leader during the 1991 session, as Cospeaker pro Tempore during the 1995 session and as Speaker pro Tempore during the 1997 and 1999 sessions; and
Whereas, As the primary sponsor of many important pieces of legislation that will touch lives far into the future, Jan Evans built a legacy which can never die as she worked diligently to secure the passage of bills to increase money for victims of domestic violence, for protective services for children, for libraries, for treatment of AIDS and for programs for adult literacy; and
Whereas, Jan also sponsored bills to help equip pupils with the necessary skills for transition from school to work, to upgrade services relating to substance abuse and mental health, to accomplish long-term financial analysis and planning for our state, and to facilitate the use of money from federal tobacco settlements; and
Whereas, Jan will be especially remembered and admired for her courage and diligence in working for issues relating to women and children because, as one of her legislative colleagues recalled, “She cared about those issues at a time when they were not popular” and “to take on things like domestic violence was very unpopular, but she was very brave”; and
Whereas, Colleagues also remember Jan as one who was always prepared and had her facts at hand, and they fondly recall the image of her slowly lowering her head and looking over her colorful glasses to “scold” anyone who came unprepared for a meeting of her committee; and
Whereas, In the political arena where the ability to unite those with diverse opinions looms awesome, this great lady was recognized as a builder of bridges toward consensus and as a “power-sharer” who often did most of the work on a project but was the first to offer thanks to everyone who helped; and
Whereas, Throughout the seven terms Jan served in the Assembly, her dedication to the residents of the State of Nevada never waned, even during her struggle with cancer, as evidenced by the calls she made from her hospital bed after surgery to determine the progress of legislation that was important to her; and
Whereas, Proving herself to be a powerful force not only as a legislator, Jan revealed her strength of character and devotion to others through the massive amount of time she spent helping such organizations as the Advisory Council of the Committee to Aid Abused Women, Nevada Women’s Fund, Women’s Health Initiative, KNPB TV, Sparks Heritage Foundation and Sparks Community Chamber of Commerce, in addition to her role as the Director of Development for the University of Nevada School of Medicine; and
Whereas, The receipt of such awards as the Thornton Peace Prize from the University of Nevada, Reno, the Women Helping Women Award from the Soroptimist International of Truckee Meadows, the Hannah Humanitarian Award from the Committee to Aid Abused Women, the National Merit Award from the State Democratic Leaders Association, the Governor’s Mental Health Leadership Award, the Toll Fellowship from the Council of State Governments, the Mike O’Callaghan Humanitarian Award from the Truckee Meadows Human Services Association, the People’s Guardian Award, the Women’s Role Model Award and posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame of the Nevada Women’s Fund cannot express the gratitude she deserves; and
Whereas, In spite of her long hours of serious work, Jan also had a lighter side, as evidenced by the recollection of her close friend Sue Wagner, former Lieutenant Governor of Nevada, when she smiled about times she and Jan, as two of the few Cleveland Indian fans in this area, would pretend they were announcers and broadcast games to each other over the telephone; and
Whereas, Jan Evans, said the Reverend John Ruby, who conducted her funeral service, “lived not only with passion for issues, but compassion for people”; and
Whereas, Perhaps Dr. Robert Daugherty, Dean of the University of Nevada School of Medicine best summed up our feelings when he eulogized, “What do you say when an angel goes to heaven? Nevada has lost part of its soul and those of us left can only hope to show each other the respect and provide the help that Jan provided every day. In the office or in the Legislature, she was always looking after someone other than herself. Her behind-the-scenes work on behalf of all of us is indestructible, and the results will live for a long time.”; and
Whereas, Jan’s presence will be sorely missed, both in the Legislature and in all the places she touched, because as everyone who knew her acknowledges, Jan was a completely selfless champion of those who were unable to fight for themselves; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly of the State of Nevada, the Senate Concurring, That the members of the 71st legislative session offer their sincerest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Jan Evans, a woman who endeared herself to everyone she knew, especially to those of us with whom she served; and be it further
Resolved, That the name Jan Evans has become, and will always remain, synonymous with compassion, courage and integrity, and the person Jan Evans will always be alive in our hearts and minds; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly prepare and transmit a copy of this resolution to Jan’s son, Robert Evans, and her daughter, Tracey Heath.
Senator Raggio moved the adoption of the resolution.
Remarks by Senators Raggio, Titus and Washington.
Senator Raggio requested that the following remarks be entered in the Journal.
Senator Raggio:
I doubt that enough can be said in this Chamber about the life and the commitment of Jan Evans. I know that the other House has spent a great deal of time talking about her this morning; all of her colleagues miss her immensely. We have with us, today, her son, and I do not want to extend the discomfort for him having to hear about all of this, but I think it is most fitting that this Chamber, as well, pause for the day and recognize a very distinguished lady.
We do not realize, sometimes, how fragile life is. A couple of sessions back, there was this dynamic young lady, Assemblywoman Jan Evans, who was dedicated, committed, vibrant and all over this building. She would often come into each of our offices on a mission of her own with a commitment to a purpose. I would be sitting at my desk, and she would come into my office, with those glasses down, and she would tell me just what she thought about an issue. Usually, she was right and I was wrong.
In the time I have served in the Legislature, I have had occasion to observe a great many legislators. Each has made a contribution, some more significant than others, and some make a high mark. Jan Evans left a heritage here. She was one of the most highly-principled individuals I have ever known. She established a high standard for legislative service and for anything she undertook. She was a strong voice for women and children’s issues. She was a leader in the dialogue and often the one who offered the best judgment and solution. Many of our budgets were closed only after Jan had put her imprimatur on those programs. She cared. She gave a great deal of her time and her life, I am certain, at the expense of her own life and her own family for the care of others. She was one who rose above party and above sectionalism. That is a high mark for those who serve in this body. She cared about individuals, about women, about children and about those in need. She cared about the whole State.
The legacy she has established is certainly one that should be a guide for all who follow in her footsteps. She represented her constituents in Sparks to the fullest. She was extremely dedicated to the University of Nevada Medical School where she held a high position. She was an interested participant in any issue that came before her. I shall miss her. I know others who had the privilege of serving with her will always remember Jan for those dedicated efforts, for her life of commitment and for her contribution to this State.
Senator Titus:
On my first day in the Nevada Senate, I discovered a teacup flower arrangement on my desk with a welcome note from Jan Evans. She became a wonderful friend over the years and served as an incredible role model, though she was very modest about her own accomplishments. I will never forget her, nor will Nevada. The things she did for women and children made an indelible mark on this State, and it is unlikely that her shoes will ever be filled, no matter how hard some of us try to follow her example and do what is right.
Senator Washington:
Serving in the same district with Jan Evans gave me a number of opportunities to cross paths with her while on the campaign trail. Often times, when I would knock on doors, the constituents would remark to me, “Are you running against Jan?” I would say, “No, I am not running against Jan.” They would say, “Thank God, because she has always been responsive. She has always been attendant to our needs, and she was accessible.” I thought to myself what a representative she was. It just showed how she had a caring heart, a loving heart for the people who she represented. Not only did she represent them, but also, she served them well.
I had an opportunity to go to San Diego with Jan Evans several years ago. We were studying juvenile crimes and juvenile justice. Serving on that committee with her gave me the opportunity to watch her work. She was intelligent, articulate and passionate about what she was doing. It convinced me that Jan was a wonderful legislator. It was a great opportunity for me to be part of the district that she served.
I want to say how much I appreciated Jan and her dedication to the Sparks district, and that she will be sorely missed.
Resolution adopted.
Resolution ordered transmitted to the Assembly.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Signing of Bills and Resolutions
There being no objections, the President pro Tempore and Secretary signed Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 15.
REMARKS FROM THE FLOOR
Senator Neal requested that his remarks be entered in the Journal.
I would like to explain my “no” vote on Senate Bill No. 234. The reason I voted against Senate Bill No. 234 is not because I am against victims’ rights. When we allow victims’ statements to appear in court, and allow a judge to make the sentence based on what he hears, then the tendency is to give greater weight to the victims’ statement rather than to the crime. If that is the case, and since we have more majority whites in the country and in the State of Nevada, we would tend to have harsher punishment being dealt against minority groups and others as a result. We see a lot of that happening, now, in our criminal justice system.
It was my feeling that when I saw this bill that it is time to take a look at the victims’ statement and see whether considering it is doing more damage than good. I know that the individuals who voted this out of the Committee on Judiciary probably felt that this is the right thing to do, but it also allows for the politicization of the criminal justice system by allowing the statements of victims to occur prior to sentence. The judge, who has to run for office and sit through these statements, then must dole out a sentence accordingly based on the hurt felt by the victim or suffer the consequences at the polls. I understand the victims’ hurt, but our system of justice is not supposed to be based on vengeance but on punishments that meet the crime committed.
GUESTS EXTENDED PRIVILEGE OF SENATE FLOOR
On request of Senator McGinness, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Donna Campbell.
On request of Senator Neal, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Quin Rivers, Ethel Archibald and Elizabeth Sheffield.
On request of Senator O'Connell, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to the following students from the Green Valley Christian School: Emmie Ahmadi, R. J. Albert, Nicole Buscher, Bianca DeStout, Amber Garrity, Jonathan Gentile, Kristina Guadalupe, Kevin Horton, Brittany Burridge, Joseph Macaluso, Joseph Nacion, Megan Orsulak, Stephanie Serhan, Nick Stoffel, Nick Underwood, Justin Van Burems, Daniel Hedrick; chaperones: Bob Albert, Steven DeStout, Denise Gentile, Norma Guadalupe, Randy Burridge, Stephen Orsulak, Simon Serhan, Diane Underwood, Lee Underwood, Lisa Archie, Pam Hedrick, Deborah Ingalls and Fay Waller.
On request of Senator O'Donnell, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Colonel Matt Wallace and Lieutenant Colonel Jack Schofield, former Assemblyman and Senator.
On request of Senator Porter, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Joni Reid.
On request of Senator Rawson, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Carolyn Leontos, Dr. Claude K. Lardinois and Mylan Hawkins.
On request of Senator Raggio, the privilege of the floor of the Senate Chamber for this day was extended to Dr. and Mrs. John Seinfeld, Steve Wells, Marsha Lindsey and Robert Evans.
Senator Raggio moved that the Senate adjourn until Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 11 a.m.
Motion carried.
Senate adjourned at 1:01 p.m.
Approved:Lawrence E. Jacobsen
President pro Tempore of the Senate
Attest: Claire J. Clift
Secretary of the Senate