Lombardo Vetoes Paid Family Leave Bill, Advocates Vow to Keep Fighting for Workers

CARSON CITY – Today, Gov. Joe Lombardo vetoed AB388, a measure that expands on existing paid family leave policies for state employees and would create new requirements for paid family and medical leave for private employers. The Assembly initially passed the bill on May 29th, 2025, by a vote of 26-16. It passed the Senate by an 11-9 vote (one abstention).

Shelbie Swartz, Executive Director of Battle Born Progress, issued the following statement:

“First and foremost, thank you to Assemblymember Selena La Rue Hatch for bringing AB388 forward and fighting for it throughout the legislative session. As a mother who was fortunate to have access to a strong paid family and medical leave policy through my employer, I know firsthand how vital that support can be during life’s most challenging moments. That’s why I’m deeply disappointed by Governor Lombardo’s decision to veto AB388—a bill that would have extended these basic protections to countless Nevada families. Paid family leave isn’t just good for workers; it strengthens businesses by allowing employees to recover from illness or care for loved ones without sacrificing financial stability. Too many Nevadans are still forced to choose between their health and paycheck. This veto sends a clear message: working families are not the priority. Governor Lombardo had a chance to stand with Nevada’s families—and he instead chose to stand with business interests.”

Kaylyn Kardavani, Executive Director, New Day Nevada, issued the following statement:

“Governor Lombardo’s veto of AB 388 is a direct betrayal of Nevada’s working families. After so many Nevadans struggled through illness, childbirth, and caregiving without paid leave, this bill was our promise of relief, and he snatched it away. By siding with big business and his corporate donors over everyday workers, he’s made clear whose interests he protects. New Day Nevada stands ready to keep fighting for the basic dignity of every worker, but make no mistake, this veto is a disgrace.”

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About Battle Born Progress: Battle Born Progress, through strategic communication efforts, empowers, engages and mobilizes Nevada voters to build a state where everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed. We support, engage, and mobilize the progressive community through bold leadership, strategic communications, accountability, and education. We are on the cutting edge of new media and are the go-to source for progressive issues and advocacy for traditional media.