Michael’s Priorities
What Does the Controller
Actually Do?
The Controller’s office protects every dollar in Nevada. It holds the Treasurer, Legislature, and Governor accountable so public money goes where it should while following the law and our budget. That keeps Nevada out of deficit, protects emergency funds, and keeps social services running. As Controller, I will focus on three priorities to help Nevada families get ahead in a tough economy.
Pillar 1
The Audit
The Controller’s main job is to track every dollar going in and out of state bank accounts and report it each year. This includes money from the federal government, money the state collects in taxes, and money spent in our communities. Unfortunately, Nevada has fallen behind. The current Republican Controller has failed in his duty to ensure this audit is up to date in alignment with policy and law. On day one as your controller, I will work to bring us into full compliance. Making our audits current will allow us to take a clear look at our state’s finances, accurately address problems and have better information on how to enact solutions.
Pillar 2
Public Transit
The Controller serves on the State Board of Transportation, led by the Governor. This board sets transportation policy across Nevada.
As Controller, I will use this role to improve access to public transportation in every county. I will push for transit that gets more Nevadans to work, healthcare, and school safely and on time.
Pillar 3
Collecting Taxes
The Controller also acts as a watchdog over uncollected tax revenue owed to the State of Nevada. In addition to reporting on numbers the Controller has certain authority to go after that money. Currently Nevada has over 900 million dollars in uncollected tax revenues. As Controller I will work on bringing that number down by taking a critical look at where that money will come from, who owes the money, how much of it is recoverable and when, and how to encourage early pay. Every dollar recovered this way is a dollar back into our state funding infrastructure, schools, healthcare, and community necessities.