Big win for small business: Nevada’s handyman bill becomes law

By Erica Neely

Nevada News and Views

It’s not every day that “the little guy” gets a win in politics — but this week, the Latin Chamber of Commerce (LCC) celebrated just that.

Governor Joe Lombardo will join local lawmakers, business leaders, and community members to mark the official signing of SB130, a new Nevada law that creates a first-of-its-kind handyman license.

For years, small contractors and home repair workers in Nevada faced an uphill battle.

If you wanted to do even basic work like fixing drywall, repairing cabinets, or putting in flooring, you had to go through the same long and expensive licensing process as a full-scale contractor.

That made it nearly impossible for many hardworking Nevadans to get started in the trades.

SB130 changes that.

The new law creates an entry-level home remodeling license. Think of it as a stepping stone; workers can now start small, legally earn a living, and then grow into a full contractor’s license if they choose.

Nevada’s New Law Levels the Playing Field

The Latin Chamber of Commerce, led by President Peter Guzman, pushed hard for this reform. He called the bill “for the little guy with big dreams.”

The Nevada State Contractors Board also partnered with the Chamber to make it happen.

Guzman explained that the bill opens the door for young people and entrepreneurs who want to build a career with their hands but couldn’t afford the barriers Nevada had in place.

Governor Lombardo, who has made cutting red tape and expanding opportunity a central part of his leadership, will participate in a ceremonial signing at a date, time, and place yet to be announced.

Cutting Red Tape to Boost Jobs and Opportunity

Nevada is a state full of small businesses, but too often, government licensing laws make it harder — not easier — for people to work.

Conservatives have long warned that excessive regulations protect big companies while squeezing out the little guy.

SB130 is a rare case where lawmakers agreed to lift some of those barriers.

By creating a handyman license, Nevada is planting the seeds for the next generation of skilled tradesmen and women.

And it couldn’t come at a better time.

Nevada is facing a shortage of workers in construction and home improvement. Families across the state know how hard it is to find someone reliable to fix a leaky roof or remodel a bathroom without waiting months.

This law means more legal workers can step in and meet that demand.

Critics Warn of Risks, But Supporters See Opportunity

Some larger contractor groups worry that the new license could cut into their business or lead to unqualified workers competing for jobs.

Others argue that loosening rules might create more risks for homeowners if jobs aren’t done properly.

But the Latin Chamber and its allies point out that the handyman license has clear limits.

It’s designed for entry-level work, not major construction. The goal is to give small entrepreneurs a legal path forward while still keeping safety rules in place.

What SB130 Means for Nevada’s Future

This new law is a win for Nevada workers, small businesses, and families alike.

It shows that with enough persistence, community organizations like the Latin Chamber of Commerce can make government work for everyday people instead of just the insiders.

In a state that prides itself on opportunity and growth, that message couldn’t be more fitting.

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Erica Neely is a grassroots advocate, small business owner, director, community leader, and founder of the Hispanic Latin Alliance. Deeply rooted in family values, she is passionate about empowering her community and driving meaningful change.