Gov. Steve Sisolak declared a state of fiscal emergency Monday in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. His office said the pandemic has put a strain on public services in the state of Nevada.

In a press release, his office said in part:

“At this time, Nevada is estimating a significant shortfall of State General Fund revenue with joint estimates from the Governor’s Finance Office and Legislative Counsel Bureau-Fiscal Division ranging from $741 million to $911 million for the fiscal year ending on June 30, which includes a projected shortfall in the State Distributive School Account as well. As expected, the revenues most significantly impacted are gaming and sales tax.”

The declaration of a fiscal emergency gives the governor and the Interim Finance Committee authority to transfer money from the Rainy Day Fund to the general fund.