As a lifelong Nevadan, I believe that our government should work just as hard for the people of Nevada as the people of Nevada work themselves. Being elected by those who both knew me and did not know me to represent them in the Nevada State Senate is both an honor and privilege I hold dear to my heart, and one I will never take for granted. The promise of Nevada is fundamentally about three things: freedom, fairness and faith in our government.

I believe all Nevadans should have the freedom to pursue the best quality of life for themselves and their families. I know times are tough. I watch as many seniors in my district are struggling to balance their rising health care bills and plummeting 401K. I witness my close friends balance the needs of their children while trying to make their monthly mortgage payments. My own family members and friends have lost jobs in the past year. We are, indeed, at a crossroads.  I believe that as a state, and as elected officials, we need to face the future with courage. As your public servant, I will continue to do all I can to ensure that the families of Nevada are given the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Recently, I sponsored legislation that requires all Nevada High School students to be taught the tools and skills of fiscal responsibility and management -- to ensure future generations do not face the struggle our generation is facing now. I know we have more to do. But, I firmly believe that if we clear the path for Nevadans to have the freedom to succeed, they will because they have the grit and determination to do so.

I pledge to work to restore fairness in Nevada policy so that the laws are balanced to benefit the people of Nevada. In my view, somehow things got flipped around-- those who break the rules too often get ahead, while those who work hard and play by the rules struggle. That's just not right. For this reason I supported legislation that brought higher standards to our medical profession, ensuring hard working Nevadans are never subjected to a situation like the Hepatitis C scare again. I also supported legislation that would enforce our workplace safety laws and make sure those that are injured are taken care of faster and with better care. It is only fair that those who build and support our state are given the support they need when they are hurt.

Lastly, I will continue to work to restore faith and trust in our government. We need more transparency and accountability in our government and from our leaders, and we must hold our leaders to the highest of ethical standards. In these difficult times, Nevada must spend wisely. Accountability is most important now. For this reason, I supported the creation of a specific subcommittee to oversee the use and disbursement of the Federal Stimulus funds coming to Nevada in the 2009 Legislative Session. I want to make sure that the dollars coming into our state are effectively used to help the most Nevadans as possible.

Personally, I pledge to each and every Nevadan to be available and ready to help. Should you need to contact me, do not hesitate. And if you need help now, click here. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your State Senator.

All my best,

Allison Copening

Clark County- Senate District 6