Bill zeroes in on rules for independent contractors

(AP) - Rules governing government contracts in Nevada are under scrutiny.

Tuesday's meeting about SB359 before a Senate Finance subcommittee zeroed in on requirements independent contractors have to meet to do business with the state.

Among other things, the bill would require contractors to sign a code of conduct.

The bill would also require the state to track information such as the contractor's race, ethnicity and gender. Another provision would prevent contracts from being renewed without an open bidding process.

Sen. Sheila Leslie of Reno says the purpose of the bill is to improve transparency and open government.