Jobs/Small Business Development - This is connected to education because you cannot be serious about economic development without being serious about education. At a 13% + unemployment rate, now more than ever we need to maintain a tax friendly business environment to attract and retain diverse business interests. Over 200,000 Nevadans are employed by small businesses. Working with industry, education, lenders, and the business community, a comprehensive approach can be developed that will enable businesses to survive these difficult times and begin to thrive again.