Controversy Surrounds Musk’s Boring Company and Nevada Governor’s Office
The administration of Governor Joe Lombardo is facing scrutiny after it reportedly dismissed safety violations against Elon Musk’s Boring Company, which were initially identified by Nevada OSHA. This decision has stirred significant controversy, as lawmakers demand answers about the alleged cover-up. The Legislature’s Interim Committee on Growth and Infrastructure plans to hold a hearing next week to address these concerns and the involvement of the world’s wealthiest man’s enterprise.
Following an extensive investigation, Nevada OSHA concluded that the Boring Company had committed “serious” and “willful” safety violations. However, after interactions between the company and Lombardo’s office, the initially imposed fines were rescinded swiftly. This action has led to allegations of a backdoor deal, with claims that the Governor’s office attempted to erase records of the fines and the meetings with Boring Company executives. The issue has now escalated to a federal investigation.
Assemblymember Howard Watts, chairing the Legislature’s Interim Committee on Growth and Infrastructure, expressed dissatisfaction with Lombardo’s office’s refusal to engage. Watts noted this was the first occasion someone had “flat rejected” a request to discuss these matters.
Nevada Independent: Lombardo’s office declines lawmaker’s request to attend meeting on Musk’s Boring Co.
- The governor’s office declined the committee chair’s invitation to discuss regulatory oversight concerning the Boring Company’s Southern Nevada project.
- Watts commented on the situation, saying, “It’s really disappointing. People want answers.”
- The Boring Company faces accusations of nearly 800 environmental regulation violations and exposure of firefighters to harmful substances, with two requiring hospitalization.
- To date, according to Watts, the Boring Company has not paid any fines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Neither the governor’s office nor the Boring Company responded to The Nevada Independent’s request for an interview before the publication deadline.
- Watts recounted that he sent the request earlier this year for someone from the governor’s office to attend the meeting, and the refusal letter was unexpected. He mentioned it was the first outright rejection he had encountered.
- Aside from the rejection letter, Watts reported no further communication from the governor’s office.
- Earlier this month, Watts and Senator Fabian Doñate (D-Las Vegas) requested an environmental inspection of the Boring Company from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP), citing safety concerns.
- Watts emphasized the importance of safety, stating, “The bottom line is keeping workers and residents safe. We want to make sure our state agencies are holding this company accountable and that they’re playing by the rules, and by their special set of rules.”
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