2012 PRIMARY ELECTION: ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 5

Bill Harrington wants to improve the job market and public education.

Barry Keller would like to see less government regulation of businesses in Nevada and reform of the child welfare system.

The Republican candidates for Assembly District 5 agree economic recovery is key but have different strategies for pulling the state out of its tailspin.

One will emerge from the primary to face incumbent Assemblywoman Marilyn Dondero Loop, a Democrat, and Jason Reeves, an Independent American, in the general election on Nov. 6.

Harrington's focus is on creating jobs. "Obviously we have to get this economy up and going and families need jobs," he said.

Harrington believes the state shouldn't raise taxes "or increase fees of any type" in order to improve the job market.

Instead of tax increases, he said, "we need to reduce expenses and quit paying for things we don't need."

Keller said his focus, if elected, would be to decrease government regulation.

"Unfortunately, a lot of businesses are being over-regulated," he said, noting that fees that are charged hamper businesses and the job market, and only serve as revenue enhancements for state government.

Keller said state government needs to be more efficient with its operating funds.

"We need to step back and live within our means," said Keller, who, like Harrington, is opposed to tax increases.

Harrington, a doctor and former assemblyman from District 2, said, "We also must improve K through 12 education else children are not going to be able to compete in this technologically advanced world."

An improved education system will improve the climate for businesses to move to Nevada and stay in the state, therefore improving the prospects for jobs.

Harrington served during the Legislature's 1995 session and was chairman of the Education Committee and vice chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee.

Another one of Keller's goals is to explore ways to revamp the child welfare system, which in turn will put less burden on jails and prisons. At the end of the day, the economy will have a healthier environment in which to thrive.

"The foster care system in Nevada is completely broken. As a result, a lot of kids end up in penal systems," he said.

He would offer incentives for couples to become foster parents, while stopping budget cutbacks for care of the children so that foster parents can make their ends meet.

Keller has experience holding a public office. He was elected constable of Salt Lake County, Utah, in 1986.

He made an unsuccessful bid for constable a year after he moved to Las Vegas in 2002.

Contact reporter Keith Rogers at krogers@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0308.