Gibbons moves State of the State address to Jan. 15

Gov. Jim Gibbons has moved his State of the State address up four days to avoid a conflict with a state holiday and the inauguration of Barack Obama.

Traditionally, he said, the governor's opening address to the Legislature takes place two weeks before the session begins. But this year, that would put it on Jan. 19 " Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

"Requiring legislative employees to work on the holiday for the State of the State address would force us to pay overtime, which is something that seems unreasonable during this budget crunch," Gibbons said.

He said that is also the day before Obama's inauguration, which would make it difficult for the many Nevadans who want to attend in Washington, D.C.

Gibbons said he has been asked to consider changing the date of the address by several lawmakers and other officials.

"I certainly understand their desire to be part of such an historic event," he said.

Gibbons will address lawmakers Jan. 15 beginning at 6:30 p.m.