Action Alert: Special Session Update

The Nebraska Legislative Special Session is moving quickly. Bill introduction completed this morning with more than 100 bills and resolutions introduced to address property taxes. Committee hearings also began today and now is the time to submit online comments and contact your Senator directly.

The impact of proposed legislation could be devastating to Nebraska families. Some bills would create new taxes on everyday goods and services while others target drastic cuts to state agency budgets that would reduce critical services to folks and families. These bills could be on the floor later this week with committee hearings TOMORROW. Now is the time to add your voice.

ACTIONS TO TAKE TODAY

LB 1 is a massive tax increase on Nebraska families that will make it harder for them to afford everyday goods and services (outlined in our previous blog post with increases now at 5.5% and family planning services excluded from the introduced legislation). LB 1 will be heard by the Revenue Committee beginning at 9:30 am on Tuesday, July 30.

LB 2 is the bill that would make massive cuts to state agencies, including $80 million out of the Department of Health and Human Services. Most concerning is $10 million cuts out of Public Assistance programs and $8 million out of Behavioral Health. This will dramatically impact our state’s ability to support Nebraska families through programs like SNAP and childcare subsidies. LB 2 will be heard by the Appropriations Committee on Tuesday.

Again, we don’t often talk about taxes but when proposed legislation could impact the financial health and well-being of women and families, you can bet we’re paying attention and inviting you all to take action, too. Now is the time to contact your senator and tell them to oppose the Governor’s plan that would increase taxes on Nebraska families.