Nebraska Lawmakers Struggle to Cut Property Taxes

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Legislature's special session, initiated to address property tax reductions, has been marked by prolonged debates and significant discord among lawmakers. Over three weeks, the session has seen extensive filibusters and lengthy days, with some sessions exceeding 12 hours. Republican Senator Steve Erdman emphasized the majority's power, stating, “we can do whatever we want with 25 votes,” while Democratic Senator Machaela Cavanaugh described the atmosphere as a “firestorm.” Despite over 100 proposals introduced, only a limited number have gained traction. The most notable includes a bill aimed at capping local government tax levies and automatically allocating an existing property tax credit, alongside two bills to cover the estimated $140 million cost. Erdman pointed out that while property taxes are rising significantly for many, the proposed relief would only amount to 3%. Tensions escalated when Governor Pillen labeled dissenting lawmakers as obstructionists, prompting backlash from both parties. Democratic Senator Danielle Conrad criticized the governor's tactics as an “abuse of power,” while Republican Senator Julie Slama mockingly referred to him as “King Jimmy” on social media. The contentious session has disrupted personal lives, affecting family vacations and medical treatments for some lawmakers. As the special session reconvenes, the urgency to finalize property tax legislation remains high, with lawmakers expressing concern over the deteriorating situation. Senator Slama remarked, “The wheels are falling off this special session and they are falling off fast.”