Nebraska Governor Calls Special Session on Taxes

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has called for a special legislative session to address the state's rising property taxes, giving lawmakers just a day's notice before it begins on Thursday. The session aims to lower property taxes by implementing new taxes on cigarettes, vaping products, and gambling, and removing numerous sales tax exemptions. Critics argue the plan disproportionately impacts working- and middle-class families and lacks sufficient guidance. There is frustration over the governor’s absence from public listening sessions and perceived disregard for legislative processes. Pillen's proposal also aims to shift a significant portion of property tax-funded K-12 education to the state budget over three years. Additionally, the proclamation did not address changing Nebraska's unique split electoral vote system ahead of the upcoming presidential election.