Nebraska’s legislative leaders have taken up a historic package of legislation aimed at providing much-needed property tax relief to state residents. Governor Jim Pillen, who made this issue a top priority, described the proposed tax package as transformational and said it would be a game-changer for many Nebraskans.
The bill has sparked debate among state senators, with some expressing concerns about shifting the tax burden to consumers through sales tax increases. Some business owners are worried about specific hikes, such as a proposed 100% tax on CBD and hemp products, which could lead to a decrease in sales tax revenue as businesses struggle to stay afloat. Sarah Linden, CEO of Grateful Green, pointed out that the proposed tax increase could hurt lower to middle-income individuals who rely on these products for medical purposes.
At Brewsky’s Food and Spirits, owner Brian Kitten expressed worry about a proposed 20% tax on games of skill machines. Kitten emphasized the importance of these machines in generating revenue, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. He fears that implementing this tax could lead to further financial difficulties for his business and other small enterprises across the state.
Despite these concerns, the goal remains to provide much-needed property tax relief to Nebraskans. The bill is subject to change while being debated by senators, who may spend several days adjusting the language and specifics of the legislation. However, with Pillen’s support and dedication to this cause, there is hope that property taxes will soon become more manageable for all Nebraskans.
