Nebraska lawmakers reconvened on the legislative floor Wednesday afternoon to begin debate on a variety of bills aimed at property tax relief.
Unfortunately, the majority of the afternoon session was political, with some lawmakers condoning Gov. Jim Pillen for forcing this special session despite many ideas being shot down in the regular session.
Lincoln Senator Danielle Conrad says these proposed taxes are are robbing from the poor to give to the rich, likened to a reverse Robin Hood.
“Governor Pillen is wrong and utilizing a special session of the legislature paid for by Nebraska taxpayers to facilitate a political do over for a failed governor’s failed plan is wrong,” said Conrad. “So it’s right that we take this up when it comes to paying for this special session that we find ourselves in today. And it’s important that we recognize that we should not legitimize nor normalize what is happening in Nebraska this summer.”
District 16 Senator Ben Hansen says it’s lawmakers duties to come together to help Nebraskans with the mounting burden of property taxes. He said with the lawmakers convened for the special session, it’s imperative to make this time count.
“What’s abnormal and not normal is the property owners of this state being taxed out of their homes. People retiring out of our state. That is abnormal,” said Hansen. “Now, how you conduct a special session? We’re here. Let’s do our jobs.”
Hansen also condoned lawmakers who spent a majority of the regular session filibustering and forcing late night sessions as a reason why they’re back in the legislative chambers in August.
Wednesday marked the eighth day of the special legislative session.
