UPDATE: The 109th session of the Nebraska Legislature is set to kick off on January 7, 2024, with state senators facing an urgent challenge to address an estimated $471 million budget shortfall. District 19 state Senator Rob Dover from Norfolk has voiced strong opinions, asserting that Nebraska is not grappling with a deficit but rather a state spending problem.
During a recent statement, Dover emphasized, “We really do not have a $400 million-plus shortfall because, basically, we are transferring around $700 million that we did not use to transfer for property tax relief.” He argued that funds are being redirected to subsidize schools instead of addressing the budget shortfall directly.
As lawmakers gear up for the 60-day legislative session, which runs through mid-April, Dover anticipates cuts in various areas to balance the budget. He reassured constituents about the funding for a new residence hall for students at Northeast Community College, stating he secured $250,000 for a feasibility study and has proposed $750,000 annually for the next decade for construction at the old Hy-Vee East location.
When asked about potential cuts impacting this project, Dover confidently stated, “In the overall budget of the state, $750,000 does not affect a lot of agencies and programs. I have never heard of intent language not being followed through on.”
Property tax relief is also a pressing issue, with Governor Jim Pillen expected to propose a significant shift in funding K-12 public schools, transferring responsibilities to the state instead of local taxing boards. When questioned about his support for the governor’s proposal, Dover responded cautiously, “It is hard to comment on something when you do not have the bill in front of you to read through. But I am going to do what the local constituents want.”
As the session approaches, the pressure mounts for Nebraska lawmakers to find solutions to these pressing budgetary concerns, setting the stage for heated discussions and critical decisions in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for the latest developments as this situation unfolds.
