LINCOLN — It’s mission accomplished for Nebraska lawmakers who targeted the property tax issue this legislative session.
Governor Ricketts has signed a bill that will steer an extra $20 million to farm and ranch owners next year to offset local property tax burden. This combines with a bill that makes it easier for some schools to lower levy rates.
43rd District Senator Al Davis acknowledged the bill wasn’t all that it could be, but he’s happy it assists producers.
“It’s certainly a step in the right direction,” Davis offers. “The property tax relief that’s in that bill is really specifically targeted to the agricultural producer.”
“I think agriculturists felt that they were not being listened to here, and so, by really targeting tax relief for agricultural, I think we’re sending a message that we do care,” he adds.
Senator Kate Sullivan, of Cedar Rapids, helped introduce the measure, which Ricketts said was a top priority this session. The proposal was watered down from his original plan to impose spending controls on local governments.
Ricketts explains that the bills weren’t everything he sought, but says compromise is part of the legislative process.
