As the Nebraska Legislature prepares to vote on Gov. Jim Pillen’s property tax reduction plan tomorrow/Thursday, a coalition of primarily business groups is strongly opposing the proposal. The group, which consists of grocers, broadcasters, convenience stores, and others, has written a letter to the governor expressing their concerns. They believe that the plan would result in significant cost increases for businesses and would also impact the average Nebraska family by increasing their expenses.
The bill in question would require sales tax to be applied to items that are currently exempt, such as pop, candy, and veterinary services for pets. The revenue generated from these taxes would be used to support schools in an effort to reduce property taxes by approximately 22 percent, according to Pillen’s budget office.
Opponents of the bill argue that applying sales tax to previously exempt items will result in significant cost increases for businesses and consumers alike. They also argue that this move will have a negative impact on families who rely on these goods and services on a regular basis. In addition to these concerns, there is also uncertainty about how much revenue will actually be generated from this new taxation system.
Despite these concerns, proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary in order to reduce property taxes for Nebraska families and improve schools across the state. However, if opponents choose to filibuster or otherwise block the bill from passing its final vote tomorrow/Thursday, it remains uncertain whether this plan will ultimately become law.