"Nebraska's Tax Reform Bill Defeated in Last-Minute Legislative Session"

Gov. Jim Pillen's plan to raise sales taxes to reduce local property taxes, known as Legislative Bill 388, suffered a stunning defeat on the final day of the 2024 state legislative session. The bill faced opposition for doing little to relieve property taxes and containing likely unconstitutional clauses. The defeat likely ensures a special session on taxes, as Pillen has vowed to keep senators in session until Christmas if necessary to achieve a 40% reduction in local property taxes. The bill faced criticism for hurried assembly and last-minute amendments, and opponents are now discussing alternative paths to lower property taxes, such as legalizing marijuana and online gaming.