2024 Session Recap
May 08th, 2024
Hello Friends and Neighbors,
As the 2024 legislative session drew to a close on April 18th, I found myself reflecting on the whirlwind of activity and progress we achieved together. From the halls of the Capitol to the grassroots advocacy in our communities, it's been a session marked by victories, challenges, and the enduring spirit of Nebraskans striving for a better future.
When we adjourned, many of us legislators from across the political spectrum celebrated a successful session at Billy’s, the restaurant and bar near the Capitol where we often meet to talk and let off steam. Governor Pillen and First Lady Suzanne made an appearance, and while we may disagree on most things policy, I enjoyed chatting with them about things we have in common and it was good to end the session on a positive note/with some laughs. Billy's really is a place for everybody, and they have the best staff and service in Lincoln — I will always support them.
For me, this session was full of good news and victories. We made a lot of progress, stopped a lot of bad legislation, and as for the negatives — well, it is an election year and we have an opportunity before the next session to clean house and improve our lineup. It's important to note that fifteen current senators will not return next year, thirteen of those are due to term limits. This underscores the critical importance of participating in local elections, where a small number of votes can decide elections.
Best,
Meg
This session marked significant wins for economic stability, housing justice, childcare accessibility, healthcare improvements, victims’ rights, and more. I'm proud to highlight some of our major achievements:
- LB 20 (Sen. Justin Wayne) which restores voting rights for Nebraskans reentering our communities after the completion of their sentence, will go into effect in July 2024. This is a significant step towards strengthening our democracy and promoting reintegration for returning citizens.
- LB 233 (Sen. John Cavanaugh) passed on Final Reading with a vote of 46-3. This bill increases economic stability by allowing TANF recipients to receive child support payments. Read more about this bill via Flatwater Free Press here.
- LB 840 (Sen. Terrell McKinney), to Adopt the Poverty Elimination Action Plan Act, also includes LB 1046 (Sen. J. Cavanaugh) and LB 530 (Sen. McKinney) which increase housing stability for public housing tenants. Housing justice ensures that safe, accessible, and affordable housing is available.
- LB 856 (Sen. John Fredrickson) makes certain childcare employees eligible for childcare subsidies and allows more flexibility for home-based and smaller childcare centers.
- LB 857 (Sen. George Dungan) improves Medicaid prenatal care services for at-risk pregnant people, which will reduce pre-term and low birthweight births and support mothers.
- LB 870 (Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh) to amend the Sexual Assault Victims’ Bill of Rights passed with a vote of 47-2. This update to the law passed in 2020 will allow victims control over their own evidence.
- LB 904 (Sen. Wendy DeBoer) allows the Department of Health and Human Services more flexibility in calculating child care reimbursement, increasing access to affordable child care. This bill passed 45-4.
- LB 1050 (Sen. Danielle Conrad) was amended onto LB 1284 and passed 42-7. This will create a pilot program to provide free menstrual products in schools.
- LBs 1106 & 1107 (Sen. Jen Day) bills to cover breast pumps and lactation consultations under the Medical Assistance Act, passed on Final Reading as part of LB 1215.
- LB 937 (Sen. Elliot Bostar) adopts the Caregiver Tax Credit Act to recognize the demands of their unpaid caregiving labor. During General File, LB 58 (Sen. J. Cavanaugh) was added to provide sales and use tax exemptions for diapers. These cost-savings will directly benefit Nebraska families with young children.
It’s also important to recognize the victories in what we STOPPED from happening in Nebraska. We protected our shared values by blocking:
- The vote to advance LB 575 (Sen. Kathleen Kauth), the bill to ban trans youth from sports and spaces, failed by two votes during the first round. The advocacy of trans youth, their families, and everyone who loves them is to be celebrated. Trans individuals belong in our communities, on our sports teams, and in our schools. We will continue to advocate for all those who experience gender-based oppression and reject attempts to use “women’s rights” as a way to oppress others.
- LB 371 which would have criminalized drag shows and performers.
- LB 441 which would have criminalized teachers and librarians and banned books.
- LB 810 would have given healthcare providers a license to discriminate against patients.
- LB 1330 would have prevented diversity, equity, and inclusion training in colleges and universities.
- LB 1357 would have criminalized street homelessness.
- LB 970 which would have authorized gas chambers for carrying out the death penalty.
I'm excited to share that I'll be featured in a special episode of "Consider This", airing this Saturday on Nebraska Public Media. Alongside Senator George Dungan, a member of the Revenue Committee, we'll be diving into the details of the recently concluded 2024 legislative session.
During our conversation, we'll provide an overview of the session's key highlights and discuss the important matters addressed, including the pressing issue of property tax relief. Tune in this Saturday to Nebraska Public Media for a thoughtful discussion on "Consider This". Once it airs live, a recording will be posted here for you to view anytime.
Looking Ahead
Upcoming Special Session
Governor Pillen has said he will call a special session (likely to commence in July) to address property tax relief—a crucial issue impacting many Nebraskans. This comes after LB388, part of Governor Pillen's declaration to reduce property taxes by 40%, failed to pass. The initial proposal shifted property taxes to an increase in sales tax, along with additional taxes on CBD, hemp, soda, and other goods and services, falling mostly on lower-income Nebraskans.
Over the past several decades, we’ve created a structural deficit and eroded our revenue with special interest exemptions, which has cut into the resources we have to provide property tax relief. We need to look at new revenue sources for Nebraska so we can not only provide property tax relief, but make sure we have a fair public school funding system, and that Nebraskans can access the public services they need.
When we are taking a comprehensive look at property tax relief, it includes all of these components: keeping our promises to fund our schools, including early childhood care; keeping tax dollars in the public education system to serve all our children; expanding SNAP benefits; legalizing recreational and medical marijuana; allowing those with marijuana charges to modify their records; and passing policies that emphasize our support for an inclusive workforce. These are smart ways to grow our tax base. This is the comprehensive way to deal with property tax relief. These are not short-term solutions like we have seen so many times before.
When, or if, a special session is called, the governor must issue a formal proclamation detailing the scope of the call, which can be as broad or specific as he wishes. The governor can amend the initial proclamation during the special session by adding a subject not designated in the original call. The Revenue Committee and any other senator who has a proposal relevant under the call, will have only the first three days of special session to introduce bills.
Governor Pillen has hinted at the possibility of convening a special session to push for a change in Nebraska's electoral college voting system to a winner-take-all format. This proposal has raised significant alarm as it could disenfranchise the voices of thousands of Nebraskans, undermining the principle of representation in our democracy. However, it's important to note that the governor has stated he will only call such a session if he secures the necessary votes, which he currently lacks and is unlikely to obtain this summer. Despite this, the mere suggestion of such a move underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and actively defending our democratic processes and values.
2024 Elections
It’s time to start thinking about your plan for voting in this year’s elections. With several key issues on the ballot and about half of all seats in the Legislature, as well as the entire Congressional delegation, up for election, your vote will shape the future of our state and nation.
Don't forget to mark your calendars for the statewide primary election on May 14. You can check your registration status here, register to vote online here, print an online early voting application here, or track your mail-in ballots here.
Nebraska passed a law in 2023 requiring a photo ID for voting. Review the Secretary of State's requirements and Civic Nebraska's Voter ID guide to ensure eligibility. Additionally, learn about Nebraska's voter protection laws, including polling place accessibility and regulations on firearms, to understand your rights.
Our work is far from over. I need your support to continue this momentum and fight for the values we hold dear. Every dollar you contribute goes directly towards sustaining our efforts and amplifying our voice for positive change.
Whether you can spare $1, $5, or $100, your contribution matters immensely. Your generosity enables us to keep pushing forward, advocating tirelessly for a better future for all Nebraskans.
Together, we've already achieved so much, but there's still so much more to do. Will you stand with me once again?
Please consider donating today and join us in shaping a brighter tomorrow for our state.
- Meg
Disaster Relief
FEMA Resources Available
FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the April tornadoes. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply. FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply or call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362). You can also download the FEMA app to apply.
FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance.
Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include serious needs, displacement, home repair or replacement, rental assistance, personal property, child care, transportation, and moving and storage expenses.
Everyone with disaster damage should apply whether they have insurance or not. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Only damage and needs related to the storms of April 25-27 are eligible.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to eligible individuals as a result of a major disaster declared by the President on May 3, 2024. The Nebraska Department of Labor is accepting applications for DUA from individuals in Washington and Douglas counties whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to the Severe Storms, Straight-line winds, and Tornadoes that occurred on April 26, 2024. Applications for DUA must be filed by July 2, 2024.
To file for DUA benefits, you must start with an application for regular unemployment insurance (UI) benefits by filing online at NEworks.nebraska.gov. All DUA applicants will be required to provide documents to verify wages for DUA UI. Additional information, including eligibility info, is available here.
Red Cross Financial Assistance
The American Red Cross has financial assistance available for people whose primary home was destroyed or is unlivable due to the recent storms and tornadoes. If you have questions about American Red Cross financial assistance or other services call 1-800-RED CROSS (800- 733-2767).
Free Legal Assistance
Legal Aid of Nebraska’s Disaster Relief Project provides information and legal assistance to low-income disaster survivors. Their network of volunteer attorneys can assist with:
Insurance issues
Housing - renters
Housing - owners
Contractor fraud issues
Document replacement
Legal Aid of Nebraska’s toll-free disaster hotline is 1-844-268-5627. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9am-noon & 1-3pm and Friday 9am-noon. More information is available here.