Update on the Nebraska Legislature from Mueller Robak
The Nebraska Legislature adjourned sine die on April 18, bringing an end to the 2024 regular session. On the final day of action, the Legislature passed several bills, including a bill appropriating state dollars for private school scholarships, but avoided taking votes on a high-profile property tax relief proposal and a bill increasing the documentary stamp tax, which resulted in both measures dying upon adjournment. State senators, however, will see more of each other sooner rather than later because Governor Jim Pillen announced in his end-of-the-year address to the Legislature that he would call as many special sessions as it takes this year to address property taxes and other unfinished legislative business.
By the numbers, the Nebraska Legislature returned to regular business this year after last year’s unusual session. According to Speaker John Arch, 597 bills were introduced in 2024, and 390 were passed into law. The Governor vetoed one bill.
Among the legislation passed into law were bills that update major economic development tools such as municipal inland port districts and good life districts, enhance parental involvement in K12 education, establish hospital provider assessment, establish a state prescription drug donation program, and ensure electric vehicle drivers are contributing to roads funding. Legislators also passed bills that reform the state’s parole system and provide alternatives to the prosecution and incarceration of military veterans. An additional theme of the session was reflected by several bills that crack down on foreign ownership of land and restrict contracts with foreign adversaries.