Floor debate of property tax bill begins

Lawmakers are debating a bill that would lower property taxes, while increasing sales taxes.

“The burdensome property taxes are harming our agricultural economy,” said Sen. Mike Groene of North Platte.  “High property taxes are a reason why home ownership is out of reach for young, middle class families and why we keep addressing the workforce housing shortage.  It’s not that we have a housing shortage, it’s the affordability of that housing.”

Supporters said right now, Nebraska relies too much on property taxes for school funding.

The bill would raise sales taxes on 20 services that are currently exempt.

Those against it said it means more taxes for towns with the fastest–growing school districts.

“So I’m raising taxes on the people that I represent,” said Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln.  “And yet, they’re getting less money and less resources for their schools, for their community?  That doesn’t make any sense.”

The bill is still being debated.  It needs 33 votes to overcome a filibuster.