Statehouse leaders have not yet come to an agreement on the state budget. Most legislators are at home while leaders are at the state capitol discussing (or not discussing) a possible deal. The next deadline is really July 1, when the new fiscal year begins.
One of the main sticking points is still funding for public schools. The Democrats are supporting a $200 million increase while Republicans have proposed a $100 million increase.
There are ongoing disagreements on other budget items. Earlier this week, as expected, the chambers refused to agree to the same version of SF 510 and sent it to a conference committee. SF 510 is the “standings” appropriation bill that makes adjustments to appropriations that are required by state law. The human services budget bill, SF 505, was sent to a conference committee more than two weeks ago but no action has been taken since then.
One good thing about the delay is that you still have time to contact your legislator about several important concerns in these bills, including:
- Funding to help refugees
- Child care assistance
- Stopping government funding for abortion providers
- Parental involvement in education
- Training and outreach to fight human trafficking
- Parental leave for adoptive parents
If you’ve already sent it a message to your legislator, thank you. If not, click here!
In other news, Nebraska has become the 19th state to officially end the use of the death penalty. Earlier this week the Nebraska Legislature voted to override the governor’s veto of a repeal. “May all in our state continue working together for peace, justice, safety, and the common good,” the Nebraska Catholic bishops said.
