We are approaching the final days of the 106th Legislature, Second Session.  In fact, when many of you read this article the session will have concluded.  This past week, we saw a number of bills debated of great importance to the State.

My priority bill, LB1002, was advanced to final reading. This bill was also a priority for the State EMS board and the Rural Health Commission. LB1002 allows the EMS Board to create two new license classifications for EMS Providers; Critical Care and Community Paramedicine. Community care paramedics are tasked with assisting in-home visits, administering medications, and performing post-surgery check-ups.

LB1002 also allows EMS providers to restock medications used while transporting a patient at hospital pharmacies to alleviate temporary shortages. Currently, providers are required to purchase medication from wholesale distributors which are often out of stock or require bulk purchases.

The Legislature overcame the filibuster of LB814, which would end dismemberment abortion in Nebraska, and advanced it to select file. I will continue to support LB814 and other pro-life legislation, continue to defend the pre-born, and protect the sanctity of life.

LB1107, the new property tax and business incentive bill, was advanced to select file. The proposal includes an increase in property tax relief and creates a new business incentive program as the current program expires.

The new property tax refundable income tax credit is created in the amount of $375 million plus allowable growth rate.  The credit will be based on the amount of school district property taxes that were paid in the prior year.

It also amends the property tax credit fund to require a minimum of $275 million annually for an overall total of $650 million in property tax funds. Should the ballot initiative for gambling pass in November, funds gained from gambling will be directed to the Property Tax Credit Fund.

It creates a new tax incentives program for businesses moving to Nebraska as the current incentive program is expiring. State spending for incentives would be capped at $25 million for the first two years and rising to $150 million by year five. After the fifth year, the cap would be equal to 3% of the state net tax receipts.  This bill is an encouraging step in the right direction as it sets a good precedent for the future where we will be able to make improvements.

LB1107 is a good step forward for property tax relief and I will continue to work on developing further property tax relief that helps homeowners, farmers, ranchers, business owners, and all Nebraskans.

Bills awaiting the Governor’s signature include, LB1186, requires salary to be paid to injured school employees as prescribed.  LB1124, adopt the opioid prevention and treatment act.

LB963 is on final reading, it changes workers’ compensation provisions for injuries to first responders and frontline state employees and burial expenses.

I appreciate hearing from constituents on issues affecting District 23 and encourage you to contact my office on legislation at 402-471-2719 or bbostelman@leg.ne.gov.