Hello neighbors!

I have some fantastic news to share. Our little miracle Ava Kaye Vargas was born on February 14th (Valentine’s Day) at 5:11pm weighing 5 lbs, 10 oz. She came into our lives five weeks earlier than expected and was admitted to the NICU. Fortunately, Ava is a fighter and has made amazing progress. We are all settling in at home now as a new family of three.

I am forever thankful for my amazing wife, partner and best friend, Lauren, for bringing Ava into this world. We couldn’t have asked for a better Valentine’s Day present.

In addition to the birth of my daughter, our office also had a busy week. Last Wednesday my Legislative Aide, Meg Mandy, introduced two bills to the Revenue Committee on my behalf. The first is LB 310, which would set a timeline for the Department of Revenue to issue the Historic Tax Credit. This tax credit is used by developers to rehabilitate and revitalize historic buildings, benefiting both rural and urban areas communities across our state.

She also introduced LB 477, a bill that will provide a tax exemption for recipients of the Segal Americorps Education Award. Similar to the benefits provided by Pell Grants or under the G.I. Bill, the Americorps Education Award provides recipients with additional educational opportunities. However, unlike Pell Grants or the G.I. Bill, the Americorps Education Award is currently taxed. LB477 would change that, making sure that the folks who work tirelessly to better Nebraska are awarded in full for their service.

On Tuesday I introduced LB 550 to the Transportation Committee. LB 550 seeks to lower and eliminate some taxes and fees on wireless and prepaid wireless services. These taxes are regressive and unfairly impact consumers, resulting in Nebraska having the fourth highest state and local taxes in the country at 25.5%.

Next week I will introduce LB 51, a bill that allows Tesla to sell their vehicles in Nebraska for the first time. LB51 upholds free market principles and consumer choice by opening up the state to a brand new market that is both innovative and promotes clean energy. It has been a pleasure getting to know current and prospective Tesla owners across the state who are enthusiastic about the possibility of Nebraska moving further into the 21st century marketplace.

As always, please feel free to reach out to me at tvargas@leg.ne.gov or call my office at (402) 471-2721.