As May unfolds and the legislative session enters its final weeks, critical debates on the state budget and tax policy are taking center stage at the Capitol.

With just 19 working days remaining, senators are tackling priority bills with increasing intensity.

This week, Sen. Rob Clements’ LB 468, aimed at simplifying Nebraska’s inheritance tax with a lower, single rate, advanced to Select File on a 27-10 vote. T

he bill includes adjustments to taxes, fees, and fund allocations to offset potential county revenue losses, and a five-year review. The goal is to modernize a tax that is seen as a burden on families while ensuring local services remain funded.

Nebraska is only 1 of 5 states with an inheritance tax and I am pleased to see the work that Sen. Clements has put into finding a way to phase out this burdensome tax and still insure counties maintain a revenue source to prevent any need for additional property tax increases.

Ban on Delta 8

A heated debate surrounded LB 316, introduced by Sen. Kathleen Kauth and prioritized by Senator Storm, which seeks to ban Delta 8 hemp products, which are synthetic, often dangerous and currently available over the counter without age limits.

The bill does not ban the production and sale of hemp used for fibers and textiles, or consumable hemp in its natural form under 0.3% THC, known as CBD.

An added Judiciary Committee amendment includes a 10% excise tax on CBD sales starting in 2026, with revenue going to the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund. After eight hours of discussion, a cloture motion was invoked to end debate, and the bill advanced to Select File with a 33-13 vote.

We must prioritize public safety over potential tax income from synthetic and loosely labeled substances, like Delta 8.

Social media & mental health

My priority bill, LB 383, focusing on age verification and parental consent for minors’ social media accounts, was debated on Select File. An amendment, AM 1180, removing an exemption related to gaming and educational entertainment, was adopted unanimously.

LB 383 is designed to combat the rise in mental health challenges, specifically in our youth, associated with social media platforms. With a 38-4 vote, it advanced to Final Reading, and is on its way to becoming law.

The legislation aims to enhance parental oversight and enforce age controls, protecting children’s mental health and safety without being content-based or overly broad. It mirrors laws enacted and upheld in other states like Tennessee, Florida and Louisiana. This bill is not about government control, limiting free speech or erosion of privacy, but rather the opposite.  It is about empowering parents with the tools necessary to monitor and supervise their minor children in a meaningful way in the digital world.

It’s time to take the predatory control of our kids away from big Tech and give it back to parents and guardians, where it belongs.

Serving District 43 is an honor, and I encourage your continued engagement. Your perspectives guide our work at the Capitol. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out.

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