This week the Legislature will take a vote on passing the state budget while debating two items that will have a big impact on voting rights.
Take Actions to protect voting rights
Monday, the Legislature will vote whether or not to override the Governor’s veto of
LB 75. Introduced by Sen. Justin Wayne, LB 75 would end the arbitrary two-year delay before Nebraskans are able to vote after completing their felony sentence. The bill will need 30 votes to override the veto.
Last week, Sen. Wayne joined several of his colleagues for a press conference to illustrate how Nebraska’s current voting ban disproportionately harms people of color and people with low incomes – two groups that historically have been disenfranchised at the voting box.
Contact your State Senator today and tell them to vote “Yes” on LB 75 to override the veto and make sure every Nebraska citizen’s vote counts.
LR1CA (Sen. John Murante) – Tuesday, the Legislature will debate this proposed amendment to Nebraska’s State Constitution that would mandate that voters present state-issued photo ID in order to vote.
We joined many other civil rights organizations in opposing this amendment during its committee hearing in March. Requiring state-issued photo ID creates cost and time barriers for many Nebraskans with low incomes, seniors and others who don’t drive, people who move frequently, college students, rural Nebraskans with limited DMV access, and people with disabilities – all of whom should be able to participate in our elections freely.
We urge you to tell your State Senator to vote “No” on LR1CA.
Dangerous tax bill fails to advance
LB 461 (Sen. Jim Smith) – This dangerous tax bill failed to receive the 33 votes needed to end General File debate last Tuesday, meaning it is done for the year.
LB 461 would have cut income taxes for Nebraskans with the highest incomes, but leave us with long-term budget problems and force enormous, damaging cuts to schools, child welfare, and other important investments that give all Nebraskans a better quality of life.
Please thank the State Senators who did not vote “Yes” and opposed a costly income tax cut for the wealthy while Nebraska faces a $1 billion budget shortfall.
State budget debate continues this week
The Legislature held lengthy periods of debate last week before advancing the Appropriations Committee’s proposed budget to Final Reading, where it is expected to be voted on today and tomorrow.
Appleseed continues to speak with senators about the importance of protecting programs that help keep children safe, families united, and help hard-working Nebraskans get ahead. Many of these investments are threatened by possible cuts proposed throughout budget debate.
We will let you know if there is a key moment to contact your State Senator to support programs that lead to secure families and remove barriers to opportunity for low-income Nebraskans.
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We will keep you updated on the latest bill introductions, hearings, and floor debate. And, we’ll let you know how you can take action to get involved and make your voice heard throughout the session!
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