Tax Policy

How the 2020 Legislature should define success

How the 2020 Legislature should define success

Today, the second session of the 106th Nebraska Legislature convenes. Last year, 739 bills were introduced. Of those, 255 (roughly 1/3) were signed into law and 3 were vetoed. A resulting 481 bills were carried over. The first ten days of session are when new bills are introduced. It is anticipated another 500-700 bills will...

Breaking down the taxes on your Christmas drinks

Breaking down the taxes on your Christmas drinks

I’m sure if your family is getting together for the holidays there will be wine, mixed drinks or beer served.  But did you know that by indulging in holiday spirits you are also paying a ‘sin’ tax? A ‘sin’ tax is an excise tax placed on something that the government ties closely to moral or...

By Sarah Curry

Nebraska’s economy is the 3rd most diversified, yet people are still leaving

Nebraska’s economy is the 3rd most diversified, yet people are still leaving

Ever wonder why Nebraska’s economy doesn’t seem to follow the national trend?  For example, the nation experienced one of the worst recessions in modern history in 2008-2009, yet Nebraska was somewhat insulated from the effects.  The reason – our state has a diversified economy. According to The Stacker website, Nebraska ranks 3rd best in the...

By Sarah Curry

November state revenues up, especially corporate income tax

November state revenues up, especially corporate income tax

Last month we talked about how the state’s revenues were exceeding forecasts.  In the last 30 days there have been many discussions in Lincoln about what to do with this excess cash.  Some want to put it into the Property Tax Credit Relief Fund, some want to use it for comprehensive property tax reform, some...

By Sarah Curry

Utah begins special session on tax reform

Utah begins special session on tax reform

Unfortunately, it’s not Nebraska that’s called a special session on taxes – it’s Utah! Utah has the nation’s 9th most favorable tax climate and one of the fastest growing economies in the nation – so what more is there to change?  Well, research has shown that the state relies too much on the income tax...

By Sarah Curry

New local sales taxes taking effect

New local sales taxes taking effect

According to the NE Department of Revenue, the following are changes to the local sales and use taxes effective Jan 1, 2020: Gage County will start a new 0.5% county sales and use tax rate that is effective in the entire Gage County area. Deshler will start a new 1% city sales and use tax rate.  Unadilla will start a new 1.5% city sales...

By Sarah Curry