Strommen discusses tax debate, budget focus as session enters final weeks

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska lawmakers are continuing major policy debates and budget discussions as the legislative session moves into its final weeks, according to State Sen. Paul Strommen.

Strommen said the Legislature has transitioned to full-day floor deliberations to allow additional time to consider remaining legislation during the final 20 working days of the session.

One of the most significant measures debated this week was LB 1124, introduced by Sen. Dunixi Guereca Sorrentino, which proposed raising Nebraska’s cigarette tax from 64 cents to $1.64 per pack and increasing taxes on vaping products.

After roughly eight hours of debate, the bill failed to advance when a cloture motion fell two votes short of the 33 votes required to end debate and move the measure forward.

“When a cloture vote fails, debate on the bill ends for the day,” Strommen said in a letter to constituents.

Despite the failed vote, lawmakers advanced several other bills during the week. Strommen said the Legislature moved 40 measures to the next stage of debate as senators worked through priority legislation from individual lawmakers, committees and the Speaker.

With Legislative Day 40 approaching, Strommen said the state budget will soon become the Legislature’s top priority.

Speaker John Arch plays a key role in setting the daily agenda as lawmakers work to move legislation forward efficiently before the end of the session, Strommen said.

In addition to floor debate, Strommen said meeting with constituents and organizations visiting the Capitol remains an important part of his work.

Earlier this week, Strommen met with Sidney Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Jason Petik to discuss issues affecting healthcare in the region. He also attended a dinner hosted by the Nebraska Petroleum Producers Association to discuss issues affecting energy production and the local economy.

On Friday, Strommen met with Kristen Rose, a representative of Sidney Regional Medical Center Behavioral Health and board member of the Nebraska Counseling Association, during the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations’ lobby day at the Capitol.

Strommen said discussions with healthcare providers and industry leaders help lawmakers better understand challenges facing communities across the state.

He encouraged constituents to remain engaged as the session continues and invited residents to contact his office with feedback or concerns.