<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/08/a-missing-year-no-income-tax-credits-for-nebraskans-to-offset-school-property-taxes-paid-in-2024/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska’s refundable income tax credit program for K-12 school property taxes is officially off the books, and new revisions will close the door for most taxpayers to get such relief on taxes paid in 2024.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11379" target="_blank">passed 40-3</a>&nbsp;at the end of the Legislature’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/20/legislature-passes-slimmed-down-property-tax-relief-package-ends-nebraskas-special-session/#:~:text=Legislative%20Bill%2034%2C%20which%20passed,property%20taxes%20collected%20in%202023.">summer special session on property taxes</a>&nbsp;last month, revised the existing tax credit program first established in 2020 by&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=41565" target="_blank">LB 1107</a>. The earlier process required taxpayers to apply for an income tax deduction the year after paying their property taxes.&nbsp;Tax statements are sent to taxpayers each December and are typically paid in two installments over the following year.

Now, the LB 34 credit will appear first on that property tax statement. While the changes make the process of returning funds to taxpayers upfront and automatic, some officials have discovered what they say will&nbsp;hurt some taxpayers because of the legislation.

​​“It is a retroactive property tax increase for ‘23 [assessed taxes],” State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard told the Nebraska Examiner.

Erdman, one of three senators to oppose LB 34, said his opposition was vindicated when he discovered that the expedited process skips over providing a credit for taxes paid in 2024, moving straight to the 2025 cycle.

“You can go on forever and never make up that loss,” Erdman said. “The question I have is, ‘Whose money is it?’ It’s the people’s money.”

LB 34 increased the funds allocated for the tax credit program to $750 million, an increase of $185 million over the amount previously budgeted for the income tax credit. That leaves at least $565 million that could have gone to taxpayers on their 2025 tax returns but now won’t, Erdman said. The difference will be paid when taxpayers file their returns in April 2025.

Elkhorn State Sens. Lou Ann Linehan and Brad von Gillern, the chair and vice chair of the Legislature’s Revenue Committee, defended LB 34 as getting needed relief to more taxpayers through more advantageous timing. They said the state didn’t have enough funds for what would have been duplicate tax credits.

About&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/news-release/ndr/LB_34_News_Release_Final.pdf" target="_blank">45% of Nebraskans</a>&nbsp;hadn’t been claiming the LB 1107 refundable credits, according to the Nebraska Department of Revenue.

“LB 34 provides equitable property tax relief to all Nebraskans,” the department said in a statement. “It is critical that Nebraskans automatically receive this credit rather than loaning government funds for a full year.”

Linehan and von Gillern said the cash flow to taxpayers will be improved because relief still comes in 2025, but at the direct point that taxpayers are paying, rather than a year later. von Gillern said there will be “no net difference.”

“There’s no panic about people not getting their credit, that’s all I can say really,” von Gillern said Friday. “I’ve looked at this thing forwards and backwards trying to find a problem, and the problem that Senator Erdman is talking about is not a problem.”

Linehan added the state had “only one $750 million,” which was paid for&nbsp;in part&nbsp;through state&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-legislature-sidesteps-filibuster-on-cuts-to-hhs-legislative-council/">budget cuts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">cash transfers</a>.

“People are calling it ‘a skipped year.’ You can’t get a credit and pay less, too,” Linehan said. “You could, but that would cost $1.5 billion.”

Gov. Jim Pillen’s office declined to comment for this story.

Erdman was joined by State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and organizations representing county officials and certified public accountants in arguing that the “missing year” will never be made up.

Taxpayers who had been claiming the credit “would have been far better off if we didn’t have a special session,” Erdman said.

“This is backwards. To say that over time we’re going to make up the loss of your credit for ‘23 is not telling the truth,” Erdman said. “It’s an increase in property tax for ‘23. Plain and simple retroactive property tax increase.”

Linehan had tried to usher through&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/25/lawmakers-introduce-gov-pillens-property-tax-plan-which-would-require-legislation-in-2025/">greater relief on behalf of Pillen</a>. She initially introduced LB 1 during the special session. It was projected to increase total property tax relief up to 50%, largely through imposing new sales taxes on more than 100 currently exempt goods and services.

Erdman also reintroduced his “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/03/epic-consumption-tax-nebraska-petition-falls-short-will-have-to-find-another-way/">EPIC Option</a>” proposals,&nbsp;which would eliminate property, income and corporate taxes in favor of a consumption and excise tax base.

But both approaches were quickly swatted down during the session.

Wayne, Erdman, Linehan and 12 other senators wanted to pause the session until after the November election, contending that more options needed to be considered to provide more relief. But 29 of their colleagues disagreed, voting to end the session after 17 days.

Erdman said that had senators listened to the appeal, the Legislature could have provided “meaningful” relief and “we wouldn’t be in this position.”

“We jammed it through, and now we have the result that we have,” Erdman said.

Wayne has said the session “could have been an email” based on how it ended. He said there were other revenue options, such as legalizing and taxing online sports betting or recreational marijuana. Both proposals were offered during the session but were not debated.

Erdman said the unused credits from years past should have been used to pay for both the “front-loaded” credit and one more year of the income tax credits.

Wayne directed criticism over the session’s “failure” at many people, including state senators of all political stripes who are running this year for the Legislature or Congress and who supported LB 34. Wayne said they “voted for a property tax increase, and there’s no way around it.”

“They either didn’t read the bill or they knew what they were doing, and I think that’s a huge problem,” Wayne said. “It was a rush to get something done and do something mediocre, and we were actually hurting people in the process.”

Jon Cannon, executive director of the Nebraska Association of County Officials, said county officials are particularly sensitive to property tax concerns, since they oversee property valuations, budget requests and tax statements.

“We are the whole process, and we get all the complaints,” Cannon said. “We have a vested interest in property tax relief or reform being delivered to our taxpayers. If there’s a missing year or if there’s something that’s going to affect our taxpayers, we’re going to hear about it.”

Asked whether local governments could make up the funds through cuts, Cannon said there isn’t $600 million sitting around that officials “could just go ahead and set on fire.”

“That’s $600 million of roads and bridges for our part of the property tax ask,” Cannon said. “That $600 million is paying for something that we think is a public good.”

Bryan Klintworth, chair-elect of the Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants, said some taxpayers will see a tax credit for the taxes assessed in 2023 if they paid their taxes by Dec. 31, 2023. If so, they could have claimed the credit when filing their tax returns in 2024.

“That’s where there’s this kind of weird dichotomy,” Klintworth said.

Erdman said people will notice when they file their income taxes next year and will ask why the credit isn’t available. He says that is when it will “hit the fan.”

Cannon and Klintworth said the issue might be argued by some as “semantics” but that the end result is a lost year or “missing year” of tax relief.

“Even though you come out the same in the calendar year, it does affect the timing of it, too, in those installment payments,” Klintworth said, such as in monthly mortgage escrow accounts.

Erdman said he is disappointed that state leaders won’t own up to “confiscating” taxpayer dollars. He said he first thought it was an unintentional result but now sees it as an intentional “sleight of hand.”&nbsp;

He pointed to a “<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/news-release/ndr/LB_34_News_Release_Final.pdf" target="_blank">comparative analysis</a>” from the Revenue Department that outlines the credit timing under LB 1107 as “property taxes paid” and LB 34 as “property taxes assessed.”

The explainer leaves out “2023 property taxes assessed” in December 2023 statements.

“Don’t look at what I’m doing here, look over here at this,” Erdman said.

Wayne said middle class and working class taxpayers, as well as anyone who has a mortgage and pays in installments, will be the ones sorting through an&nbsp;immediate tax increase in exchange for a potential decrease in future years.&nbsp;

“We can say none of it matters, but it does matter to those who are struggling right now with increased property taxes to pay to stay in their home,” Wayne said.

Erdman and Wayne said the $185 million in new tax relief, which amounts to about 3.5% of the $5.3 billion in property taxes paid in 2023, will also be eaten away by inflation or general increases in property taxes before tangible benefits of LB 34 are realized.

State Treasurer Tom Briese, a former state senator from Albion, joined Pillen, Linehan and von Gillern in celebrating LB 34 and for amending LB 1107, which Briese and Linehan championed in 2020. Briese said “one of the biggest stumbling blocks” in property tax relief consistently is finding new revenue streams to replace the local tax burdens.

“You have many folks on the left unwilling to do that, and you have a slice of folks on the far right unwilling to do that,” Briese said. “But those of us that are serious about property tax relief, serious about solving the property tax issue, are willing to do that.”

Briese said he is still optimistic lawmakers can find a long-term solution to property tax relief.

“I guess in this business you take what you can get, and that’s what the Legislature did,” Briese said. “I commend the Legislature for that.”

Erdman said he’s not sure the Legislature will have the “intestinal fortitude” to bring an amendment in January to correct the issues he has raised. He sees two fixes: Let Nebraskans collect the credit when they file their tax returns in 2025 or double the credit for one year.

“The Legislature and the governor had planned for this to be a decrease in property tax when in reality it’s actually an increase,” Erdman said. “We have to have an increase so we can give you a decrease. Think about that. We have to increase your taxes so we can give you a decrease for next year. How strange is that? Yeah, that’s crazy.”

State Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar said the first bill introduced in 2025 should come at Pillen’s request and distribute the relief for 2024 taxes paid. She said funding should be through existing state resources, not other increased taxes.

“This is either malicious incompetence from the Pillen administration at best, or straight-up malicious at worst,” Slama said in a text message.

Erdman, Wayne, Linehan and State Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings, the third lawmaker to oppose LB 34, won’t return next year due to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">term limits</a>. Slama declined to seek reelection.

Von Gillern, who is in his second year as a lawmaker, will return and confirmed there is nothing to prevent senators from introducing legislation in January if they see any issues with LB 34, but they’ll need to find the funding.

“Bring it in January if you want to do it,” von Gillern said, “along with the fiscal note.”

Taxpayers in Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy Counties pay half of their property taxes by April 1 and the rest by Aug. 1; all other taxpayers pay by May 1 and Sept. 1. Some taxpayers choose to pay by Dec. 31 as soon as they receive their statements, changing when the credit is available. Tax returns are usually due by April 15.

More tax credits were available for taxes paid in 2022 and 2023 than legislatively appropriated. That’s because the Nebraska Department of Revenue increased the credit percentage in an attempt to repurpose previously unused credits.

Source: Patrick Roy, legislative and media coordinator, Nebraska Department of Revenue

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725911652217.jpeg" alt="State Sens. Justin Wayne of Omaha, Steve Erdman of Bayard, Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn and Brad von Gillern of Elkhorn, from left. (Photos by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sens. Justin Wayne of Omaha, Steve Erdman of Bayard, Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn and Brad von Gillern of Elkhorn, from left. (Photos by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/08/a-missing-year-no-income-tax-credits-for-nebraskans-to-offset-school-property-taxes-paid-in-2024/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska’s refundable income tax credit program for K-12 school property taxes is officially off the books, and new revisions will close the door for most taxpayers to get such relief on taxes paid in 2024.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11379" target="_blank">passed 40-3</a>&nbsp;at the end of the Legislature’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/20/legislature-passes-slimmed-down-property-tax-relief-package-ends-nebraskas-special-session/#:~:text=Legislative%20Bill%2034%2C%20which%20passed,property%20taxes%20collected%20in%202023.">summer special session on property taxes</a>&nbsp;last month, revised the existing tax credit program first established in 2020 by&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=41565" target="_blank">LB 1107</a>. The earlier process required taxpayers to apply for an income tax deduction the year after paying their property taxes.&nbsp;Tax statements are sent to taxpayers each December and are typically paid in two installments over the following year.Now, the LB 34 credit will appear first on that property tax statement. While the changes make the process of returning funds to taxpayers upfront and automatic, some officials have discovered what they say will&nbsp;hurt some taxpayers because of the legislation.​​“It is a retroactive property tax increase for ‘23 [assessed taxes],” State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard told the Nebraska Examiner.Erdman, one of three senators to oppose LB 34, said his opposition was vindicated when he discovered that the expedited process skips over providing a credit for taxes paid in 2024, moving straight to the 2025 cycle.“You can go on forever and never make up that loss,” Erdman said. “The question I have is, ‘Whose money is it?’ It’s the people’s money.”LB 34 increased the funds allocated for the tax credit program to $750 million, an increase of $185 million over the amount previously budgeted for the income tax credit. That leaves at least $565 million that could have gone to taxpayers on their 2025 tax returns but now won’t, Erdman said. The difference will be paid when taxpayers file their returns in April 2025.<h2>‘No net difference’</h2>Elkhorn State Sens. Lou Ann Linehan and Brad von Gillern, the chair and vice chair of the Legislature’s Revenue Committee, defended LB 34 as getting needed relief to more taxpayers through more advantageous timing. They said the state didn’t have enough funds for what would have been duplicate tax credits.About&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/news-release/ndr/LB_34_News_Release_Final.pdf" target="_blank">45% of Nebraskans</a>&nbsp;hadn’t been claiming the LB 1107 refundable credits, according to the Nebraska Department of Revenue.“LB 34 provides equitable property tax relief to all Nebraskans,” the department said in a statement. “It is critical that Nebraskans automatically receive this credit rather than loaning government funds for a full year.”Linehan and von Gillern said the cash flow to taxpayers will be improved because relief still comes in 2025, but at the direct point that taxpayers are paying, rather than a year later. von Gillern said there will be “no net difference.”“There’s no panic about people not getting their credit, that’s all I can say really,” von Gillern said Friday. “I’ve looked at this thing forwards and backwards trying to find a problem, and the problem that Senator Erdman is talking about is not a problem.”<h2>Credit timing changes</h2>Before, in LB 1107 (2020)<ul>
 <li>December 2019 assessed taxes paid in 2020, with income tax credits available in 2021.</li><li>December 2020 assessed taxes paid in 2021, with income tax credits available in 2022.</li><li>December 2021 assessed taxes paid in 2022, with income tax credits available in 2023.</li><li>December 2022 assessed taxes paid in 2023, with income tax credits available in 2024.</li><li>December 2023 assessed taxes paid in 2024, with income tax credits available in 2025.</li>
 </ul>After, in LB 34 (2024)<ul>
 <li>December 2023 assessed taxes, with no tax credits available (unless the taxes were paid by Dec. 31, 2023).</li><li>December 2024 assessed taxes, with discount automatically applied upon payment, typically in 2025.</li><li>December 2025 assessed taxes, with discount automatically applied upon payment, typically in 2026.</li>
 </ul>Linehan added the state had “only one $750 million,” which was paid for&nbsp;in part&nbsp;through state&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-legislature-sidesteps-filibuster-on-cuts-to-hhs-legislative-council/">budget cuts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">cash transfers</a>.“People are calling it ‘a skipped year.’ You can’t get a credit and pay less, too,” Linehan said. “You could, but that would cost $1.5 billion.”Gov. Jim Pillen’s office declined to comment for this story.<h2>‘Retroactive property tax increase’</h2>Erdman was joined by State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and organizations representing county officials and certified public accountants in arguing that the “missing year” will never be made up.Taxpayers who had been claiming the credit “would have been far better off if we didn’t have a special session,” Erdman said.“This is backwards. To say that over time we’re going to make up the loss of your credit for ‘23 is not telling the truth,” Erdman said. “It’s an increase in property tax for ‘23. Plain and simple retroactive property tax increase.”Linehan had tried to usher through&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/25/lawmakers-introduce-gov-pillens-property-tax-plan-which-would-require-legislation-in-2025/">greater relief on behalf of Pillen</a>. She initially introduced LB 1 during the special session. It was projected to increase total property tax relief up to 50%, largely through imposing new sales taxes on more than 100 currently exempt goods and services.Erdman also reintroduced his “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/03/epic-consumption-tax-nebraska-petition-falls-short-will-have-to-find-another-way/">EPIC Option</a>” proposals,&nbsp;which would eliminate property, income and corporate taxes in favor of a consumption and excise tax base.But both approaches were quickly swatted down during the session.<h2>‘We were actually hurting people’</h2>Wayne, Erdman, Linehan and 12 other senators wanted to pause the session until after the November election, contending that more options needed to be considered to provide more relief. But 29 of their colleagues disagreed, voting to end the session after 17 days.Erdman said that had senators listened to the appeal, the Legislature could have provided “meaningful” relief and “we wouldn’t be in this position.”“We jammed it through, and now we have the result that we have,” Erdman said.Wayne has said the session “could have been an email” based on how it ended. He said there were other revenue options, such as legalizing and taxing online sports betting or recreational marijuana. Both proposals were offered during the session but were not debated.Erdman said the unused credits from years past should have been used to pay for both the “front-loaded” credit and one more year of the income tax credits.Wayne directed criticism over the session’s “failure” at many people, including state senators of all political stripes who are running this year for the Legislature or Congress and who supported LB 34. Wayne said they “voted for a property tax increase, and there’s no way around it.”“They either didn’t read the bill or they knew what they were doing, and I think that’s a huge problem,” Wayne said. “It was a rush to get something done and do something mediocre, and we were actually hurting people in the process.”<h2>Counties, accountants brace for impact</h2>Jon Cannon, executive director of the Nebraska Association of County Officials, said county officials are particularly sensitive to property tax concerns, since they oversee property valuations, budget requests and tax statements.“We are the whole process, and we get all the complaints,” Cannon said. “We have a vested interest in property tax relief or reform being delivered to our taxpayers. If there’s a missing year or if there’s something that’s going to affect our taxpayers, we’re going to hear about it.”Asked whether local governments could make up the funds through cuts, Cannon said there isn’t $600 million sitting around that officials “could just go ahead and set on fire.”“That’s $600 million of roads and bridges for our part of the property tax ask,” Cannon said. “That $600 million is paying for something that we think is a public good.”Bryan Klintworth, chair-elect of the Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants, said some taxpayers will see a tax credit for the taxes assessed in 2023 if they paid their taxes by Dec. 31, 2023. If so, they could have claimed the credit when filing their tax returns in 2024.“That’s where there’s this kind of weird dichotomy,” Klintworth said.Erdman said people will notice when they file their income taxes next year and will ask why the credit isn’t available. He says that is when it will “hit the fan.”Cannon and Klintworth said the issue might be argued by some as “semantics” but that the end result is a lost year or “missing year” of tax relief.“Even though you come out the same in the calendar year, it does affect the timing of it, too, in those installment payments,” Klintworth said, such as in monthly mortgage escrow accounts.<h2>A ‘sleight of hand’</h2>Erdman said he is disappointed that state leaders won’t own up to “confiscating” taxpayer dollars. He said he first thought it was an unintentional result but now sees it as an intentional “sleight of hand.”&nbsp;He pointed to a “<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/news-release/ndr/LB_34_News_Release_Final.pdf" target="_blank">comparative analysis</a>” from the Revenue Department that outlines the credit timing under LB 1107 as “property taxes paid” and LB 34 as “property taxes assessed.”The explainer leaves out “2023 property taxes assessed” in December 2023 statements.“Don’t look at what I’m doing here, look over here at this,” Erdman said.Wayne said middle class and working class taxpayers, as well as anyone who has a mortgage and pays in installments, will be the ones sorting through an&nbsp;immediate tax increase in exchange for a potential decrease in future years.&nbsp;“We can say none of it matters, but it does matter to those who are struggling right now with increased property taxes to pay to stay in their home,” Wayne said.Erdman and Wayne said the $185 million in new tax relief, which amounts to about 3.5% of the $5.3 billion in property taxes paid in 2023, will also be eaten away by inflation or general increases in property taxes before tangible benefits of LB 34 are realized.<h2>‘You take what you can get’</h2>State Treasurer Tom Briese, a former state senator from Albion, joined Pillen, Linehan and von Gillern in celebrating LB 34 and for amending LB 1107, which Briese and Linehan championed in 2020. Briese said “one of the biggest stumbling blocks” in property tax relief consistently is finding new revenue streams to replace the local tax burdens.“You have many folks on the left unwilling to do that, and you have a slice of folks on the far right unwilling to do that,” Briese said. “But those of us that are serious about property tax relief, serious about solving the property tax issue, are willing to do that.”Briese said he is still optimistic lawmakers can find a long-term solution to property tax relief.“I guess in this business you take what you can get, and that’s what the Legislature did,” Briese said. “I commend the Legislature for that.”<h2>‘Bring it in January’</h2>Erdman said he’s not sure the Legislature will have the “intestinal fortitude” to bring an amendment in January to correct the issues he has raised. He sees two fixes: Let Nebraskans collect the credit when they file their tax returns in 2025 or double the credit for one year.“The Legislature and the governor had planned for this to be a decrease in property tax when in reality it’s actually an increase,” Erdman said. “We have to have an increase so we can give you a decrease. Think about that. We have to increase your taxes so we can give you a decrease for next year. How strange is that? Yeah, that’s crazy.”State Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar said the first bill introduced in 2025 should come at Pillen’s request and distribute the relief for 2024 taxes paid. She said funding should be through existing state resources, not other increased taxes.“This is either malicious incompetence from the Pillen administration at best, or straight-up malicious at worst,” Slama said in a text message.Erdman, Wayne, Linehan and State Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings, the third lawmaker to oppose LB 34, won’t return next year due to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">term limits</a>. Slama declined to seek reelection.Von Gillern, who is in his second year as a lawmaker, will return and confirmed there is nothing to prevent senators from introducing legislation in January if they see any issues with LB 34, but they’ll need to find the funding.“Bring it in January if you want to do it,” von Gillern said, “along with the fiscal note.”<h2>LB 1107 credits claimed over time</h2><ul>
 <li>For taxes paid in 2020 — $82 million in&nbsp;tax credits claimed&nbsp;out of $125 million appropriated for school taxes (66%).</li><li>For taxes paid in 2021 — $422 million in tax credits claimed out of $548 million appropriated for school taxes (77%).</li><li>For taxes paid in 2022 — $562 million tax credits claimed out of $763 million possible for school and community college taxes (74%); $598 million appropriated.</li><li>For taxes paid in 2023 (through July 2024) — $477 million tax credits claimed out of $809 million possible credits for school and community college taxes (60%); $660 million appropriated.</li>
 </ul>Taxpayers in Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy Counties pay half of their property taxes by April 1 and the rest by Aug. 1; all other taxpayers pay by May 1 and Sept. 1. Some taxpayers choose to pay by Dec. 31 as soon as they receive their statements, changing when the credit is available. Tax returns are usually due by April 15.More tax credits were available for taxes paid in 2022 and 2023 than legislatively appropriated. That’s because the Nebraska Department of Revenue increased the credit percentage in an attempt to repurpose previously unused credits.Source: Patrick Roy, legislative and media coordinator, Nebraska Department of Revenue

A missing year’: No income tax credits for Nebraskans to offset school property taxes paid in 2024

For the 24th&nbsp;straight year, enrollment at the University of Nebraska Medical Center increased. The fall enrollment figure is 4,703 students, a 3.2% rise from last fall.

The increase was driven by enrollment increases in graduate studies, pharmacy, allied health professions and nursing.

More than 75% of total enrolled students are Nebraska residents.

UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said he is pleased UNMC continues to see enrollment growth, citing increased numbers in longstanding programs, as well as in new, innovative degree programs – in public health, allied health and other areas – that ultimately will allow more health care professionals to improve the lives of the people they serve.

“We continue to add innovative degree options to better serve the state of Nebraska and beyond, and our continued growth provides increased opportunity to improve the health and well-being of Nebraskans and people around the world,” he said.

“With continued growth comes increased opportunity to impact the health and well-being of those we serve in Nebraska and beyond,” Dr. Davies said. “And with more than 75% of our UNMC students being drawn from Nebraska, UNMC continues to fulfill its mission to provide Nebraska’s next generation of medical and health care professionals.”

In the past five years, UNMC enrollment has grown steadily, from 4,239 students in 2020 to the current total, an increase of 464 total students, or nearly 11%.

Interim Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Jane Meza, PhD, said the growth speaks to the strength of UNMC’s programs.

“Across the medical and health profession spectrum, our programs – including 11 new programs in the past four years – are respected and effective,” Dr. Meza said. “Today’s news that we continue to grow is a testament to the reputation of UNMC’s educators and the graduates it produces.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Graduate Studies enrollment is&nbsp;771&nbsp;students, 51 more than 2023, with 242 new students.&nbsp;Graduate Studies offers advanced instruction leading to master’s of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in fields ranging from basic biomedical sciences to public health to patient-oriented research. Among all UNMC graduate students,&nbsp;69% are enrolled in PhD programs.

The college admitted&nbsp;70 new students, nearly a 43% jump in new enrollees compared to 2023. Of the 200 total students in the four-year program, 84%&nbsp;are Nebraska residents.

College of Allied Health Professions

A total of&nbsp;825&nbsp;students are enrolled in the college. The 381 new students represent a 10% rise in new enrollees from 2023. The UNMC College of Allied Health Professions has 109 online students, up from 73 in 2023, a nearly 50% increase.

The College of Nursing enrolled&nbsp;1,018 students across UNMC’s five campuses in Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Scottsbluff and Norfolk. This includes 736 students in the bachelor’s in nursing program, 120 students in the master’s in nursing program,&nbsp;145 students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP) and 17 post-graduate certificate students.&nbsp;

The College of Dentistry admitted&nbsp;87 new students. The total student enrollment is&nbsp;300, only one student less than 2023. In the college, which includes dental students, dental hygiene students and certificate students,&nbsp;234&nbsp;are Nebraska residents and&nbsp;66&nbsp;are non-residents.

There are&nbsp;135&nbsp;new students entering their first year of medical school, bringing the total enrollment to&nbsp;522, down 1% from 2023. Nearly 85% of the medical students are Nebraska residents. In addition, there are&nbsp;715&nbsp;house officers (resident physicians and fellows) training at UNMC, up 5% from 2023.

Enrollment for the College of Public Health’s professional programs is&nbsp;352, a 5% decrease, but one that comes on the heels of a 13% increase for the college in 2023. Forty percent of the college’s students are Nebraska residents.

The Munroe-Meyer Institute will provide interdisciplinary clinical and research training to 228 students enrolled in visiting scholars, master’s and doctoral programs from universities in Nebraska and across the country, including UNMC. There are 24 students enrolled in the joint Applied Behavior Analysis master’s program, 24 the ABA doctoral program, 15 students on postdoctoral/clinical fellowships and 165 students enrolled as visiting scholars. MMI also involved in training in other clinical, research, outreach and community engagement training across more than 10 allied health disciplines. In the last calendar year MMI had 408 long-term trainees. (Since students participating in these programs are enrolled at other institutions or other UNMC colleges, MMI enrollees are not counted in total UNMC enrollment numbers.)

UNMCFor the 24th&nbsp;straight year, enrollment at the University of Nebraska Medical Center increased. The fall enrollment figure is 4,703 students, a 3.2% rise from last fall.The increase was driven by enrollment increases in graduate studies, pharmacy, allied health professions and nursing.More than 75% of total enrolled students are Nebraska residents.UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said he is pleased UNMC continues to see enrollment growth, citing increased numbers in longstanding programs, as well as in new, innovative degree programs – in public health, allied health and other areas – that ultimately will allow more health care professionals to improve the lives of the people they serve.“We continue to add innovative degree options to better serve the state of Nebraska and beyond, and our continued growth provides increased opportunity to improve the health and well-being of Nebraskans and people around the world,” he said.“With continued growth comes increased opportunity to impact the health and well-being of those we serve in Nebraska and beyond,” Dr. Davies said. “And with more than 75% of our UNMC students being drawn from Nebraska, UNMC continues to fulfill its mission to provide Nebraska’s next generation of medical and health care professionals.”In the past five years, UNMC enrollment has grown steadily, from 4,239 students in 2020 to the current total, an increase of 464 total students, or nearly 11%.Interim Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Jane Meza, PhD, said the growth speaks to the strength of UNMC’s programs.“Across the medical and health profession spectrum, our programs – including 11 new programs in the past four years – are respected and effective,” Dr. Meza said. “Today’s news that we continue to grow is a testament to the reputation of UNMC’s educators and the graduates it produces.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Graduate StudiesGraduate Studies enrollment is&nbsp;771&nbsp;students, 51 more than 2023, with 242 new students.&nbsp;Graduate Studies offers advanced instruction leading to master’s of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in fields ranging from basic biomedical sciences to public health to patient-oriented research. Among all UNMC graduate students,&nbsp;69% are enrolled in PhD programs.College of PharmacyThe college admitted&nbsp;70 new students, nearly a 43% jump in new enrollees compared to 2023. Of the 200 total students in the four-year program, 84%&nbsp;are Nebraska residents.College of Allied Health ProfessionsA total of&nbsp;825&nbsp;students are enrolled in the college. The 381 new students represent a 10% rise in new enrollees from 2023. The UNMC College of Allied Health Professions has 109 online students, up from 73 in 2023, a nearly 50% increase.College of NursingThe College of Nursing enrolled&nbsp;1,018 students across UNMC’s five campuses in Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Scottsbluff and Norfolk. This includes 736 students in the bachelor’s in nursing program, 120 students in the master’s in nursing program,&nbsp;145 students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP) and 17 post-graduate certificate students.&nbsp;College of DentistryThe College of Dentistry admitted&nbsp;87 new students. The total student enrollment is&nbsp;300, only one student less than 2023. In the college, which includes dental students, dental hygiene students and certificate students,&nbsp;234&nbsp;are Nebraska residents and&nbsp;66&nbsp;are non-residents.College of MedicineThere are&nbsp;135&nbsp;new students entering their first year of medical school, bringing the total enrollment to&nbsp;522, down 1% from 2023. Nearly 85% of the medical students are Nebraska residents. In addition, there are&nbsp;715&nbsp;house officers (resident physicians and fellows) training at UNMC, up 5% from 2023.College of Public HealthEnrollment for the College of Public Health’s professional programs is&nbsp;352, a 5% decrease, but one that comes on the heels of a 13% increase for the college in 2023. Forty percent of the college’s students are Nebraska residents.Munroe-Meyer InstituteThe Munroe-Meyer Institute will provide interdisciplinary clinical and research training to 228 students enrolled in visiting scholars, master’s and doctoral programs from universities in Nebraska and across the country, including UNMC. There are 24 students enrolled in the joint Applied Behavior Analysis master’s program, 24 the ABA doctoral program, 15 students on postdoctoral/clinical fellowships and 165 students enrolled as visiting scholars. MMI also involved in training in other clinical, research, outreach and community engagement training across more than 10 allied health disciplines. In the last calendar year MMI had 408 long-term trainees. (Since students participating in these programs are enrolled at other institutions or other UNMC colleges, MMI enrollees are not counted in total UNMC enrollment numbers.)

University of Nebraska Medical Center enrollment rises for 24th straight year

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA, September 9, 2024&nbsp;— Today Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese announced the rollout of LB 1402, a groundbreaking initiative designed to help Nebraska students by updating the state’s educational scholarship system to enhance accessibility and efficiency for families. The initiative was developed in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/" target="_blank">Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;(“OSN”) and education technology leader,&nbsp;<a href="https://withodyssey.com/" target="_blank">Odyssey</a>.

Passed earlier this year by the Nebraska Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Jim Pillen, LB 1402 will allow low-income, special needs, and other categories of students the opportunity to attend a private school of their family’s choosing. The initiative addresses long-standing challenges in educational equity and access.

“Access to high-quality K-12 education is a fundamental right, essential to our children’s development and community success,” Briese said. “This program will tackle systemic barriers, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and allow parents to nurture their children’s learning opportunities. This effort exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in driving educational change. Thanks to OSN and Odyssey, my office is leading the way towards a more equitable and effective educational future.”

The Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office will partner with Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska to promote the program to parents of qualified students seeking scholarship support.

“Nebraska’s new Educations Scholarships are already giving hope to countless families across the state,” said OSN Executive Director Jeremy Ekeler. “We hear from parents every day who are desperate for more educational options for their children but simply can’t afford them. OSN is excited to connect families, especially those who have only dreamed of this opportunity, with the many quality accredited and approved nonpublic schools in Nebraska to find the best fit for their child.”

Odyssey, a pioneer in school choice technology, will play a crucial role in this collaboration, reflecting OSN’s commitment to advancing educational choice programs. A targeted outreach campaign will inform schools and parents about eligibility and application details, which will open later this month. The signup process will be managed through Odyssey’s platform, with student enrollment following application processing.

Joseph Connor, CEO and founder of Odyssey, stated, “We are thrilled to help Nebraska families access high-quality education through this innovative program. Our goal is to leverage best-in-class technology to make educational resources and choices more accessible than ever.” He continued, “Our expert team has created an easy-to-use platform that simplifies the parent experience and supports state partners. By rigorously vetting schools and adhering to state guidelines, we are committed to providing equitable access to educational opportunities.”

Parents interested in learning more about eligibility and qualifications for Nebraska’s Education Scholarships can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402" target="_blank">nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402</a>&nbsp;to sign up for updates.&nbsp;

About Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska

Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska “(OSN)” is a state-approved scholarship granting organization and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps implement the Opportunity Scholarships Act (LB753). OSN does this by empowering parents to choose the best educational setting for their children through awarding nonpublic school tuition scholarships and providing access to school options. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402" target="_blank">nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402</a>.

Odyssey is a mission-driven technology company that collaborates with state agencies to help families access high-quality education for their children. Odyssey works directly with states, vendors, and parents to support school choice programs, including education savings accounts (ESAs) and vouchers, by disbursing state-approved funding for tuition expenses, tutors, technology, software, curriculum, and more. To date, Odyssey's technology has helped more than 140,000 students access over $400 million in state funding. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.withodyssey.com/" target="_blank">www.withodyssey.com</a>.

Nebraska State Treasurers OfficeLINCOLN, NEBRASKA, September 9, 2024&nbsp;— Today Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese announced the rollout of LB 1402, a groundbreaking initiative designed to help Nebraska students by updating the state’s educational scholarship system to enhance accessibility and efficiency for families. The initiative was developed in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/" target="_blank">Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;(“OSN”) and education technology leader,&nbsp;<a href="https://withodyssey.com/" target="_blank">Odyssey</a>.Passed earlier this year by the Nebraska Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Jim Pillen, LB 1402 will allow low-income, special needs, and other categories of students the opportunity to attend a private school of their family’s choosing. The initiative addresses long-standing challenges in educational equity and access.“Access to high-quality K-12 education is a fundamental right, essential to our children’s development and community success,” Briese said. “This program will tackle systemic barriers, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and allow parents to nurture their children’s learning opportunities. This effort exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in driving educational change. Thanks to OSN and Odyssey, my office is leading the way towards a more equitable and effective educational future.”The Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office will partner with Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska to promote the program to parents of qualified students seeking scholarship support.“Nebraska’s new Educations Scholarships are already giving hope to countless families across the state,” said OSN Executive Director Jeremy Ekeler. “We hear from parents every day who are desperate for more educational options for their children but simply can’t afford them. OSN is excited to connect families, especially those who have only dreamed of this opportunity, with the many quality accredited and approved nonpublic schools in Nebraska to find the best fit for their child.”Odyssey, a pioneer in school choice technology, will play a crucial role in this collaboration, reflecting OSN’s commitment to advancing educational choice programs. A targeted outreach campaign will inform schools and parents about eligibility and application details, which will open later this month. The signup process will be managed through Odyssey’s platform, with student enrollment following application processing.Joseph Connor, CEO and founder of Odyssey, stated, “We are thrilled to help Nebraska families access high-quality education through this innovative program. Our goal is to leverage best-in-class technology to make educational resources and choices more accessible than ever.” He continued, “Our expert team has created an easy-to-use platform that simplifies the parent experience and supports state partners. By rigorously vetting schools and adhering to state guidelines, we are committed to providing equitable access to educational opportunities.”Parents interested in learning more about eligibility and qualifications for Nebraska’s Education Scholarships can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402" target="_blank">nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402</a>&nbsp;to sign up for updates.&nbsp;About Opportunity Scholarships of NebraskaOpportunity Scholarships of Nebraska “(OSN)” is a state-approved scholarship granting organization and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps implement the Opportunity Scholarships Act (LB753). OSN does this by empowering parents to choose the best educational setting for their children through awarding nonpublic school tuition scholarships and providing access to school options. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402" target="_blank">nebraskaopportunity.org/lb1402</a>.About OdysseyOdyssey is a mission-driven technology company that collaborates with state agencies to help families access high-quality education for their children. Odyssey works directly with states, vendors, and parents to support school choice programs, including education savings accounts (ESAs) and vouchers, by disbursing state-approved funding for tuition expenses, tutors, technology, software, curriculum, and more. To date, Odyssey's technology has helped more than 140,000 students access over $400 million in state funding. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.withodyssey.com/" target="_blank">www.withodyssey.com</a>.

Briese Announces Innovative Scholarship Program for Nebraska Students

Nebraska's Natural Resources District

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– Questions about trees, erosion, flood control or water quality? Stop in to visit Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts during Husker Harvest Days Sept. 10-12.

“This is a great opportunity for producers to meet with conservation agencies all in one place and learn more about cost-share programs that can benefit their operation and Nebraska’s natural resources,” said Martin Graff, president of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD).

Located in the Natural Resources Hub (39E), Nebraska’s NRDs are stationed with various organizations that offer conservation assistance, cost-share opportunities and producer programs. Attendees can visit with the Nebraska Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, The Nature Conservancy, and Central Platte NRD’s Native Prairie and Pollination Awareness Program.

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy Water Well Standards Program will also be on site to provide free water testing and screen for nitrates in minutes. Private well owners should bring a cup-size sample of water in a clean container.

In addition, the&nbsp;Natural Resources Districts&nbsp;will announce three individuals&nbsp;to&nbsp;induct into the&nbsp;NRD&nbsp;Hall of Fame during a press conference at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, on the Hospitality Tent Stage (SE Quadrant, #33). These&nbsp;Hall of Fame inductees have&nbsp;made significant contributions to protect our state’s natural resources&nbsp;through the NRDs. Hall of Fame categories include:&nbsp;

During the three-day event, Husker Harvest attendees also will receive a free blue spruce tree seedling from the NRD Conservation Tree Program. All 23 Nebraska NRDs administer tree planting programs to provide trees and shrubs for local landowners. Each&nbsp;district&nbsp;varies, but possible services include planting, weed barrier installation or weed control, and drip irrigation.&nbsp;Free prairie grass seed will also be available as part of the Native Prairie and Pollinator Awareness Project.

Nebraska's Natural Resources DistrictLINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– Questions about trees, erosion, flood control or water quality? Stop in to visit Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts during Husker Harvest Days Sept. 10-12.“This is a great opportunity for producers to meet with conservation agencies all in one place and learn more about cost-share programs that can benefit their operation and Nebraska’s natural resources,” said Martin Graff, president of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD).Located in the Natural Resources Hub (39E), Nebraska’s NRDs are stationed with various organizations that offer conservation assistance, cost-share opportunities and producer programs. Attendees can visit with the Nebraska Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, The Nature Conservancy, and Central Platte NRD’s Native Prairie and Pollination Awareness Program.The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy Water Well Standards Program will also be on site to provide free water testing and screen for nitrates in minutes. Private well owners should bring a cup-size sample of water in a clean container.In addition, the&nbsp;Natural Resources Districts&nbsp;will announce three individuals&nbsp;to&nbsp;induct into the&nbsp;NRD&nbsp;Hall of Fame during a press conference at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, on the Hospitality Tent Stage (SE Quadrant, #33). These&nbsp;Hall of Fame inductees have&nbsp;made significant contributions to protect our state’s natural resources&nbsp;through the NRDs. Hall of Fame categories include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Natural Resources District Board&nbsp;Member&nbsp;</li><li>Natural Resources District Employee&nbsp;</li><li>Natural Resources District Supporter</li>
 </ul>During the three-day event, Husker Harvest attendees also will receive a free blue spruce tree seedling from the NRD Conservation Tree Program. All 23 Nebraska NRDs administer tree planting programs to provide trees and shrubs for local landowners. Each&nbsp;district&nbsp;varies, but possible services include planting, weed barrier installation or weed control, and drip irrigation.&nbsp;Free prairie grass seed will also be available as part of the Native Prairie and Pollinator Awareness Project.

Husker Harvest Days includes Free Trees and Water Testing

(LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Revenue (DOR) is providing information on property tax relief changes resulting from a new credit through the passage of LB 34 (2024). The bill frontloads the credit of 30% of school district taxes paid automatically by reducing property tax statements instead of requiring the taxpayer to claim it as a refundable income tax credit. The total amount of the frontloaded relief is $750 million that will reduce 2024 property tax statements. 

This credit is set to increase by a minimum of 3% each year and as the state’s economy grows, LB 34 includes a provision to direct even more funding to property tax relief. 

Previously under LB 1107 (2020), approximately 45% of Nebraskans were not claiming the property tax credit when filing their income tax returns. Now, through LB 34, those taxpayers will experience upwards of 20% in direct property tax relief.

For those taxpayers who previously claimed those tax credits, LB 34 will continue to provide property tax relief, without the burden of filing a claim. Taxpayers will now receive the benefit much earlier in the process. The new frontloaded credit will appear on each taxpayer's 2024 property tax statement, which will be mailed in December 2024. 

The frontloading of this credit only applies to school district taxes, so there is no change to the community college tax credit, which must still be claimed by taxpayers on their income tax return. This credit does still provide a 100% refund of community college taxes paid by the taxpayer. 

Provided below is a comparative analysis considering prior law and LB 34 changes utilizing the average tax credit Nebraska property taxpayers would receive in each respective year:

(LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Revenue (DOR) is providing information on property tax relief changes resulting from a new credit through the passage of LB 34 (2024). The bill frontloads the credit of 30% of school district taxes paid automatically by reducing property tax statements instead of requiring the taxpayer to claim it as a refundable income tax credit. The total amount of the frontloaded relief is $750 million that will reduce 2024 property tax statements. This credit is set to increase by a minimum of 3% each year and as the state’s economy grows, LB 34 includes a provision to direct even more funding to property tax relief. Previously under LB 1107 (2020), approximately 45% of Nebraskans were not claiming the property tax credit when filing their income tax returns. Now, through LB 34, those taxpayers will experience upwards of 20% in direct property tax relief.For those taxpayers who previously claimed those tax credits, LB 34 will continue to provide property tax relief, without the burden of filing a claim. Taxpayers will now receive the benefit much earlier in the process. The new frontloaded credit will appear on each taxpayer's 2024 property tax statement, which will be mailed in December 2024. The frontloading of this credit only applies to school district taxes, so there is no change to the community college tax credit, which must still be claimed by taxpayers on their income tax return. This credit does still provide a 100% refund of community college taxes paid by the taxpayer. Provided below is a comparative analysis considering prior law and LB 34 changes utilizing the average tax credit Nebraska property taxpayers would receive in each respective year:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725891893539.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Special Session Update: LB 34

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>

WASHINGTON — Latino voters are concerned with the high cost of living, the minimum wage and rising housing costs heading into the November elections, according to a comprehensive survey released Wednesday by UnidosUS, the largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy center in the nation.

“Laying out a coherent economic policy agenda that will resonate with Latinos … would go a long way, I think, for our community,” Janet Murguía, the president and CEO of UnidosUS, said on a call with reporters detailing the&nbsp;<a href="https://unidosus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Natl-deck-UnidosUS-2024-Pre-Election-Poll-of-Hispanic-Electorate.pdf" target="_blank">results of the survey.</a>

The&nbsp;<a href="https://unidosus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/National-crosstabs-UnidosUS-2024-Pre-Election-Poll-of-the-Hispanic-Electorate.pdf" target="_blank">survey included 3,000 eligible Hispanic voters</a>&nbsp;who were interviewed in either English or Spanish, from Aug. 5-23, with oversampling of residents of Georgia, North Carolina, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Florida, Texas and California. The poll, conducted by BSP Research, had a margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points.

Murguía said Latinos are the second-largest voting-age population and 1 in 5 of them will be casting ballots for the first time in a presidential election this November.

“Top of mind are pocketbook issues,” she said. “Hispanic voters are most deeply concerned, like many of their fellow Americans, about the rising cost of living.”

Another issue that Latinos strongly supported is access to abortion. By a 71% to 21% margin, Latinos oppose abortion bans, according to the survey.

“They do not support making it illegal,” Murguía said.

Wages and jobs that provide economic security are a top priority for Latino voters, Gary Segura, who conducted the research poll for UnidosUS, said.

<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/swa-wages-2022/#:~:text=Low%2Dwage%20workers%20are%20disproportionately%20women%20and%20Black%20and%20Hispanic" target="_blank">Latino workers are disproportionately workers</a>&nbsp;who earn the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, which has not increased since 2009. If the federal minimum wage had kept pace with inflation, it would be around $24 an hour,&nbsp;<a href="https://aflcio.org/what-unions-do/social-economic-justice/minimum-wage#:~:text=Since%20then%2C%20it%20has%20lost,would%20be%20%2424%20an%20hour." target="_blank">according to the AFL-CIO.</a>

“The lived economy for Latinos is different than the lived economy for the nation as a whole,” Segura said.

Segura said during the poll, interviewers followed up with respondents on their concerns about jobs and wages and found that being able to afford necessities like food and housing were top issues.

“People are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.

The number one response was that “jobs don’t pay enough, or I have to take a second job to make ends meet,” Segura said. “We talk a lot about the low levels of unemployment in this society now, which is certainly good news, but the issue is that many of those jobs do not pay enough for the holder of that job to essentially pay their basic living expenses.”

Murguía noted that immigration, which the Republican presidential nominee, former President Donald Trump, has made a core campaign issue, ranks fifth in priorities among Latino voters, tied with concern about gun violence and too-easy access to assault weapons.

“We want to be crystal clear that Latino voters overall are not buying into campaign tactics that demonize immigrants,” Murguía said. “They know the difference between those who mean us harm and those who are contributing to the fabric of our nation.”

Latino voters strongly support a legal pathway to citizenship for those in the &nbsp;Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, referred to as Dreamers, and for long-term undocumented immigrants, the survey found.

<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-promises-mass-deportations-undocumented-people-how-would-work" target="_blank">Trump has promised mass deportations</a>&nbsp;should he win a second term, a policy issue that has “virtually no support” by Latino voters sampled in the survey, Segura said.

Segura added that while Trump has campaigned on the issue, his promise to launch mass deportations is not particularly well known in Latino communities.

“Many of the people we speak to believe that (Trump) will do it if he can, but they just don’t actually believe that he can pull that off,” Segura said. “So there’s both a lack of awareness of these really draconian measures or proposals and then a lack of belief that they would actually come to pass.”

He added that he thinks it’s an opportunity for Democrats to campaign on the issue, but Vice President Kamala Harris has mainly criticized Trump for tanking a bipartisan border security deal.

“Our own results suggest that the primary border concern comes from voters who lean in the GOP direction in the first place, and so I don’t see a lot of movement there or a lot of risk for (Democrats), particularly in targeted advertisements and Hispanic voters,” Segura said.

‘Dismissive and diminishing language’

The poll found that 55% of those Latinos had not been contacted by either political party this year.

“We often hear a really dismissive and diminishing language about Latino participation in elections,” Segura said. “‘Latinos don’t vote as often as they should. Latinos will let you down’ and so forth, and no one ever wants to address the elephant in the room, which is that no one is asking Latinos to vote.”

The Harris campaign last month launched a bilingual WhatsApp campaign to target Latino voters. Michelle Villegas, the national Latino engagement director for the Harris campaign, said during a Hispanic Caucus meeting at the Democratic National Convention that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/harris-campaign-launches-bilingual-whatsapp-channel-draw-latino-voters-swing-states" target="_blank">the Latino vote is key to victory in three battleground states</a>&nbsp;— Arizona, Nevada and Pennsylvania.

The survey also found that running mates had an impact on Latino voters. Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, gave her a 3-point boost, Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, made his rating drop by 3 points.

“Vance has (a) negative impact on the Republican ticket, which is consistent with his low favorability among Latino voters,” according to the survey.

While Democrats have an advantage with Latino voters, and Harris has seen a boost in support compared to when President Joe Biden was in the race, she is still not reaching the levels of Latino support seen in previous elections, Clarissa Martinez De Castro, the vice president of the Latino Vote Initiative at UnidosUS, said.

“There is work to be done to reach the levels of support Democrats need and had achieved in previous elections, and more intense communication with these voters is needed, particularly on economic issues and immigration,” Martinez De Castro said.

Equis Research, which conducts research and polling specifically about Latino voters,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weareequis.us/research/xssaug2024bgmemo" target="_blank">found in a recent poll t</a>hat Harris has gained significant support from Latinos but that Harris “remains a few points shy of what Biden received in 2020” across battleground states.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725564419417.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>WASHINGTON — Latino voters are concerned with the high cost of living, the minimum wage and rising housing costs heading into the November elections, according to a comprehensive survey released Wednesday by UnidosUS, the largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy center in the nation.“Laying out a coherent economic policy agenda that will resonate with Latinos … would go a long way, I think, for our community,” Janet Murguía, the president and CEO of UnidosUS, said on a call with reporters detailing the&nbsp;<a href="https://unidosus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Natl-deck-UnidosUS-2024-Pre-Election-Poll-of-Hispanic-Electorate.pdf" target="_blank">results of the survey.</a>The&nbsp;<a href="https://unidosus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/National-crosstabs-UnidosUS-2024-Pre-Election-Poll-of-the-Hispanic-Electorate.pdf" target="_blank">survey included 3,000 eligible Hispanic voters</a>&nbsp;who were interviewed in either English or Spanish, from Aug. 5-23, with oversampling of residents of Georgia, North Carolina, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Florida, Texas and California. The poll, conducted by BSP Research, had a margin of error of plus or minus 1.8 percentage points.Murguía said Latinos are the second-largest voting-age population and 1 in 5 of them will be casting ballots for the first time in a presidential election this November.“Top of mind are pocketbook issues,” she said. “Hispanic voters are most deeply concerned, like many of their fellow Americans, about the rising cost of living.”Another issue that Latinos strongly supported is access to abortion. By a 71% to 21% margin, Latinos oppose abortion bans, according to the survey.“They do not support making it illegal,” Murguía said.<h2>Minimum-wage workers</h2>Wages and jobs that provide economic security are a top priority for Latino voters, Gary Segura, who conducted the research poll for UnidosUS, said.<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/swa-wages-2022/#:~:text=Low%2Dwage%20workers%20are%20disproportionately%20women%20and%20Black%20and%20Hispanic" target="_blank">Latino workers are disproportionately workers</a>&nbsp;who earn the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, which has not increased since 2009. If the federal minimum wage had kept pace with inflation, it would be around $24 an hour,&nbsp;<a href="https://aflcio.org/what-unions-do/social-economic-justice/minimum-wage#:~:text=Since%20then%2C%20it%20has%20lost,would%20be%20%2424%20an%20hour." target="_blank">according to the AFL-CIO.</a>“The lived economy for Latinos is different than the lived economy for the nation as a whole,” Segura said.Segura said during the poll, interviewers followed up with respondents on their concerns about jobs and wages and found that being able to afford necessities like food and housing were top issues.“People are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.The number one response was that “jobs don’t pay enough, or I have to take a second job to make ends meet,” Segura said. “We talk a lot about the low levels of unemployment in this society now, which is certainly good news, but the issue is that many of those jobs do not pay enough for the holder of that job to essentially pay their basic living expenses.”<h2>Opinions on immigration</h2>Murguía noted that immigration, which the Republican presidential nominee, former President Donald Trump, has made a core campaign issue, ranks fifth in priorities among Latino voters, tied with concern about gun violence and too-easy access to assault weapons.“We want to be crystal clear that Latino voters overall are not buying into campaign tactics that demonize immigrants,” Murguía said. “They know the difference between those who mean us harm and those who are contributing to the fabric of our nation.”Latino voters strongly support a legal pathway to citizenship for those in the &nbsp;Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, referred to as Dreamers, and for long-term undocumented immigrants, the survey found.<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-promises-mass-deportations-undocumented-people-how-would-work" target="_blank">Trump has promised mass deportations</a>&nbsp;should he win a second term, a policy issue that has “virtually no support” by Latino voters sampled in the survey, Segura said.Segura added that while Trump has campaigned on the issue, his promise to launch mass deportations is not particularly well known in Latino communities.“Many of the people we speak to believe that (Trump) will do it if he can, but they just don’t actually believe that he can pull that off,” Segura said. “So there’s both a lack of awareness of these really draconian measures or proposals and then a lack of belief that they would actually come to pass.”He added that he thinks it’s an opportunity for Democrats to campaign on the issue, but Vice President Kamala Harris has mainly criticized Trump for tanking a bipartisan border security deal.“Our own results suggest that the primary border concern comes from voters who lean in the GOP direction in the first place, and so I don’t see a lot of movement there or a lot of risk for (Democrats), particularly in targeted advertisements and Hispanic voters,” Segura said.<h2>‘Dismissive and diminishing language’</h2>The poll found that 55% of those Latinos had not been contacted by either political party this year.“We often hear a really dismissive and diminishing language about Latino participation in elections,” Segura said. “‘Latinos don’t vote as often as they should. Latinos will let you down’ and so forth, and no one ever wants to address the elephant in the room, which is that no one is asking Latinos to vote.”The Harris campaign last month launched a bilingual WhatsApp campaign to target Latino voters. Michelle Villegas, the national Latino engagement director for the Harris campaign, said during a Hispanic Caucus meeting at the Democratic National Convention that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/harris-campaign-launches-bilingual-whatsapp-channel-draw-latino-voters-swing-states" target="_blank">the Latino vote is key to victory in three battleground states</a>&nbsp;— Arizona, Nevada and Pennsylvania.The survey also found that running mates had an impact on Latino voters. Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, gave her a 3-point boost, Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, made his rating drop by 3 points.“Vance has (a) negative impact on the Republican ticket, which is consistent with his low favorability among Latino voters,” according to the survey.While Democrats have an advantage with Latino voters, and Harris has seen a boost in support compared to when President Joe Biden was in the race, she is still not reaching the levels of Latino support seen in previous elections, Clarissa Martinez De Castro, the vice president of the Latino Vote Initiative at UnidosUS, said.“There is work to be done to reach the levels of support Democrats need and had achieved in previous elections, and more intense communication with these voters is needed, particularly on economic issues and immigration,” Martinez De Castro said.Equis Research, which conducts research and polling specifically about Latino voters,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weareequis.us/research/xssaug2024bgmemo" target="_blank">found in a recent poll t</a>hat Harris has gained significant support from Latinos but that Harris “remains a few points shy of what Biden received in 2020” across battleground states.

Pocketbook issues rank high for Latino voters in 2024 election, survey finds

KANSAS CITY —A motocross instructor who mentored children was sentenced this week to 40 years in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay at least $193,500 in restitution for sexually exploiting numerous children, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Ryan Meyung, 33, of no fixed address, sexually exploited multiple young children that he met and befriended while traveling across the country as a motocross instructor between July 2019 and December 2021. 

As part of his predatory behavior, Meyung produced images and videos of six different minor victims engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including sex acts with him and with each other. The victims were between 6 and 13 years old at the time. Meyung also possessed and transported images and videos of child sexual abuse produced by other sex offenders and sexually abused and recorded other children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meyung pleaded guilty in April to six counts of sexual exploitation of a minor (producing child sexual abuse material) and has been in custody since his arrest in December 2021.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville made the announcement.

HSI Chattanooga investigated the case, with assistance from HSI Dalton, the Hamilton County, Tennessee, Sheriff’s Office, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Police Department, and HSI field offices throughout the country.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725718046095.png" alt="Meyung- Photo Hamilton County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Meyung- Photo Hamilton County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A motocross instructor who mentored children was sentenced this week to 40 years in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay at least $193,500 in restitution for sexually exploiting numerous children, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Ryan Meyung, 33, of no fixed address, sexually exploited multiple young children that he met and befriended while traveling across the country as a motocross instructor between July 2019 and December 2021. As part of his predatory behavior, Meyung produced images and videos of six different minor victims engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including sex acts with him and with each other. The victims were between 6 and 13 years old at the time. Meyung also possessed and transported images and videos of child sexual abuse produced by other sex offenders and sexually abused and recorded other children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meyung pleaded guilty in April to six counts of sexual exploitation of a minor (producing child sexual abuse material) and has been in custody since his arrest in December 2021.Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville made the announcement.HSI Chattanooga investigated the case, with assistance from HSI Dalton, the Hamilton County, Tennessee, Sheriff’s Office, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Police Department, and HSI field offices throughout the country.&nbsp;

Motocross coach sexually exploited multiple young children

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Hung Thuc Pham, age 38, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a meth mixture. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Pham to 135 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Pham’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Pham also agreed to the forfeiture of $5,110 in cash to the United States of America.

On September 12, 2023, Pham was stopped on Interstate 80 for numerous traffic violations by a Lancaster County Sheriff’s Deputy.&nbsp; She was the sole occupant of the car.&nbsp; The deputy saw a duffel bag on the front passenger seat which was partially open, and heat-sealed bags containing meth were visible inside.&nbsp; As a result, Pham’s car was searched.&nbsp; During the search, at total of more than 1.7 kilograms (approximately 3 ¾ pounds) of a meth mixture was found in the duffel bag.&nbsp;&nbsp; Purity testing on one of the heat-sealed bags showed at least 340 grams of actual methamphetamine. An additional bag containing a small amount of meth, a pipe and $5110 in cash was also found in the car.&nbsp;

Pham told investigators that at the time she was stopped, she was on her way to Lincoln to deliver the meth to another person. Pham said the meth found in her car was what remained of 20 pounds she transported to Nebraska from California about three weeks earlier.&nbsp; Pham said she made six other trips to California between late 2021 and August of 2023, and obtained a total of over 40 pounds of meth which she sold to persons in Lincoln and Grand Island.

This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force with assistance from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Hung Thuc Pham, age 38, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a meth mixture. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Pham to 135 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Pham’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Pham also agreed to the forfeiture of $5,110 in cash to the United States of America.On September 12, 2023, Pham was stopped on Interstate 80 for numerous traffic violations by a Lancaster County Sheriff’s Deputy.&nbsp; She was the sole occupant of the car.&nbsp; The deputy saw a duffel bag on the front passenger seat which was partially open, and heat-sealed bags containing meth were visible inside.&nbsp; As a result, Pham’s car was searched.&nbsp; During the search, at total of more than 1.7 kilograms (approximately 3 ¾ pounds) of a meth mixture was found in the duffel bag.&nbsp;&nbsp; Purity testing on one of the heat-sealed bags showed at least 340 grams of actual methamphetamine. An additional bag containing a small amount of meth, a pipe and $5110 in cash was also found in the car.&nbsp;Pham told investigators that at the time she was stopped, she was on her way to Lincoln to deliver the meth to another person. Pham said the meth found in her car was what remained of 20 pounds she transported to Nebraska from California about three weeks earlier.&nbsp; Pham said she made six other trips to California between late 2021 and August of 2023, and obtained a total of over 40 pounds of meth which she sold to persons in Lincoln and Grand Island.This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force with assistance from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department.

 Central Nebraska Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine Possession

Lincoln, September 6, 2024- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) in conjunction with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) is highlighting “Lifeline Awareness Week”, September 8-14.

The Lifeline Program helps make affordable voice and broadband services available toqualifying participants.

Under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers" target="_blank">Federal Lifeline Program</a>, consumers who participate in certain public assistance andveterans’ programs or qualify based on income can receive a discount of up to $9.25 per monthoff an eligible phone, broadband, or bundled phone/broadband service.

The PSC supplements the federal program through the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/telecommunications/nebraska-telephone-assistance-programlifeline" target="_blank">Nebraska Telephone Assistance Program(NTAP)</a>, providing an additional monthly discount of $3.50 to qualified Nebraskans. Thissupport can be applied to one landline or wireless phone bill or used to provide minutes toeligible cellular phone services.

To receive the NTAP discount, consumers must participate in the federal Lifeline Program andmeet eligibility requirements. Learn more about the NTAP/Lifeline Program and how to applyby visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/telecommunications/nebraska-telephone-assistance-programlifeline" target="_blank">NTAP/Lifeline page</a>&nbsp;on the PSC website.

“We want folks to know support is available to help them get and stay connected,” said Commission Chair Dan Watermeier. “We encourage qualified recipients to take advantage of these important discount programs.”

Deb CollinsPSCLincoln, September 6, 2024- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) in conjunction with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) is highlighting “Lifeline Awareness Week”, September 8-14.The Lifeline Program helps make affordable voice and broadband services available toqualifying participants.Under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers" target="_blank">Federal Lifeline Program</a>, consumers who participate in certain public assistance andveterans’ programs or qualify based on income can receive a discount of up to $9.25 per monthoff an eligible phone, broadband, or bundled phone/broadband service.The PSC supplements the federal program through the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/telecommunications/nebraska-telephone-assistance-programlifeline" target="_blank">Nebraska Telephone Assistance Program(NTAP)</a>, providing an additional monthly discount of $3.50 to qualified Nebraskans. Thissupport can be applied to one landline or wireless phone bill or used to provide minutes toeligible cellular phone services.To receive the NTAP discount, consumers must participate in the federal Lifeline Program andmeet eligibility requirements. Learn more about the NTAP/Lifeline Program and how to applyby visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/telecommunications/nebraska-telephone-assistance-programlifeline" target="_blank">NTAP/Lifeline page</a>&nbsp;on the PSC website.“We want folks to know support is available to help them get and stay connected,” said Commission Chair Dan Watermeier. “We encourage qualified recipients to take advantage of these important discount programs.”

Connectivity Highlighted During Lifeline Awareness Week

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/05/odyssey-to-the-extraordinary-dr-gold-charts-new-path-as-university-of-nebraska-president/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold outlined his vision Thursday to take NU on an “odyssey to the extraordinary” to its next chapter, under his leadership.

More than a dozen federal, state and local stakeholders honored and endorsed Dr. Gold as NU’s ninth president in an honorific investiture ceremony. From faculty, staff, students and alumni to donors, elected officials and more, each promised to work with Gold and help improve NU. Gold ascended to the presidency July 1.&nbsp;

While the day was for Gold, he said it was NU’s celebration that he chose to have strategically in the Nebraska State Capitol —&nbsp;the “people’s house” — and as a call to action.

“A call for me and a call for all gathered here today. A call to steward this partnership with the people of Nebraska,” Gold said. “A call to action to steward this great university from, as the theme says, ‘<a href="https://nebraska.edu/news-and-events/news/2024/09/installation-of-jeffrey-p-gold-as-nu-president-is-thursday" target="_blank">From Excellent to Extraordinary</a>.’”

Gold said being “extraordinary” means more than clearly defined goals, strategies or tactics. NU needs lofty, aspirational goals, Gold said, as well as a “fundamentally aligned culture, a consciousness of purpose shared not by some but shared by all.”

“Our greatest mistake would be to rest on our laurels and say that ‘excellence is good enough,’” Gold said.

Some of the areas that Gold outlined included research, discovery, creative education, student achievement, workforce and economic development, public and private partnerships and the creation of a university-wide culture that supports and embraces all on the “odyssey to the extraordinary.”

“Our legacy of excellence is a solid foundation to build upon but is not adequate,” he continued. “Our legacy serves as an inspiration but not as a roadmap for the pathway ahead.”

Retired U.S. Air Force Gen. John Hyten, who served as the 11th vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was one of more than a dozen people to endorse the new president during the event.&nbsp;

As vice chairman, Hyten was the nation’s second highest ranking military officer. He also led the U.S. Strategic Air Command at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue from 2016 to 2019, as well as led the Air Force Space Command from 2014 to 2016.

Hyten met Gold while serving at Offutt and said the doctor made himself available to help Hyten or any soldier who needed help finding health care. At one point, one soldier did, Hyten recalled, seeking help finding a specialist in Omaha for his two children with special needs. The problem: The soldier couldn’t figure out the military’s health care system or insurance.

Taking Gold up on his promise to help, Hyten called, and Gold offered his personal number for the soldier’s family. The next day, the family was able to meet with the specialists they needed.

Hyten said the immediate switch meant everything to Hyten and the soldier, who was just trying to understand StratCom while worrying about his family’s health.

“One day he’s distracted, he’s confused,” Hyten said. “The next day, ‘I’m all in. Just tell me what I have to do, coach. Put me in.’”

“This is Jeff Gold,” Hyten said. “A great soul and an individual with the highest character.”

Gold served with NU for more than 10 years prior to becoming president, in roles including chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a brief stint in a dual role as chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

His investiture ceremonies at UNMC in 2014 and UNO in 2019 both came on Sept. 5, as did the latest ceremony, which Gold said was also purposeful in a new chapter.

Gold also served as NU’s executive vice president and provost the past couple of years, a key role as the chief academic liaison between campuses and the regents. He will continue to hold a faculty position at UNMC.

A packed house welcomed the new president in the Capitol Rotunda in addition to Hyten, ranging from current and former state senators and state agency officials to former Gov. Dave Heineman and former Gov. and U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson.

Former University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green and former University of Nebraska at Kearney Chancellor Doug Kristensen, who both retired in the past year, also showed support, along with dozens of faculty, staff and students across the NU system.

Among others who endorsed Gold’s presidency in invited speeches were U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb.; Gov. Jim Pillen; NU Board of Regents Chair Rob Schafer; UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett; Dr. Ann Anderson Berry, executive director at the Child Health Research Institute at UNMC; and UNK Student Regent Sam Schroeder.

Fischer, like Hyten and many speakers, said she was proud of the regents for selecting an “exceptional new president” and one of her friends. She said Gold has an impressive educational pedigree, with decades of specializing in adult and pediatric cardiac surgery.

Fischer said what sets Gold apart from others, and why the regents “rightfully”&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/26/the-future-is-bright-regents-confirm-dr-jeffrey-gold-for-next-university-of-nebraska-president/">selected him in a 7-1 vote</a>&nbsp;in April, is his dedication to NU and the care he has for anyone he encounters.

“He’s faced challenge after challenge with tenacity, and he’s led countless students and professors to success,” Fischer said. “Both the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the University of Nebraska system at large have flourished under that leadership.”

Pillen, a former regent before becoming governor in 2023, promised to partner with Gold and improve education, as did Fischer.

Schafer said when the regents embarked to find the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nu-president-leadership-profile-released-applications-due-jan-1/">right leader in fall 2023</a>, after then-NU President Ted Carter announced he would be leaving the university, the regents sought not to hit the pause button and instead&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/20/unmcs-jeffrey-gold-priority-nu-presidential-candidate-seeks-to-pay-it-forward/">build on momentum</a>.

“I believe the University of Nebraska’s best days are still ahead of us, and I believe that Nebraskans share that conviction, and our most exciting chapters are still yet to be written,” Schafer said.

The doctor’s career has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/you-can-make-magic-happen-university-of-nebraska-presidential-finalist-makes-pitch-to-campuses/">stretched through multiple states</a>, including New York, where he volunteered for triage and search and rescue after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. and in Ohio, where as the dean of a medical university, he helped personally pay for a student’s textbooks so she could take classes, eventually graduating at the top of her class.

Gold, Hyten said, loves Nebraska, is “all in” and wants NU “to be the best in everything it touches.”

“He will put forth all the energy necessary to make that happen,” Hyten said. “Academics, research, leadership, everything. I am convinced the University of Nebraska is about to achieve new greatness under his leadership, because I have seen him do it.”

Quoting President Abraham Lincoln, Gold said the only way for NU to see its future is to build it, and it must move forward to its “true horizon: extraordinary excellence.”

“Just as our forefathers who crossed the oceans, rivers and plains in tightly knit family and community groups, we are on this odyssey together,” Gold said. “As a family, as well as a community. A family of Nebraskans.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725636167687.jpeg" alt="Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska system. Sept. 5, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska system. Sept. 5, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/05/odyssey-to-the-extraordinary-dr-gold-charts-new-path-as-university-of-nebraska-president/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold outlined his vision Thursday to take NU on an “odyssey to the extraordinary” to its next chapter, under his leadership.More than a dozen federal, state and local stakeholders honored and endorsed Dr. Gold as NU’s ninth president in an honorific investiture ceremony. From faculty, staff, students and alumni to donors, elected officials and more, each promised to work with Gold and help improve NU. Gold ascended to the presidency July 1.&nbsp;While the day was for Gold, he said it was NU’s celebration that he chose to have strategically in the Nebraska State Capitol —&nbsp;the “people’s house” — and as a call to action.“A call for me and a call for all gathered here today. A call to steward this partnership with the people of Nebraska,” Gold said. “A call to action to steward this great university from, as the theme says, ‘<a href="https://nebraska.edu/news-and-events/news/2024/09/installation-of-jeffrey-p-gold-as-nu-president-is-thursday" target="_blank">From Excellent to Extraordinary</a>.’”<h2>‘From Excellent to Extraordinary’</h2>Gold said being “extraordinary” means more than clearly defined goals, strategies or tactics. NU needs lofty, aspirational goals, Gold said, as well as a “fundamentally aligned culture, a consciousness of purpose shared not by some but shared by all.”“Our greatest mistake would be to rest on our laurels and say that ‘excellence is good enough,’” Gold said.Some of the areas that Gold outlined included research, discovery, creative education, student achievement, workforce and economic development, public and private partnerships and the creation of a university-wide culture that supports and embraces all on the “odyssey to the extraordinary.”“Our legacy of excellence is a solid foundation to build upon but is not adequate,” he continued. “Our legacy serves as an inspiration but not as a roadmap for the pathway ahead.”<h2>‘The highest character’</h2>Retired U.S. Air Force Gen. John Hyten, who served as the 11th vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was one of more than a dozen people to endorse the new president during the event.&nbsp;As vice chairman, Hyten was the nation’s second highest ranking military officer. He also led the U.S. Strategic Air Command at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue from 2016 to 2019, as well as led the Air Force Space Command from 2014 to 2016.Hyten met Gold while serving at Offutt and said the doctor made himself available to help Hyten or any soldier who needed help finding health care. At one point, one soldier did, Hyten recalled, seeking help finding a specialist in Omaha for his two children with special needs. The problem: The soldier couldn’t figure out the military’s health care system or insurance.Taking Gold up on his promise to help, Hyten called, and Gold offered his personal number for the soldier’s family. The next day, the family was able to meet with the specialists they needed.Hyten said the immediate switch meant everything to Hyten and the soldier, who was just trying to understand StratCom while worrying about his family’s health.“One day he’s distracted, he’s confused,” Hyten said. “The next day, ‘I’m all in. Just tell me what I have to do, coach. Put me in.’”“This is Jeff Gold,” Hyten said. “A great soul and an individual with the highest character.”<h2>Gold’s history with NU</h2>Gold served with NU for more than 10 years prior to becoming president, in roles including chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a brief stint in a dual role as chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha.His investiture ceremonies at UNMC in 2014 and UNO in 2019 both came on Sept. 5, as did the latest ceremony, which Gold said was also purposeful in a new chapter.Gold also served as NU’s executive vice president and provost the past couple of years, a key role as the chief academic liaison between campuses and the regents. He will continue to hold a faculty position at UNMC.A packed house welcomed the new president in the Capitol Rotunda in addition to Hyten, ranging from current and former state senators and state agency officials to former Gov. Dave Heineman and former Gov. and U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson.Former University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green and former University of Nebraska at Kearney Chancellor Doug Kristensen, who both retired in the past year, also showed support, along with dozens of faculty, staff and students across the NU system.<h2>‘Best days are still ahead of us’</h2>Among others who endorsed Gold’s presidency in invited speeches were U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb.; Gov. Jim Pillen; NU Board of Regents Chair Rob Schafer; UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett; Dr. Ann Anderson Berry, executive director at the Child Health Research Institute at UNMC; and UNK Student Regent Sam Schroeder.Fischer, like Hyten and many speakers, said she was proud of the regents for selecting an “exceptional new president” and one of her friends. She said Gold has an impressive educational pedigree, with decades of specializing in adult and pediatric cardiac surgery.Fischer said what sets Gold apart from others, and why the regents “rightfully”&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/26/the-future-is-bright-regents-confirm-dr-jeffrey-gold-for-next-university-of-nebraska-president/">selected him in a 7-1 vote</a>&nbsp;in April, is his dedication to NU and the care he has for anyone he encounters.“He’s faced challenge after challenge with tenacity, and he’s led countless students and professors to success,” Fischer said. “Both the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the University of Nebraska system at large have flourished under that leadership.”Pillen, a former regent before becoming governor in 2023, promised to partner with Gold and improve education, as did Fischer.Schafer said when the regents embarked to find the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nu-president-leadership-profile-released-applications-due-jan-1/">right leader in fall 2023</a>, after then-NU President Ted Carter announced he would be leaving the university, the regents sought not to hit the pause button and instead&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/20/unmcs-jeffrey-gold-priority-nu-presidential-candidate-seeks-to-pay-it-forward/">build on momentum</a>.“I believe the University of Nebraska’s best days are still ahead of us, and I believe that Nebraskans share that conviction, and our most exciting chapters are still yet to be written,” Schafer said.<h2>‘A family of Nebraskans’</h2>The doctor’s career has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/you-can-make-magic-happen-university-of-nebraska-presidential-finalist-makes-pitch-to-campuses/">stretched through multiple states</a>, including New York, where he volunteered for triage and search and rescue after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. and in Ohio, where as the dean of a medical university, he helped personally pay for a student’s textbooks so she could take classes, eventually graduating at the top of her class.Gold, Hyten said, loves Nebraska, is “all in” and wants NU “to be the best in everything it touches.”“He will put forth all the energy necessary to make that happen,” Hyten said. “Academics, research, leadership, everything. I am convinced the University of Nebraska is about to achieve new greatness under his leadership, because I have seen him do it.”Quoting President Abraham Lincoln, Gold said the only way for NU to see its future is to build it, and it must move forward to its “true horizon: extraordinary excellence.”“Just as our forefathers who crossed the oceans, rivers and plains in tightly knit family and community groups, we are on this odyssey together,” Gold said. “As a family, as well as a community. A family of Nebraskans.”