SPUCC Sets Legislative Priorities After Senators Panel

HOLDREGE, NE: December 12, 2018 – The South Platte United Chambers of Commerce hosted Lt. Governor Mike Foley and Nebraska state senators and its Legislative Summit yesterday in Holdrege. Past and future legislative issues were discussed by the elected officials and the audience gave input to the senators.
 
Senator Dan Hughes of District 44, Senator Elect Dave Murman of District 38, and retired senators Ed Schrock and Tom Carlson lent their expertise and views to the discussions.  The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry gave a presentation that reviewed 2018 and preview the coming legislative session.
 
Lt. Gov. Foley said that efficiency in government is important. A hiring freeze ordered by Gov. Pete Ricketts last year has left state government with nearly 300 fewer employees so far.  Foley said that training has made state agencies more effective and customer-driven.
 
He also stated that the state government has a pro-growth policy that aims to make Nebraska attractive to growing and relocating businesses. Much of this strategy involves lowering property taxes without higher taxes.
 
A round table discussion with the senators and lieutenant governor allowed the audience to ask questions and assess the senators’ views and goals. Workforce development strategies, tax relief, and economic development topics were addressed.
 
The SPUCC executive board met following the presentations and set the organization's legislative priorities for 2019. Those priorities include:  Preserve and improve tax increment financing; support of workforce development, recruitment and career education programs; prioritizing food processing and commodity processing in Nebraska; and support of rural broadband development.
 
South Platte United Chambers of Commerce is committed to furthering the economic and social welfare of the State of Nebraska with focus on the South Platte region. Its initiatives are in Tourism, Community Development, and Legislative Issues. For membership information, go to www.spuccne.com.