Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has signed an Executive Order designed to offer $20 million in property tax relief to the state’s households.
Pillen cited an increase in casino gambling revenue and unused money remaining in the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund and the School District Property Tax Credit Fund, noting the funds now exceed the amounts originally appropriated by the state legislature. As a result of this situation, Pillen’s Executive Order will direct Nebraska’s Property Tax Administrator to certify and distribute the full amount in the funds to taxpayers.
“As governor, fixing our broken property tax system is my top priority,” said Pillen. “Whenever possible, we must get bureaucracy out of the way and ensure that Nebraskans receive the full amount of property tax relief possible. By signing this executive order, we are ensuring that all money in these funds is fully given to taxpayers. This is a common-sense, good government measure that will help Nebraska families across the state.”
The Republican governor added, “We still have work to do with our senators. Due to ideological beliefs and special interest groups, the Legislature has unfortunately failed to deliver true and meaningful property tax relief. The state should never sit on funds that can be distributed to taxpayers. We will continue to put all our efforts into getting the crippling property tax crisis fixed for Nebraskans. We are fighting hard for Nebraskans to solve the problem.”
According to Nebraska Examiner, property taxes levied statewide during 2024 declined by $6 million out of a $5.3 billion total – this marked the first decrease in total property taxes paid in 26 years. However, property taxes levied statewide rose by about $300 million a year in 2022 and 2023, the highest increases in state history.
