Nebraska 2025-2026 Regular Session

Nebraska Legislature Bill LB389

Introduced
1/17/25  

Caption

Eliminate the levy authority of educational service units and provide state funding to educational service units

Impact

The impact of LB389 on state laws could be significant, as it would alter the funding mechanism for educational services. Currently, ESUs have the authority to levy taxes, allowing them to collect revenue from local districts based on their needs. By centralizing funding through state appropriations, the bill could lead to a more consistent funding level across the state, potentially addressing disparities between wealthier and less affluent districts.

Summary

LB389 proposes to eliminate the levy authority of educational service units (ESUs) while providing direct state funding to these entities. By removing the ability for ESUs to levy taxes, the bill seeks to streamline the funding process for educational services, transferring the responsibility for financial support directly to the state government. This change aims to ensure that educational services are funded equitably across districts without the reliance on local tax levies.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LB389 may include concerns from local educational leaders about the potential loss of autonomy in managing their funding sources. Critics may argue that the elimination of local levy authority could restrict ESUs' ability to respond flexibly to local educational needs, undermining their capacity to deliver tailored support. Proponents, however, argue that state funding will create a more reliable and predictable funding framework that can benefit all districts uniformly.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NE LB702

Change provisions relating to educational service units

NE LB48

Appropriate money to the State Department of Education for educational service units

NE LR240

Interim study to examine the impact of consolidation of educational service units

NE LB527

Provide reimbursements to school districts and educational service units for mental health expenditures

NE LB1086

Eliminate the Department of Health and Human Services and create three departments

NE LB1351

Change terminology and eliminate obsolete provisions relating to correctional services

NE LB461

Change, transfer, and eliminate provisions relating to the materiel division of the Department of Administrative Services and procurement of services and personal property

NE LB783

Eliminate the levy authority of community college areas

NE LB731

Provide for service by state agency department heads in reserve components of the armed forces of the United States

NE LB684

Provide for a review of services provided by state agencies

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.