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Lobbyist warns Nebraska faces roughly $646 million shortfall; district watching budget timeline
Summary
District lobbyist reported the Nebraska Legislature faces about a $646 million budget shortfall, noted a rainy‑day fund transfer and the March 25 budget deadline; board and administration said they are monitoring implications for state aid to schools.
Bennington Public Schools’ lobbyist told the board on March 9 that the Nebraska Legislature is confronting an approximate $646 million budget shortfall as appropriations and economic forecasts continue to shift.
“ We are now up to about a $646 million shortfall,” lobbyist Julia Clucker said, summarizing recent developments at the Capitol, including an appropriations committee report and a transfer from the cash reserve. Clucker said the Legislature faces a day‑50 budget deadline on March 25 and that debate over potential revenue options—including taxes on tobacco and vaping products—had been contentious.
Superintendent and finance staff also briefed the board earlier on state apportionment figures. The superintendent said the district’s state apportionment per pupil for the year was $27.69, a $97 reduction from last year in per‑pupil terms, and reiterated that state aid figures are a key revenue source the district monitors.
Board members and administration said they will continue to track state action and potential impacts on the district budget as the legislature finalizes decisions.
