Nebraska Lawmakers Clash With Constituents Over Bill Blocking Vote on Private School Funding

Nebraska lawmakers are set to pass a school choice bill that would block the public from voting on a ballot measure initiated by citizens to repeal a law that diverts millions in income tax receipts to pay for private school scholarships. The new bill would directly fund private school tuition from state coffers, effectively preventing voters from repealing the private school funding law.

Opponents of the bill, including retired teacher Rita Bennett and Gretna resident Angie Lauritsen, have expressed outrage over the lawmakers' attempt to "usurp the will of voters" and "cut off a referendum." They argue that the bill violates the Nebraska Constitution's prohibition against appropriating public funds to nonpublic schools.

The bill's author, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, argues that it would give parents a choice and is not anti-public schools. Supporters say it provides options for families whose public schools are not serving them well.

Why this matters: The clash between Nebraska lawmakers and their constituents over school choice legislation highlights the ongoing debate about the use of public funds for private education. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for similar battles in other states.

Organizers of the ballot initiative to repeal the original private school funding law are considering their next steps, which could include launching another petition effort or filing a lawsuit to challenge the constitutionality of the new bill. The issue is likely to be decided in court, and the fate of the ballot initiative remains uncertain.

"This is an outrage," said Rita Bennett, a retired teacher who collected petition signatures. "It's a novel use of legislation to cut off a referendum."

Angie Lauritsen, a Gretna resident who also collected signatures, described the lawmakers' plan as an "end-run" around the ballot initiative process. "Voters should have the right to decide on this issue," she said.

The clash between Nebraska lawmakers and their constituents over the private school funding bill highlights the deep divisions surrounding the use of public money for private education. As the legal battle looms, both sides are preparing for a fight that could have far-reaching implications for school choice in the state.

Key Takeaways

• Nebraska lawmakers aim to pass a school choice bill to block public vote on private school funding.
• The bill would directly fund private school tuition, preventing voters from repealing the private school funding law.
• Opponents argue the bill violates the state constitution's prohibition on public funds for nonpublic schools.
• The outcome could set a precedent for similar school choice battles in other states.
• Organizers of the ballot initiative to repeal the private school funding law are considering legal action.