We are writing in response to an opinion printed in last Sunday’s Omaha World-Herald by seven former state senators. Their opinion echoes that of OpenSky and Stand for Schools, two groups who are active lobbyists in the Legislature and largely funded by progressive Nebraskans through their tax-exempt foundations.
It is hard to overstate what was accomplished during the last legislative session. Of course, none of it would have happened if not for the leadership of both former Gov. Pete Ricketts and Gov. Jim Pillen. Further, as anyone who has served in the Legislature knows, every accomplishment is dependent on give and take. So, what did the 108th Legislature do last year regarding education funding?
First, Legislative Bill 818 created the $1 billion Education Future Fund. The $1 billion Education Future Fund will ensure the Legislature will no longer adjust the school aid formula down when revenues are below estimate, which occurred six times …