Grand Island Chamber Opposes Plan to Impose Tax Shift, 18% Sales Tax Increase

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — The Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce is part of a coalition opposing Legislative Bill 388, which is being considered by state lawmakers to raise Nebraska’s sales tax.

Specifically, the bill would increase the state sales tax rate from 5.5% to 6.5% — a hike of more than 18% — to provide local government more state aid in hopes of lowering locally imposed property taxes.

In its opposition to LB 388, the coalition released the following statement to Nebraska lawmakers:

“On behalf of Nebraska’s businesses and employers, the Nebraska, Lincoln, Kearney, Grand Island, and Washington County Chambers of Commerce remain opposed to tax increases and tax shifts. Implementing taxes on one group to alleviate the burden on another is not good public policy.

“Our organizations have consistently supported comprehensive tax relief, and we remain dedicated to promoting economic growth to lower taxes for all Nebraskans. Senators have effectively implemented real tax reform, reducing both income and property taxes to promote economic growth, and we firmly believe this is the best path forward.”