Nebraska vote on private school scholarship repeal gathers 86K signatures

Support Our Schools Nebraska has submitted more than 86,000 signatures to repeal a new Nebraska law that allocates $10 million per year for private and parochial school scholarships. The petition initiative emerged in 2023 to oppose LB 753, which was later repealed through LB 1402. The campaign had just 67 days to collect signatures this year, 18 fewer than last time, but gathered signatures at a higher rate with over 2,800 volunteers. The petition seeks to eliminate the scholarship program established by LB 1402 while leaving the rest of the legislation untouched.
Nebraska lawmakers underestimated voter anger at the passage of LB 1402, with State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan accusing the petition campaign of being funded by “left-wing special interests.” Supporters of the law argue that the funds are necessary to provide educational opportunities for students from low-income families. However, opponents claim the law would deplete funding for public education and lacks accountability measures for private schools. Various groups, including the National Education Association, provided financial backing for the petition initiative.
If the referendum qualifies for the ballot and wins approval from voters, it would eliminate the scholarship program provided by LB 1402. Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska criticized the petition, stating that it threatens students who could benefit from the scholarships. Despite opposition, Support Our Schools members remain determined to continue their fight against the law and encourage voters to participate in the upcoming November vote.

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Photo credit omaha.com