Lawmakers decided to remove the school voucher and childcare elements that had hung up the main budget bill. Shortly thereafter, both budget bills passed to the final round.

You can read about the relatively low key public votes that came after closed door negotiations. Now, we wait for final passage and Governor Pillen’s signature.

Meanwhile, you can read the two articles in the latest B2B Omaha Magazine that can help you tell the story of startups in Nebraska:

Takeaway: Keep spreading the good word about the BIA

Another “The BIA Did That!” video is live on our LinkedIn Page. Each one of this series shares the perspective of a Nebraska founder, investor, or community champion on why the Business Innovation Act matters.

This batch features:

What can you do?

Read this Silicon Prairie News guest editorial, which explains how bills become laws in Nebraska and how your voice shapes them.

LB100: Establish the Office of Entrepreneurship in the Department of Economic Development, encourage state agencies to contract with startups, and require the state pension fund to Invest in Nebraska startups.

LB847: Adopt the Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Act and change provisions relating to the combined tax rate under the Employment Security Law - this becomes the main bill to which the BIA-related bills get attached as amendments.

LB999: Establish the Business Innovation and Startup Commission to help guide state government decisions.

LB1015: Create a Business Innovation Reserve Fund to provide long-term stable funding of the Business Innovation Act programs.

LB1044: Change provisions of the Business Innovation Act to create long-term stability of funding and establish a minimum amount awarded

LB1156: Adopt the Disinvested Community Development Incentive Tax Credit Act to help fund small business and startup support, accelerator programs, and workforce training in rural and urban communities.

LB1205: Require the Department of Economic Development to award microlending grants under the Business Innovation Act

Takeaway: You can watch each bill evolve and progress by clicking the links.

You are one of 151 people (and counting) who have stepped forward to speak up for Nebraska startups. Thank you!

Small actions, big impact
Many thanks to everyone who shared their stories below. The chorus continues to grow!

One message, many voices
In your communications, please consider using this message:

Helping Nebraska startups is a strategic investment that creates a more vibrant economy, more high paying jobs for Nebraska workers, and a greater diversity of future tax revenues. The grass is always greener where you water it!