Neb. tax plan pits Heineman against big business

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) -- Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman's tax plan is pitting the Republican governor against many of his traditional allies in the business community, who welcome the conversation but say his specific plan would create financial uncertainty.

Heineman repeated his argument Wednesday that his plan would benefit small businesses, working Nebraskans and veterans who live on a fixed income. But opposition is growing from the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry and groups that represent bankers, retailers and independent businesses.

Heineman was expected to argue for one of his two tax overhaul proposals during a hearing Wednesday before the Legislature's Revenue Committee. In a press conference before the hearing, the governor struck a populist tone and announced that a state veterans' group had endorsed his plan.

"Big businesses with their highly paid lobbyists are trying to protect their special-interest exemption," Heineman said. "I understand that. But what about small businesses in this state? What about working Nebraskans? What about military retirees? Seniors on Social Security?"

For years, Heineman has emphasized the need to lure new employers to Nebraska, including large corporations. He pitched his plan as a boon to small businesses and workers.

"Every single one of them — truck drivers, waitresses, even reporters — will see their take-home pay increase if we eliminate the state income tax," he said.

Heineman is seeking to end billions of dollars in sales tax exemptions in exchange for eliminating Nebraska's income tax. Many business groups have raised concerns about the bill, saying it would create uncertainty for manufacturers, processors and industries that serve agriculture.

The larger of his two proposals would end about $2.4 billion in state sales tax exemptions, while cutting out the corporate and individual income tax. The second, smaller proposal would eliminate about $395 million in exemptions and reduce what retirees pay in taxes.

Several business groups argue that ending a state exemption on "inputs," such as raw materials and energy, would drive businesses out of Nebraska. Heineman has argued that every business wants to protect its particular exemption.

The governor pledged to fight for his proposal, which is certain to face at least some resistance in the Legislature. Veteran state Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha, known for his ability to stall and derail bills he opposes, promised Wednesday to "tie up the session forever" if the Revenue Committee sends Heineman's larger tax bill to the full Legislature.

"Please, members of the Revenue Committee, send this bill to the floor — and give me the rest of the session," Chambers said.

Heineman noted that most of the sales tax exemptions in his proposals are aimed at businesses. He also has said he wants to keep the state's sales tax exemption on food.

"I'm glad he's going to be here, and we're going to have that conversation," Heineman said of Chambers. "I guess he's going to have a lot of long nights down here, but we need the conversation."

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The bill is LB405.