FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2024
Holland Children’s Movement CEO Responds to Nebraska Governor Pillen’s State of the State Address
OMAHA, NEBRASKA – This morning, January 18, Governor Jim Pillen presented his State of the State Address, including his legislative priorities for the biennial 2024 legislative session. Holland Children’s Movement Chief Executive Officer Hadley Richters responded:
“Governor Pillen has proven that Nebraska isn’t for everyone…especially children and families,” said Richters. “With the start of the 2024 Legislative session, the Governor was given an opportunity to make Nebraska a better place for all families. Instead, his agenda included denying the State its share of federal funds to feed 150,000 children in Nebraska, raising sales taxes, and failing to prioritize legislation to benefit working Nebraskans and families.”
“Governor Pillen remains focused on promoting culture war priorities that have divided Nebraskans instead of uniting them. Today, the Governor has shown us his disregard for Nebraskans and the issues they are facing day-to-day.”
According to 2023 statewide research conducted by the Holland Children’s Institute, Nebraskans believe the state government is not doing enough to help working families get ahead (58 percent) and that it is either a “serious problem” or a “problem” that taxes favor the wealthy/big corporations over middle-class families (68 percent).
“The results of research and public opinion polling continuously demonstrate that most Nebraskans believe the State Government is not prioritizing the needs of Nebraska’s children and families,” said Richters. “Issues that impact children and families in Nebraska, such as high-quality, affordable health care, childcare, and early childhood education, should be top priority. We expect the Governor and the Legislature to prioritize bipartisan policies that contribute to the future of children and families in Nebraska.”