LINCOLN — The longshot petition to let voters replace property, income and corporate taxes with a consumption tax fell short of a bulk signature-gathering hurdle that often stops ballot initiatives short that lack paid circulators. That higher hurdle is securing signatures from 10% of the state’s registered voters to amend the state constitution, or about … Read more
State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard is leading an effort to replace Nebraska’s income, property, and corporate taxes with a broader sales or consumption tax called the EPIC Option.
Supporters of the EPIC consumption tax in Nebraska have gathered signatures from 5% of registered voters in 38 counties, aiming to replace income, property, and corporate taxes with a broader sales tax. They need a total of 123,000 signatures by July 3 to place the issue on the fall ballot. Governor Jim Pillen opposes the EPIC tax, calling it unworkable and advocating for a balanced approach to property tax relief. Former State Sen. Brett Lindstrom and others criticize the EPIC tax for potentially increasing sales taxes on various items and eliminating local control. Supporters argue that drastic changes are needed in the state’s tax system and believe the EPIC tax is the only solution that prioritizes taxpayers.