LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – A bill designed to expedite work on Nebraska road and bridge projects has won first-round approval from lawmakers.
The measure that advanced Tuesday on a 43-0 vote would withdraw $50 million from the state’s cash reserve for an “infrastructure bank” fund.
The Nebraska Department of Roads would pull money from the fund for highway projects, a grant program to pay for county bridge repairs, and road improvements that are deemed likely to attract new businesses.
The proposal is one of Gov. Pete Ricketts’ top priorities. Revenue from last year’s fuel tax increase would add to the fund, generating an estimated $400 million between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2033.
Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion says the bill will help the state economy. The bill is LB960.
Article courtesy of The Washington Times (LINK)