While addressing Nebraska lawmakers on the last day of the legislative session, Governor Pete Rickets had one word, “Wow”.
Ricketts praised lawmakers for the work they accomplished this session by saying, “As you leave, you can take great satisfaction knowing you were part of a legislative body that passed great legislation.”
Ricketts says lawmakers accomplished much in a short period of time. He stated, “In this short 60 day session, you were able to pass the most significant tax relief bill we have ever had in the state of Nebraska.” The package included $900 million in income and property tax cuts. He also praised the work lawmakers accomplished in preserving Nebraska’s water supply with the passage of the Perkins County Canal Project and the construction of a lake between Lincoln and Omaha.
This was Ricketts’ final end of session address to lawmakers.
Prior to the Sine Die, several lawmakers paused to remember their former colleague Brad Ashford who died Tuesday after a short battle with brain cancer.
Senator John McCollister said knew Ashford for 65 years. Ashford’s mother was his Cub Scout leader, they went to the same high school and church. McCollister said of Ashford, “A gentle giant. The “absent minded professor”. That is the best way to describe Brad but a policy wonk 100% through and through. I am going to miss him.”
Ashford served 16 years in the Nebraska Legislature and one term in the U.S. Congress. He was 72.