Bill > LB1142

This bill, titled "Change provisions relating to the Nebraska Visitors Development Act," proposes significant changes to how tourism is promoted and managed in Nebraska by transferring administrative authority from the Nebraska Tourism Commission to the Department of Economic Development. Key provisions include establishing a Director of Tourism within the Department of Economic Development, redefining the roles and responsibilities of the Nebraska Tourism Commission to primarily serve in an advisory capacity to the department, and renaming the "Nebraska Tourism Commission Promotional Cash Fund" to the "Nebraska Tourism Promotional Cash Fund." The bill also clarifies that the Department of Economic Development will now administer various programs, including marketing campaigns, promotional services, technical assistance, and grant programs for local governments and the tourism industry, as well as the marking of significant tourism attractions. Additionally, it makes conforming changes to other related statutes, such as the Nebraska Craft Brewery Board which will now include the Director of Tourism as a non-voting ex officio member, and adjusts the allocation of revenue from cash device taxes. The bill is set to become operative on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause allowing it to take effect upon passage and approval.

Business and Industry, Military Affairs and Security

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=63945