Jason Ball, President & CEO – Lincoln Chamber of Commerce (lcoc.com)
A strong, competitive business climate does not happen by chance. It is built through consistent advocacy, thoughtful policy and a clear focus on long-term growth. That commitment defines the Lincoln Chamber’s work during the 2026 Legislative Session, with Executive Vice President Bruce Bohrer leading the Chamber’s policy efforts at the Capitol. Through his leadership and our ongoing engagement, the Chamber is working to advance policies that strengthen our business community and ensure Lincoln’s long-term economic vitality.
This session, the Lincoln Chamber is advocating for enhancements to the Business Innovation Act to better support entrepreneurship and innovation across Nebraska. This effort is led by Senator Jason Prokop of Lincoln and Senator Teresa Ibach of Sumner and strengthened by compelling testimony from Brian Zimmer of Don’t Panic Labs and Eric Dinger of Powderhook. Their insights clearly underscored the importance of this legislation, and we are grateful for their leadership and support. We also appreciate Governor Jim Pillen’s office for taking a fresh look at the Business Innovation Act and recognizing its significance to Nebraska’s economic growth.
In addition, your Chamber supported the creation of Community Improvement Districts as a new tool for local investment, with special thanks to Nate McHargue of Olsson for his testimony. We continue to champion housing initiatives and streamlined development processes, which are critical to meeting workforce needs and maintaining competitiveness.
The Chamber also stood firmly in support of our private sector gas utility in the face of unfair competition and backed the creation of a state Economic Development Task Force to identify opportunities for growth across Nebraska. In addition, the Chamber supported the enabling of Pinnacle Bank Arena to add more seating by removing the statutory seating capacity, through Visit Lincoln Executive Director Jeff Maul providing testimony that reinforced the significant economic benefits major events bring to Lincoln’s tourism, hospitality and small business communities.
Limiting the arena’s capacity reduces Lincoln’s competitiveness for high-profile events, diminishes visitor spending and weakens the city’s ability to position itself as a vibrant entertainment destination.
While advancing policies that support growth and competitiveness, the Chamber has also taken a firm stance against proposals that would place additional burdens on Nebraska businesses. In partnership with a broad coalition of business organizations, the Lincoln Chamber is opposing any proposals that increase sales taxes through the elimination of select exemptions and the expansion of sales tax to new services, including consulting. LB1244, carried by Senator Dave Murman of Glenvil at Governor Pillen’s request, was heard before the Revenue Committee on February 4. This approach risks placing disproportionate strain on urban businesses and workers while undermining economic competitiveness.
As the session progresses, the Chamber’s policy team will remain focused, engaged and proactive. Our work is rooted in one clear goal: advancing policies that support economic growth, foster innovation and protect a fair and competitive business climate. Through strong advocacy and member engagement, we will continue working to ensure Lincoln remains a place where businesses can thrive. We hope to see you at one of our monthly Policy Forums featuring legislative leaders during the session.
To learn more about the Chamber’s advocacy work, visit lcoc.com/advocacy.