During a recent special legislative session in Nebraska called by Governor Jim Pillen to address escalating property taxes, women played a significant role in advancing key bills and blocking unpopular tax increase proposals. Despite holding just over a third of legislative seats in the state, women took charge on most days of the special session, showcasing their influence in decision-making.
Research indicates that women have historically been less inclined than men to seek political office due to various factors such as family responsibilities and concerns about harassment and abuse. However, there has been a notable increase in women running for and being elected to office in recent years, with a nearly 30% rise in the number of women serving in state legislatures since 2018.
Several female lawmakers in Nebraska have faced instances of harassment and sexism, both within the Legislature and through social media. Despite these challenges, women like Senator Julie Slama have been actively involved in critical debates, offering diverse perspectives on issues like tax policies that directly impact working families.
As the special session concluded with only partial success in achieving property tax relief, women legislators are gearing up for the regular session next year with new proposals to address the issue. Ideas range from imposing additional taxes on high-income households to implementing property tax caps similar to California's Proposition 13.
While Nebraska currently ranks 19th in terms of women lawmakers, efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in government may face obstacles in some Republican-led states. The upcoming elections will determine whether women will gain or lose seats in the Legislature, with a significant number of female candidates vying for positions.
