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Policy Areas

Tax Policy and Spending

The Platte Institute studies ideas with potential for growing Nebraska's economy by emphasizing free enterprise solutions. Nebraska not only has a reputation for high taxes and inequities and imbalance within its taxation structure, it is consistently unfavorable in national rankings and in the bottom two or three in comparison to bordering states. Enhancing economic growth includes more than lowering taxes. Tax policies that improve competitiveness are also important. Spending consciousness is vital when examining the revenue needed to effectively operate state and local governments and the school system. Often, initiatives that promotes free enterprise result in greater revenue for services provided by government because economic growth broadens the tax base while providing Nebraskans with opportunities for higher paying jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Enhancing Nebraska's Educational Structure

Educating our population with skills desired for 21st century agricultural needs and companies is vital to economic growth and keeping our best in the state - avoiding "brain drain." The Platte Institute will conduct research on present fresh recommendations on ways to leverage the many positive aspects of Nebraska's educational structure to energize economic growth.

Controlling Health Care Costs

States able to gain control over rapidly rising health care costs will become significant attractions to business concerns looking for locations with competitive advantages. Similarly, Nebraska citizens are more likely to fight to stay here if responsive, cost effective health care is available to them. The Platte Institute will focus on ideas that promote competition and innovative relationships. The existence of a significant health care and health insurance industry accompanied by a strong medical educational structure provides a well for a plethora of ideas for the Platte Institute to study.

Managing Nebraska's Valuable Water Resources

Governor Dave Heineman specifically identified water as the number one long-term issue for Nebraska. Nebraska is blessed with strategically positioned rivers and the Ogallala Aquifer, but faces challenges both internal and externally as water becomes an ever-more precious commodity. The issue is complex with various agreements and regulatory structures in place. Prior usage practices and recent drought conditions already place Nebraska in a precarious position. The Platte Institute will focus on long term ideas and solutions that protect this vital resource while leveraging it for economic growth.