Lynne Walz on Welfare & Poverty

Voted to expand energy assistance qualifications

Summary by KETV, ABC-7:LB 306 raises the income qualifications for federal energy assistance. It would use money left in the program each year and give it to newly qualified families rather than send it back to Washington, D.C., or people who already received assistance.

Veto message: This would be a permanent benefit expansion funded with one-time federal dollars. When those one-time federal dollars run out, the most in need will be disadvantaged by receiving a smaller share of the regular LIHEAP program funds.

Legislative outcome:Vetoed by Governor Pete Ricketts on May/25/21; Legislature voted 32-15-2 to override veto on May/26/21; Lynne Walz voted YES.

Voted to expand food-assistance benefits

Summary by KOLN 1011-AM-NOW:The Republican governor says in his veto letter that the measure would create a disincentive for recipients to seek better-paying jobs at a time when many businesses are desperate for workers.

Veto message: LB 108 would dramatically expand a taxpayer-funded food assistance program that is only intended to benefit those who are truly in need. While the bill contains a sunset for the expansion provision, history proves that it is nearly impossible to reign in a public benefit.

Legislative Outcome:Vetoed by Governor Pete Ricketts on May/25/21; Legislature voted 30-19-0 to override veto on May/26/21; Lynne Walz voted YES.