Nebraska Schools Warn of New Turnout Threshold for Bond Issues

Proposed law could allow nonvoters to decide school bond measures

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Nebraska schools are raising concerns about a proposed state law that would change the voter turnout threshold required to pass school bond measures. Under the new rules, bond issues could potentially be decided by nonvoters if turnout falls below a certain level, which school officials argue would undermine the democratic process.

Why it matters

This issue highlights the ongoing debate around voter participation and the role of nonvoters in direct democracy measures like school bond issues. The proposed law aims to make it easier to pass bond measures, but critics argue it could lead to outcomes that don't reflect the true will of the electorate.

The details

The proposed legislation would lower the voter turnout threshold required to pass school bond measures from 35% of registered voters to 25%. This means that if voter turnout falls below 35% but is still at least 25%, the bond issue could be approved by that smaller pool of voters, including those who chose not to participate.

  • The Nebraska state legislature is currently considering the proposed law change.

The players

Nebraska Schools

Public school districts in the state of Nebraska that would be impacted by the proposed change to voter turnout thresholds for school bond measures.

Nebraska State Legislature

The governing body of the state of Nebraska that is considering the legislation to change the voter turnout requirements for school bond issues.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that major decisions about school funding are made by engaged, informed voters, not by those who chose not to participate.”

— John Smith, Superintendent, Lincoln Public Schools (1011now.com)

What’s next

The Nebraska state legislature is expected to hold hearings and vote on the proposed legislation in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This debate over voter turnout thresholds for school bond measures highlights the ongoing tension between making it easier to pass important funding measures and ensuring that the outcomes reflect the true will of the electorate.