Gov. Pillen Vetoes Bill Targeting Oversight of Omaha Housing Authority

(LINCOLN, NE) -- Gov. Jim Pillen has vetoed a bill that would have allowed the City of Omaha to regulate its housing authority and require inspections and disclosures.

The measure, LB 287, passed the Legislature last week in response to repeated complaints from Omaha Housing Authority tenants about poor conditions and infestations. Pillen argued that local governments already have the authority to enforce health and safety standards, calling the bill duplicative.

State Sen. Terrell McKinney, who introduced the bill, said it was necessary because existing oversight has failed. McKinney said he plans to attempt a veto override, which requires 30 votes.