LINCOLN- The latest attempt to use state tax breaks to help more low-income students attend private and parochial schools failed in the face of a filibuster Wednesday. The measure fell four votes short of ending the filibuster on LB364. Introduced by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, LB364 would provide tax credits to people or businesses that donate to a designated private or parochial school scholarship fund. The vote came after eight hours of debate that ranged from comparing private and public schools to constitutional law and the best ways to help children of color living in poverty.

Sen. Linehan says this bill would help give more educational choices to Nebraskans. "In America, a child's opportunity for education should not depend on income or zip code," she said. She went on to say one of her biggest concerns is the gap achievement in scores between students of color and White students. She believes the chance to attend private or parochial schools could help students improve academic performance.

Sen. Justin Wayne agreed with Sen. Linehan, saying education is key to the American promise many people in his district have been sold.

Sen. Terrell McKinney on the other hand opposed the bill, although he did say his constituents were about 50-50. He noted that people in his district have faced racism and discrimination when they choose private and parochial schools. Sen. McKinney went on to say that living in poverty will not be erased if the child goes to a private school. He gave the example that a scholarship can't make up for going to bed hungry or not having decent shoes. Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh agreed saying more children would benefit from better food assistance programs or housing subsidies.

"This is a bill that is a gift to the wealthy under the pretense of helping the poor," said Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha.

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