I am a retired person living on a fixed income. This year, the Social Security increase, COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment), was a mere 2.85%. However, my home insurance rate has skyrocketed by 114% over the past three years, despite no claims being filed, and my property taxes have surged by 65% even though no improvements have been made to my property.

These staggering increases are not sustainable. I have reached out multiple times to both the Governor of Nebraska and the State Insurance Commissioner, as well as Congressman Bacon, seeking some form of intervention or explanation. Unfortunately, the only response I received was a generic form letter from the governor’s office. How are residents like myself and those with families supposed to remain self-sufficient when faced with these relentless and disproportionate hikes in living costs?

The situation is untenable for many Nebraskans who, like me, should not have to choose between essential living expenses and financial destitution. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 15% of Nebraska's population is aged 65 or older, and many are living on fixed incomes. The unchecked rising costs of living, particularly in terms of home insurance and property taxes, are eroding our ability to live independently and with dignity. I'm also concerned how families are coping with these  costs as I am sure their wages are not keeping up.

Therefore, I urge Nebraska state officials to take immediate action to investigate and regulate home insurance rates and property taxes. We need laws that protect residents from unreasonable rate increases and ensure that property assessments are fair and justified. Transparency in how these rates and assessments are determined must be a priority.

It's time to hold our state accountable for protecting its residents. Policies must reflect the financial realities of its citizens, not exacerbate them. I call on the residents of Nebraska to stand with me in demanding fair practices that prevent exploitation under the guise of necessary adjustments. Please sign this petition to bring about the changes our state desperately needs.