Nebraska Lawmakers Eye Revisions to ‘Good Life’ Law Amid New Proposals

Several Bills Offer Options to Reshape Economic Development and Tourism Strategy

Nebraska lawmakers are gearing up for a transformative year, as they consider a series of new bills designed to address the future of the state’s “Good Life Transformational Projects Act.” Initially aimed at spurring the development of unique, tourist-attracting destinations, the law now faces a review process that could see it overhauled, replaced, or even scrapped entirely. Among the new proposals are measures that could breathe new life into the controversial “Good Life” projects, especially in light of recent tensions between developers and local officials.

One such proposal comes from State Senator Beau Ballard of Lincoln, who introduced Legislative Bill 637, known as the Destination Nebraska Act. This bill, introduced on January 22, closely mirrors the original Good Life Act but presents notable changes that could provide fresh opportunities for ambitious developments like Rod Yates’ sports-themed mega project in Gretna.

Destination Nebraska Act: A Fresh Start for Yates’ Vision?

Rod Yates, the developer behind the Nebraska Crossing shopping center in Gretna, had originally championed the Good Life Act as a way to create a major sports-themed destination. However, after reaching an impasse with Gretna officials over financial and legal concerns, Yates withdrew his application for a Good Life district earlier this month. Despite this setback, Yates is now looking to another legislative proposal to revive his vision for a sprawling entertainment and retail complex.

Senator Ballard’s bill could be the key. While the Destination Nebraska Act does not explicitly mention Yates’ name, the proposal’s language seems tailored to his project. It would empower an approved district applicant to issue bonds, essentially granting them the same authority as an independent village. This mirrors the economic development zones used by entities like Walt Disney World in Florida, providing a level of autonomy that could be crucial for large-scale projects.

The proposal is ambitious, with the stipulation that any approved district would need to meet stringent criteria. Specifically, each project would have to have a price tag of at least $3 billion and be capable of attracting 10 million visitors annually. Additionally, the project would need to span up to 5,000 acres, create jobs, and offer new retail and entertainment venues that set it apart from existing destinations.

If passed, the law would allow for the creation of only two such districts, ensuring a select few projects would have the chance to meet these high standards. However, this exclusivity could spark competition among developers eager to capitalize on the state’s vision of transforming its tourism landscape.

What’s Next for the Good Life Act?

While Ballard’s bill offers a potential solution for developers like Yates, it’s far from the only legislative action underway. A second bill, introduced by Senator Brad von Gillern of Omaha, takes a more cautious approach. Von Gillern, chair of the Revenue Committee, described his bill as a “shell bill”—a placeholder that can be amended as the legislative session unfolds.

The bill is a response to concerns over the original Good Life legislation, which was approved in 2023 and revised in 2024 but still faced challenges. Von Gillern acknowledges that certain aspects of the law need to be addressed, but lawmakers are still considering the best path forward.

In the coming months, lawmakers will likely continue to debate the future of the Good Life Act and its role in Nebraska’s economic development strategy. The bills currently on the table reflect different approaches, from bold new initiatives to more cautious, flexible plans that leave room for revisions.

Key Takeaways on the Legislative Landscape:

• New Bills: Two prominent bills, including the Destination Nebraska Act and a shell bill, are being debated as potential fixes for the original Good Life Act.
• Rod Yates’ Project: Yates’ mega sports complex could be revived under the Destination Nebraska Act, which offers developers more flexibility and authority.
• Future of the Good Life Act: The law, once seen as a major economic development tool, faces a review as lawmakers consider how best to support new tourist destinations in the state.

As the legislative session continues, Nebraska lawmakers are likely to shape the future of the Good Life Act in a way that balances the state’s ambition to draw in major tourism projects with the need for financial accountability and legal safeguards.