The Manufacturing Modernization and Workforce Development Pilot Investment Act aims to enhance productivity in Nebraska's manufacturing sector by providing one-time grants for capital investments that incorporate smart technologies. Eligible manufacturing operations can apply for grants up to $50,000, contingent upon securing private matching financial support. The Department of Labor will oversee the grant program, which will accept applications from October 1, 2025, to November 1, 2026. The bill also amends various sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, including the state unemployment insurance tax rate and the Workforce Development Program Cash Fund, while eliminating the Nebraska Worker Training Board and certain fund transfers.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Workforce Development Program Cash Fund, which will receive funds from the termination of the State Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and the Nebraska Training and Support Cash Fund on July 1, 2025. It modifies the collection and allocation of state unemployment insurance taxes, directing them to the new fund instead of the Trust Fund. The bill also introduces new definitions regarding wages, outlines conditions for unemployment benefits, and mandates reporting requirements for employers. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the unemployment insurance system and bolster workforce development initiatives in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-602, 48-622.01, 48-622.02, 48-648, 48-649.01, 48-649.03, 48-657, 48-3405, 81-407, 81-1201.21
Final Reading: 48-602, 48-622.01, 48-622.02, 48-626, 48-648, 48-649.01, 48-649.03, 48-657, 48-3405, 81-407, 81-1201.21, 84-612
Slip Law: 48-602, 48-622.01, 48-622.02, 48-626, 48-648, 48-649.01, 48-649.03, 48-657, 48-3405, 81-407, 81-1201.21, 84-612