The proposed Neighborhood Empowerment Act aims to enhance community engagement and support local initiatives by allocating financial resources directly to neighborhood associations throughout Nebraska. The Act establishes a framework for neighborhood associations to apply for grants, with eligibility criteria that include demonstrating active membership and providing a plan for resident engagement. The Department of Economic Development will oversee the grant process, which allows for up to five million dollars in funding each fiscal year, prioritizing applicants that support historically underserved communities and promote leadership development.

Additionally, the Act creates the Neighborhood Empowerment Advisory Board, consisting of nine members appointed by the Governor, to provide feedback and guidance on the implementation of the Act. The board will ensure equitable representation from various congressional districts and will include members from neighborhood associations in qualified census tracts. The legislation also outlines the reporting requirements for grant recipients, stipulating that funds must be used for community-building activities and prohibits their use for salaries or political campaigns. The intent of the Legislature is to appropriate five million dollars annually from the General Fund to support this initiative.