NE LB628

Property owners who grant perpetual recreational trail easements for public nonmotorized use (walking, hiking, bicycling, equestrian activities) receive an annual property tax exemption of $0.10 per square foot of encumbered land

Easements must be perpetual, recorded with the county register of deeds, provide public access, and connect to existing or planned regional trails or local attractions such as parks, waterways, or cultural sites

Eligible easement holders include municipalities, counties, Land Trust Alliance-accredited land trusts, and nonprofit organizations with missions focused on public access, recreational land conservation, and community benefit

Excess exemption amounts cannot be carried forward to subsequent tax years; taxpayers must apply to the Department of Revenue with proof of recorded easement and certification from the eligible holder

Operative date is January 1, 2026; amends sections 76-214 and 77-202 to require filing statements for recreational trail easements and adds this exemption to the existing property tax exemption categories