Tax exemption approved for zoo and aquarium fees

Membership and admission fees for zoos and aquariums will be tax exempt under a bill passed by the Legislature May 21.

LB419, introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath Mello, exempts the sale of zoo memberships and daily admission fees. It defines a qualifying zoo or aquarium as one that is operated by a public agency or nonprofit corporation primarily for educational, scientific or tourism purposes.

The bill passed on a 39-5 vote.