State Treasurer: Husker Athletics Baby Race Set for Feb. 21

State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg reminds Nebraska families that there is still time to enter their “future Husker” in the Husker Athletics Baby Race, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 21. The event will take place during halftime of the University of Nebraska men’s basketball game against Penn State at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.

“The Husker baby races are soaring in popularity – just like University of Nebraska basketball,” Treasurer Spellerberg said. “This contest is a fantastic way to spotlight Nebraska’s educational savings program, as well as the critical mission of the University of Nebraska – a leader of innovation – as it trains the next generation to grow our state and the 21st century economy.”

Entries can be submitted online, before Feb. 12, at https://huskers.com/babyraces.

Contestants will be selected at random, and parents will have 24 hours to confirm participation. A total of six participants will compete in the Feb. 21 race. To be eligible, babies must be at the “crawling stage” and not yet walking.

The Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529), overseen by the State Treasurer’s Office, is the proud sponsor of this annual tradition. Information about the tax-advantaged NEST 529 program is at nest529.com.

“Whether a child eventually wears the scarlet and cream, attends another institution, or pursues a trade, NEST 529 helps make that path possible,” Spellerberg added.

Nebraska offers an income tax deduction of up to $10,000 a year ($5,000 if married, filing separately) for contributions made by the NEST 529 account owner. Money invested in a NEST 529 account grows tax-deferred — and when used for qualified education expenses, withdrawals are free from federal and Nebraska income taxes. NEST funds can be used at accredited universities, graduate schools, community colleges, trade and vocational schools, and registered apprenticeships.

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About the State Treasurer’s Office: The Nebraska State Treasurer is responsible for the safekeeping and supervision of the state’s public funds and is mandated to receive, keep, and disburse all state money. The office administers the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529) and Enable Savings Plan; manages and returns unclaimed property; collects and disburses child support payments; and promotes transparency in state spending. Learn more at treasurer.nebraska.gov.

Contact: Jamie Karl, 531-427-1752, jamie.karl@nebraska.gov