UNICAMERAL UPDATE Stories published daily at Update.Legislature.ne.gov Vol. 39, Issue 15 / Apr. 12 - 20, 2016

Sessionhe second session of ends, 11 senators depart the 104th Legislature Tadjourned sine die April 20. Eleven senators are leaving the Legislature due to term limits, among them Kearney Sen. Galen Hadley, who has served as speaker for the last two sessions. Hadley commended his fellow lawmakers for their work—particularly under the time constraints of a 60-day ses- sion—on issues such as prison reform, roads funding and Departing senators, from left: Sens. , Kate Sullivan, Beau McCoy, Galen Hadley, Ken Haar, property tax relief. , , Kathy Campbell, , and “It’s been a very quick 60 working passed into law. The Legislature passed many as the year before—to cut off at- days,” he said. “But we, I do believe, 216 bills in total this session, he said. tempts to filibuster legislation. accomplished a lot.” “I regret very much the inability to However, Hadley encouraged Hadley noted that not all of the meet my goal of hearing all the priority senators to be patient in their legisla- senators’ priority bills were debated bills,” he said, noting that this session tive goals. He noted that some major this year, but 76 priority bills were saw 24 cloture votes—nearly twice as policy priorities—such as the state’s (continued page 2) Lawmakers override veto; professional licenses approved for young immigrants governor’s veto of a bill that would make additional Security, the DACA program is designed to protect from Nebraskans eligible for professional licensure was deportation individuals who were brought into the country A overridden by the Legislature April 20. Lawmakers illegally as children. Those who meet DACA guidelines are voted 31-13 to override the veto. Thirty votes were needed. eligible for a work permit and may request deferred action Introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath for two years, subject to renewal. Mello, LB947 allows residents Senators had passed the bill April 13 on a 33-11 vote, who are covered by the federal Deferred but Gov. vetoed it April 15. Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) In his veto message to the Legislature, Ricketts said the program to apply for professional or bill is premature and exacerbates the uncertain future of commercial licenses in order to practice DACA program recipients if their status were to be revoked. their professions. Eligible residents can “LB947 is an affront to the individuals who are observ- apply for credentials under the Uniform Sen. Heath Mello ing our laws and navigating proper immigration channels Credentialing Act. to obtain jobs and legal status,” he wrote. “The enactment Administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland of this bill would unjustly allow individuals who are here (continued page 3)

INSIDE: Independent redistricting commission vetoed • Audit bill vetoed • Last day photos April 12 - 20, 2016 Session ends, 11 senators depart (continued from front page) concealed carry law, which he said on several major issues such as took a decade to enact—cannot be providing $450 million to ac- achieved in one session. celerate the state’s long-delayed “We have to learn to take little bites expressway system and to ad- of bills as we go along,” Hadley said. dress failing bridges and other In his remarks, Gov. Pete Ricketts infrastructure needs. also congratulated senators on their Ricketts praised lawmak- work this session, noting progress ers for working to successfully control state spend- ing while funding ef- fective and efficient essential services for Nebraska residents. “I know that you care about our state because you sacrifice so much to serve the people of Nebraska,” Speaker Galen Hadley offered parting words of en- he told senators. couragement and advice to the Legislature. The governor also laud- “We can look back upon the work ed the Legislature’s action that we’ve done together this session on tax reform this session, and be very pleased with the progress including working with his we’ve made doing the people’s work,” office to provide $20 mil- he said. lion in additional property The first session of the 105th Leg- tax relief to farmers and islature is scheduled to convene Jan. ranchers. 4, 2017. g

Gov. Pete Ricketts greets senators after delivering his end of session remarks. UNICAMERAL UPDATE The Unicameral Update is a free, weekly newsletter published during the legislative session. It is produced by the Clerk of the Legislature’s Office through the Unicameral Information Office. For print subscriptions, call 402-471-2788 or email [email protected]. Visit us online at Update.Legislature.ne.gov and follow us on Twitter.com/UnicamUpdate.

Clerk of the Legislature: Patrick J. O’Donnell Editor: Heidi Uhing; Writers: Kyle Harpster, Kate Heltzel, Ami Johnson; Photographer: Bess Ghormley

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Lawmakers override veto; professional licenses approved for young immigrants (continued from front page) illegally to be ahead of those who have been waiting years to be granted a proper permanent or legal status in our country.” Mello offered a motion the last day of the session to over- ride the governor’s veto, saying that DACA residents have been educated and trained in the state and should now be allowed to work in the state. “We run for office to make a difference, to improve our communities, to strengthen our economy and to give people a better shot at the American dream,” he said. “That is what we’re doing with LB947.” Mello said the bill received no opposition testimony dur- Sen. Heath Mello is congratulated by Sen. after the body’s successful vote to override the governor’s veto of LB947. ing its Feb. 11 committee hear- ing and was supported by a broad Opposing the motion, Omaha Sen. charged from the U.S. Armed coalition including the Omaha and Beau McCoy said the country has a Forces; and Lincoln chambers of commerce and broken federal immigration system • not been convicted of a felony the Nebraska Cattlemen. and it is not the state Legislature’s or significant misdemeanors. Lincoln Sen. responsibility to address it. Any professional license granted supported the override motion. She “We are not encouraging the feder- under the bill will be rescinded if a said DACA residents are a great asset al government to address the situation person’s lawful status is rescinded. to the state. [if we override] the governor today,” LB947 also ensures that recipients “We’re spending millions of dol- McCoy said. “It only makes it easier are ineligible for public benefits other lars to attract people to Nebraska to for Congress to do nothing when state than a professional license. g work and make our economy vibrant,” legislatures act as we’re being encour- she said, adding that LB947 will ad- aged to act today.” dress crucial shortages in the state’s To qualify for the federal DACA workforce. “We are talking about the program residents must have: strength of our economy, our state and • lived in the U.S. continuously our moral fiber.” since June 15, 2007; Sen. Kathy Campbell of Lincoln • been no older than 31 as of June also supported the motion. 15, 2012; “We have a heritage of cultural di- • entered the country prior to versity that our state is founded upon,” their 16th birthday; Campbell said. “Please do not deny • attended school, earned a di- these people the opportunity to be a ploma or general education cer- part of that heritage.” tificate or been honorably dis-

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 3 April 12 - 20, 2016 Departing Senators his year marks the T end of service for 11 senators due to term limits. Before adjournment, departing senators delivered speeches to their colleagues reflecting on their time in Speaker Galen Hadley the Unicameral. “When I stood before you two years ago, I said I would try to be two things: fair and truthful. I hope I met your expectations.”

Sen. Dave Bloomfield Sen. Kathy Campbell “Thank God for the privilege to serve the state of “I’d like to thank the people of the 25th Legislative Nebraska.” District who stood by me through some very tough issues and always said: We may not agree with you, but we will support you.”

Sen. Colby Coash Sen. Tanya Cook “Those who seek this job are some of the best people On her constituents: “I have been honored to represent Nebraska has to offer. I count it among the greatest each and every one of them—not perfectly, but with my privileges to serve along such great people, for we have whole heart.” made a difference.”

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Sen. Mike Gloor Sen. Ken Haar To current and future senators: “Don’t spend a lot of time “We really do get better by working with people who thinking about policy in terms of the way it used to be. don’t always agree with us.” Make policy decisions according to your vision and your imagination of what we want this state to be.”

Sen. Beau McCoy Sen. Heath Mello “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve in our “I would be remiss not to thank my legislative staff. The nation’s only unicameral. I get asked … everywhere I success that we generate as elected officials really goes travel around the country what it’s like to serve in this back to the work of the people around us.” chamber, to be part of this body.”

Sen. Ken Schilz Sen. Kate Sullivan “I learned to work for the greater good—not to seek out “Gratitude is what I’m feeling today—gratitude as I say the spotlight but to work with whomever was serious and farewell to you and this great institution.” willing to write good legislation.”

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 5 April 12 - 20, 2016

State employee vacation bill passed

Lawmakers passed a bill April 12 Transportation infrastructure Workplace electronic privacy that ensures state employees are com- bank established bill passed pensated for unused vacation time. Under LB830, introduced by Senators passed a bill April 12 cre- Senators approved a bill April 13 Omaha Sen. Burke ating a transportation infrastructure that establishes workplace electronic Harr, a state agency bank to fund new roads and bridges. privacy protections in Nebraska. that denies an em- Introduced by Sen. Jim Smith of LB821, sponsored by O’Neill ployee’s reasonable Papillion, LB960 Sen. , request to use vaca- creates an infra- adopts the Work- tion leave before it structure bank fund place Privacy Act. is forfeited under composed of three The act prohibits the “use it or lose Sen. Burke Harr programs overseen an employer from it” policy must pay the employee the by the state Depart- requesting or re- cash equivalent of the forfeited leave ment of Roads. The quiring that an em- that was denied. first will accelerate Sen. Jim Smith ployee or applicant: Sen. Tyson Larson The employing agency has discre- capital improvement projects, includ- • disclose his or her user names or tion in approving or denying vacation ing the state’s expressway system and passwords to personal Internet requests. The length of vacation leave other high-priority roads projects. accounts; requested, the number of days left The second program will provide • log into a personal Internet before forfeiture and the prior notice funds to repair and replace deficient account in the presence of an given to management all are consid- county bridges and the third will employer; ered in determining what is and is not finance improvements to the state’s • add anyone to his or her per- a reasonable request. transportation infrastructure that sonal Internet account; or Employees of the Legislature and will support new and expanding busi- • change his or her personal In- the state Department of Correctional nesses. ternet account settings. Services are exempt from the bill’s The bank fund will receive a one- An employer also is prevented from provisions. time transfer of $50 million from the taking adverse action against, failing Under the bill, cash payments state’s cash reserve in July 2016. More to hire, or otherwise penalizing an made are considered compensation than $400 million in state motor fuel employee or applicant for failure to in state employees’ defined contribu- tax generated between July 2016 and disclose his or her personal Internet tion and cash benefit plans but are June 2033 also will be directed to the account setting information. not considered compensation for fund. An employer retains the right to state employees’ defined benefit plans. The bill also authorizes the depart- promulgate rules governing Internet Currently only judges, state patrol and ment to hire a construction manager use and restrict an employee’s access public school employees have defined who will advise the department on to certain websites. An employer also benefit retirement plans. project scheduling and to enter into may take action against an employee LB830 also incorporates provisions contracts in which a single contractor for downloading or transferring pro- of LB972, another bill introduced by designs and builds a project. prietary information. Harr. These provisions add major, The bill passed on a 48-0 vote. The bill allows for a civil suit if nontenured policymaking positions initiated within one year of an alleged under the definition of employment violation of the act. under the Employment Security Law, LB821 passed 46-0. making them eligible for compensa- tion under LB830. These provisions also require that any cash payment for forfeited vacation leave be paid by the

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state agency within 30 days after the Nebraska’s K-12 schools. districts in Douglas and Sarpy counties requested and denied leave is forfeited. The bill eliminates the minimum that make up the learning community. The bill passed on a 48-0 vote. levy adjustment in the state’s school Member districts instead will have an aid formula at the end of the 2016-17 individual levy and will retain a 2-cent school fiscal year. The adjustment levy used for early childhood educa- reduces state aid to schools with a levy tion. The bill increases the amount of below $0.95 per $100 of valuation. state aid for school districts with a high It also changes an averaging adjust- percentage of students in poverty and ment that provides additional state phases in transition aid over two years. All high school students to aid to some school districts with more Under the bill, learning commu- take college admission test than 900 students. The adjustment, nities will create a plan to address All Nebraska 11th-graders will take based on formula need per student achievement equity and barriers to a college admission test under a bill and a district’s levy has ranged from achievement such as poverty, mobility passed by lawmakers April 13. 50 percent to 90 percent. The bill cal- and truancy. Districts will be eligible Sponsored by Sen. of culates the adjustment at 90 percent for additional state aid after the State Norfolk, LB930 re- for all qualifying districts. Board of Education approves the quires public school LB959 also limits existing provisions plans. Multidistrict educational ser- students in the 11th of the Qualified Capital Projects Under- vice units also may create achievement grade to take a col- taking Fund to existing projects. School plans to qualify for the additional aid. lege admission test, districts currently can levy an additional The bill will provide $5.7 million such as the ACT or $0.052 outside the $1.05 levy limit to in community achievement plan SAT, instead of cur- fund projects related to life safety, envi- aid, which will go predominantly to rent Nebraska State Sen. Jim Scheer ronmental hazards, accessibility barriers Omaha Public Schools. The proposal Accountability (NeSA) assessments. and mold in existing school buildings will cost approximately $13.4 million, The bill directs the State Board and grounds. New projects will be down from the original bill’s estimated of Education to select the test and funded under a $0.03 levy and the fund cost of $17.3 million to $20.7 million. authorizes the state Department of may not be used for new construction. Senators voted 40-7 to pass the bill. Education to use lottery funds to pay The bill passed 47-0. for schools’ expenses in administering the tests in the 2017-18 school year. Learning community common It also ends the requirement for levy eliminated a statewide writing assessment after the 2016-17 school year and instead Senators passed a bill April 13 Independent redistricting requires that the statewide reading as- that ends the Omaha learning com- commission vetoed, no sessment contain a writing component. munity’s common levy and provides override attempt offered The bill passed 46-1. transition aid to member districts. The Legislature created the learning The governor vetoed a bill April 18 community in 2007 to share resources School funding changes that would have added an indepen- among the students in the broader approved dent commission to the Legislature’s Omaha area to help address the achieve- redistricting process. Senators passed a bill April 12 that ment gap of children in the city center. The Legislature is responsible for alters the state’s school aid formula and Introduced by drawing new governmental boundar- limits the amount that school districts Sen. Kate Sullivan ies every 10 years after the decennial can levy to pay for certain projects. of Cedar Rapids, census for districts pertaining to the Introduced by Cedar Rapids Sen. LB1067 repeals the U.S. House of Representatives, the Kate Sullivan on behalf of Gov. Pete 95-cent common Legislature, Public Service Commis- Ricketts, LB959 is intended to slow levy and 2-cent spe- sion, University of Nebraska Board the increase in property taxes, which cial building fund of Regents and the state Board of are the main source of funding for levy for the 11 school Sen. Kate Sullivan Education.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 7 April 12 - 20, 2016

LB580, intro- plan by Dec. 1, 2016, to cultivate a A committee for determining the duced by Gretna climate of entrepreneurship and in- need and options for developing a Sen. John Muran- novation in Nebraska. regional certified crime laboratory in te, would have cre- Appointed to the committee are: the Omaha area was established April ated the Indepen- Syracuse Sen. 12 with the adoption of LR601. dent Redistricting (chairperson) Appointed to the committee are: Citizen’s Advisory Gothenburg Sen. Matt Williams Omaha Sen. Commission to Sen. (vice-chairperson) Omaha Sen. assist in the process beginning in Hyannis Sen. Al Davis Omaha Sen. Rick Kolowski 2021. The bill passed April 13 on a Lincoln Sen. Omaha Sen. John McCollister 29-15 vote. Columbus Sen. Paul Schumacher Omaha Sen. Heath Mello In his veto message, Gov. Pete Gering Sen. Hastings Sen. Ricketts outlined several objections to LB1093, introduced by Lincoln Gothenburg Sen. Matt Williams the bill, including that it “improperly Sen. Adam Mor- With the adoption of LR455 on delegates” redistricting authority. The feld, creates a bio- April 13, senators also established a com- Legislature is constitutionally required science steering mittee to examine issues related to the to redraw district lines, he said, adding committee that will impact of climate change on Nebraska. that an unelected advisory committee study the impact of Appointed to the committee are: should not be tasked with drafting bioscience on the Malcolm Sen. Ken Haar redistricting bills. state’s economy, Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks In a statement issued April 19, Mu- identify ways to Sen. Heartwell Sen. rante said he would not offer a motion stimulate job growth in science, tech- O’Neill Sen. Tyson Larson to override the governor’s veto given nology and engineering and encour- Omaha Sen. Heath Mello the constitutional questions raised. age biotechnology companies to locate Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz He said that he remains committed in Nebraska. Gering Sen. John Stinner to finding a way forward on the issue, Appointed to the committee are: The committee will deliver its however. Lincoln Sen. Adam Morfeld (chair- findings and recommendations to the “Redistricting is too important. person) Legislature by Dec. 31. We must get it right,” Murante said. Heartwell Sen. John Kuehn (vice- “The good news is that we have time chairperson) to do so.” Wahoo Sen. Jerry Johnson Omaha Sen. Heath Mello Appointments made to five Columbus Sen. Paul Schumacher Lawmakers established the Tribal special committees Omnibus liquor bill approved Economic Development Committee The Legislature’s Executive Board on April 12 with the adoption of A bill that makes a variety of announced appointments April 20 to LR547. The committee will conduct changes to the state’s Liquor Control special committees dealing with in- a study on the Legislature’s policy Act passed April 12. novation, bioscience, tribal economic options to enhance economic develop- LB1105, introduced by O’Neill Sen. development, evidence testing and ment for the state’s Native American Tyson Larson, estab- climate change. population. The committee’s policy lishes the Nebras- LB1083, intro- recommendations are due to the Leg- ka Craft Brewery duced by Gothen- islature by Dec. 15. Board. The board burg Sen. Matt Appointed to the committee are: will include seven Williams, creates O’Neill Sen. Tyson Larson governor-appointed a Venture Devel- Omaha Sen. members who have opment and Inno- Omaha Sen. Heath Mello been involved in the Sen. Tyson Larson Sen. Matt Williams vation Task Force Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz beer industry. that will develop a statewide strategic Papillion Sen. Jim Smith The bill also creates the Nebraska

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Beer Industry Promotional Fund to chases as long as the employee ner-take-all system advance, market and promote the does not handle alcohol. and award all five beer brewing process in Nebraska The bill incorporated provisions of electoral votes to the and the agricultural products grown two additional bills. winner of the state’s and produced in the state for use LB748, originally introduced by popular vote. in the beer industry. The fund will Omaha Sen. Brett Omaha Sen. Tan- consist of money credited from beer Lindstrom, allows ya Cook offered a manufacturer shipping licenses and an individual to motion to return the Sen. Beau McCoy a $250 annual fee for craft brewery import alcohol— bill to select file for consideration of licensees. up to 108 liters an amendment that would submit the In addition, the bill makes the fol- per calendar year— proposal to voters at the upcoming May lowing changes to the Liquor Control for personal use primary election. Act: from a holder of Sen. Brett Lindstrom Cook said a winner-take-all system • removes the requirement that a a retail direct sales shipping license or “squelches the voice” of voters who club must have a kitchen; its equivalent. are in the racial and political minority • harmonizes the excise tax rate LB1046, origi- in the state. and makes the statute appli- nally introduced “I oppose LB10 as drafted because, cable to wholesale and manufac- by Crete Sen. Lau- simply put, it is not fair or inclusive turing licensees, not just retail ra Ebke, allows a to Nebraska voters—particularly the licensees; Nebraska resident wide range of voters that I have the • removes the prohibition on who is legally able privilege of representing,” Cook said. “other fruit product nor any to work in the state “Although splitting electoral votes fails artificial product which imparts to be eligible for Sen. Laura Ebke to reach the full ideal of one person/ a fruit flavor other than apple” a liquor license regardless of U.S. one vote, it reflects some semblance in the hard cider definition; citizenship. of making each person’s vote count.” • establishes a liquor license class The bill passed on a vote of 45-2. Sen. of Bellevue for small boutiques to sell a lim- supported the motion to return the ited amount of alcohol; bill to select file, saying Nebraskans • eliminates the requirement have been clear in their rejection of a that a licensee must reapply for winner-take-all system. a license if the licensee’s loca- “The percent of Nebraskans in tion is annexed by an adjacent 2008 who said that they would like to municipality; Cloture attempt on winner- see a statewide winner-take-all system, • increases the penalty for the take-all electoral bill fails as we have proposed here in LB10, was illegal manufacturing of spirits; only 13 percent,” she said, adding that • repeals the prohibition on pull Senators rejected a cloture motion a 2011 poll yielded similar results. tab or pull tops on soda and April 12 that would have forced a vote McCoy opposed the motion, say- beer cans; on final passage of a bill to reinstate ing the U.S. Constitution gives state • clarifies that a craft brewery the winner-take-all system for allocating legislatures, not voters, the power to licensee, who has held the Nebraska’s presidential electoral votes. choose a method for allocating Elec- license for a minimum of three Currently, the winner of Nebraska’s toral College votes. years and operates a brewpub statewide popular vote receives two “I don’t believe that this amend- or microbrewery, must obtain Electoral College votes. The state’s three ment is the right direction to go be- a manufacturer’s license once congressional districts also award one cause I believe that it would be found the licensee exceeds 20,000 electoral vote each based on the popular to be constitutionally suspect,” he said. barrels; and vote winner in each district. Maine is After two hours of debate, McCoy • allows an employee who is at the only other state to use this system. offered a motion to invoke cloture—or least 16 years old to ring up LB10, sponsored by Omaha Sen. cease debate and force a vote on the bill. tickets that include alcohol pur- Beau McCoy, would reinstate a win- The motion failed on a vote of 32-17,

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 9 April 12 - 20, 2016 one vote short of the number required. Sen. John McCollister, modifies the to the state’s audit operations. A failed cloture motion results in Taxpayer Trans- LB935, introduced by Ogallala debate on a bill ceasing for the day. parency Act to Sen. Ken Schilz, With only two days left in the legisla- include quasi- was passed April tive session, LB10 is unlikely to be public entities 12 on a 37-8 vote. debated again. such as boards The bill would and commis- have authorized a Military commission approved sions created by penalty for a politi- the Legislature. Sen. John McCollister cal subdivision that Lawmakers gave final approval Entities are required to submit all fails to provide the Sen. Ken Schilz April 12 to a bill that creates a com- expenditures of state receipts to the state auditor’s office with annual in- mission designed to protect the state’s state treasurer for inclusion on the formation relating to interlocal agree- military installations, attract new mis- state’s spending transparency website. ments. The penalty for noncompli- sions and serve Nebraska’s military The bill defines a state entity as any ance would have been $20 per day, members and veterans. agency, board, commission or depart- not to exceed $2,000 per delinquency. LB754, introduced by Bellevue ment of the state and any other body At the auditor’s discretion, a politi- Sen. Sue Craw- created by state statute that includes cal subdivision that failed to provide ford, establishes a person appointed by the governor, the requested information could be the Commission the head of any state agency or de- subjected to an audit at the expense of on Military and partment, an employee of the state of the political subdivision. In addition, Veterans Affairs. Nebraska or any combination of such an interest rate of 14 percent per an- Among other du- persons that is empowered to collect num would be assessed on delinquent ties, the governor- and disburse state receipts. fees owed to the auditor’s office. appointed com- Sen. Sue Crawford State receipts are limited under the In his veto message, Ricketts fo- mission is authorized to: bill to revenue or income received by cused on provisions of the bill original- • receive and administer funds; a state entity used to pay the expenses ly introduced by Omaha Sen. Bob Krist • address matters of military sig- necessary to perform the state entity’s as LB1099. Those nificance in Nebraska; functions and reported to the state provisions would • conduct activities relating to treasurer in total amounts by category have changed re- economic development; of income. imbursement pro- • conduct activities relating to the Transfer of funds between two state cedures for state welfare of veterans; and entities, expenditure of pass-through employees to a per • advise the governor, Legislature, funds and federal funds are not subject diem based on the Nebraska’s congressional del- to the bill’s provisions. Also exempted federal rate. Sen. Bob Krist egation and other governmental from the bill’s disclosure requirements The governor said the change officials where appropriate. are contracts entered into by the Nebras- would increase costs to the state and The bill also authorizes the Ne- ka Investment Finance Authority for the create a potential for misuse of tax dol- braska National Guard to utilize the purpose of providing a specific service lars. Ricketts said he and State Auditor Nebraska Code of Military Justice. or financial assistance to a specifically Charlie Janssen have agreed to study The bill passed 47-0. named individual or his or her family. the issue further and will present a Data collected will be available on new alternative next year. State entity financial the state spending website beginning LB935 included provisions from disclosure broadened in fiscal year 2016-17. two additional bills: LB851 passed 48-0. LB993, original- A bill that broadens the scope of ly introduced by a financial transparency law aimed Audit bill vetoed Lincoln Sen. Colby at state government was given final Coash, would have approval April 13. Gov. Pete Ricketts vetoed a bill allowed the state LB851, sponsored by Omaha April 15 that proposed several changes auditor to have his Sen. Colby Coash

PAGE 10 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE April 12 - 20, 2016 or her designee serve on the state • carry liability insurance ad- • have a high school diploma or Suggestion Award Board and would equate to cover claims; equivalent as determined by have allowed the auditor to share audit • comply with the Health Insur- the board. working papers with the Legislature, ance Portability and Account- An individual who submits evi- IRS, FBI, state tax commissioner, ability Act; dence satisfactory to the board that he Nebraska Accountability and Disclo- • have a recognized Current Pro- or she has been functioning primarily sure Commission and specified law cedural Terminology code; and as an SFA in a licensed health care enforcement agencies. • display the name and state facility within the last five years prior LB1084, originally introduced license number of the provider to Sept. 1, 2016, will be exempt from by Gering Sen. John Stinner, would who will read and interpret the the licensure requirements. have prevented diagnostic data and informa- Also exempt are individuals who state agencies and tion produced by the kiosk. hold a current SFA certification issued the state purchas- Violations may incur a civil penalty by an approved certifying body or is- ing bureau from up to $10,000 per violation and the sued by another state that has standards extending contracts attorney general may file a civil action substantially equivalent to Nebraska’s. for more than 50 at the request of the state Department LB721 passed 48-0. percent of the ini- of Health and Human Services. Inves- tial contract term Sen. John Stinner tigation and complaint review will be Statewide stroke response and would have prohibited more than done in accordance with the Uniform system approved one duration amendment per contract. Credentialing Act. Schilz did not file a motion to at- The bill also limits the strength of over- A bill that develops a statewide tempt a veto override. the-counter eyeglasses to +3.25 diopters. stroke system of care in Nebraska LB235 passed on a 49-0 vote. passed April 12. LB722, sponsored by Sen. Roy Surgical first assistant Baker of Lincoln, requires the state licensure approved Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to designate Nebras- Senators passed a bill April 13 that ka hospitals as comprehensive stroke establishes a licensure process for surgi- centers, primary care stroke centers or Eye care consumer cal first assistants (SFA) in Nebraska. acute stroke-ready hospitals based on protections approved Under LB721, nationally recognized standards. Lawmakers gave final approval April introduced by DHHS will compile and maintain 13 to a bill that updates regulation of Lincoln Sen. Roy a list of such hospitals on the depart- eyeglass kiosks and other devices. Baker, the state De- ment’s website. The department also LB235, introduced by Omaha partment of Health will adopt and distribute a nationally Sen. Sara How- and Human Ser- recognized, standardized stroke triage ard, places restric- vices will provide assessment tool to each emergency Sen. tions on kiosks— licensure for SFAs. medical service (EMS) licensed in defined as auto- The bill requires that an applicant: the state. All EMS licensees will be mated equipment • be certified as an SFA by an ap- required to use a triage tool and or applications proved certifying body; establish assessment, treatment and used to conduct • successfully complete an SFA transport protocols. an eye examina- Sen. education or other experiential In addition, a task force will be tion either in person or remotely. or training program approved established by DHHS to address mat- Under the bill, a kiosk must: by the state Board of Medicine ters of triage, treatment and transport • be approved by the federal Food and Surgery; of stoke patients. The task force will and Drug Administration; • pass a nationally recognized provide advice and recommendations • meet Americans With Disabili- SFA examination adopted by to the department regarding implemen- ties Act requirements; the board; and tation of the Stroke System of Care Act.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 11 April 12 - 20, 2016

The bill passed on a 45-2 vote and Children’s Commission. person’s digital assets after death. takes effect Jan. 1, 2017. The bill extends the termination Introduced by Omaha Sen. Burke date of the commission to June 30, Harr, LB829 autho- Foster youth activities approved 2019, and specifies that no member rizes four types of may have a private financial interest, fiduciaries—execu- A bill designed to normalize life for profit or benefit from any of the com- tors of estates, con- Nebraska’s foster youth was approved mission’s work. It also requires the servators of estates, April 12 by the Legislature. commission to develop a system of agents appointed LB746, sponsored by Lincoln Sen. care plan and analyze case manage- under power of at- Kathy Campbell, ment workforce issues. torney and trust- Sen. Burke Harr implements a fed- LB746 passed on a 48-0 vote. ees—to access a person’s digital assets eral law designed after they die or otherwise lose the to promote nor- ability to manage their own assets. malcy for foster The bill creates a tiered system of youth and encour- priorities for handling digital assets. If age their involve- the custodian—the company that stores Sen. Kathy Campbell ment in develop- Personal privacy bill approved a person’s assets on its servers—provides mentally appropriate activities. an online tool allowing the user to au- Under the bill, a prudent par- Lawmakers passed a bill April 12 thorize another person to have access to ent standard will be developed for that automatically seals certain crimi- the data, those instructions take priority. caregivers—whether in-home or in an nal proceeding records. If no such tool is available or the institutional setting—that will allow LB505, introduced by Omaha user chooses not to use it, a will, trust, caregivers to use their best judgment Sen. Bob Krist, en- power of attorney or other written re- in making day-to-day decisions about sures that arrest re- cord will be enforced. The custodian’s participation in extracurricular, en- cords are excluded terms of service will determine access richment, cultural and social activities from public record if neither an online tool nor a legal for youth in their care. To the extent when criminal document applies. If none of those possible, birth parents also will be court charges are situations apply, the bill provides de- involved in such decisions. dismissed by man- fault terms that govern access. The bill requires the state Depart- dating that state Sen. Bob Krist The bill passed 49-0. ment of Health and Human Services courts seal the records. (DHHS) to ensure that foster children The bill expands the types of arrests Administrative procedures age 14 and older are made aware of eligible for privacy protection to include clarified their rights and responsibilities before those of individuals who are acquitted aging out of the system. of criminal charges and offenders who State agencies will have more direc- The department also must provide successfully complete drug court or a tion and clarity regarding the promul- foster youth a copy of the individual’s similar problem-solving court. gation of rules and regulations under birth certificate, Social Security card, When an arrest is removed from a bill passed April 12. medical, financial and educational public record, a person is not required LB867, introduced by the Legisla- records, family contact information to disclose the arrest in response to a tive Performance Audit Committee, and a list of local community resources public inquiry. amends the Administrative Proce- relevant to them. The bill passed on a 48-0 vote and dures Act (APA). Juvenile courts are required to takes effect Jan. 1, 2017. Among other provisions, the bill ensure that children in foster care are amends the definition of rule or regula- able to engage in normal activities Fiduciary access to digital tion and clarifies that internal procedural and to make certain findings part of assets approved documents used to guide agency staff on a child’s record. The bill also estab- organization and operations, guidance lishes the Normalcy Task Force, with Lawmakers passed a bill April 13 documents and forms and instructions members appointed by the Nebraska that determines who has access to a are not classified as rules under the APA.

PAGE 12 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE April 12 - 20, 2016

The bill also exempts style, format low-level felonies and misdemeanors. to make contact with the person he or and citation changes from public LB919, introduced by Gothen- she represents within two weeks of ap- notice and hearing requirements. Se- burg Sen. Matt pointment and become familiar with curity policies and procedures that, if Williams, allows that person’s condition to the best of released, would endanger public safety new categories of his or her ability. also are exempted. problem-solving The guardian ad litem is authorized The bill creates short-term emer- courts to address to conduct discovery, present and gency rules, which can be adopted problems related cross-examine witnesses, file motions outside of normal APA procedures to veterans, mental on behalf of the person they represent and require the governor’s approval. health, driving un- Sen. Matt Williams and request medical, psychological or An emergency rule would remain in der the influence and reentry. other relevant examinations of the effect for 90 days and could be made The bill passed on a 47-0 vote. person to whom they are appointed. permanent only through the full He or she also is authorized to promulgation process. Staff increase, caseload limits make recommendations to the court Factors that an agency could consid- approved for public guardians regarding a temporary or permanent er in determining whether emergency guardianship, conservatorship or rulemaking is necessary are limited to Additional staff will help manage other protective order. imminent peril to public health, safety public guardian cases under a bill Provisions of LB1007 extend the or welfare or the unforeseen loss of passed April 12 by the Legislature. statute of limitations to six years on federal funding for an agency program. LB934, introduced by Lincoln cases of abuse, neglect or exploitation Rules and regulations made under Sen. Colby Coash, removes a require- of a vulnerable or senior adult from the emergency rulemaking procedures ment that the pub- its current three-year limit. will be filed with the secretary of state’s lic guardian hire The definition of exploitation office and published on the agency’s up to 12 associate under the Adult Protective Services website. Exemptions to the formal rule- guardians. Instead, Act also is clarified to include the making requirements outlined in the bill the director of the wrongful withholding or control of a may not be used if a change would alter Office of Public vulnerable or senior adult’s financial the rights or obligations of the public. Guardian will be assets through intimidation, threat of The bill also requires the state charged with hiring Sen. Colby Coash force or a breach of fiduciary duty by Department of Correctional Services a multidisciplinary team of up to 20 a guardian or conservator. to develop rules and regulations for professionals and support staff, includ- The bill passed on a 48-0 vote. circumstances in which an inmate is ing at least one attorney licensed to outside of a correctional facility. practice law in Nebraska. Criminal statutes updates, LB867 passed on a 33-0 vote. The bill also limits the number of parole oversight approved cases the public guardian could ac- Additional problem-solving cept to a ratio of 20 public wards or Lawmakers passed a bill April courts approved protected persons to each member of 13 that updates the state’s criminal the multidisciplinary team. statutes. Problem-solving courts can be used Provisions of LB1008 and LB1007, LB1094, introduced by the Ju- in more cases under a bill passed by both introduced by Coash, were added diciary Committee, clarifies several lawmakers April 12. to the bill. provisions of a bill pertaining to the These court programs accommo- These require that a guardian ad state Department of Correctional date offenders already in the crimi- litem be a licensed attorney in good Services passed last session. These nal justice system who have specific standing, complete relevant training were designed to slow Nebraska’s problems—including drug abuse and and advocate for the best interests prison population growth, ease prison domestic violence—that cannot be of the individual whom they defend, overcrowding, contain department addressed adequately in a traditional including their social, economic and spending and reinvest a portion of court setting. These programs are personal safety interests. savings in strategies to reduce offender used only for offenders committing Each guardian ad litem is required recidivism and increase public safety.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 13 April 12 - 20, 2016

The bill includes provisions of of Garrett’s LB1108 requiring law to charge for a wide range of permits, LB910 originally introduced by Lin- enforcement agencies to file annual licenses and stamps. coln Sen. . These require reports detailing their seizure of prop- LB745, introduced by Omaha Sen. the parole admin- erty. Written reports must include John McCollis- istration office to the date, type, monetary value and ter, also raises provide access for location of each property seizure. If the caps on user public counsel and property is seized during a traffic stop, fee ranges and the Office of the the agency must document the race increases the al- Inspector General or ethnicity of the person forfeiting lowed growth to all computer- the property and whether they were rate for fees the ized records, re- Sen. Kate Bolz arrested or issued a citation. commission is Sen. John McCollister ports and documents maintained LB1106 also allows law enforcement authorized to charge for hunting, by the office in connection with the agencies to partner with a federal agen- fishing and other activities. The fee administration of parole. Release of cy to conduct forfeiture litigation only increases will generate an estimated medical or mental health records are if the seized property is valued at more $2.5 million in fiscal year 2016-17 and subject to a parolee’s consent. than $25,000, involved in a federal in- a further $5 million in FY2017-18. The department director is re- vestigation or physically confiscated by Resident fee caps for an annual hunt- quired to annually submit a report federal authorities. The state will have ing permit will be raised from $13 to $18 detailing the race, gender and age of all jurisdiction in all other cases. and the cap on an annual fishing permit inmates held in restrictive housing as Thirty days after a criminal charge will increase from $17.50 to $24. The bill well as the length of time spent in such is filed, a defendant can request a hear- will raise the fee cap for a deer hunting housing. The report must include the ing to determine if the seized property permit for residents from $29 to $39. number of inmates diagnosed with was used in the commission of a crime. The minimum fee for an annual mental illness and behavior disorders A person with a legal interest in seized park permit for a resident motor ve- held in restrictive housing. property but unaware the property was hicle will increase from $25 to $30. The bill passed on a 47-0 vote. used in the commission of a crime also The bill passed 44-3. can file a motion for a hearing. Restrictions approved for The court will hold a hearing within Private renewable energy property seizure 30 days and the prosecuting attorney is company exemptions approved required to prove by clear and convinc- Lawmakers passed a bill April 13 ing evidence that the seized property Senators passed a bill April 13 to that places restrictions on the state’s was used in the commission of a crime. encourage private renewable energy civil forfeiture law, which allows law en- The bill also adds the manufacture, development—especially wind energy. forcement to seize property associated distribution and possession of illegal LB824, introduced by Omaha Sen. with suspected criminal activity with- drugs and child pornography to the John McCollister, exempts private out necessarily filing criminal charges. crimes eligible for property seizure renewable energy generation facili- LB1106, introduced by Bellevue and forfeiture. ties from certain laws that currently Sen. Tommy Garrett, allows law The bill passed on a 38-8 vote. regulate facilities generating electricity. enforcement agen- The bill eliminates the requirement cies to dispense for- that a developer have a power purchase feited currency and agreement—in which a customer agrees to property only after buy most of a proposed facility’s electric- securing a criminal ity—before the facility is built. The bill conviction. Persons also exempts a private developer from Game and Parks fee increase not charged with a a requirement that it prove that a new approved crime or later ac- Sen. Tommy Garrett facility would not create stranded assets. quitted of a crime could recoup their Senators passed a bill April 12 Finally, the bill prohibits other power sup- property under the bill. that raises fees that the state Game pliers from acquiring the private facility’s The bill incorporates provisions and Parks Commission is authorized property through eminent domain.

PAGE 14 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE April 12 - 20, 2016

To qualify for the exemption, a The bill incorporates provisions number of years of employment private company must notify the Power from LB711, introduced by Sen. Dan used to calculate a member’s Review Board, which oversees most Hughes of Venango, final compensation rate; of the state’s electric generating facili- that reestablish a • limits the increase in compensa- ties, at least 30 days before it begins task force with the tion in each of the five years prior construction. The company also must goal of eradicat- to retirement to 8 percent per certify that it will pay for any decom- ing invasive plant year for benefit calculations; and missioning costs if the facility fails. species that reduce • excludes any unused sick, vaca- The bill contains provisions from stream flows. The tion, holiday and compensa- LB914, introduced task force will be al- Sen. Dan Hughes tory leave in the calculation of a by Sen. Ken Schilz located $1 million per year beginning member’s final average monthly of Ogallala, that in fiscal year 2016-17. compensation. increase from $60 Further, the bill requires the state If the plan is 100 percent funded, to $250 per day the Department of Roads to provide permits a maximum supplemental COLA compensation for the to trim vegetation that obscures lawfully of 1.5 percent may be granted at the Nebraska Power Re- placed advertising signs or displays. discretion of the Public Employees view Board member Sen. Ken Schilz Senators voted 48-0 to pass the bill. Retirement Board. who represents the state on the South- LB467 passed on a 32-0 vote. west Power Pool’s regional state commit- tee. An appropriation of $19,000 in fiscal year 2016-17 and again in FY2017-18 is provided to the board to cover the cost. After two hours of final-round debate, McCollister filed a motion to New state patrol retirement Homestead exemption extended invoke cloture, or cut off debate and benefits reduced to remarried spouses of veterans vote on the bill. It succeeded 34-11. Thirty-three votes were needed. Lawmakers gave final approval A bill that allows a veteran’s surviv- Senators then passed the bill 34-10. April 12 to a bill that changes the re- ing spouse to retain his or her home- tirement plans of new Nebraska State stead exemption after remarrying was Water appropriation stream Patrol members. passed by the Legislature April 12. flow bill passes LB467, sponsored by Seward Sen. Under current state law, surviving Mark Kolterman, spouses of veterans who died on active Water currently used for generating creates a second duty or were honorably discharged and hydropower can instead be used to tier of reduced drew disability compensation are eli- maintain stream flow for fish, wildlife benefits for new gible to retain the veterans’ homestead and recreation under a bill passed by members. The exemption only if they do not remarry. lawmakers April 12. bill makes the LB683, intro- LB1038, introduced by Sen. Al Davis following benefit duced by Omaha of Hyannis, allows a changes for state Sen. Mark Kolterman Sen. Joni Craig- water appropriation patrol officers who are hired on or head, allows a sur- used to generate hy- after July 1, 2016: viving spouse to re- dropower at a facility • increases the officer contribu- tain the exemption on a natural stream tion rate from 16 to 17 percent; if he or she remar- to be changed to • reduces the maximum cost of ries after age 57. Sen. Joni Craighead an instream basin living adjustment (COLA) from The bill passed 47-0. management appro- Sen. Al Davis 2.5 to 1 percent; priation to be held jointly by the state • prohibits participation in the De- Game and Parks Commission and at least ferred Retirement Option Plan; one natural resources district. • increases from three to five the

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 15 April 12 - 20, 2016

Long-term care savings an eligible employee’s expenses. Arena turnback taxes expanded program ended Provisions of six additional bills were added to LB774, including: Senators passed a bill April 13 that Nebraska’s Long-Term Care Sav- • LB542, originally introduced by extends the range from which cities ings Plan will be eliminated under a Omaha Sen. collect state sales taxes from hotels bill given final approval April 13. Burke Harr, and businesses near sports arenas and LB756, introduced by the Legisla- which creates convention centers. tive Performance Audit Committee, a sales tax ex- Under current state law, 70 percent terminates the plan on Jan. 1, 2018. emption for of state sales taxes generated by new Any participant is entitled to receive county agri- and existing retailers near an arena the full balance of his or her account cultural soci- are turned back to the city to help pay on that date. eties; Sen. Burke Harr for the new facility. Thirty percent is Under the bill, investment earnings • LB888, originally introduced directed to a fund that provides devel- from the plan will be deducted from by Omaha Sen. Heath Mello, opment grants to smaller communities an individual’s adjusted gross income which clarifies that insurance across the state. Omaha and Lincoln (AGI) for tax years beginning Jan. 1, companies are eligible for tax currently receive turnback taxes from 2018, and AGI will increase for unap- credits under the Nebraska hotels within 200 yards and 450 yards, proved withdrawals for tax years before Job Creation and Mainstreet respectively, of any convention center Jan. 1, 2018. Revitalization Act and reserves or arena. The bill passed on a 49-0 vote. the first $4 million for applica- Introduced by Sen. Jim Scheer of tions seeking credits less than Norfolk, LB884 extends turnback tax Tax exemptions approved for $150,000; provisions to any publicly or privately treatment centers, others • LB1014, introduced by Ger- owned hotel located within 600 yards ing Sen. John Stinner, which of an eligible facility, to be measured Lawmakers passed a bill April 12 exempts from from any point on the exterior perim- that provides a tax exemption for levy limits any eter of a facility. certain treatment centers. property tax- The bill also extends to 48 months LB774, introduced es levied for the period during which taxes are by Norfolk Sen. Jim bonds issued turned back to political subdivisions Scheer, provides a by a county to pay for sports arena facilities and sales and use tax ex- airport au- allows Lincoln to use 10 percent of its emption for purchases thority; Sen. John Stinner turnback taxes to pay for low-income made by nonprofit • LB1015, introduced by Harr, housing projects. substance abuse treat- which creates a sales tax exemp- The proposal allows cities to use ment centers. Sen. Jim Scheer tion for museums that rent or the turnback tax to pay for capital It also incorporates provisions of lease property; improvements on the facilities, in LB510 as originally introduced by • LB1047, introduced by Harr, addition to paying off the principal Omaha Sen. Tanya which adds as a qualified activ- and interest on bonds used to pay for Cook. These provi- ity the drying and aerating of construction. sions allow an em- grain in commercial facilities LB884 passed 43-4. ployer to apply a under the sales tax exemption nonrefundable tax for energy used in manufactur- Tax credit for volunteer credit against 20 ing and processing; and emergency responders granted percent of its ex- • LB1088, originally introduced penses used for an Sen. Tanya Cook by Hyannis Sen. Al Davis, Senators passed a proposal April employee’s postsecondary tuition or which creates a sales tax exemp- 12 to give tax credits to volunteer costs associated with a high school tion for independent living emergency responders. equivalency program. The tax credit centers. LB886, introduced by Sen. Al Davis is valid for no more than two years of The bill passed on a 37-10 vote. of Hyannis, creates a $250 refund-

PAGE 16 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE April 12 - 20, 2016 able tax credit for capped at $5 million per year and the volunteer emergency credits will be available for five years responders, rescue beginning Jan. 1, 2017. squad members and The bill passed 42-5. firefighters who meet certain criteria. The Ag land tax credit bill passes Right of way clarification passed bill establishes a point system to determine Sen. Al Davis A bill that increases the amount A bill that clarifies right of way annual qualifications for the credit. of property tax credits for agricultural laws for bicyclists and pedestrians was The bill is estimated to reduce state landowners received final-round ap- passed April 13. tax revenue by $2.2 million in fiscal proval April 13. LB716, introduced by Omaha Sen. year 2017-18 and again in FY2018-19. Introduced by Grand Island Sen. Rick Kolowski, Senators voted 46-0 to pass the bill. Mike Gloor on behalf of Gov. Pete specifies that any Ricketts, LB958 bicyclist who is Senators approve tax credits grants $224 mil- riding on a des- for early childhood workforce lion in property ignated path that tax credits for fiscal intersects with a Early childhood care and education year 2016-17—a con- street or highway program providers and their staff will tinuation of credits has the right of Sen. Rick Kolowski be eligible for a tax credit under a bill offered last year to- way within the crossing if he or she passed by lawmakers April 12. taling $204 million. Sen. Mike Gloor follows all traffic signals. Introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath Gloor said this year’s additional $20 A cyclist has all the rights and Mello, LB889 cre- million in credits will go specifically duties of a pedestrian, however, he ates two tiered tax to agricultural and horticultural land- or she must yield the right of way to credits—one for owners. pedestrians when riding on a sidewalk, providers of eligible Senators voted 47-1 to pass the bill. crosswalk or road shoulder. early childhood care LB716 also repeals a current statute and education pro- Access to tax incentive data commonly referred to as the “manda- grams and another granted tory sidepath” provision. This states for staff members. Sen. Heath Mello that whenever a usable path for bi- A child care or early childhood Lawmakers passed a bill April 12 cycles has been provided adjacent to education program will have to be that ensures the Legislative Audit a street, a bicyclist must use the path assigned a quality rating under the Office’s access to data necessary for and not the street. Step Up to Quality Child Care Act to conducting performance audits of tax The bill passed on a 38-3 vote. qualify for the credit. The amount of incentive programs. the credit will be determined by the LB1022, introduced by the Legisla- Statewide 911 system program’s quality rating and the aver- tive Performance Audit Committee, proposal passes age monthly number of children who gives the office direct access to all attend the program. agency databases containing relevant Lawmakers approved a proposal The bill also directs the state De- program information. The bill allows April 12 to create a statewide en- partment of Education to develop a the office to request confidential state hanced 911 system. classification system for employees of Department of Revenue data and Introduced by Sen. Jim Smith of applicable early childhood care and removes current provisions giving the Papillion, LB938 education programs. An employee’s speaker of the Legislature and the chair- authorizes the Ne- rating will be based on his or her level person of the committee access to con- braska Public Ser- of education, training and work history. fidential data in certain circumstances. vice Commission The rating will determine the amount The bill also extends the incentive to plan, implement, of credit the employee receives. programs’ expiration by three years. coordinate, main- The total amount of credits will be The bill passed 44-4. tain and organize Sen. Jim Smith

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 17 April 12 - 20, 2016 funding for a statewide system capable state or in any instance where such an ated by the state Department of of next-generation service. This means implement crosses a bridge or culvert. Roads, as well as local authori- public safety answering points will have The bill incorporates provisions ties, to use blue and amber flash- the ability to receive 911 calls via voice, of LB996, originally introduced by ing lights when engaged in the text or video using Internet protocol. Henderson Sen. inspection, construction, repair At least two public hearings on the , or maintenance of highways; plan are required. The commission which excludes • LB918, introduced by Mu- will present the plan to the Legislature vehicle manufac- rante, which no later than Dec. 1, 2017, and it will turers that own retains 1 per- be implemented sometime after July or operate two or cent of pro- 1, 2018. fewer dealerships ceeds from The plan will estimate the startup in Nebraska, have Sen. Curt Friesen the motor and ongoing costs of a statewide sys- owned or operated a warranty repair vehicle tax tem and recommend the number of or service facility as of Jan. 1, 2016, to fund the public safety answering points the state and manufacture engines installed in replacement Sen. John Murante should maintain. The commission will vehicles with a gross weight rating of and ongoing maintenance of a ensure uniform statewide standards more than 16,000 pounds from owning state vehicle title and registra- for technical support, training, effi- an interest in, operating or controlling tion system; ciency and quality assurance at public a franchise, franchisee or consumer • LB946, introduced by Smith, safety answering points. care facility. which authorizes the chair of the The bill also creates a fund to pay LB977 also incorporates provisions Motor Vehicle Industry Licens- for the commission’s expenses in of six additional bills, including: ing Board to modify, approve or developing the plan, estimated to be • LB799, originally introduced reject any board action in which $1.1 million in fiscal year 2016-17 and by Lincoln Sen. Kate Bolz, a controlling number of board another $1 million in FY2017-18. which autho- members are active participants The commission will provide an an- rizes the use in the relevant market; and nual report to the Legislature assessing of funds col- • LB989, introduced by Murante, the level of wireless 911 location accu- lected under which decreases from 500 to racy compliance for wireless carriers. the Nebras- 250 the number of prepaid Senators voted 48-0 to pass the bill. ka Transpor- applications required to issue tation Act to a qualified organization’s spe- Animal transport weight be used for Sen. Kate Bolz cialty license plate and allows exceptions passed the purchase, replacement or for electronic renewal and re- rebuilding of public transporta- placement of commercial driver Certain agricultural vehicles are ex- tion vehicles; licenses. empt from weight and load limitations • LB844, originally introduced The bill passed on a 49-0 vote. g under a bill passed by the Legislature by Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing April 12. Brooks, LB977, introduced by Papillion which Sen. Jim Smith, ex- creates empts implements a breast of animal husband- cancer ry—such as tractors, aware- fertilizer spread- ness ers and mixer-feed license Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks trucks—from weight plate to be available Jan. 1, 2017; and load limitations Sen. Jim Smith • LB872, originally introduced on Nebraska highways. The exemption by Gretna Sen. John Murante, does not apply to vehicles on the inter- which allows vehicles oper-

PAGE 18 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE April 12 - 20, 2016 Last Day Photos

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 19 Unicameral Information Office PRESRT STD Nebraska Legislature U.S. POSTAGE PAID P.O. Box 94604 LINCOLN, NE Lincoln, NE 68509 PERMIT NO. 212 03-23-05

Outgoing senators gathered for a group selfie in the rotunda after adjournment April 20.