UNICAMERAL UPDATE News published daily at Update.Legislature.ne.gov Vol. 44, Issue 7 / Feb. 16 - 19, 2021 COVID-19 liability Bill would reinstate winner- protections take-all electoral system considered he Judiciary Committee heard testimony Feb. 18 on a pro- T posal meant to discourage frivolous lawsuits related to the ongo- ing coronavirus pandemic. LB139, sponsored by Albion Sen. , would provide civil li- ability protections for a broad range of individuals and organizations. As businesses, educational insti- tutions and health care providers struggle to recover from the impact of the pandemic, Briese said, they are faced with the threat of unwarranted, needless lawsuits. “I believe it’s incumbent upon us as policymakers to do everything we can to facilitate our state’s recovery from Sen. Julie Slama said LB76 would give all Nebraskans an equal say in how the state’s electoral this pandemic,” he said. “Implement- votes are cast. ing the protections found in LB139 is ll five of ’s Electoral when drawing congressional districts one very substantial step that we can College votes would be as- for the benefit of Electoral College take to help this recovery.” A signed to the statewide win- votes, which is exactly what the fram- Protected groups under the bill ner in presidential elections under a ers of our Constitution fought against would include medical and other bill considered Feb. 17 by the Govern- by empowering states — not segments health care providers, first responders, ment, Military and Veterans Affairs of states — to choose the president of medical facilities, schools, restaurants, Committee. the United States,” Slama said. “Out- retail stores, churches, senior care facil- LB76, introduced by Peru Sen. Julie comes of presidential elections should ities and individual citizens — as long Slama, would end Nebraska’s split never be determined by lines drawn by as they follow public health guidance. system of awarding electoral votes, state-level politicians.” The bill would prevent a civil ac- in place since 1991. Currently, the Ryan Hamilton, executive director tion arising from exposure or potential statewide winner receives two electoral of the Nebraska Republican Party, exposure to COVID-19 unless an votes and the winner of each of the testified in support of the bill. He individual could prove by clear and state’s three congressional districts called the current allocation a “voter convincing evidence that an inpatient receives one electoral vote. Nebraska inflation scheme” that benefits the hospitalization or death was caused by is one of two states to use this system. Omaha-based 2nd Congressional the defendant’s gross negligence or Allocating electoral votes by con- District at the expense of the rest of willful misconduct. gressional district does not increase the state. LB139 also would provide pro- voter turnout and makes the redistrict- “This way of doing business has tected individuals and organizations ing process hyper-partisan, Slama said. exacerbated the urban-rural divide with “safe harbor” protections from “It incentivizes gerrymandering (continued page 2) (continued page 3)

INSIDE: Redistricting proposal considered • Meet Sen. Day • Hearing schedule February 16 - 19, 2021

Bill would reinstate winner-take-all electoral system (continued from front page) within our state and divides our politi- Al Davis, testifying on behalf of the system that should be the model for cal strength for little or no reward,” Sierra Club, also spoke in opposition. the nation,” Davis said. “Winner-take- Hamilton said. Winner-take-all systems disenfranchise all amplifies the power of the large Former state senator DiAnna Republicans in “blue” states and states over the small ones, and the Schimek testified in opposition to Democrats in “red” states, he said. swing states over the red or blue ones.” LB76. Schimek sponsored the legisla- “Nebraska’s current method builds The committee took no immediate tion that established the current system enthusiasm among voters and offers a action on the bill. n and said it has achieved its original goal of increasing voter participation. “It encourages more people to vote Find Legislative Documents and that is very important in this era Committee hearing schedules, daily agendas and more can be viewed of deep personalization of politics,” using the calendar on www.NebraskaLegislature.gov. Schimek said. Also in opposition was Jaden Per- Clicking the “Calendar” link on the left side of the website’s home page will open a calendar that is constantly updated with new information. kins of Black Votes Matter. He called the bill “anti-democratic” and a form of voter suppression. “Many organizers, like myself, worked tirelessly to mobilize thou- sands of voters, specifically in north and south Omaha,” Perkins said. “All of that hard work resulted in President Biden and Vice-President Harris gain- ing the 2nd District’s electoral vote. And for the first time ever, a black woman got to cast that vote on our district’s behalf. This moment is his- tory that should be honored by simply keeping the split vote the way it is.”

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PAGE 2 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 COVID-19 liability protections considered (continued from front page) paying civil damages as long as they acted in accordance with federal or state law, regulation or order or public health guidance related to COVID-19. Under the bill, a civil action arising out of COVID-19 exposure must be brought within two years after the date of exposure. The liability protections established in LB139 would expire on Dec. 31, 2022, or one year after the COVID-19 state of emergency ends, whichever is later. Mark Schorr, speaking on behalf of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, testified in support of the bill. He said the proposal would provide a middle-ground approach that ensures reasonable protections. “Here in Nebraska, as in other states, we are easing restrictions on social and economic activities,” he said. “However, as we continue to reopen the state, there is continued fear and legitimate concerns over fac- ing the issue of COVID-19 claims and liability from not only individuals who Sen. Tom Briese said liability protections would help Nebraska’s economy recover from the are opening their businesses again, but pandemic. also organizations, religious organiza- ability would ignore that many had to ID-19 litigation problem that requires tions, their patrons and individuals.” work through the pandemic despite a immunity provisions or an increased Also supporting the bill was Emily lack of personal protective equipment, higher standard,” Urbom said. Bottorf, representing the Nebraska resources and adequate staffing. Todd Stubbendick, speaking on Defense Counsel Association. The “We need to provide our hospitals behalf of AARP Nebraska, also testi- ease with which the coronavirus and the over 44,000 employees the fied against LB139. Many senior care spreads can make it nearly impossible peace of mind that comes with the pro- facilities have done well during the to take all necessary steps to prevent tection from civil liability,” Hale said. pandemic, he said, but some have not. exposure, she said. “They need a sense of calm so they “While there may be circumstances “Our current body of law ... is simply can continue to provide great quality beyond a facility’s control for which not a good fit for these lawsuits,” Bot- care without the worry of being sued.” they should not be held responsible, torf said. “It would leave individuals, Opposing the bill was Jonathan pursuing a nursing home neglect or businesses and health care providers Urbom, representing the Nebraska abuse case in court is already a [dif- vulnerable to very expensive litiga- Association of Trial Attorneys. He ficult] thing to do,” Stubbendick said. tion.” said an individual would have to cause “No family who has lost a loved one Andy Hale, representing the Ne- injury knowingly, intentionally or with due to neglect or abuse pursues this braska Hospital Association, spoke in complete reckless disregard in order to course of action lightly.” support of LB139. He said exposing meet the bill’s burden of proof. The committee took no immediate health care workers to potential li- “Nebraska does not have a COV- action on LB139. n

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 3 February 16 - 19, 2021 Meet the Senator Day is ready for legislative heavy lifting f one had to guess which current Ne- Ibraska state senator has competed in Olympic weightlifting at the interna- tional level, it might take a few guesses before choosing Omaha Sen. . Born and raised in Sar- py County, Day has always been a natural athlete. Her early years were invested in gymnastics and competitive cheerleading. As an adult, she started chasing new goals, literally — competing in marathons and triath- lons. Day’s introduction to CrossFit and barbell lifting in 2009, however, was a personal turning point. “Women are kind of dis- couraged from lifting really Sen. Jen Day and her family at Rocky Mountain National Park in 2019. heavy [weight] and getting involved in strength sports,” she said. “It was interesting found herself frustrated by her representation in the Leg- to me and I wanted to pursue it personally and get more islature, however, she didn’t complain about it. She filed women involved.” her paperwork to run. Day cofounded a strength and fitness center in Omaha “I think that a lot of people think that it requires years with her husband, Jon, where she also coaches athletes. of experience as a politician to be ‘qualified’ to run for Like many families, they have had to learn to balance work office,” she said. “But I don’t think that’s the truth at all. schedules while also supporting their sons — Canyon, 12, I think sometimes having a more adequate representative and Noah, 8 — through remote learning. government — in terms of having people in office that are “It has definitely been difficult, but we’re so fortunate a lot like their constituency — is a good thing.” to have a lot of family in Omaha that have helped support Day says she is “ecstatic” to be working on issues close us, taking care of the kids while we had to go to work,” she to her heart as a member of the Education and Health said. “But my kids are very independent and they’re just and Human Services committees. Despite the long days wonderful little people.” and heavy workload of a state senator, she welcomes the It was her experience as a parent that spurred Day to nonstop pace of her new job with the passion and energy get involved in local politics. After opening her business, one might expect from a lifelong athlete. she made the decision to go back to school to earn her “You know, I’ve had a lot of jobs in my life that I have bachelor’s degree in political science. really, really loved,” Day said. “But the work [in the Legis- Day graduated thinking that she would work on politi- lature] is so fulfilling and wonderful that I don’t mind the cal campaigns as a manager or staff member. When she busy aspect of it. I just feel very privileged to be here.” n

PAGE 4 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021

through art,” Herden said. help the university and state colleges Also testifying in support was Ke- maximize state funds and solve this arney mayor Stan Clouse. He said the problem.” city has committed to relocate utilities, The bill also would increase the State funds sought for donate land and vacate an alley for the university’s annual appropriation museum renovation museum expansion, which already has by $2.5 million – to be matched by been approved by the city planning the university — to renew, renovate, Nebraska would provide matching commission and city council. replace or repair existing facilities. The funds to assist in the renovation of the He said that those resources, com- bill would require that the university Museum of Nebraska Art in Kearney bined with funds raised by MONA establish a revolving facility mainte- — known as MONA — under a bill and matched by the state, would nance fund with a 2 percent allocation considered Feb. 19 by the Appropria- allow the museum to continue the of all construction funds expended to tions Committee. important work of safeguarding and mitigate further backlog. LB141, as originally introduced showcasing Nebraska art. “This oversight is critical to the Leg- by Gering Sen. , would “We think it’s great for our commu- islature’s ability to determine whether appropriate $7.5 nity; it’s great for the state,” Clouse said. funds are being expended strategically million in gener- No one testified in opposition to and in concert with statewide needs al funds in fiscal the bill and the committee took no and priorities,” Stinner said. year 2021-22 to immediate action. Ted Carter, president of the Uni- the University of versity of Nebraska, testified in sup- Nebraska at Kear- Bill seeks to address university port of the proposal. He said that most ney as a dollar-for- deferred maintenance needs colleges and universities are dealing dollar match for Sen. John Stinner with rapidly aging infrastructure. any private donations to the project. The University of Nebraska would More than one-third of the University Stinner said he has since learned have more tools to address facilities of Nebraska’s buildings are at least that the University cannot receive maintenance under a bill considered 50 years old, he said — the result of a funds for that purpose, so he offered Feb. 16 by the Appropriations Com- building boom in the 1960s and ‘70s an amendment that instead would di- mittee. — and are nearing the end of their rect the appropriation to the Nebraska LB588, introduced by Gering natural lives. Arts Council and create a fund there Sen. John Stinner, would extend Without LB588, Carter said, the to distribute the state dollars to the existing appropriations for deferred price tag for deferred facility mainte- museum. maintenance under the University nance would grow to $2.3 billion by “I have visited MONA; it’s well of Nebraska Facilities Program until 2062. Taking advantage of historically worth getting off the interstate for,” 2062 and the State College Facilities low interest rates would save the state Stinner said, adding that it would take Program until 2040. $1.5 billion over the next 40 years, he the average visitor nearly four hours to Stinner said the university cur- added, and would ensure world-class view all the exhibits. Matching funds rently is facing nearly $800 million facilities for students and faculty. would allow MONA to modernize and in deferred maintenance for existing “I’m often asked ‘what are the draw even more visitors, he said. structures. The nearly 1,000 buildings issues that keep you up at night?’” MONA executive director Nicole owned by the university system are Carter said. “Many nights, it’s the Herden testified in favor of the bill, important state assets that require state of our physical plant. I consider saying the museum has expanded to modernization and a long-term main- facilities to be a crucial part of our more than 5,000 works of art and needs tenance plan, he said. recruitment and retention strategy.” more gallery and storage space. She said “As part of our effort to produce Bob Phares, member of the Uni- upgrades to infrastructure and technol- and educate a workforce, these [facili- versity of Nebraska Board of Regents, ogy also would help MONA engage ties] are a key economic driver for the also testified in support. He noted with more Nebraskans. state,” Stinner said. “Interest rates are that last winter the steam tunnel that “There is no more eloquent way to at a historical low and the cost of capi- provides heat to the residence halls at showcase our history and story than tal presents a unique opportunity to the Nebraska College of Technical Ag-

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 5 February 16 - 19, 2021

riculture in Curtis suddenly collapsed. three years old or newer and that quires aftermarket parts to be equal “We can’t allow students to go insurance policies provide notice and in “like, kind, quality, fit and perfor- without heat,” he said. “Deferred consumer acknowledgement of the mance” to original parts. maintenance is a real issue. The ad- use of aftermarket parts in repairing “We do care about our policy ministration has done good work, but vehicles older than three years. holders,” Bell said. “We don’t want it is clear to me after 15 years that we’re The bill also would prohibit a ve- our insureds injured; we don’t want not going to solve this whole problem hicle from being declared a total loss unsafe vehicles either. If it’s in an ac- without a bolder, longer-term plan.” if the cost to repair it is less than 75 cident later and there’s more injuries Veronica Miller of Crete, Uni- percent of its fair market value at the or more property damage because of versity of Nebraska-Lincoln student time of the insurance claim. this aftermarket part, guess who pays? body president and student regent, Pahls said the bill would increase It’s the insurance companies.” also testified in support. Speaking fairness and transparency in automo- Scott Merritt, director of Automo- on behalf of the university system’s bile repair. tive Recycling Industry of Nebraska, 52,000 students, she said facilities “People who just bought a new also opposed LB602. He said the bill are an important part of keeping the car do not want aftermarket parts would create an unfair marketplace that University of Nebraska competitive. installed and they often would prefer benefits large auto parts manufacturers. “We attend different campuses, we to repair and keep their cars rather The committee took no immediate are in hundreds of different areas of than have them totaled out by their action on the bill. study and we all spend our time on insurance companies,” he said. campus in different ways,” Miller said. James Rodis of the Nebraska Auto Bill would double auto insurance “What we have in common, though, is Body Association testified in support liability minimums a desire for safe, modern, high-quality of the bill. Vehicles are much more buildings where we can learn, study sophisticated now than they used to The Banking, Commerce and In- and grow.” be, Rodis said, and replacement parts surance Committee heard testimony No one testified against LB588 and that once were considered adequate Feb. 16 on a bill that would increase the committee took no immediate ac- no longer are. compensatory damages for motor ve- tion on the bill. “The sad and terrifying part is that hicle liability coverage and uninsured the insurance companies directing the motorist coverage in Nebraska. use of these aftermarket parts do not LB612, introduced by Sen. Steve track or notify consumers when these Lathrop of Oma- parts are decertified,” Rodis said. ha, would increase “Each one of these parts is integral in damages for bodily a collision.” injury and prop- Insurance changes sought for Body shop owner Sean Sabin also erty damage for certain damaged vehicles spoke in support. He said insurance both types of cover- companies focus on reducing expenses age from $25,000 Nebraska insurers would be restrict- and not on safety. to $50,000 of one Sen. ed in the use of aftermarket parts for “I speak with hundreds of insurance person in one accident and from certain vehicles under a bill considered adjusters every year. The only conversa- $50,000 to $100,000 of two or more Feb. 16 by the Banking, Commerce and tion that comes up is solely about the people in one accident. Insurance Committee. cost of the repair,” Sabin said. The bill also would increase the LB602, intro- Robert Bell, speaking on behalf of minimum limits for property damage duced by Sen. Rich the Nebraska Insurance Federation from $25,000 to $50,000 and would Pahls of Omaha, and the Nebraska Insurance Informa- take effect Jan. 1, 2022. would require tion Service, testified against LB602. Lathrop said the current mini- that vehicle repair Aftermarket parts save Nebraskans mums no longer are adequate. is commensurate money on repairs and lowers insur- “The average claim is going to be with a vehicle’s ance premiums, he said. more than $25,000 and you, the in- condition if it is Sen. Rich Pahls Bell added that Nebraska law re- sured, are exposed to what we call an

PAGE 6 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 excess liability claim,” Lathrop said. while the state’s current population is “It’s bad for the person who gets hurt approximately 88 percent Caucasian. as well, so why do we keep doing this?” “As we become more diverse, we Mark Richardson, testifying on also become more sensitive to the ways in which our education curriculum behalf of the Nebraska Association All schools would incorporate incorporates that diversity,” Pansing of Trial Attorneys, spoke in support multicultural education of the bill. He said medical costs Brooks said. “Students need to under- have gone up 468 percent since 1983 Nebraska public and private stand how multicultural issues shape and that while $25,000 sounds like schools would incorporate multicul- who we are.” adequate coverage, it can quickly be tural education into their instruc- Under LB359, schools that do exhausted in a serious accident. tional programs under a bill heard not provide evidence annually that “Ten years ago it was probably Feb. 16 by the Education Committee. multicultural education is included time to move these limits up. There’s Currently, each public school dis- in their curriculum would lose their no question that it’s time [to do so] trict is required to incorporate studies accreditation or approval status. today,” Richardson said. related to the culture, history and The bill also would require the de- Peggy McDonald of the Indepen- contributions of African-Americans, partment to hire a full-time consultant dent Insurance Agents of Nebraska Hispanic Americans, Native Ameri- trained and experienced in the field of also supported LB612. Nebraska cans and Asian Americans into their multicultural education. hasn’t increased its insurance mini- K-12 curriculum. Barbara Baier, a Lincoln Public mums since 1988, she said, and doing Under LB359, introduced by Lin- Schools board member, testified in so would shift the cost of lost income, coln Sen. , multi- support of the proposal. She said medical treatment and ongoing physi- cultural educa- a full-time consultant could help cal therapy from the injured to the tion also would school districts ensure that their mul- driver responsible for the accident. incorporate the ticultural education plans match best “Bottom line is that there’s no way histories, per- practices and reflect state goals. the innocent party should have the spectives and Judi gaiashkibos, executive direc- financial hardship of paying their own contributions tor of the Nebraska Commission bodily injury and property damage,” of those groups on Indian Affairs, also testified in McDonald said. and reflect the Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks support. She said hiring a full-time Coleen Nielsen, testifying on be- “diverse races and cultures of all specialist would ensure that each cul- half of the Nebraska Insurance Fed- persons in Nebraska and the United ture is included in a school district’s eration and the Nebraska Insurance States of America.” curriculum in a respectful and mean- Information Service, opposed the bill. The bill would require each school ingful way. She said increasing minimums would district, in consultation with the state She also supported a proposed make auto insurance too expensive commissioner of education, to incor- change that would require the com- for some Nebraskans, leading to more porate multicultural education into missioner, rather than the depart- uninsured drivers. its elementary, middle and secondary ment, to design a system to evaluate “Proponents argue that the limits instructional programs. That require- multicultural education and report haven’t been raised for years and ment also would apply to each private, on that evaluation to the Legislature. medical costs have risen dramatically, denominational and parochial school “[LB359] gives the commissioner but overall claim value hasn’t risen at approved or accredited by the state that authority he needs and the ac- the same pace because cars are safer, Department of Education beginning countability the bill needs,” gaiash- making more serious injuries less com- with school year 2022-23. kibos said. mon,” Nielsen said. Pansing Brooks said the proposed Also in support was Anne Hunter- The committee took no immediate updates are in keeping with changes in Pirtle, executive director of Stand for action on LB612. the state’s demographics. More than Schools. She said the incorporation one-third of Nebraska’s pre-kindergar- of multicultural education has been ten student population identifies as a correlated with a potential to reduce race other than Caucasian, she said, the incidence of bullying and increase

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 7 February 16 - 19, 2021

the degree of student self-efficacy and mance at school,” Walz said. pilot project ends. personal resilience. Beginning with school year 2022-23, Matt Blomstedt, state commis- Jeremy Ekeler, associate director the State Board of Education, in con- sioner of education, testified in sup- of education policy at the Nebraska sultation with the state commissioner port of LB538, saying it would help Catholic Conference, gave neutral of education, would award funding to Nebraska schools coordinate with testimony on LB359. He said the two eligible schools in each congressio- community services related to school Catholic church values multicultural nal district. A school could receive up safety, food security and behavioral education but opposes state mandates to $150,000 each year for five consecu- and mental health. for Catholic schools, which already tive fiscal years. He said the South Sioux City teach multicultural education through A school designated as a priority community school, which receives study of the church’s history and state school or that is at the lowest perfor- federal grant funding, recently offered social studies standards. mance level under a state accountabil- mental health resources to students No opponents appeared at the ity system would be eligible. and families in response to a growing hearing and the committee took no The commissioner would prioritize number of suicides in a nearby Native immediate action on the bill. schools with significant populations American community. of students who qualify for free or Anne Hunter-Pirtle, executive Community school pilot reduced-price lunches, students expe- director of Stand for Schools, also program considered riencing homelessness, highly mobile testified in support. The pandemic has students or students with disabilities. shown that Nebraska schools serve not The Education Committee heard Each community school would only as places of instruction, she said, testimony Feb. 16 on a bill that would establish a leadership team, including but as food distribution centers and, create a five-year community school a site coordinator, that would develop in some cases, health care providers pilot program administered by the school-specific programming goals, and counseling centers. state Department of Education. assess program needs and oversee She said research on community Under LB538, sponsored by Fre- programming implementation. schools shows that they improve stu- mont Sen. Lynne Before starting programming, each dents’ test scores and grades. It also Walz, a group of community school would complete a indicates that community schools can community organi- detailed baseline analysis including help close opportunity gaps for stu- zations and at least a need assessment and analyses of dents of low-income families, students one eligible public several factors, including the student of color, English language learners and school could apply body, enrollment and retention data students with disabilities. for funding to plan, and the assets and needs of the sur- No one testified in opposition to implement and im- Sen. rounding community. the bill and the committee took no prove community school programming. The bill would require each com- immediate action on it. Walz said the proposal is based munity school to offer at least two on a successful model used at public types of programming from a list of schools in Chadron, Hastings and options including high-quality child South Sioux City. She said commu- care or early childhood education nity schools improve academic perfor- programming, academic support mance by providing a comprehensive and enrichment activities, juvenile network of academic, health and social crime prevention and rehabilitation, Redistricting proposal services to meet the needs of students, school-based mental health services considered their family members and others in and homeless prevention. the community. The program would be funded The Executive Board heard testi- “Offering services at school would with income from solar and wind mony Feb. 17 on a proposal to guide reduce absenteeism and time spent agreements on school lands received the Legislature’s redistricting process. out of school as well as [address] the through Dec. 31, 2024. Each commu- The Legislature is responsible for needs of the whole child, which is nity school would submit a report to drawing new governmental boundar- shown to improve academic perfor- the board and the Legislature after the ies every 10 years after the U.S. Census

PAGE 8 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 for districts pertaining to the U.S. efforts in Nebraska have been “ex- Congress and the state Legislature if at House of Representatives, Legislature, tremely partisan.” It’s important to least three candidates are on the ballot. Public Service Commission, Univer- improve public trust in the process, he McCollister said ranked-choice sity of Nebraska Board of Regents and said, adding that the predicted delay voting would reduce partisanship and the state Board of Education. of census data this year allows ample give voters confidence that their vote Redistricting is scheduled to be opportunity for senators to decide won’t be wasted. undertaken in 2021. how best to achieve that goal. “Ranked-choice voting is a process LB107, sponsored by Omaha Sen. “We have time yet to make a fair, that will increase voter satisfaction, John McCollister, more transparent process for Ne- efficiency and fairness in future state would adopt the braska,” Geis said. elections,” McCollister said. Redistricting Act. Danielle Conrad, representing the Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek, president He said the bill in- ACLU of Nebraska, also supported of Rank The Vote Nebraska, testified corporates the best LB107. A sound redistricting process in support of the bill. She said ranked- practices of several should be transparent, participatory and choice voting discourages negative cam- redistricting bills in- nonpartisan, she said, and should pro- paigning and creates more opportunity troduced by a vari- Sen. John McCollister tect minority voting rights. Relying solely for women and non-white candidates. ety of senators over the last several years. on census data rather than partisan data “We want better choices. We “It’s essential that we get this would help in that effort, she said. want better candidates, better ideas,” [redistricting] process right,” McCol- “We want to ensure trust in the Maxwell-Ostdiek said. lister said, calling it “one of the most process, we want to ensure fair elec- Kimberly Jones of Bellevue also sup- consequential” processes that senators tions and we want to ensure that ported LB125. Ranked-choice voting undertake. voters choose their elected represen- enables voters to avoid “choosing the McCollister said that unless law- tatives — not the other way around,” lesser of two evils” and encourages vot- makers remove the perception that Conrad said. ing for third-party candidates, she said. redistricting is politically motivated, No one testified against LB107 and “Voters should be able to vote residents may attempt to remove the the committee took no immediate ac- for candidates they support not just process from the Legislature through tion on the bill. vote against candidates they oppose,” the initiative process and place it in the Jones said. hands of an independent commission. Lancaster County Election Com- Among other provisions, the act missioner David Shively testified would require that maps be drawn in opposition to the bill. Changing using politically neutral criteria and voting procedures could lead to voter using only data and demographic confusion, he said, and would delay information from the U.S. Census. Ranked-choice voting election results and double the cost The bill would prohibit consideration considered of printing ballots. of residents’ political affiliation or “We spend an enormous amount registration and previous voting data. The Government, Military and of time testing the ballots to go Data used in the redistricting pro- Veterans Affairs Committee heard through the machines to make sure cess would be made available to the testimony Feb. 18 on a bill that would all the ovals are accurately counted,” public and at least one public hearing end traditional voting in certain elec- Shively said. “This would [add] some would be required. Once a map is tions and instead allow voters to rank additional time.” created, only amendments to correct candidates. The committee took no immediate technical errors would be allowed and Under LB125, introduced by Sen. action on the bill. the governor would be required to call John McCollister of Omaha, voters a special session if the Legislature fails would note on a ballot their most- Voter ID constitutional to adopt new maps. preferred candidate, second-most amendment proposed Gavin Geis of Common Cause preferred candidate and so on for all Nebraska testified in support of the candidates. The bill would apply to Nebraskans would decide if photo bill, saying that previous redistricting elections for governor and members of identification is required for voting

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 9 February 16 - 19, 2021 under a constitutional amendment will lose their confidence,” Love said. The bill also would remove the au- considered Feb. 17 by the Govern- Sheri St. Clair of the League of thority of second class cities to imple- ment, Military and Veterans Affairs Women Voters of Nebraska also ment policies to prevent or contain Committee. testified in opposition. She said the the spread of disease. LR3CA, introduced by Sen. Ju- proposal “promotes the myth of voter Vargas said local health depart- lie Slama of Peru, fraud” and would make it more dif- ments in Nebraska knew what steps would place a pro- ficult for Nebraskans to vote. to take to contain the COVID-19 posed amendment “This is at least the ninth time pandemic in its early stages but were on the 2022 gen- that such a proposal has been brought unable to act because state officials eral election ballot before the Legislature, yet we still wouldn’t approve those directed asking voters if ID have not had a conviction on voter- health measures. should be required impersonation fraud in this state or “Decisions about public health at the polls. Sen. Julie Slama even tangible proof of voter fraud,” should be made by the experts in the The proposal would enhance St. Clair said. field,” he said. election integrity and increase voter The committee took no immediate Douglas County Health Director confidence, Slama said. action on LR3CA. Dr. Adi Pour testified in support of the “If approved by the voters of Ne- bill. She said local authorities should braska, [the amendment] would add be allowed to implement DHMs another layer of security to our elec- because the tools needed to combat tions — already implemented by 35 health emergencies can vary between other states — without disenfranchis- urban and rural areas. ing a single voter,” She said. “The law, as written, is not protective Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Local health department DHM of public health at the local level but is Evnen testified in support of the authority sought dependent upon politics,” Pour said. proposal. He said showing an ID is Teresa Anderson, director of the “common sense” and supported by a Local public health departments Central District Health Department, majority of Americans. would have authority to issue directed also testified in support of LB637. She “Voter ID increases the accuracy of health measures to combat contagious said that early in the current pandemic records at the polls, prevents wrongdo- disease under a bill considered Feb. 19 her department’s “hands were tied” ing and gives the voters additional con- by the Health and Human Services by current law and they were unable fidence in the security and integrity of Committee. to contain the rapid spread of the elections,” Evnen said. Under current law, local public coronavirus. Also testifying in support was Doug health department measures to con- Tana Fye, testifying on behalf of the Kagan of Nebraska Taxpayers for Free- tain the spread of contagious disease Two Rivers and Southwest Nebraska dom. He said there is no way to know are subject to review and approval by public health departments, also spoke how much voter fraud exists without a the state Department of Health and in support. Currently, public health is system like voter ID to detect it. Human Services. governed by what Fye called a “patch- “Consider it a vaccination process LB637, introduced by Omaha work” of memoranda between health to prevent the spread of vote fraud,” Sen. , districts and political subdivisions Kagan said. would remove that leading to confusion and enforcement Preston Love, Jr. of Black Votes requirement and difficulties. Matter testified in opposition to the give local health “LB637 really is a clean-up bill. It proposal. He said an ID requirement departments exclu- cleans up the situation so that cities would create an unnecessary burden sive authority to and counties no longer have these on elderly and non-white voters, adding investigate the exis- overlapping powers with questions that the current system isn’t broken. tence of contagious Sen. Tony Vargas of who ultimately has jurisdiction to “The voters have confidence and if diseases and adopt measures necessary enact what is necessary,” Fye said. we keep persisting and implement an to limit the spread of disease within the Ashley Newmyer testified in oppo- amendment for voter ID, some voters health department’s boundaries. sition to the bill on behalf of DHHS.

PAGE 10 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021

She said a cohesive, statewide strategy provisions for young offenders. for juveniles as unconstitutional. has been critical to combating the LB34, spon- “I was thrown into an adult system current pandemic, which would not sored by Lin- with no knowledge of what that really be possible if LB637 were approved. coln Sen. Patty meant,” Tucker said. “I was 32 before “A local health district could enact Pansing Brooks, I realized what it really meant to be their DHM and then the state DHHS would prohibit incarcerated for the rest of my life. could enact a DHM. You could run life imprison- Growing up in an adult prison, a child into inconsistencies; one could be ment without doesn’t have the opportunity to grow more or less restrictive than the other,” the possibility Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks as a child should.” Newmyer said. “The intent of directed of parole for crimes committed by Opposing the bill was Erin Tange- health measures is to impact the health someone under 21. man, appearing on behalf of the Ne- behavior of people so they know what The United States is the only braska Attorney General’s Office. The precautions they need to take. That nation that sentences people to life bill minimizes the nature of the crimes requires very consistent messaging.” without parole for crimes they com- committed, she said, and the danger Christy Abraham of the League of mitted before turning 18, Pansing that offenders pose to the public. Nebraska Municipalities also testified Brooks said, although 24 states already Age should be a factor in sentenc- in opposition. She said the league ap- have prohibited life without parole as ing, she said, but not the sole factor. preciates the bill’s concern for public a sentencing option for young people. “The leniency given by LB34 health but could not support a mea- “When we sentence youth under ignores the victim and the victim’s sure that would take authority away 18 to life in prison without parole, we family whose lives have often been from certain classes of cities. are sentencing them to die in prison,” shattered by these offenses,” Tange- “The authority to help prevent … she said. “Under LB34, these children man said. “Determining the appropri- the spread of contagious diseases has may still receive harsh sentences, but ate punishment and best outcomes been in state statute as an authority they will also know that they have the for public safety should be done on a for municipalities for decades and option of paying their debt, coming to case-by-case basis with life imprison- decades,” Abraham said. terms with their mistakes and someday ment without parole as an option.” Also speaking in opposition was returning to society and becoming The committee took no immediate Mary Hamilton. She said unelected productive citizens.” action on the bill. officials should not have the author- The bill also would eliminate ity to close churches, restaurants and mandatory minimum sentences for “Clean slate” proposed for other public venues. Class IC and ID felonies committed certain convictions “Quarantine is when you restrict the by someone under 21. liberty of people who are sick; tyranny is Tom Riley, speaking on behalf of The Judiciary Committee heard when you restrict the liberty of people the Nebraska Criminal Defense At- testimony Feb. 17 on a bill meant to ad- who are healthy,” Hamilton said. torneys Association, supported LB34. dress the stigma of criminal conviction. The committee took no immediate He said the science clearly shows that LB114, sponsored by Omaha Sen. action on LB637. an individual’s brain is not fully devel- John McCollister, would allow indi- oped until age 25. viduals convicted “The juveniles act irrationally ... of certain crimes to they don’t think things through and petition the court sometimes do really bad stuff,” Riley to have their record said. “That doesn’t mean that they’re sealed, removing all irreparably corrupt.” records relevant to Sentencing reform proposed Also speaking in support of the bill the crime from the Sen. John McCollister for younger offenders was Dwayne Tucker of Omaha. He public record and said he was sentenced to life in prison limiting dissemination of such records Members of the Judiciary Commit- without parole at 17, but was paroled to criminal justice agencies. tee heard testimony Feb. 17 on a bill after a U.S. Supreme Court decision McCollister said that sentencing, that would change certain sentencing overturned automatic life sentences good time and parole reform are the

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 11 February 16 - 19, 2021 true answers to solving Nebraska’s The state court administrator Alternative proposed to DUI prison overcrowding. would be required to determine eli- incarceration “Under LB114 … once an indi- gibility for such relief within 30 days vidual completes his or her sentence following expiration of the eligibility Individuals found guilty of driv- and obeys the law long enough to period established under LB114. ing under the influence of alcohol demonstrate rehabilitation, the indi- Deanna Hobbs, a student attorney, and other drugs could enroll in an vidual has rightfully earned relief from spoke in support of the bill. Due to the alternative diversion program under low-level offenses hanging over one’s stigma of having a criminal record, she a bill heard Feb. 17 by the Judiciary head like a scarlet letter for the rest of said, individuals face significant chal- Committee. his or her life,” he said. lenges to finding employment, securing LB271, spon- Many offenses would be excluded housing and obtaining an education. sored by Lincoln from qualifying under the bill, includ- “This bill would ensure that thou- Sen. Adam Mor- ing those that require registration as a sands of Nebraskans that have had feld, would autho- sex offender or involve serious bodily past run-ins with the justice system rize county-level injury or death. have the opportunity to fully re-enter 24/7 sobriety pro- Under the bill, a person convicted society and be an active member of grams created by Sen. or adjudicated for an eligible offense their communities,” Hobbs said. the sheriff or a designated entity. could petition the court to have their Also supporting the bill was Natalie Morfeld said evidence from states record sealed if they have not been Scarpa, an Omaha social worker. Re- that have implemented similar pro- convicted or adjudicated for a subse- ducing system-involved discrimination grams shows increased rates of sobri- quent misdemeanor or felony and has is good for everyone, she said, and ety among participants and reduced satisfied all court-ordered financial the bill would impact thousands of incidents of alcohol-related traffic obligations. Nebraskans. accidents and domestic violence. The eligibility period for qualified “As a professional social worker — “Research has shown these pro- offenses would be 10 years following and person in recovery with previous grams are more effective at reducing conviction of a Class III or lower felony [legal] system contact — I can tell you recidivism of drug and alcohol related or a Class I or II misdemeanor, seven that people do change their lives,” offenses than traditional monitoring years following adjudication of a Class Scarpa said. “They change their lives, methods,” Morfeld said. “Seeing the III or lower felony or a Class I or II every day and against all odds.” same facility staff twice daily gives a misdemeanor or five years following Speaking in opposition to the bill unique sense of accountability that is conviction or adjudication for a Class was Mary Jacobson, on behalf of the often lacking with just an [ignition] III or lower misdemeanor or infraction. Consumer Data Industry Associa- interlock device or suspended license.” Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, an indi- tion. She did not oppose the concept Under the bill, a person convicted vidual convicted of an eligible misde- of sealing criminal records, she said, of driving under the influence could meanor offense would be eligible to but asked that a uniform reporting join a voluntary 24/7 sobriety program have their criminal record sealed auto- system be added to protect the bill’s and submit to twice-daily sobriety test- matically if the offense was committed original spirit. ing or use of a continuous alcohol after Jan. 1, 2017, and if they have not “We want individuals who are monitoring device. Participants would been convicted or adjudicated for a granted clean slate relief to fully agree not to consume alcohol or any subsequent offense and have paid all realize the benefit of their modified drug not prescribed by a physician court-ordered financial obligations. criminal history record information,” while enrolled in the program. The eligibility period for a qualified Jacobson said. “Providing a centralized An individual who violates a pro- misdemeanor offense would be 10 and uniform means of accessing clean gram’s terms would face immediate years after conviction of a Class I or II slate orders is the best way to ensure sanctions as established in their par- misdemeanor, seven years after adjudi- our members have accurate and up- ticipation agreement. A sixth violation cation for a Class I or II misdemeanor to-date information when generating would result in immediate expulsion or five years following conviction or consumer products.” from the program and exclusion from adjudication for a Class III or lower The committee took no immediate further participation. misdemeanor. action on LB114. LB271 also would authorize a spe-

PAGE 12 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 cial motor vehicle operating permit for Under LB481, sponsored by Oma- Among other provisions, the bill individuals enrolled in a 24/7 sobriety ha Sen. Terrell McKinney, an individ- would establish an appeal process for program. The permit would be subject ual convicted of a an individual whose petition for relief to court approval, a $45 issuance fee minor or nonvio- is denied. It also would decriminalize and at least 30 consecutive days in the lent drug offense marijuana possession and possession program without sanction. would be eligible with intent to manufacture, distribute, An individual with a 24/7 sobriety to have their crim- deliver or dispense marijuana. permit who is found to be driving inal record sealed Representing the Nebraska Crimi- under the influence or who refuses a automatically if nal Defense Attorneys Association, chemical test would be guilty of a Class the offense was Sen. Terrell McKinney Joe Nigro spoke in support of LB481. IV felony, punishable by up to two committed after Jan. 1, 1994, and He said black people are three times years imprisonment with 12 months they have completed their sentence as likely as white people to be arrested post-release supervision, a $10,000 and paid all court-ordered financial for marijuana offenses in Nebraska. fine or both. obligations related to the offense. “The failed war on drugs has cre- Lancaster County Public Defender The federal government’s “war on ated a greater burden on the criminal Joe Nigro spoke in support of the bill. drugs” disproportionately targeted justice system than any other factor He said it would be a valuable tool in black and brown people, McKinney over the last 50 years, especially harm- efforts to reduce DUI offenses and said, and arguably was never intended ing people of color,” Nigro said. “All make the state’s roads safer. to increase public safety. of this for a substance that has the “Most people convicted of a first- “With this acknowledgement same dependency rate as caffeine at offense DUI get a seven-day jail sen- comes the duty to address discrimina- 9 percent.” tence. Whether they serve it in jail tory policing practices as well as the Spike Eickholt, speaking on behalf or on house arrest, it does nothing structural racial basis at every step of of the ACLU of Nebraska, also sup- to address the drinking problem,” our criminal legal system,” he said. ported LB481. He said criminalization Nigro said. “A diversion program can “Equity is a vital component of this of marijuana does not increase public identify those who need treatment.” bill as it seeks to repair past harm, safety. Opposing the bill was Ken Lackey, avoid future harm and help address “All the horror stories you’re seeing speaking on behalf of the state Depart- the years of stigma that criminalizing about what marijuana does to people ment of Motor Vehicles. He said pre- marijuana has brought about.” is happening when we have prohib- trial diversion programs were designed The bill also would allow an indi- ited marijuana and criminalized it,” specifically to educate individuals who vidual convicted of an eligible offense Eickholt said. “This is a medical and commit only minor traffic offenses. to petition the court beginning June societal issue and there are other ways “LB271 would allow first-time DUI 1, 2023, to have their record sealed re- to address it than just criminalizing it.” offenders to enter the pre-trial diver- gardless of when the offense was com- Opposing the bill was Dr. Gary sion program for the first time in Ne- mitted, removing all records relevant Anthone, chief medical officer for braska history,” Lackey said. “Current to the crime from the public record the state Department of Health and statute is very clear that minor traffic and limiting dissemination of such Human Services Division of Public offenses do not include driving under records to criminal justice agencies. Health. LB481 would pose a public the influence.” An order for clean slate relief under safety risk, he said, because informa- The committee took no immediate LB481 would nullify an individual’s tion on marijuana convictions no lon- action on LB271. conviction and remove all civil dis- ger would be available when approving abilities and disqualifications imposed or denying state-required licenses. Decriminalization of marijuana as a result of the conviction. It would “The bill’s provisions regarding proposed not require the reinstatement of any clean slate relief would impact profes- office, employment or position which sional and occupational licensure du- Nebraskans with nonviolent drug was lost or forfeited as a result of ties performed by DHHS,” Anthone convictions could apply for “clean conviction or affect eligibility for, or said. “This poses a risk to the safety slate” relief under a bill heard by the obligations relating to, a commercial of vulnerable adults and children Judiciary Committee Feb. 19. driver license. who receive care from these licensed

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 13 February 16 - 19, 2021 individuals and entities.” Joe Nigro, speaking on behalf of routinely saw legal marijuana products Corey O’Brien, speaking on behalf the Nebraska Criminal Defense At- diverted to the black market. of the Nebraska Attorney General’s torneys Association, supported the “The demand for high-grade mari- Office, also opposed the measure. If proposal. LR2CA is an important step juana, edibles and vape cartridges passed, he said it would undo nearly in ending the “failed” war on drugs, is exceptionally high because of the 10 years of progress made by the Leg- he said, which has negatively impacted demand and potential profit,” Bolduc islature in the fight against synthetic people of color disproportionately. said. “I fear Nebraska will become a forms of marijuana. “Besides the consequences of crimi- source state and not just a destination “State law changes like the ones nal penalties for possession, conviction state, ultimately contributing to the proposed in [LB481] are in direct can affect eligibility for federal student dangerous problem the black market conflict with and are preempted by loans and housing, as well as loss of poses to public safety.” the Federal Controlled Substances immigration status,” Nigro said. The committee took no immediate Act and, as such, would violate the Also speaking in support of the pro- action on LR2CA. Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Con- posal was Seth McBride of Lincoln. If stitution,” O’Brien said. the state is going to continue to crimi- The committee took no immediate nalize marijuana, he said, it should action on the bill. justify that position with evidence. “The discussion surrounding can- Constitutional amendment nabis [often] turns into a conversation would legalize cannabis about the pros and cons of individual Sales tax turnback proposed use and speculation about [societal] for sports complexes Legalization of cannabis in Ne- impacts,” McBride said, “But we need braska for individuals 21 and older to focus on the role of government, Cities could use state sales tax rev- would be placed on the ballot for voter which is to protect the rights of citizens enue to build sports complexes under consideration under a measure heard and not micromanage every aspect of a bill heard Feb. 19 by the Revenue Feb. 19 by the Judiciary Committee. their lives.” Committee. LR2CA, sponsored by Omaha Opposing the measure was Dr. Currently, the Sports Arena Facility Sen. Justin Wayne, Gary Anthone, chief medical officer Financing Assistance Act allows political would put the for the state Department of Health subdivisions to apply for state assistance question on the and Human Services Division of to build eligible sports arena facilities. November 2022 Public Health. The Federal Drug Under LB39, sponsored by Omaha general election Administration has a robust review Sen. , they could use ballot. If approved process for approving drug products that assistance to by voters, the Leg- containing cannabinols, he said. build sports com- islature would be Sen. Justin Wayne “Legalization of a drug by a state cir- plexes — facilities required to pass legislation governing cumvents the process set out in federal that are used pri- the cultivation, manufacture, distribu- law for approving drugs for safety and marily for com- tion, consumption and sale of canna- efficacy and leads to an increased risk petitive sports and bis in any form. to the public,” Anthone said. “Permit- contain a certain Wayne said an individual is ar- ting marijuana use, for any purposes, number of sports Sen. Brett Lindstrom rested for marijuana possession every poses an increased risk to the health venues such outdoor arenas or base- minute in America — evidence that and safety of Nebraskans by exposing ball, softball or multipurpose fields. marijuana use is widespread. them to a drug that does not meet the Lindstrom said the construction of “The fact of the matter is that standards set forth by the FDA.” sports complexes would lead to new there’s a black market that we all know Nebraska State Patrol Superinten- hotels, restaurants, convenience stores [exists],” he said. “This, if passed by the dent John Bolduc also spoke in oppo- and retail shops built to serve visiting voters, would give the [Legislature] that sition. He said that during his time as a spectators, athletes and their families. opportunity to provide safety protec- police chief in California — a state that “This is a massive opportunity to tions for the consumer.” has legalized medical marijuana — he collect on sports tourism and [an] eco-

PAGE 14 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 nomic development tool for commu- their dollars with them.” Nebraska by directing state funds to a nities both large and small,” he said. No one testified in opposition to potential facility near Union Pacific’s The bill would direct 100 percent the bill and the committee took no Bailey Yard in North Platte, he said. of state sales tax revenue generated by immediate action on it. Groene said the project could at- certain retailers near a sports complex tract manufacturers and distributors back to the political subdivision. State funding sought for rail seeking to reduce their shipping costs The turnback would apply to state access project and provide jobs in an area of the state sales tax collected by nearby retailers that has lost population in recent years. that started collecting it during the The state would provide matching “Rural Nebraska needs good jobs,” period of time beginning on the date funds for the development of an indus- he said. “People want to live there — we the project commenced and ending trial rail access business park under a just need good jobs.” four years after its completion date. proposal heard Feb. 18 by the Revenue Gary Person, president of the North Lindstrom said the provision would Committee. Platte Area Chamber and Development ensure that the turnback applies only Under LB40, sponsored by North Corporation, testified in support of the to the sales tax revenue generated by Platte Sen. , a nonprofit bill. He said Union Pacific historically new businesses. economic devel- has discouraged rail development near Jeff LeDent, general manager of opment corpora- Bailey Yard because of the scale and Millard United Sports, testified in tion could apply to complexity of the yard’s operations. support of LB39. He said Omaha the director of the With the rise of automation and preci- needs a sports complex to compete state Department sion scheduling, he said, the company with facilities in the Des Moines and of Economic De- now supports development of a nearby Kansas City areas. velopment for up rail access business park. LeDent said a proposed sports to $10 million in Sen. Mike Groene Person said LB40 would help complex at Tranquility Park in Omaha matching funds to cover the project’s North Platte compete for companies could host 30 national and regional development costs. whose priority when choosing a new tournaments every year, drawing nearly The funds could be used for site site is direct rail access. He said a num- 90,000 attendees and generating $78.4 acquisition and preparation, utility ex- ber of companies, none with a current million in direct visitor spending and tensions and rail spur construction for presence in Nebraska, are interested $4.3 million in state sales tax revenue. the development of a new industrial in the idea. “Sports tourism is a $9 billion a rail access business park, including ex- “We believe this bill can assist not year industry that has exploded in penses incurred to help an initial ten- only our community but other rural recent years,” he said. “Omaha and ant in the manufacturing, processing, communities [to] diversify their econo- all of Nebraska [are] missing out on distribution or transloading trades. mies,” Person said. our true potential ... due to [a] lack of The project would have to be lo- No one testified in opposition to sports complexes.” cated in a county with a population the bill and the committee took no Kevin Andersen, deputy chief of of fewer than 100,000 inhabitants. immediate action on it. staff in the Omaha mayor’s office, tes- If the application is approved and tified in support of the bill on behalf the Legislature appropriates the funds, Inheritance tax rate cuts of the city. He said LB39 would ben- the applicant would receive a dollar- proposed efit local teams, clubs and the general for-dollar match from the state for public in Omaha and communities the total amount of their investment The Revenue Committee consid- across the state and help cities build in the project over a five-year period. ered a proposal Feb. 18 that would the large facilities needed to attract Groene said the proposal is similar cut state inheritance tax rates while youth sports tournaments. to legislation passed last year that increasing the amount of property “We’re losing our own teams, clubs requires the state to provide match- value that is exempt from the tax. and families as they travel out of state ing funds for a potential project at Sen. Robert Clements of Elmwood, to communities that host events of this the University of Nebraska Medical sponsor of LB310, said Nebraska is magnitude over countless weekends,” Center in Omaha. LB40 could pro- one of only six states that impose an Andersen said, “and they’re taking vide a similar economic boost to rural inheritance tax. He said inheritance tax

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 15 February 16 - 19, 2021 revenue, which is constituents are about property taxes.” year 2020, the department will set collected by coun- Dennis Ostgren, Phelps County the credit percentage so that the total ties, has increased commissioner, also testified in opposi- amount of credits for the taxable year by approximately tion. He said the county’s inheritance is $125 million. 5 percent per year tax fund allows it to cover unexpected Plymouth Sen. Tom Brandt, spon- for the past 27 expenses — such as road and bridge sor of LB524, years, much faster repairs after the 2019 flooding — and said LB1107 did than inflation. Sen. Robert Clements to qualify for lower interest rates on not take into ac- Clements said the bill would cut bonds for large projects. count the fact that rates in half on each of the three Ostgren said his family recently had many Nebraskans classes of beneficiaries subject to the to pay inheritance tax. pay their property tax over three years while allowing “I did not feel at all like it was un- taxes in arrears. exemptions to increase at a rate close fair or excessive,” he said. “I felt like it Therefore, those Sen. Tom Brandt to inflation. was a tip, if you will, a reward to our who paid their 2019 property taxes in “Allowing people to keep more of county government for its partnership 2020 will receive the credit, he said, their inheritance will increase capital and cooperation in our success.” but those who paid their 2019 taxes formation and encourage economic Also testifying in opposition was by the Dec. 31, 2019, due date will not. growth,” he said. “Reducing rates and Joe Lorenz, Douglas County finance “This is a fairness issue,” Brandt said. increasing exemptions creates a fairer director. He said the county uses Under LB524, any 2019 school and more reasonable tax.” the inheritance tax to fund essential district taxes that were both levied Sarah Curry, policy director at the and mandated social services such and paid during calendar year 2019 Platte Institute, testified in support as a long-term care center, a commu- would be deemed to have been paid of LB310, saying it would modernize nity mental health center, the county in calendar year 2020 for purposes of Nebraska’s tax code. She said most health department and others. calculating the credit for taxable years states repealed their inheritance and Lorenz said LB310 would reduce beginning or deemed to begin during estate taxes after a federal tax change Douglas County’s inheritance tax calendar year 2020. in the early 2000s. revenue by approximately $9 million The department estimates that The bill’s effect on counties is dif- per year, forcing it to cut those services LB524 would reduce general fund ficult to determine because there is no or raise its property tax levy. revenue in fiscal year 2021-22 by $7.3 statewide inheritance tax reporting re- The committee took no immediate million, assuming that approximately quirement, Curry said, but a Platte In- action on the bill. 5.5 percent of property taxes levied in stitute analysis shows that inheritance 2019 were paid in 2019, that the credit tax revenue made up an average of 3.6 Nebraska Property Tax percentage for 2020 is not changed percent of county revenues in 2020. Incentive Act update sought and affected taxpayers file amended To help counties offset the loss, 2020 income tax returns. the Legislature could authorize them The Revenue Committee heard Trenton Buhr of the Center for Ru- to levy a sales tax, Curry said, which is testimony Feb. 17 on a bill that would ral Affairs provided written testimony a more stable source of revenue than change the way that a refundable in- in support of the bill. He said LB1107 the inheritance tax. come tax credit is calculated under the did not state whether the credit would Deb Schoor, Lancaster County Nebraska Property Tax Incentive Act. apply to taxes levied in earlier years but commissioner, testified in opposition The credit, created last year under paid in 2020 or later. to the bill, saying it would have a di- LB1107, is calculated by multiply- LB524 would specify that the credit sastrous effect on county inheritance ing the amount an eligible taxpayer applies to 2019 taxes levied and paid in tax revenue and result in a greater paid in property taxes to their school that year, Buhr said, but it should fur- reliance on property taxes to fund district during the taxable year by a ther clarify that the credit does not apply county services. percentage set by the state Department to taxes paid in arrears after Jan. 1, 2020. “Property tax is our primary source of Revenue. “The credit is designed to give re- of revenue,” she said, “and I don’t For taxable years beginning or lief to overburdened taxpayers, not to need to tell you how sensitive our deemed to begin during calendar reward delinquency,” he said.

PAGE 16 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021

Jon Cannon, executive director of supported the bill, saying it would improvement districts under a bill the Nebraska Association of County prohibit abuse of TIF funding. considered Feb. 16 by the Urban Af- Officials, also testified in support. “Maybe finally, finally we’ll have fairs Committee. He said it would be good tax policy some TIF done where it’s supposed LB168, intro- to reward those who paid their 2019 to be done — not for economic devel- duced by Lincoln taxes on time. opment but to help the blighted and Sen. Matt Han- No one testified in opposition to substandard areas.” sen, would pro- the bill and the committee took no Lawmakers advanced LB25 to hibit the creation immediate action on it. select file on a 39-0 vote. of such districts after July 1, 2021. Sen. Bill would expand SID authority SIDs are limited-purpose political subdivisions primarily used by larger Sanitary and improvement districts cities to finance infrastructure outside could build off-street parking facilities city limits with the expectation that Extended TIF repayment bill under a bill considered Feb. 16 by the the developed area eventually will be advances Urban Affairs Committee. annexed, Hansen said. LB81, intro- He said SIDs contribute to a lack A bill that would implement the duced by Sen. of affordable housing and deter invest- provisions of a constitutional amend- Robert Hilke- ment in older neighborhoods. ment approved by Nebraska voters last mann of Omaha, “I believe SIDs disincentive any November advanced from general file would enable sort of coordinated housing effort Feb. 16. SIDs to acquire, at the local level and lead to a near LB25, introduced by Omaha Sen. purchase, own, sole focus on suburban single-family Justin Wayne, erect, construct, Sen. homes,” Hansen said. would extend the equip, operate or maintain off-street No one testified in support of the bill. repayment period parking facilities. Developer Denny Van Moor- of tax-increment Commercial development projects leghem testified in opposition. He financing from 15 in western Omaha need parking, said SIDs provide less-expensive lots, years to 20 if more Hilkemann said, but under current creating lower housing costs. than one half of law the SIDs governing the projects “In my mind, they are the answer to the land in a proj- Sen. Justin Wayne aren’t allowed to build it. affordability,” Van Moorleghem said. ect is designated as extremely blighted. Developer Jason Lanoha testified Sarpy County Administrator Dan Wayne said several commercial in support of the bill. He said SIDs Hoins also spoke in opposition. He developers have expressed interest in originally were designed to build hous- said SIDs transfer risk from taxpayers using the extended payback period ing and not commercial areas. to developers by allowing cities to limit on projects in Omaha since voters “They create beautiful suburbs, but a project’s debt-to-value ratio prior to approved the constitutional change. suburbs with significant infrastructure construction. “In Omaha, Lincoln and a handful and low-density populations,” Lanoha Also in opposition was Papillion of other Nebraska communities, there said. City Planner Mark Stursma. Elimi- are pockets of the city that undoubt- No one testified in opposition to nating SIDs would hinder economic edly meet the current definition of LB81 and the committee took no im- development significantly in Sarpy substandard and blighted for purposes mediate action on it. County, he said. of TIF but struggle to attract develop- “Only a few, large well-funded de- ers,” Wayne said. “By allowing for a Bill would end creation of velopers would be capable of financing longer TIF repayment period in these sanitary and improvement a development project,” Stursma said. areas that we deem extremely blighted, districts The committee took no immediate LB25 would help incentivize the use of action on LB168. n TIF where it is sorely needed.” Nebraska cities no longer would Sen. Mike Groene of North Platte be able to create new sanitary and

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 17 February 16 - 19, 2021 Committee Hearings Current hearing schedules are available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/calendar Further committee information is available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/committees/standing-committees.php

Tuesday, Feb. 23 Change administration of the retirement Agency 25: Health & Human Services Appropriations system under the Class V School (Note: Division of Development Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Employees Retirement Act Disabilities, Children and Family Agency 32: Board of Educational Lands Services, Behavioral Health) and Funds Transportation & Telecommunications Agency 34: Neb. Library Commission Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. Appropriations Agency 47 Neb. Educational LB522 (Friesen) Change a motor Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. Telecommunications Commission vehicle identification inspection training LB464 (Bostar) State intent regarding provision under the Motor Vehicle behavioral health aid funding Banking, Commerce & Insurance Certificate of Title Act LB465 (Bostar) Change provisions Room 1507 - 9:30 a.m. LB633 (Vargas) Change provisions of the relating to the Behavioral Health LB648 (Flood) Adopt the Transactions Motor Vehicle Industry Regulation Act Services Fund in Digital Assets Act LB504 (J. Cavanaugh) Change certain LB493 (M. Cavanaugh) Appropriate LB649 (Flood) Adopt the Nebraska penalty provisions for the suspension, funds to the Department of Health and Financial Innovation Act revocation, or impoundment of a motor Human Services LB654 (Wayne) Adopt the Public vehicle operator’s license LB225 (Hilkemann) Appropriate funds Entities Investment Trust Act to the Department of Health and Transportation & Telecommunications Human Services Education Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1525 - 9:30 a.m. LB317 (J. Cavanaugh) Provide for Executive Board LB5 (Blood) Adopt the Purple Star Nebraska History license plates Room 1525 - 12:00 p.m. Schools Act LB166 (Geist) Provide for Josh the LB605 (Wishart) Create the Outdoor LB669 (Vargas) Adopt the Veteran Otter-Be Safe Around Water Plates Recreation and Education Study Promise Act and provide powers and duties for the Committee of the Legislature LB281 (Albrecht) Require child Game and Parks Commission LB123 (M. Cavanaugh) Change sexual abuse prevention instructional LB215 (Hughes) Change 911 service meeting requirements for the programs for school students and staff surcharge provisions Legislative Council LB247 (Pansing Brooks) Create the Education Urban Affairs Mental Health Crisis Hotline Task Force Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1510 - 9:30 a.m. LB550 (Wayne) Change enrollment LB647 (Flood) Change powers of cities Government, Military & Veterans Affairs option limits and provisions for part- of the first class Room 1507 - 9:30 a.m. time enrollment in schools LB446 (M. Hansen) Adopt the LB158 (Wayne) Provide for restoration LB651 (Wayne) Provide a termination Nebraska Housing Index and Financing of voting rights upon completion of a date for the enrollment option program Investment System Act felony sentence or probation for a felony LB396 (Brandt) Adopt the Nebraska LB131 (Hunt) Change provisions LR10CA (M. Cavanaugh) Constitutional Farm-to-School Program Act relating to the enactment of ordinances amendment to remove felony convictions other than treason from Nebraska Retirement Systems Urban Affairs being a disqualification for voting Room 1507 - 4:00 p.m. Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. LB144 (Kolterman) Define terms LB555 (M. Hansen) Change reporting Government, Military & Veterans Affairs under the Class V School Employees requirements under the Municipal Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Retirement Act Density and Missing Middle Housing Act LB188 (Halloran) Adopt the Second LB145 (Kolterman) Provide for and LB556 (M. Hansen) Change provisions Amendment Preservation Act change audit, reporting, and billing relating to redevelopment contracts LB236 (Brewer) Permit counties to practices under the Class V School under the Community Development Law authorize carrying concealed weapons Employees Retirement Act LB653 (Wayne) Require goals for using as prescribed LB146 (Kolterman) Define and redefine historically underutilized businesses terms relating to school retirement under the Community Development Law Health & Human Services provisions Room 1510 - 9:30 a.m. LB147 (Kolterman) Change provisions Wednesday, Feb. 24 Appointments: Russell Crotty; relating to retirement systems for Class V Appropriations Timothy A. Tesmer; Michael Kotopka; school districts Room 1525 - 9:30 a.m. Mark R. Patefield; Dan Vehle; Robert LB582 (Nebraska Retirement Systems) Agency 28: Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs (Bud) Synhorst - State Board of Health

PAGE 18 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 Committee Hearings Current hearing schedules are available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/calendar Further committee information is available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/committees/standing-committees.php

Appointment: Joshua Dale Sevier - LB457 (McCollister) Change provisions LR25 (Health & Human Services) Commission for the Deaf and Hard of relating to deductions for certain sales Provide for appointment by the Hearing and use tax refunds Executive Board of a special committee of the Legislature to be known as the Health & Human Services Revenue Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. Center Special Oversight Committee of LB392 (Stinner) Adopt the Prescribing LB26 (Wayne) Provide a sales tax the Legislature Psychologist Practice Act exemption for residential water service LR28 (Hilkemann) Rescind all resolutions LB595 (Albrecht) Provide a sales tax previously passed by the Nebraska Judiciary exemption for certain products used in the Legislature petitioning Congress to call a Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. process of manufacturing ethyl alcohol federal constitutional convention LB186 (Hilkemann) Change provisions LB672 (Murman) Change the sales relating to the offense of criminal child and use tax exemption on agricultural Government, Military & Veterans Affairs enticement machinery and equipment Room 1507 - 9:30 a.m. LB206 (McDonnell) Change provisions LB557 (M. Hansen) Change provisions and penalties relating to arson, trespass, Thursday, Feb. 25 relating to public records and include and graffiti Appropriations body-worn camera recordings in LB315 (J. Cavanaugh) Change Room 1525 - 9:30 a.m. certain circumstances penalties for assault by strangulation or Agency 25: Health & Human Services LB443 (M. Hansen) Exempt local foster suffocation and domestic assault (Note: Operations, Medicaid and Long care review boards from the Open LB661 (McDonnell) Prohibit assault Term Care, Public Health) Meetings Act on a public transportation driver and clarify provisions relating to assault Appropriations Government, Military & Veterans Affairs on officers, emergency responders, Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. certain employees, and health care LB426 (Health & Human Services) LB257 (M. Hansen) Change provisions professionals Require the Department of Health relating to vacancies on public power and Human Services to conduct a and irrigation district boards Judiciary cost analysis for capital improvement Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. and structural changes at the Youth Health & Human Services LB104 (Friesen) Allow aggregation of Rehabilitation and Treatment Center- Room 1510 - 9:30 a.m. pecuniary losses for criminal mischief Kearney and submit a report Appointment: Diane Schutt - Commission offenses LB185 (Brewer) Appropriate funds to for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing LB111 (Albrecht) Change provisions the Department of Health and Human Appointment: David J. Hansen - Neb. relating to various offenses involving Services for public health aid Child Abuse Prevention Fund Board public safety LB585 (Vargas) Appropriate funds for LB187 (M. Cavanaugh) Change local public health departments Judiciary definition of sexual penetration for LB662 (McDonnell) State intent regarding Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. purposes of sexual offenses appropriations to the Department of LB543 (Brandt) Adopt the Agricultural LB229 (Hunt) Provide for enhanced Health and Human Services Equipment Right-To-Repair Act penalties and a civil action for crimes LB421 (Stinner) State intent regarding LB603 (Aguilar) Adopt the Organized committed because of a victim’s appropriations for qualified educational Consumer Product Theft Protection Act gender identity or association with a debt under the Rural Health Systems LB621 (Friesen) Adopt the Social Media person of a certain gender identity and Professional Incentive Act Fairness Act LB319 (J. Cavanaugh) Change LB340 (Stinner) Create the medicaid penalties for theft offenses nursing facilities program Judiciary LB360 (Pansing Brooks) Define and LB462 (Dorn) Appropriate funds to Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. redefine terms relating to sexual assault the Department of Health and Human LB102 (Dorn) Provide for transfer of offenses Services duties of clerks of the district court to clerk magistrates Revenue Executive Board LB316 (J. Cavanaugh) Change Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. Room 1525 - 12:00 p.m. provisions relating to limitations for a LB115 (McCollister) Impose sales tax LB212 (M. Cavanaugh) Prohibit postconviction relief action on candy and soft drinks and provide charging members of the Legislature LB355 (Lathrop) Change provisions for distribution of proceeds fees for public record requests relating to county judges, clerk

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 19 February 16 - 19, 2021 Committee Hearings Current hearing schedules are available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/calendar Further committee information is available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/committees/standing-committees.php magistrates, and civil procedure Agency 91: Neb. Tourism Commission licenses and state identification cards LB386 (Lathrop) Change judges’ salaries LB27 (Wayne) Provide for appropriations and provide for amendment of a birth LB548 (Wayne) Adopt the Nebraska to the Nebraska State Historical Society certificate Racial Justice Act and provide grounds LB279 (Bostar) Authorize certain for postconviction relief activities that are eligible for assistance Judiciary from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Revenue LB391 (Bostar) Transfer funds to the LB120 (Hunt) Prohibit discrimination Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. Customized Job Training Cash Fund based upon sexual orientation and LB64 (Lindstrom) Change provisions LB42 (Dorn) Provide for transfers to the gender identity relating to the taxation of social security Hall of Fame Trust Fund LB230 (Hunt) Prohibit discrimination in benefits LB208 (McDonnell) State intent related public accommodations and under the LB237 (Brewer) Change provisions to funding for development districts Nebraska Fair Housing Act on the basis relating to the taxation of benefits LB566 (McDonnell) Adopt the of sexual orientation or gender identity received under the federal Social Shovel-Ready Capital Recovery and LB231 (Hunt) Prohibit conversion therapy Security Act Investment Act LB321 (J. Cavanaugh) Prohibit LB410 (Linehan) Change provisions LB526 (Wishart) Change limitations defendant’s discovery of victim’s relating to itemized deductions on awards and state intent regarding actual or perceived gender or sexual appropriations under the Business orientation as a defense to a crime Revenue Innovation Act Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. Revenue LB299 (McDonnell) Adopt the Government, Military & Veterans Affairs Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. Firefighter Cancer Benefits Act and Room 1507 - 9:30 a.m. LB18 (Kolterman) Change provisions provide an income tax exemption for LB284 (M. Cavanaugh) Provide relating to equivalent employees and such benefits requirements regarding federal funds qualified locations under the ImagiNE LB347 (Lindstrom) Change provisions under the Governor’s Emergency Program Nebraska Act relating to an income tax deduction LR27CA (M. Hansen) Constitutional LB84 (Bostelman) Redefine terms for dividends received from certain amendment to provide legislative relating to tax incentive performance corporations authority in emergencies resulting from audits and the ImagiNE Nebraska Act LB625 (Vargas) Impose a surtax on a pandemic certain taxable income and use the tax Revenue proceeds for early childhood education Government, Military & Veterans Affairs Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. LB680 (Linehan) Change the corporate Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. LB134 (Brandt) Require the posting and income tax rate LB424 (Brewer) Provide and change reporting of tax incentive information zoning requirements for wind energy under the Taxpayer Transparency Act Friday, Feb. 26 generation projects LB523 (Albrecht) Change provisions Appropriations relating to certain school taxes and Room 1525 - 9:30 a.m. Health & Human Services special funds Agency 29: Dept. of Natural Resources Room 1510 - 9:30 a.m. Agency 52: State Fair Board Appointment: Anthony (Tony) R. Monday, March 1 Agency 84: Dept. of Environmental Green - Division of Developmental Banking, Commerce & Insurance Quality Disabilities - Health & Human Services Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Agency 33: Game & Parks Commission Appointment: Kevin Bagley - Division of LB20 (Blood) Provide for insurance LB449 (Wishart) Appropriate funds to Medicaid and Long Term Care - Health coverage of and medicaid access to the Department of Environment and & Human Services prescribed contraceptives Energy LB30 (Wayne) Limit the amount an LB469 (Erdman) State intent regarding Judiciary insured pays for prescription insulin appropriations for the Game and Parks Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. drugs Commission LB167 (Geist) Protect religious freedoms as prescribed and provide for certain Business & Labor Appropriations tort claims Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. LB282 (Albrecht) Change provisions LB172 (M. Hansen) Change provisions Agency 54: Neb. State Historical Society relating to obscenity relating to benefit payments under the Agency 72: Dept. of Economic LB517 (Hunt) Provide for a gender Employment Security Law Development neutral designation on operator’s LB207 (McDonnell) Change provisions

PAGE 20 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 Committee Hearings Current hearing schedules are available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/calendar Further committee information is available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/committees/standing-committees.php relating to the date when compensation Executive Board Urban Affairs begins under the Nebraska Workers’ Room 1524 - 12:00 p.m. Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. Compensation Act LB393 (Hughes) Eliminate the Next LB423 (Lathrop) Require registration of LB441 (M. Hansen) Change provisions Generation Business Growth Act home inspectors relating to compensation for individuals LB657 (Vargas) Require the office of LB549 (Wayne) Adopt the Aid to affected by COVID-19 under the Legislative Research to prepare racial Municipalities Act Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act impact statements for legislative bills LB219 (Wayne) Change legislative LB480 (McKinney) Change the declarations and findings relating to minimum wage as prescribed Transportation & Telecommunications traffic congestion in municipal areas Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. Business & Labor LB486 (Day) Require train crews of at Wednesday, March 3 Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. least two individuals Judiciary LB512 (Brewer) Adopt the Critical Infra- LB539 (Walz) Provide for a limit on the Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. structure Utility Worker Protection Act length of trains LB13 (Blood) Prohibit possession of LB594 (Slama) Adopt the Rural a deadly weapon by the subject of a Workforce Crisis Act Transportation & Telecommunications foreign protection order LB632 (Bostar) Provide for a low- Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB85 (Bostelman) Require Nebraska income student or first-generation LB575 (Bostar) Adopt the Midwest State Patrol to provide notice of college student internship program Interstate Passenger Rail Compact expiration of concealed handgun LB667 (Halloran) Provide for LB12 (Blood) Require a commuter rail permits confidentiality of and access to certain service study by the Department of LB244 (Clements) Change permit injury reports under the Nebraska Transportation renewal provisions of the Concealed Workers’ Compensation Act Handgun Permit Act LB241 (Vargas) Adopt the Meatpacking Tuesday, March 2 Employees COVID-19 Protection Act Banking, Commerce & Insurance Judiciary Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Education LB270 (Morfeld) Adopt the Pharmacy LB116 (McCollister) Change provisions Room 1525 - 9:30 a.m. Benefit Manager Regulation Act and relating to handgun transfer certificates LR21CA (Briese) Constitutional require an audit under the Medical and require suicide prevention training amendment to require the State of Assistance Act and informational materials Nebraska to pay all classroom expenses LB375 (Kolterman) Adopt the Pharmacy LB173 (B. Hansen) Change provisions related to the operation of public Benefit Manager Regulation and relating to carrying a concealed weapon elementary and secondary schools Transparency Act LB300 (Slama) Change provisions LB378 (DeBoer) Require the relating to justification for the use of force Commissioner of Education to report Education LB404 (Lowe) Change permit and data as prescribed Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. renewal time periods under the LB640 (Day) Change provisions related LB62 (Kolterman) Create the Access Concealed Handgun Permit Act to early childhood education in the Tax College Early Scholarship Cash Fund and LB417 (Halloran) Authorize possession Equity and Educational Opportunities change provisions relating to the Nebraska of a firearm on school grounds by a full- Support Act Education Improvement Fund, Nebraska time, off-duty law enforcement officer Opportunity Grant Fund, and Communi- Education ty College Gap Assistance Program Fund Nebraska Retirement Systems Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. LB36 (Erdman) Require display of the Room 1525 - 12:00 p.m. LB630 (Bostar) Provide for a study of national motto in schools LB184 (Brewer) Provide for an the efficacy of commercial air filters in LB87 (Morfeld) Provide for mental insurance premium deduction from the classrooms health first aid training for school retirement annuity of certain Nebraska LB565 (McDonnell) Provide for a youth districts and change provisions relating State Patrol employees initiated mentoring pilot program to the use of lottery funds LB209 (McDonnell) Change provisions LB200 (Vargas) Provide a high school relating to treatment of deferred graduation requirement relating to Nebraska Retirement Systems compensation by certain political federal student aid Room 1525 - 12:00 p.m. subdivisions, state agencies, and the LB639 (Day) Adopt the Seizure Safe LB478 (Blood) Adopt the Cities of the Public Employees Retirement Board Schools Act First Class Firefighters Cash Balance Retirement Act

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 21 February 16 - 19, 2021 Committee Hearings Current hearing schedules are available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/calendar Further committee information is available at: NebraskaLegislature.gov/committees/standing-committees.php

Revenue LB496 (Hilkemann) Require collection LB634 (J. Cavanaugh) Provide a cause of Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. of DNA samples for persons arrested action for unsafe disposal of treated seed LB180 (Linehan) Change provisions for crimes of violence relating to certain public statements LB636 (J. Cavanaugh) Eliminate cash Thursday, March 11 of the Tax Commissioner and certain bail bonds, appearance bonds, and Judiciary estimates of General Fund net receipts related provisions Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB431 (Revenue) Change taxation LB458 (McCollister) Change provisions LB199 (Vargas) Adopt the Face provisions relating to improvements of the Sex Offender Registration Act Surveillance Privacy Act on leased lands, the assessment of LB227 (Morfeld) Adopt the Doxing undervalued and overvalued property, Revenue Prevention Act and change and provide methods for giving notice, and the Room 1524 - 9:30 a.m. penalties and a civil action for false collection of certain taxes and fees LB564 (McDonnell) Redefine a term reporting LB542 (Walz) Authorize the issuance relating to the Nebraska educational LB370 (Sanders) Adopt the Personal of highway bonds under the Nebraska savings plan trust Privacy Protection Act Highway Bond Act LB681 (Linehan) Include elementary and secondary schools in the Nebraska Revenue educational savings plan trust and Friday, March 12 Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. change tax benefits Judiciary LB434 (Revenue) Change provisions LB599 (Lindstrom) Change an exemption Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. relating to tax expenditure reports and from the documentary stamp tax LB276 (Hunt) Eliminate a requirement certain joint hearings of legislative that the physician be physically present in the same room when an abortion is committees Revenue n LB459 (M. Cavanaugh) Change Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. performed provisions relating to the cigarette tax LB329 (Wayne) Change provisions and the Tobacco Products Tax Act and relating to taxes imposed on the distribute tax proceeds as prescribed average wholesale price of gasoline Search for Bills LB655 (Wayne) Change tax provisions LB430 (Revenue) Change tax relating to cigars, cheroots, and stogies provisions relating to net book value LB432 (Revenue) Change income tax Learn more about bills considered rates by the Unicameral by logging on Thursday, March 4 to NebraskaLegislature.gov. Judiciary LB433 (Revenue) Change the sales and Room 1113 - 9:30 a.m. use tax rate LB49 (M. Hansen) Change penalty for LB676 (Linehan) Redefine a term The Legislature’s website offers use of tobacco or nicotine products by a relating to cigarette taxes a bill search on the upper-right person under twenty-one years of age LB679 (Linehan) Require the Tax portion of the home page. Entering LB58 (Pahls) Change requirements for Commissioner to collect lodging taxes a bill number will retrieve the bill’s as prescribed service by publication for delinquent text, fiscal note, statement of liens arising from city or village special intent, votes, transcripts and more. assessments Wednesday, March 10 LB95 (DeBoer) Change provisions Judiciary You also can search current laws relating to garnishment Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB331 (Wayne) Prohibit contractual LB474 (Wishart) Adopt the Medicinal using the keyword search found criminal enforcement of certain Cannabis Act below the bill search. offenses related to animals LB31 (Wayne) Authorize punitive damages LB540 (Walz) Change terminology related as prescribed and provide for distribution to disability in civil rights provisions LB397 (Bostelman) Prohibit certain causes of action by motorists without Judiciary liability insurance or convicted of DUI Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. offenses, require the Department of LB157 (Wayne) Change provisions Motor Vehicles to establish and maintain relating to grand juries in cases of an online verification system for accessing death during apprehension or custody certain private passenger motor vehicle LB204 (Slama) Change provisions of insurance information, and authorize a the Sex Offender Registration Act disclosure of certain motor vehicle records

PAGE 22 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 107TH LEGISLATURE February 16 - 19, 2021 Senator Contact Info

Sen. Raymond Aguilar Sen. Sen. Mike Groene Sen. Brett Lindstrom Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks Grand Island, District 35 Omaha, District 6 North Platte, District 42 Omaha, District 18 Lincoln, District 28 Room 1118 11th Floor Room 1302 Room 2015 Room 1016 (402) 471-2617 (402) 471-2714 (402) 471-2729 (402) 471-2618 (402) 471-2633 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist35 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist06 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist42 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist18 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist28

Sen. Sen. Robert Clements Sen. Sen. Sen. Rita Sanders Thurston, District 17 Elmwood, District 2 Hastings, District 33 Elkhorn, District 39 Bellevue, District 45 Room 1404 Room 1120 Room 1022 Room 1116 Room 1406 (402) 471-2716 (402) 471-2613 (402) 471-2712 (402) 471-2885 (402) 471-2615 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist17 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist02 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist33 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist39 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist45

Sen. John Arch Sen. Jen Day Sen. Ben Hansen Sen. John Lowe Sen. Julie Slama La Vista, District 14 Omaha, District 49 Blair, District 16 Kearney, District 37 Peru, District 1 Room 1402 Room 1018 Room 2010 Room 2011 11th Floor (402) 471-2730 (402) 471-2725 (402) 471-2728 (402) 471-2726 (402) 471-2733 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist14 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist49 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist16 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist37 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist01

Sen. Sen. Wendy DeBoer Sen. Matt Hansen Sen. John McCollister Sen. John Stinner Bellevue, District 3 Bennington, District 10 Lincoln, District 26 Omaha, District 20 Gering, District 48 Room 1021 Room 1114 Room 1015 Room 1017 Room 1004 (402) 471-2627 (402) 471-2718 (402) 471-2610 (402) 471-2622 (402) 471-2802 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist03 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist10 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist26 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist20 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist48

Sen. Eliot Bostar Sen. Myron Dorn Sen. Sen. Mike McDonnell Sen. Tony Vargas Lincoln, District 29 Adams, District 30 Lincoln, District 21 Omaha, District 5 Omaha, District 7 Room 1012 11th Floor Room 2103 Room 2107 Room 1000 (402) 471-2734 (402) 471-2620 (402) 471-2673 (402) 471-2710 (402) 471-2721 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist29 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist30 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist21 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist05 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist07

Sen. Sen. Sen. Robert Hilkemann Sen. Terrell McKinney Sen. Lynne Walz Brainard, District 23 Bayard, District 47 Omaha, District 4 Omaha, District 11 Fremont, District 15 Room 1117 Room 1124 Room 2028 11th Floor Room 1107 (402) 471-2719 (402) 471-2616 (402) 471-2621 (402) 471-2612 (402) 471-2625 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist23 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist47 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist04 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist11 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist15

Sen. Tom Brandt Sen. Michael Flood Sen. Dan Hughes Sen. Adam Morfeld Sen. Justin Wayne Plymouth, District 32 Norfolk, District 19 Venango, District 44 Lincoln, District 46 Omaha, District 13 Room 1528 11th Floor Room 2108 Room 1008 Room 1115 (402) 471-2711 (402) 471-2929 (402) 471-2805 (402) 471-2720 (402) 471-2727 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist32 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist19 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist44 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist46 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist13

Sen. Sen. Sen. Sen. Mike Moser Sen. Matt Williams Gordon, District 43 Henderson, District 34 Omaha, District 8 Columbus, District 22 Gothenburg, District 36 Room 1101 Room 1110 Room 1523 Room 1529 Room 1401 (402) 471-2628 (402) 471-2630 (402) 471-2722 (402) 471-2715 (402) 471-2642 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist43 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist34 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist08 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist22 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist36

Sen. Tom Briese Sen. Sen. Sen. Dave Murman Sen. Albion, District 41 Lincoln, District 25 Seward, District 24 Glenvil, District 38 Lincoln, District 27 Room 1019 Room 2000 Room 2004 Room 1522 Room 1308 (402) 471-2631 (402) 471-2731 (402) 471-2756 (402) 471-2732 (402) 471-2632 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist41 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist25 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist24 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist38 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist27

Sen. John Cavanaugh Sen. Tim Gragert Sen. Steve Lathrop Sen. Rich Pahls Omaha, District 9 Creighton, District 40 Omaha, District 12 Omaha, District 31 Room 1306 11th Floor Room 1103 Room 1403 (402) 471-2723 (402) 471-2801 (402) 471-2623 (402) 471-2327 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] news.legislature.ne.gov/dist09 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist40 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist12 news.legislature.ne.gov/dist31

107TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 23 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