UNICAMERAL UPDATE Stories published daily at Update.Legislature.ne.gov Vol. 38, Issue 5 / Feb. 2 - 6, 2015 Bill would Meningitis vaccine prohibit job requirement advances discrimination for sexual orientation mployees would be protected from discrimination based on Esexual orientation and gender identity under a bill heard by the Ju- diciary Committee Feb. 4. Introduced by Lincoln Sen. , LB586 would prohibit employ- ers, employment agencies and labor unions from dis- criminating against individuals based on their sexual ori- Sen. Bob Krist confers with Sen. during general file debate on LB18. entation or gender Sen. Adam Morfeld identity. The bill tudents would be required to introduced an amendment that would would apply to employers with 15 receive two meningitis vaccina- have stricken any requirement for or more employees, employers with Stions by a bill advanced from students to receive the vaccine. It also state contracts, the state of , general file Feb. 4. would have required public and pri- governmental agencies and political Under LB18, introduced by Oma- vate schools to provide information to subdivisions. ha Sen. Bob Krist, every student would students’ parents or guardians on the Discrimination based on race, receive a meningitis vaccine upon causes and symptoms of meningitis, color, religion, sex, disability, marital entering the seventh grade and again how the disease spreads and where status and national origin currently is at age 16. people can obtain more information prohibited. Krist said that vaccinating adoles- about vaccination. Morfeld said the bill is necessary cents and young adults would have Groene said that the low number because lesbian, gay, bisexual and health benefits for the population at of meningitis cases does not warrant transgender (LGBT) Nebraskans large. a mandatory vaccine program. are being terminated from jobs and “Teen meningitis vaccination can “Over the last 11 years, there have discriminated against based on their also protect high risk individuals only been two cases of meningitis lifestyles, not workplace performance. through reduced carriage of bacteria recorded in the 12- to 17-year-old age “We need to bring meaning to the and herd immunity,” he said. “Keep- range and nine in the 18 to 22 age words ‘equality before the law,’” he ing our teens up-to-date with vaccines group,” he said. “I believe an educa- said. “No one should be fired for who is the best defense.” tion process will be more effective in they are or who they love.” North Platte Sen. alerting the populace to the dangers (continued page 2) (continued page 2)

INSIDE: Meet Sen. Stinner • Hearing schedule • Electoral winner-take-all bill advanced February 2 - 6, 2015

Bill would prohibit job discrim- Meningitis ination for sexual orientation (continued from front page) vaccine Morfeld added that a similar ordi- a gay man, his job searches require nance enacted by Omaha in 2012 did an inordinate amount of time spent requirement not yield an increase in discrimination studying prospective employers’ dis- litigation. crimination policies. advances Clark Lauritzen, chairman of the “I have been fired three times in (continued from front page) Greater Omaha Chamber of Com- my life for being who I am,” he said. of [the disease].” merce, testified in support of the Greg Schleppenbach of the Ne- Crete Sen. Laura Ebke supported bill. Discrimination policies have an braska Catholic Conference testified the amendment. economic impact, he said, because in opposition to LB586. He said the “I recognize that this is a danger, inclusivity is increasingly becoming a government should not force employ- but I’m not sure it rises to the level of deciding issue when talented employ- ers to affirm lifestyles and behavior a public health risk at this time,” Ebke ees consider working in Nebraska. they don’t agree with. Those who said. “I’m concerned that for whatever Unwelcoming policies turn away pro- stand up for their own beliefs, he said, reason we may be overstepping our spective workers and create barriers would be subject to litigation. bounds here in requiring that parents for businesses looking for qualified Joe Neuhaus of the Nebraska Fam- do this.” employees, he said. ily Alliance also opposed the bill, say- Omaha Sen. John McCollister op- “We can’t afford to give good ing discrimination against the LGBT posed the amendment. He said the people a reason to leave our state,” community has not been proven to potential public costs of treating men- Lauritzen said. be a problem in Nebraska. Employers ingitis warranted a vaccine mandate, Tom Beckius, chairman of the likely are not aware of their workers’ noting that one of his classmates died Lincoln Young Professionals Group, lifestyles, he said, and would have dif- from the disease. agreed, saying LB586 is critical to ficulty identifying the people the bill “I think it’s worth the cost if we creating a more inclusive and diverse seeks to protect. can save the life of just one person or workforce in the state. Speaking “Many if not most employers here reduce the debilitating aspects of this in favor of the bill, he said it is an in Nebraska do not care what an em- disease,” McCollister said. important step in keeping Nebraska ployee’s sexual orientation is,” he said. The amendment failed on a 19-27 attractive to potential workers. The committee took no immediate vote before senators voted 28-13 to g Lucas Peterson, a Lincoln resident, action on the bill. g advance the bill to select file. also supported the bill, saying that as

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PAGE 2 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 Meet the Senator Banker invests in legislative service en. ’s path to the Nebraska Legislature numbers and a love for community banking. That passion began in a Pennsylvania household with seven sib- steered the Stinner family—wife Rita, daughter, Cecilia and Slings. son, John—from Lincoln to Gering more than 27 years ago, But growing up in a large family was not as chaotic as where he and a group of investors helped start what is now one would expect, Stinner said, because his father was an Valley Bank & Trust. Army drill sergeant who Growing the bank prioritized exemplary to more than 12 loca- behavior. Those expec- tions, chairing the Ne- tations culminated in braska Bankers Asso- the future senator serv- ciation and serving on ing as an Eagle Scout, numerous civic groups high school class presi- gave Stinner the deeper dent and captain of understanding of com- several sports teams. munity needs necessary A multi-sport stand- to be an advocate for out, Stinner was re- others, he said. cruited to play football Joining the Nebras- for the University of ka Unicameral seemed Nebraska—Lincoln. He to be the appropriate played for two national next step, Stinner said. championship teams “If you want to from 1969 to 1972, two make a positive impact years as a running back on your district, the and two years as a line- Legislature is one of backer. the best ways to do Not being a starter that,” Stinner said. “It’s meant he watched many important to have a games from the bench. strong voice for western “I got to know the Nebraska.” coaches really well,” Stinner said he Stinner said with a hopes to transfer his smile. business skills to his While playing foot- new job as a legisla- ball didn’t make him tor to “get in front of famous, Stinner said his problems” such as eco- scholarship furnished a Sen. Stinner and his wife Rita visited the Muir Woods National Monument in nomic development degree in business ad- California, famous for its giant redwood trees. and property tax relief ministration that led him to start his career and eventually for western Nebraskans. settle in Nebraska. His fellow senators appear to have the same drive to get Stinner started his business career in public accounting things done in their districts, he said. and spent several years revitalizing failing banks in small “I’m impressed with everybody,” Stinner said. “They’re Nebraska and Iowa towns, which developed his passion for friendly, but committed to do the right thing.” g

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 3 February 2 - 6, 2015

lationships between neighbors, he said. Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species “We did not support this [act] Program to prevent and mitigate the when it was passed in the first place,” damage caused by species such as the Hansen said, “for the very same zebra mussel and silver carp. reasons … that Sen. Chambers has “These species have proven destruc- Bill would end county prairie already listed in his presentation.” tive to the ecosystems and usability of dog management Robert Bernt, an organic farmer surface waters in surrounding states The Agriculture Committee heard from Wheeler County, also testified and steps must be taken to prevent testimony Feb. 3 on a bill that would in favor of the bill, saying there are their establishment in Nebraska,” repeal the Black-Tailed Prairie Dog ways to manage prairie dogs short of Schilz said. Management Act. eradication. In addition, he said, a The bill would impose a fee every LB128, introduced by Omaha Sen. complaint by a neighbor that results three years on motorboat registrations, , in poisoning by the county could ruin both new and renewal, of between $5 would repeal the business for an organic farmer. and $10. The collected fees would be act, which was “If poisons were found on our land, used to: passed by the we’d lose our organic certification for • monitor and sample waters for Legislature in at least three years,” Bernt said, which aquatic invasive species; 2012. Chambers would result in a loss of $400,000 in • hire personnel; said the manage- income. • purchase equipment to inspect ment act does Sen. Ernie Chambers Larry Dix, representing the Nebras- and decontaminate water; not take into account that prairie ka Association of County Officials, • provide additional enforce- dogs are indigenous to Nebraska and testified in opposition to the bill. To ment, education and research an important part of the state’s eco- date, he said, Sheridan is the only relating to aquatic invasive spe- system. Instead, he said, the act was county to adopt the Black-Tailed Prai- cies; and modeled on noxious weed laws, which rie Dog Management Act. Landown- • conduct aquatic invasive species are designed to completely eradicate ers there have worked cooperatively to projects as needed. invasive species. stop problems before they reach the Omaha Sen. spoke “So, when you use that as a model,” stage of county intervention, he said. in favor of the bill, saying that the in- he said, “the mindset is that you are “Since Sheridan County put this festation of Lake Zorinsky in Omaha to exterminate all of these animals.” in place … there’s not been one com- by zebra mussels had a devastating In addition, he said, the Black- plaint,” Dix said. “It is working; it can effect on the lake’s ecosystem. Tailed Prairie Dog Management Act work. I think Sheridan County has “[Lake Zorinsky] went through an allows counties to violate the rights of proved that.” 18-month period of having to entirely property owners who may want prairie The committee took no immediate drain the lake and let it sit bare for dogs on their land, by authorizing the action on the bill. an entire winter to freeze out and kill management of colonies based on the zebra mussels,” he said. “It was a complaints from neighboring land Fee to control aquatic invasive mess for quite a while, but it has kept owners. species advanced the lake free from additional invasive “No law, in my opinion, should species.” be passed by the Legislature totally Senators gave first-round approval Owners of motorboats registered discounting the right of a person who Feb. 5 to a bill that would address the outside Nebraska would be required owns property based on the complaint potential impact of aquatic invasive to purchase an annual aquatic invasive of a neighbor,” Chambers said. species on local eco- species stamp for between $10 and John Hansen, president of the systems and surface $15. These fees would be remitted to Nebraska Farmers Union, testified water. the state Game Fund. in support of the bill. The act that it LB142, intro- Senators adopted a technical com- would repeal leads to a “heavy-handed” duced by Ogallala mittee amendment 34-0 and advanced approach to prairie dog management Sen. , the bill to select file on a 36-1 vote. and puts a strain on counties and on re- would create the Sen. Ken Schilz

PAGE 4 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015

Steve Bradford of Lincoln spoke LB599, introduced this session by in favor of the bill. He said that it Crete Sen. Laura would help narrow the small business Ebke, would allow capital gap. employers to pay “Very small businesses, especially $7.25 an hour for Crowdfunding investments for startups, have difficulty raising mon- workers age 18 and small business considered ey,” he said. “Small businesses could younger. Workers raise money much more effectively if could receive the Small businesses could seek start- they could offer securities. [LB226] rate for only 25 Sen. Laura Ebke up capital through new avenues strikes a good balance between pro- percent of the hours worked. under a bill heard by the Banking, tecting investors and offering small The bill would apply only to work- Commerce and Insurance Commit- businesses a relatively inexpensive way ers enrolled in public or private tee Feb. 2. to raise capital.” schools and would not include em- Under LB226, introduced by Lin- Ann Post, representing Lincoln In- ployees participating in vocational coln Sen. Colby dependent Business Association, also training programs. Coash, small busi- supported the bill, saying that it was a Ebke said LB599 would protect nesses could raise creative solution to keeping businesses struggling businesses, especially gro- up to $2 million in the state. cers in small communities, by allowing each year from ac- “We see entrepreneurs every day them to reduce labor costs. Younger credited or unac- working so hard to make their idea a workers require more training and credited investors. thriving business. This is just another can work only when not in school, Coash said that Sen. tool to keep innovation and talent in she said. Nebraska currently ranks very low in Nebraska,” she said. Dick Clark, director of research for access to capital for small businesses. No one testified in opposition to the Platte Institute, testified in favor “[LB226] creates incredible op- the bill and the committee took no of the bill. Capping the amount paid portunities for startup companies immediate action on it. to younger workers would mitigate the that otherwise do not have easy ac- negative effects of Nebraska’s recently cess to capital,” he said. “It allows an increased minimum wage, Clark said, individual working out of his garage because high minimum wages can dis- looking for a way to expand, to actu- courage some younger workers from ally move forward to raise funds and finishing high school or trade school. meet investors.” Kathy Siefken, executive director All projects attempting to raise Lower minimum wage of the Nebraska Grocery Industry money would require approval from proposed for youth Association, also spoke in favor of the state Department of Banking the bill. She said it is hard for small and Finance. Individuals investing Some workers would be paid less town grocers to justify the current money under LB226 would receive than Nebraska’s current $8.00 per minimum wage for entry-level posi- a proportionate security stake in hour minimum wage under a bill tions because of the amount of time the company in exchange for their heard by the Business and Labor Com- needed to train employees. Money for investment, without registration un- mittee Feb. 2. those wages come directly from store der state and federal securities laws. Last November, Nebraska voters owners’ pockets, she said, and those Unaccredited investors would not be approved Initiative 425, which raised stores are critical to the survival of allowed to invest more than $5,000 in the state’s minimum wage from $7.25 some small communities. a particular company. to $8.00 per hour for 2015. The ballot “We have retailers just barely hang- Investors must be residents of initiative was the result of a successful ing on,” she said. “This bill allows us Nebraska and would be required to petition drive that followed the 2014 to continue to keep hiring those kids.” sign a certificate acknowledging the Legislature’s rejection of a bill to in- Jason Hayes of the Nebraska State potential for the complete loss of crease the wage. Nebraska’s minimum Education Association testified in investment. wage will increase to $9.00 in 2016. opposition to the bill. He said the

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 5 February 2 - 6, 2015 proposal sends the wrong message to tified in support of the bill. He said Sen. Al Davis, students because it would tell them contractors who prey upon illegal im- would create the that they can earn a higher wage if migrants exploit them by not paying School Financing they drop out of school. for benefits such as health insurance, Review Commis- Rodney Vlcek, president of the Ne- workers’ compensation and overtime. sion, which would braska AFL-CIO, also spoke in opposi- Subsequently, he said, they are able conduct an in- tion to the bill. He said it would create to offer lower bids for projects, which depth review of cur- a separate, second-class of worker that takes jobs away from reputable com- rent public school Sen. Al Davis retailers would prefer to older workers. panies. financing. Davis said that while The committee took no immediate Because they are in the country changes to school finance have been action on the bill. illegally, noncitizens are reluctant to made over time, the issue of property contact authorities about unfair busi- taxes remains unaddressed. Citizenship confirmation for ness practices, Rhoades said. Without “Our over-reliance on property employees discussed LB611, he said, there is no way to im- wealth results in a tax inequity and a prove their abusive work conditions. narrow and unstable source of fund- Private businesses would be re- “This bill is a large step in the ing,” he said. “[LB323] would ensure quired to confirm the citizenship of direction to achieve accountability,” that education is equitable, balanced new employees under a bill heard by Rhoades said. and that every student is educated to the Business and Labor Committee Steve Simpson, president of the success.” Feb. 2. Lincoln Building and Construction The commission would be tasked LB611, introduced by Papillion Trades Union, agreed. Speaking in with examining additional options for Sen. Bill Kintner, favor of the bill, he said building school funding including using income would require pri- trades suffer from suppressed wages or sales tax revenue and other financing vate employers to when contractors pay some workers by methods used in other states. Members verify the work the number of rooms they drywall or also would examine financing issues as eligibility status paint, rather than by an hourly wage. they relate to quality and performance of new employ- Paul Von Behren of Nebraska of the schools, options for funding pre- ees via the fed- Voice also spoke in favor of the bill, kindergarten services and students with eral government’s Sen. Bill Kintner saying the E-Verify process is a simple limited English proficiency. electronic verification, or E-Verify, way to check a worker’s citizenship Renee Fry, executive director of the program. status. Open Sky Policy Institute, testified in Businesses that violate the measure “It’s the best program we’ve got,” support of the bill. She said the issues could be fined up to $2,000. The he said. surrounding school funding are so bill would not apply to contractors No one spoke in opposition to the complex that it may be difficult to ad- who unknowingly use subcontractors bill and the committee took no im- equately achieve a more balanced ap- that fail to comply with the E-Verify mediate action on it. proach within one legislative session. requirement. “Over reliance on our agricultural Currently in Nebraska, only public community to fund K-12 schools could employers are required to verify the result in cuts to schools statewide if work eligibility status of new employ- agricultural land values were to drop,” ees. she said. “Our state would benefit Kintner said bill is designed to keep from a more balanced approach [to unscrupulous employers from hiring Options for school finance school funding].” illegal immigrants and subjecting review proposed Nebraska Farmers Union President them to unfair business practices such John Hansen also supported the bill, as substandard wages and dangerous The Education Committee heard saying that previous efforts to reform work conditions. testimony Feb. 3 on two bills that school funding have gone largely un- Gregg Rhoades of the Plasterers would establish school finance review implemented. and Cement Masons Union 538 tes- committees. “We did make progress [with a previ- LB323, introduced by Hyannis

PAGE 6 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 ous commission], but we did not follow “This committee would add an- The governor, state property tax through with those commitments as other perspective to the deliberations administrator and Education Com- we had hoped,” Hansen said. “The of the Education Committee,” Haar mittee chairperson all would be non- way that we finance schools now, more said. “It would bring some fresh, expe- voting members. so than it’s ever been, puts those folks rienced eyes to the process.” On or before July 1 of each even- who want and need quality education The committee would review numbered year, the committee would in conflict with those who pay a dispro- implementation of the Tax Equity and file a report with the governor, state portionate share for that education.” Educational Opportunities Support Board of Education and Legislature on Membership of the 19-person com- Act (TEEOSA) as it relates to budget the adequacy of school funding as it mission would include: growth limitations, equalization aid, relates to property tax relief, broaden- • three members of the Legisla- minimum levy adjustments and ex- ing the tax base for support of public ture, appointed by the Executive penditures of school districts. schools, equalization of the tax burden Board; Ensuring that goals set forth by and equalization of educational op- • two members representing the Legislature and the state Depart- portunities. postsecondary education, with ment of Education are met and that No one testified in opposition to expertise in the area of school students are acquiring necessary skills LB182. finance; and knowledge also would be reviewed. The committee took no immediate • the commissioner of education Jay Sears, program director for action on either bill. or designee; the Nebraska State Educational As- • a representative of the governor; sociation, spoke in favor of the bill. College and career readiness • two members from each class of He said that one advantage to LB182 funding proposed school district; is that it would not only look at fund- • two at-large members; ing options, but the efficacy of those School districts could receive fund- • one member representing a ru- options as well. ing for implementing college and career ral educational service unit; and “We need to look at the funding readiness programs under a bill heard • one member representing an formula, but we also need to look by the Education Committee Feb. 3. urban educational service unit. at the outcomes,” he said. “It’s an Under LB343, introduced by Commission members would be accountability piece, an advisory com- Omaha Sen. Rick Kolowski, school appointed by the governor, with ap- mittee that can tell us if the TEEOSA districts could proval of the Legislature, and serve formula is working.” apply for reim- through Dec. 31, 2016. At that time, Membership of the committee bursement begin- a final report with recommendations would include: ning July 2016 would be submitted electronically to • four members of the general for each student the full Legislature. public, at least one of whom who successfully The committee also heard testimo- has experience in the teaching completes a des- ny on LB182, introduced by Malcolm profession; ignated program Sen. Rick Kolowski Sen. Ken Haar. • four members who are either of excellence, dual-enrollment course Under LB182, school superintendents or or career readiness program. a School Funding school district business officials; Kolowski said college and career and Educational • one member from a school readiness programs increase the rigor Outcomes Review board from each class of school and relevance of students’ education. Committee would district; “[LB343] will hold schools account- continuously review • the governor or a designee; able for the success of their students the adequacy and Sen. Ken Haar • the state property tax adminis- because they will only receive funding effectiveness of school funding in the trator; and once students prove mastery,” he said. state. Haar said an advisory committee • the chairperson of the Educa- “It’s not about body count, it’s about would help bring new ideas and ways tion Committee, who also mind count.” of thinking to the problem of school would serve as chairperson of A school district would apply re- funding. the newly formed committee. imbursement through its educational

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 7 February 2 - 6, 2015 service unit, which then would provide the bill and the committee took no gregated income tax liability divided documentation to the state Depart- immediate action on it. by the number of formula students. ment of Education. Applications for Currently, statute caps allocated reimbursement must be made by Aug. Adjustments recommended income taxes at $102.3 million. The 1 of each year, beginning in 2017. The for school aid formula new formula proposed by LB522 would department would award reimburse- result in an increase in state aid of $27.3 ments no later than Oct. 1 of each year. The Education Committee heard million in FY2017-2018 and would im- Dan Novak, superintendent of Elm- testimony Feb. 2 on a bill that would pact only nonequalized school districts. wood-Murdock Public Schools, spoke increase state funding for nonequal- Jon Habben, representing the in favor of the bill, saying it would help ized school districts under the Tax Nebraska Rural Community Schools, support the district’s current college Equity and Educational Opportuni- spoke in favor of the bill. He said and career readiness programs. ties Support Act (TEEOSA). rather than eliminating the TEEOSA “Our goal is to have students gradu- LB522, introduced by Cedar Rapids formula altogether, changes should be ate with 12 hours of college credit,” Sen. Kate Sullivan, made to address current inequalities he said. “[LB343] would allow for would make several between rural and urban districts. the growth and continuation of these adjustments to the “I appreciate the idea that several programs not only in our district but current TEEOSA factors are a part of this bill and try to the entire state as well.” formula. Sullivan address several components to stretch Jennifer Creager, director of public said the bill repre- TEEOSA further,” he said. “We can’t policy for the Greater Omaha area sents another oppor- lose sight of the fact that this formula Chamber, also supported the bill. She tunity to adjust the Sen. Kate Sullivan does have positive attributes. We need said it would help to produce more formula with changing circumstances. to make a strong attempt at finding a career ready students. “These changes would provide way that isn’t just an ‘us versus them.’” “We see immediate workforce needs direct support to school districts for Liz Standish, associate superinten- in our community,” she said. “Target- students, reduce property taxes, and dent of business affairs for Lincoln ing workers at a young age [with these improve communications with the Public Schools, opposed the bill, programs] is a win-win for everyone.” public regarding how their state tax saying it represents a move away from LB343 would authorize a one-time dollars are being used to support equalization aid. transfer of $7 million in fiscal year education,” she said. “Equalization [aid] is a center 2016-17 to fund the reimbursement In total, the proposed changes to point in school funding in Nebraska,” program. the formula would result in estimated Standish said. “It must be recognized Any school implementing an eligi- state aid funding increases of $11 mil- and preserved.” ble program also could apply for grant lion in fiscal year 2015-16 and $106.9 The bill also would: funding from the state Department of million in FY2016-17. • eliminate the minimum levy Education to offset the initial costs The bill would decrease the local ef- adjustment and nonequalized associated with implementation. A dis- fort rate from its current level of $1.00 minimum levy adjustment; trict could receive up to 49 percent of to $.95 in FY2017-18 and thereafter. • change the net option formula the total implementation costs. If an Decreasing the local effort rate would funding so the amount per for- eligible program is not implemented result in an estimated $53.6 million mula student would be reduced within two years of application for increase in state aid provided to school by the amount of state appor- grant funding, the district would be districts because the formula would as- tionment and income taxes; required to repay all awarded grant sume a district has decreased resources. • provide for state apportionment funding. LB522 would eliminate the cur- funding from the Temporary The bill also would authorize a rent method of allocated income tax School Fund based upon for- transfer of $3 million from the Educa- disbursement and replace it with 10 mula students in public school tion Innovation Fund for FY2015-16 percent of the aggregated statewide districts only; to fund the implementation cost por- income tax liability of all resident • provide for a one-time transfer tion of the bill. individuals for the prior year. The aid of funds from the state Cash No one testified in opposition to would be calculated by taking the ag- Reserve Fund to transition be-

PAGE 8 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015

tween methods for distributing “The special committee would Krist said the committee identified state apportionment funds; continue its work until the start of additional problems within the state • eliminate the requirements of a 2017,” he said. Department of Correctional Services. school district with at least 900 Michael Chittenden of the Arc Continuation of the committee would formula students to levy a certain of Nebraska testified in support of allow for further study and oversight amount in order to be eligible for the resolution, saying the Legislature of the department, he said, includ- the averaging adjustment; and needs to make sure that taxpayer ing whether an office of inspector • eliminate a requirement that dollars are being well spent in caring general for the correctional system is state aid for a learning commu- for one of the state’s most vulnerable warranted. nity be calculated as one entity, populations. Brad Meurrens of Disability Rights rather than separately for each “We would like to see the special Nebraska supported the measure. school district within the learn- investigative committee continue to Meurrens said the organization has ing community. ensure accountability and transpar- particular concerns about the impact The committee took no immediate ency,” Chittenden said. of segregation on inmates with mental action on the bill. LR33 would provide for continua- health issues and the availability of tion of the ACCESSNebraska Special transition services for mentally ill in- Investigative Committee. ACCESS- mates returning to their communities. Nebraska is an online and call center “The vast majority of persons incar- system developed and implemented cerated in U.S. prisons and jails will by the state Department of Health eventually be released,” he said. and Human Services (DHHS) to de- No opposition testimony was given Reauthorization recommended termine public benefit eligibility and and the committee took no immediate for investigative committees deliver benefits to clients. action on the resolutions. The committee originally was The Executive Board heard testi- established in 2014 to investigate an mony Feb. 6 on resolutions that would array of problems including long wait continue the work of three special times for callers, high worker turnover investigative committees. The resolu- and lost paperwork. The resolution tions were introduced by Omaha Sen. would authorize continuation of the Bob Krist, chairperson of the Execu- committee’s oversight of the ACCESS- Cigar shop clarification advanced tive Board. Nebraska system. LR32 would A bill was brought this session in Katie Pitts of Nebraska Appleseed provide for con- response to a 2014 Nebraska Supreme testified in support of the measure, tinuation of the Court decision that declared uncon- saying the system continues to need Developmental stitutional the Legislature’s previous improvement with management and Disabilities Spe- exemption of cigar bars and tobacco technology issues. cial Investigative retail outlets from the Nebraska Clean “Since its inception, ACCESSNe- Committee. The Sen. Bob Krist Indoor Air Act. Senators advanced it braska has had serious problems,” committee has been providing ongo- from general file Feb. 4. Pitts said. ing oversight of the placement and Introduced by Finally, LR34 would provide for care of the developmentally disabled O’Neill Sen. Ty- continuation of the Department of in Nebraska since 2008. son Larson, LB118 Correctional Services Special Investiga- Krist said continuation of the com- would grant busi- tive Committee. The committee was mittee is needed to ensure compliance nesses that exclu- established in 2014 and was authorized with the terms of a U.S. Department sively sell smoking to study the administration of good of Justice consent decree regarding products an exemp- time laws, policies relating to inmate care at the Beatrice State Develop- tion to the 2008 Sen. segregation and the availability of reha- mental Center and to implement rec- Clean Indoor Air Act, which prohibits bilitative and mental health programs. ommendations from the committee’s indoor smoking in the state. In its report to the Legislature, most recent report. The bill would permit a cigar shop

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 9 February 2 - 6, 2015 to apply for a liquor license if the The bill advanced to select file on LB439, intro- establishment: a 34-2 vote. duced by Lincoln • does not sell food; Sen. Adam Mor- • generates at least 10 percent Statehood celebration license feld, would change of its gross revenue from sales plates advanced penalty provisions of cigars, tobacco and tobacco- for certain viola- related products, not including Lawmakers gave first-round approv- tions relating to cigarettes; al Feb. 2 to a bill that would authorize or committed by Sen. Adam Morfeld • has a walk-in humidor; and specialty license plates in celebration minors under the Nebraska Liquor • does not allow cigarette smoking. of Nebraska’s 150th anniversary of Control Act. Niche businesses such as cigar and statehood in 2017. The bill would grant limited legal tobacco shops are entitled to the ex- Under LB220, introduced by immunity to minors seeking help for emptions, Larson said, because their Papillion Sen. Jim themselves or someone else in need customers expect to encounter second- Smith, the Nebras- of immediate attention due to alcohol hand smoke in those locations. He ka 150 Sesquicen- poisoning. The bill would apply only added that because so few cigar shops tennial Plate would to minors who request assistance after exist in Nebraska, there are ample be available as an such an emergency is apparent and non-smoking businesses that provide alphanumeric or a who fully cooperate with medical as- job opportunities. personalized mes- sistance and law enforcement. “You have a choice whether to go sage plate. The al- Sen. Jim Smith Morfeld said the bill would provide into one of these establishments,” phanumeric version of the plate would legal immunity only against a minor he said. display up to seven characters and in possession (MIP) charge, and would An amendment by the General Af- would not display county designators. not provide immunity from other fairs Committee added a severability The plates would be available from crimes related to an incident, such as clause, Liquor Control Commission Oct. 1, 2015 to Dec. 31, 2022. An ini- illegally procuring alcohol for a minor, regulations and language that only tial application and renewal fee of $70 sexual assault or hazing. public accommodations, research would apply. Fifty-seven percent of the Morfeld said young people may be facilities, tobacco retail outlets and fee would be credited to the Nebraska reluctant to seek emergency assistance cigar shops would be exempt from the 150 Sesquicentennial License Plate in a case of underage alcohol poison- Clean Indoor Air Act. Fund, also created by the bill. ing out of fear that an MIP charge Larson offered an amendment to Smith said specialty license plates will follow them and hinder their the committee amendment that re- in Iowa, Minnesota, West Virginia and chances for future employment and placed public accommodations with Nevada have been used to help fund advancement. guestrooms and suites. The amend- similar statehood celebrations. “I believe this ensures that we are ment also clarified that cigar shops “[LB220] will provide an important putting safety first while ensuring ac- differ from tobacco retail outlets fundraising mechanism—as well as countability,” he said. because they can have liquor licenses. draw attention to Nebraska history—as Geraldine Cotter, associate dean Lawmakers approved it and the com- people travel throughout the state and of students at Nebraska Wesleyan mittee amendment on 36-0 votes. across the nation,” Smith said. University, testified in support of the Lincoln Sen. Colby Coash sup- The bill advanced to select file in bill. She cited two recent situations ported the amendments and the a 33-0 vote. involving university students who bill, saying that LB118 sends a clear were reluctant to call 911 or another message to the state Supreme Court Bills addressing underage authority figure when faced with an that the Legislature is requesting an drinking proposed alcohol poisoning situation. exemption for a specific group that Both situations had good out- is not trying to circumvent the Clean Two changes to the Nebraska comes, she said, but lawmakers should Indoor Air Act. Liquor Control Act were considered consider removing barriers and en- “We recognize that these businesses Feb. 2 by the General Affairs Com- couraging young people to make the look a little bit different,” he said mittee. right decision.

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“I shudder to think what the out- all charter buses or limousines oper- “You’re basically taking what bars do come might have been if the students ated in Nebraska by the same owner. and adding driving on top of it,” he said. had waited much longer to make the Fees would be $75 per year for charter The committee voted 8-0 to ad- call,” Cotter said. “These are life and bus and limousine licenses and $50 vance LB439 to general file, and took death decisions where minutes make per year for a pedal-pub vehicle license. no immediate action on LB460. a difference.” Nordquist said the law allowing Assistant Chief of Police Brian drinking in limousines and party Special poker license proposed Jackson also testified in favor of the buses—passed by the Legislature in bill on behalf of the city of Lincoln. 2011—has proven problematic and The Nebraska Liquor Control Law enforcement rarely make an MIP additional regulation is required. Commission could issue special liquor arrest in a case involving a medical “Without any licensure or any licenses for poker games under a bill emergency related to alcohol poison- kind of regulation, we’re setting up a heard by the General Affairs Commit- ing, he said, but young people may situation where the state doesn’t have tee Feb. 2. not realize that and may be afraid to the ability to make sure that we don’t LB619, introduced by O’Neill call for help. have unscrupulous operators out there Sen. Tyson Larson, would authorize “These choices can sometimes lead who are putting the safety of minors two types of poker— to a serious medical condition or even at risk,” he said. draw and communi- death,” Jackson said. “This legisla- Hobert Rupe, executive director of ty card games. The tion—if it saves even one life—will be the Nebraska Liquor Control Com- bill defines commu- well worth the time and effort.” mission, testified in support of the bill. nity card games as John Lindsay of the Nebraska As- He said many party buses currently are those, such as Texas sociation of Trial Attorneys testified operating like bars, but are not subject Hold’em, in which in opposition to the bill’s prohibi- to compliance checks because they are a player combines Sen. Tyson Larson tion on an individual initiating an not required to have a liquor license. the cards he or she is holding with action against a peace officer, or the He said party buses have become community cards that all players share. employing state agency or political “havens for underage drinking,” not- Under the bill, liquor licensees subdivision, based on an officer’s ing that a party bus that recently was could apply for a poker endorsement compliance or failure to comply with boarded in connection with a shoplift- to their liquor license and for a special LB439. He said the bill violates state ing incident in Nebraska City resulted poker license (SPL) with a special des- constitutional provisions guaranteeing in 19 of the 27 passengers being cited ignated liquor license (SDL) for events legal remedy to any injured party. for MIP. on or off the licensee’s premises. “It means it’s closing off access to “We think that this is a public Nonprofit organizations that qual- the courts,” Lindsay said. “I would health, safety and welfare risk,” Rupe ify for an SDL also could apply for an suggest that by doing that, it violates said. SPL. Any entity or person accepting the [Nebraska Constitution].” Jim Campin, owner of Emerald wagers on a game conducted under a The committee also heard testimony Limousine in Omaha, disagreed. special designated poker license would on LB460, intro- Testifying in opposition to LB460, he be prohibited from extending credit to duced by Omaha disputed the notion that party buses a participant. Sen. Jeremy Nor- and limousines are havens for under- An SPL would require approval of dquist, which age drinking. the local governing body, which may would require “There’s been no proof laid out establish criteria for approval of an liquor licensure here for that,” he said, adding that SPL. The fee for an SPL would be $40 for charter bus it is the responsibility of the person for each day of the event. In addition, a services, limou- Sen. Jeremy Nordquist renting the vehicle to ensure that licensee would remit 10 percent of the sine services and pedal pub services. A minors are not drinking. Campin gross proceeds of a poker tournament pedal pub vehicle is defined as a multi- said it would be asking too much of and 5 percent of the final amount in passenger, human powered vehicle. the limousine and party bus industry each pot of a cash game to the Liquor Licenses would be statewide and to take on the job of policing against Control Commission. only one license would be required for minor consumption. If an event were held within the

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 11 February 2 - 6, 2015 boundaries of a city or village, pro- level if they do not dilute their Elec- ceeds would be distributed as follows: toral College votes. • 50 percent to the Property Tax “We need all of those electoral votes Credit Cash Fund; to have an impact on the outcome of • 24.5 percent to the country presidential elections,” Gale said. treasurer of the county in which Former state senator DiAnna the event was held; Electoral winner-take-all bill Schimek, who sponsored the bill • 24.5 percent to the city or vil- advanced that enacted Nebraska’s current lage in which the event was electoral system, testified in opposi- The Government, Military and held; and tion to LB10. She said the goal of the Veterans Affairs Committee voted 7-1 • 1 percent to the Compulsive district system is to encourage political to advance a bill to general file Feb. 4 Gamblers Assistance Fund. participation and to make voters who that would reinstate a winner-take-all If the event were held outside the are in the political minority feel that system for allocating Nebraska’s presi- boundaries of a city or village, 49 per- their vote counts. dential electoral votes. cent would go to the treasurer of the “When it was first introduced, it Currently, the winner of Nebras- county in which the event was held. wasn’t immediately partisan nor was it ka’s statewide popular vote receives Testimony focused on whether immediately controversial,” Schimek two Electoral College votes. The state’s poker should be considered a game of said. “The most important reason for three congressional districts also award chance or one of skill. The Nebraska enacting the [district system] … is that one electoral vote each based on the Constitution prohibits the Legislature it encourages grassroots activity.” popular vote winner in each district. from authorizing games of chance. In Maine is the only other state to use the bill’s statement of intent, Larson this system. Additional funeral expenses contended that poker is a game of skill. LB10, introduced for veterans advanced Testifying in support of the bill, by Omaha Sen. Beau Adam Clayman, a poker player from More veterans’ funeral expenses McCoy, would rein- Ogallala, agreed. Poker is inherently would be covered by a bill advanced state a winner-take- different from games of chance like from general file Feb. 5. all system and award roulette, he said, in which “you have LB305, introduced by Scribner all five electoral nothing but gut instinct … it’s all risk.” Sen. , would add trans- votes to the winner Sen. Beau McCoy Poker, on the other hand, is a game portation costs of the state’s popular vote. of skill, he said. For example, he said, to the list of vet- McCoy said the district plan has players can learn to improve their erans’ funeral ex- led presidential campaigns—when chances of winning. penses furnished they focus attention on Nebraska at “A professional poker player will by the director of all—to limit their focus to the 2nd hire a coach—a tutor—to improve their veterans’ affairs. Congressional District, which was won playing skills,” Clayman said. Currently, food, by President in 2008. Pat Loontjer, executive director of shelter, fuel, ap- Sen. David Schnoor “I think we’re a small state anyway Gambling with the Good Life, testi- parel and medical or surgical aid are [and] we further dilute our effective- fied in opposition. Gambling bills provided to veterans, their families ness as a state in national elections invariably are subject to filibuster, she and recognized veteran representatives when we split our portion of electoral said, and those that pass almost always to cover funeral expenses. votes,” McCoy said. result in legal challenges. Lawmakers To be eligible for the benefits, the Nebraska Secretary of State John could be spending their time on more veteran must have served on active Gale agreed. Testifying in support of productive measures, she said. duty, been discharged under honor- the bill, he said Nebraska is at a disad- “Why would we want to put our able or general conditions, died while vantage when 48 other states use the time and energy into something like in or as a direct result of service, or winner-take-all system. He said small this?” Loontjer asked. have been a U.S. citizen at the time states like Nebraska with a dominant The committee took no immediate of enlistment and served with an ally statewide political party can have more action on the bill. of the United States. influence at the regional and national

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Schnoor said the bill would give ad- weather, poor road conditions and the offices are equally empowered to ditional assistance to military families having to travel long distances to poll- require audited entities to respond in their time of need. The expansion ing sites that comply with the Ameri- quickly and responsibly to requests would cover local transportation costs cans with Disabilities Act (ADA). for audit records and documentation. and money needed to make repairs to Additionally, elections by mail save The bill would require state agen- vehicles. counties money, Gale said, because cies to respond to a request for infor- A Judiciary Committee amend- election commissioners do not have mation from the LAO or APA within ment, adopted 31-0, added an emer- to hire staff and transport equipment three business days of the request. gency clause to the bill, which would to polling places. Gale added that For particularly difficult or extensive allow the bill to take effect immedi- population guidelines for mail-in elec- requests, the agency would have up to ately after the governor signs it. tions will prevent a sudden increase in three weeks to provide the requested The bill advanced on a 34-0 vote. applications. information. Failure to comply with “We’re not trying to create all mail- the bill’s deadlines or other willful Senators consider expanding in counties,” he said. “We’re just try- obstruction of an audit would be a voting options ing to create a convenient experience Class II misdemeanor. for the rural voter.” A supervisor or manager who takes The Government, Military and Vet- Wayne Bena, Sarpy County elec- retaliatory action against a state or erans Affairs Committee considered a tion commissioner, also spoke in favor political subdivision employee who bill Feb. 5 that would alter the election of the bill. He said election commis- provides information to the LAO or process in Nebraska. sioners are seeing a steady increase of APA would be guilty of a Class III LB319, introduced by Papillion mail-in ballots and precincts with mail- misdemeanor and dismissed from Sen. Jim Smith, in ballots show higher voter turnouts employment with the state. would allow any than some precincts without. Finally, the bill would ensure that county to request “The bill gives us an additional the LAO and APA have the author- that an election tool to successfully conduct elections ity to review agency information pro- be conducted by in our county,” Bena said. tected under attorney-client privilege, mail. Currently, No one spoke in opposition to the while noting that compliance does not only counties with bill and the committee took no im- constitute a waiver of that privilege. populations of less Sen. Jim Smith mediate action on it. Lance Lambdin, legal counsel for than 10,000 may apply to eliminate the state auditor’s office, testified in polling places and instead conduct a Bill would strengthen audit support of the bill, saying the office by-mail election. authority has had to wait months for a state The bill also would permit special agency to respond to a records request. elections involving candidates to be The Government, Military and Lambdin said the office sometimes conducted by mail. Currently, only Veterans Affairs Committee heard has resorted to a public records request special elections on issues can be testimony Feb. 6 on a bill intended to when dealing with uncooperative audi- conducted by mail. strengthen the audit authority of the tees in the hope of obtaining informa- Smith said the bill, brought to him Legislative Audit Office (LAO) and tion more quickly. Unfortunately, he by county election commissioners, the state Auditor of Public Accounts said, while doing so may speed up a would simplify the election process (APA). response, there are 18 types of infor- and makes it easier for rural voters to Syracuse Sen. Dan Watermei- mation that can be withheld from a participate in elections. er, sponsor of public records request. Nebraska Secretary of State John LB539, said the “So we’re placed between a rock Gale testified in support of the bill, bill would better and a hard place,” he said. saying it would give voters in less popu- equip the LAO No one testified in opposition to lated areas of the state the same voting and the APA to the bill and the committee took no opportunities as urban voters. He carry out their immediate action on it. said voting by mail helps rural voters respective tasks overcome barriers such as inclement by ensuring that Sen.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 13 February 2 - 6, 2015

to have 10,000 hours of practice to would include: qualify as a supervising provider. • information and referral; Grand Island Sen. • options counseling; supported the bill, saying it had • strategic partnerships with overwhelming support last session providers; but that lawmakers ran out of time in • streamlined eligibility determi- Nurse practitioner changes the session to pursue a veto override. nation for public programs; and advanced He said the bill would be an incen- • transition support for individu- tive for nurse practitioners to stay in als moving from one setting to Lawmakers gave first-round ap- Nebraska, particularly in rural areas. another. proval Feb. 6 to a bill intended to “This bill is important as a small Bolz said improved coordination address the shortage of primary care step to address some of our workforce and early planning are key to better providers in rural Nebraska. issues,” he said. serving the state’s aging and disabled LB107, introduced by Bellevue Sen. Crete Sen. Laura Ebke expressed populations. Nebraska needs to do , concerns about a possible increase a better job of directing people to would remove in malpractice claims against nurse community-based services that will the requirement practitioners should the bill pass. allow them to live independently for an integrated “I think, before we go too far down longer, she said. practice agree- the path, I’d like to see us at least con- “According to the AARP, Nebraska ment between a sider how we structure this,” she said. ranks 49th for providing aging and nurse practitio- Crawford said research from other disability resource center types of ner and a collabo- Sen. Sue Crawford states that grant full practice authority services,” Bolz said. rating physician and replace it with a to nurse practitioners have not seen an June Pederson of Aging Partners— transition to practice agreement. increase in malpractice claims. one of eight Nebraska area agencies Crawford said the bill was identi- Senators voted 35-2 to advance on aging—testified in support of the cal to one she sponsored last session, LB107 to select file. bill. She said the state needs better which passed on a 43-0 vote before coordination so that Nebraskans can being vetoed by former Gov. Dave Aging and disabled resource easily access the information they Heineman. center discussed need to age at home if possible, and “LB107 does not change the scope to explore assisted living and nursing of practice for nurse practitioners,” A bill seeking to improve access home level care options if necessary. Crawford said. “The bill is about a to existing services and support for “The Nebraska area agencies on restriction of trade and a government Nebraskans who are aging or disabled aging are ready and willing to become regulation that currently does not was considered Feb. 5 by the Health ADRC sites,” Pederson said. improve patient safety or outcomes.” and Human Services Committee. Kathy Hoell, executive director of The bill would replace the inte- LB320, introduced by Lincoln the Nebraska Statewide Independent grated practice agreement with a Sen. , Living Council, also testified in sup- transition to practice agreement. The would establish port of the bill. Institutional care for agreement would provide that the resource centers to a person with a disability costs ap- nurse practitioner and the supervis- provide informa- proximately $221,000 a year, she said, ing provider practice collaboratively tion on long-term compared to $45,000 per year for an within the framework of their respec- care services for individual to remain at home with the tive scopes of practice. aging and disabled proper support. A supervising provider is defined as Nebraskans and Sen. Kate Bolz “Because the state is paying a very a physician, osteopathic physician or their family members and caregivers. large share of what it costs to have nurse practitioner licensed and prac- The Aging and Disability Resource people institutionalized, they save ticing in the same practice specialty, Centers (ADRC) would be certified by money by having people in their own related specialty or field of practice. A the state Department of Health and homes and communities,” Hoell nurse practitioner would be required Human Services and services provided said. “People are happier in their own

PAGE 14 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 homes and communities; they have a braska, testified in support of the to administer oaths or affirmations for better quality of life.” bill. Alzheimer’s is no longer just an marriage. The bill also would increase No opposition testimony was given aging issue, she said, noting that more the fee charged by counties from $5 and the committee took no immediate people are being diagnosed in their to $16 to make a certified copy of a action on LB320. 40s and 50s. marriage record. “Every 67 seconds someone is Campbell said that Nebraska coun- Alzheimer’s advisory group diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease,” ty officials requested the fee increases proposed Ewing said. “Alzheimer’s is a growing because their administrative costs have public health crisis. It is the only cause not been adjusted since 1995. She said The Health and Human Services of death in the top 10 that cannot be county officials have estimated that Committee heard testimony Feb. 5 on prevented, cured or slowed.” the time required to verify and correct a bill that would create a group to ex- Stephen Bonasera, a geriatrician at information provided by couples totals amine Alzheimer’s needs in Nebraska. the University of Nebraska Medical an average of $55 in administrative LB405, intro- Center, also testified in support of costs per year. duced by Hyan- the bill. Nebraska needs to coordi- Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers op- nis Sen. Al Davis, nate policy, research and services for posed the bill, calling it a 300 percent would create the Alzheimer’s and related disorders, tax increase that is too large, especially Alzheimer’s and Bonasera said, adding that the state for a document he said holds no value. Related Disorders faces challenges in creating a plan due “This piece of paper that allows Advisory Working to its unevenly distributed population. you to get married does not ensure the Group within the Sen. Al Davis “We need a plan that works both in marriage will work,” he said during the state Department of Health and Hu- the center of Omaha and in the most second day of debate on the bill. “You man Services (DHHS). remote and rural areas of the state,” are not going to hurt these counties if The working group would examine he said. “As far as I can see, everyone you do not pass this bill.” resources and services available to has a stake in this [issue].” Chambers filed several motions patients with Alzheimer’s, dementia No one testified in opposition to over four mornings to extend debate. and related disorders and identify the bill and the committee took no All failed to be adopted. strategies to eliminate service gaps. immediate action on it. Papillion Sen. Bill Kintner intro- The 13-member group would duced and later withdrew an amend- include the CEO of DHHS, two ment that would have allowed coun- members appointed by the Legislature, ties to charge up to $35 for a marriage the state’s public guardian and eight license. He said the lower fee better members appointed by the governor reflects how administrative costs have to represent: Smaller marriage license fee risen due to inflation. • area agencies on aging; increase advanced Chambers then offered two • law enforcement; floor amendments to reduce the fee • health care providers; Marriage license fees would in- amount, both of which were rejected. • advocacy and caregiver organiza- crease under a bill advanced from Kintner offered another amend- tions; and general file Feb. 3 after several morn- ment to make the fee $25 in all Ne- • Alzheimer’s or related disorder ings of legislative debate. braska counties. It was adopted 32-5. patients. LB88, sponsored by Lincoln Sen. The amended bill advanced to The group would create a state Kathy Campbell, select file on a 32-7 vote. plan with policy recommendations for originally would providing coordinated services and have increased Concealed gun permits for support and present the plan to the the fee charged by military spouses advanced committee by Dec. 15, 2016. The group counties from $15 would terminate on Dec. 31, 2016. to $50 for issuing Military spouses could qualify for Viv Ewing, executive director of and recording mar- concealed handgun permits under a the Alzheimer’s Association of Ne- riage licenses and Sen. Kathy Campbell bill advanced from general file Feb 3.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 15 February 2 - 6, 2015

Currently, members of the United Schumacher brought the amend- Crawford said. Because those behav- States Armed Forces stationed in Ne- ment after a question arose during ioral health challenges are magnified braska are considered state residents debate on whether spouses in same when military parents divorce, she and permitted sex marriages would be entitled to the said, custodial plans are critical. to apply for con- benefit permitted by the bill. The Sec- “This bill creates a legal framework cealed handgun ond Amendment right to bear arms, for establishing a plan to reduce the permits. LB190, Schumacher said, is not something disruption deployment causes for introduced by that can be selectively waived. children in military families,” Craw- Hoskins Sen. “Why would we want to limit that ford said. , right according to sexual orientation?” LB219 would allow families with would allow the Sen. Dave Bloomfield he asked. deployed parents to create a temporary spouses of service members stationed Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks custodial agreement that specifies how in Nebraska to be considered state supported the clarification, saying that decisions for the child would be made, residents who also could apply for the Second Amendment to the U.S. frequency and duration of contact concealed handgun permits. Constitution applies to anyone born with parents and nonparents and how Additionally, the bill would allow in the country, regardless of sexual the agreement could be changed. non-U.S. citizens who reside in the orientation. Further, the act would permit country legally to apply for concealed The amendment was adopted 38-0 courts to grant temporary caretaking handgun permits. Currently, only U.S. and the bill advanced to select file on authority to parents or nonparents, citizens are allowed to apply for a con- a 37-4 vote. grant decision-making authority to cealed handgun permit in Nebraska. nonparents and enforce a prior writ- Bloomfield said that the bill would Custodial plans for children of ten agreement by the parents regard- extend specific residential benefits to deployed parents advanced ing custodial responsibility. the families of service members who ac- Omaha Sen. Bob Krist spoke in company those stationed in Nebraska. Children of deployed military favor of the bill, saying he has seen A Judiciary Committee amend- parents would have custodial plans the “devastating consequences” that ment, adopted 34-0, removed the U.S. in place under a bill given first-round deployment can have on children and citizenship requirement from the list approval Feb. 4. on the parent who is deployed. of requirements necessary for applica- LB219, introduced by Bellevue A Judiciary Committee amend- tion for the permit. Sen. Sue Crawford, would adopt ment, adopted 38-0, changed the Lincoln Sen. Colby Coash said the the Uniform De- definition of “adult” under the act to amendment stemmed from a case in ployed Parents an individual who is 19 or an emanci- which the U.S. District Court ordered Custody and Vis- pated minor. Hastings Sen. , the Nebraska State Patrol to not en- itation Act. The chairperson of the committee, said force the citizenship requirement of act would provide the amendment would align the act the statute. a legal framework with Nebraska law regarding the age Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers op- for parents and of majority. posed the bill, saying guns are a com- judges regarding Sen. Sue Crawford Lawmakers advanced the bill to mon denominator in mass killings care for children when a military parent select file on a 37-0 vote. that happen in this country. He filed is deployed. The bill also would clarify motions to indefinitely postpone and parenting arrangements required when Senators consider bill to then bracket the bill, both of which a deployed parent returns. expedite evictions he withdrew. Crawford said the bill would Columbus Sen. Paul Schumacher minimize the amount of disruption Landlords could evict certain ten- offered an amendment that would in a child’s life when a military par- ants sooner under a bill heard by the clarify the bill’s definition of a spouse ent with custodial responsibilities is Judiciary Committee Feb. 6. as anyone receiving benefits as a result deployed. Children in families with LB385, introduced by Omaha of being married to a member of the deployed parents are at greater risk Sen. , would permit a military. for depression and substance abuse, landlord or his or her representative to

PAGE 16 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 begin eviction liti- Metropolitan Omaha Property Own- the then-named state Department of gation three days ers Association, also spoke in favor of Social Services that prohibits children after notification the bill, saying the current eviction being placed in homes of people who of the termina- process can sometimes take six weeks. identify themselves as homosexual. tion of a rental The bill would decrease the amount Nordquist said that document, agreement. Cur- of time tenants are exposed to danger- which is not state statute, unjustly rently, the Uni- ous behavior, he said. prevents qualified parents from pro- form Residential Sen. Brett Lindstrom “[The bill] gets after that tenant viding safe and secure homes for Landlord and Tenant Act requires who is threatening or menacing to children. Forty-nine other states have landlords to wait 30 days to evict a other people in the building,” he said. nondiscrimination policies regarding tenant after notification. No one spoke in opposition to the out-of-home placement, he added. The bill would apply only in cases bill and the committee took no im- “All of Nebraska’s children deserve where tenants, roommates or their mediate action on it. to be part of a loving family,” he said. guests threaten the health, safety or “Good parenting is good parenting. peaceful enjoyment of the landlord Foster care nondiscrimination It’s not just reserved for parents who or other tenants. bill proposed are straight.” Activities that could prompt a Amy Miller, legal director for landlord to begin the eviction process Prospective foster parents would be American Civil Liberties Union Ne- include: protected from discrimination during braska, testified in support of the bill. • physical assault or the threat placement proceedings under a bill A state with thousands of state wards thereof; heard by the Judiciary Committee should not reject prospective parents • illegal use of a firearm or the Feb. 4. solely because they are in a same-sex threat thereof; and LB647, introduced by Omaha relationship, she said. Until more • possession of a controlled sub- Sen. Jeremy Nor- homes are available, she said, children stance. dquist, would will remain in institutions where their Tenants who report threatening prohibit the state ability to thrive is hampered. behavior to law enforcement or have Department of “This is actually hurting children in sought a protection or restraining Health and Hu- Nebraska every day,” she said. order would not be subject to eviction. man Services Joel Busch and Todd Vesley of Lindstrom said the bill gives land- from discrimi- Lincoln also spoke in favor of the bill. lords a faster way to protect tenants nating based on Sen. Jeremy Nordquist Busch said that although he and his from illegal activity or menacing behav- race, color, religion, sex, sexual ori- partner offered a safe, loving home ior that can occur in their buildings. entation, gender identity, disability, for a child, they were told their sexual “The goal here is to maintain a safe marital status or national origin when orientation disqualified them from environment for tenants and all others determining the suitability of a juve- consideration. in the building,” he said. nile’s out-of-home placement. “This has been a fight for us for Gene Eckel of the Apartment Asso- The department would be required over seven years,” Busch said. ciation of Greater Omaha & Lincoln to make placement decisions based on Linda Cox, research analyst for testified in support of the bill. He the health, safety and well-being of a the Foster Care Review Office, said said the proposal mirrors laws already child. The measure also would apply the high number of children needing enforced through the Nebraska Public when the department considers issu- homes requires that some placements Housing Agency Act. Tenants who are ing foster home licenses. be based on available space, rather in harms way want action as soon as More than 3,000 Nebraska chil- than the best interest of children. possible, he said, and LB385 would dren currently are in out-of-home Speaking in support of the bill, she give landlords another tool to make care, Nordquist said, with nearly half said allowing same-sex parents to them safe. of them living in four or more loca- furnish homes would increase the “A landlord has the duty to protect tions since 2012. A major reason for options for children to be placed in his tenants,” Eckel said. the high number of state wards, he homes based on their best welfare. John Chatelain, president of the said, is a 1995 policy memo issued by Greg Schleppenbach of the Ne-

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 17 February 2 - 6, 2015 braska Catholic Conference testified coln, testified in support of the bill. If tee heard testimony Feb. 4 on a bill in opposition to the bill, saying a her same-sex partner were to die, she that would exempt Social Security and home with a married man and woman said, the court would not be bound to military retirement benefits from state provides the most stable and nurtur- consider her as the legal guardian of income taxes. ing environment for a child. their 15-year-old son. LB20, introduced by Omaha Sen. Karen Bowling of the Nebraska “I am a legal stranger to my son, Bob Krist, would Family Alliance also spoke in opposi- even though I’m his parent in every reduce an indi- tion to the bill. other respect,” she said. “It’s frighten- vidual’s adjusted Child welfare officials should base ing to know I have no legal standing.” gross income by their placement decisions solely on Amy Miller, legal director of Ameri- the entire amount the best interest of the children, she can Civil Liberties Union Nebraska of Social Security said, not on the rights of parents. The also supported the bill. Currently, in benefits received bill also would subject those making co-parent cases where guardianship by a person be- Sen. Bob Krist placements to difficult decisions when must be awarded, judges can make ginning Jan. 1, 2015. The bill also their beliefs are at odds with those of a determination based on their own would exempt any income received as prospective parents, she said. conscience rather than the best inter- military retirement benefits. The committee took no immediate est of the child, Miller said. Krist said 16 other states have simi- action on the bill. A parent who already is a second lar exemptions in place. parent should be able to step forward “As a veteran of the United States Senators discuss extending and take responsibility for the child, Air Force, it’s my goal to see Nebraska adoption eligibility she said. keep more retired veterans living in Joe Neuhaus of the Nebraska Fam- the state and attracting more military The marital status of prospective ily Alliance testified in opposition to veterans to the state,” he said. “I will parents would not be a factor in the the bill, saying it would advance the continue to fight for the rights of adoption process under a proposal interest of parents, not children. The veterans and those receiving Social heard by the Judiciary Committee law should reflect that the ideal envi- Security benefits.” Feb.4. ronment for a child is a home with a The proposed exemptions would LB648, introduced by Omaha married mother and father, he said. result in an estimated loss of $151.7 Sen. , Matt Heffron an Omaha attorney million in fiscal year 2015-16 and would permit two also opposed the bill, saying the lan- $114.2 million in FY2016-17. people to adopt a guage does not clearly define what Ronald Dupell, representing the child regardless of kind of relationship co-parents must Nebraska Veterans Coalition, spoke in their marital sta- have to be eligible to adopt children. favor of the bill, saying it would help tus. The measure As written, he said, the bill would to keep veterans in the state after they also would allow allow adults with no statutory con- retire from service. the parent of a mi- Sen. Sara Howard nection, such as roommates and co- “Despite good efforts by the state nor child to consent to the adoption of workers, to consider adoption. to recognize veterans, it lags behind the child by the parent’s spouse or an- The committee took no immediate all neighboring states in benefits to other adult, without the parent having action on the bill. veterans,” he said. “This bill can be to relinquish legal rights to the child. part of the state’s effort to retain Of- Howard said allowing co-parent futt Air Force Base and attract more and second-parent options would give businesses to the state.” Nebraska couples equal legal custody Dick Clark, director of research of their children. Currently, unmar- for the Platte Institute for Economic ried couples who are co-parents are not Research, also supported the bill, say- Tax exemptions proposed for eligible for medical and other benefits ing it would help people with fixed Social Security and military in the event of the death of a biological incomes. retirement parent, she said. “This is an attempt to lower taxes Lin Quenzer, a parent from Lin- Members of the Revenue Commit- on two demographic groups par-

PAGE 18 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 ticularly affected by high taxes,” Clark No one testified in opposition to of the bill. He said the angel invest- said. “Few states tax these groups to the bill and the committee took no ment tax credit program helps local the extent that Nebraska does.” immediate action on it. startups to compete nationally. No one testified in opposition to “Businesses like mine, the startups the bill and the committee took no Increased angel investment of the world, are the economic devel- immediate action on it. tax credits proposed opment that’s really working,” Dinger said. “This is investment in businesses Sales tax exemption proposed Business investors could receive that will hire high-tech workers in the for college textbooks increased tax credits under a bill heard state.” by the Revenue Committee Feb. 5. To qualify for tax credits, an indi- College students would receive a Currently, investors can apply for vidual must invest at least $25,000 in break on textbook costs under a bill up to $3 million in annual refundable a calendar year and qualified funds— heard by the Revenue Committee tax credits for investments made in a composed of three or more investors— Feb. 6. business with at least 51 percent of are required to invest at least $50,000. Under LB153, introduced by Lin- its workforce and payroll in Nebraska Refundable credits equaling 35 coln Sen. Adam and 25 or fewer employees primarily percent of the investment are granted Morfeld, any re- engaged in researching, developing to investors with caps of $350,000 for quired textbook or using products and services in the married couples filing joint returns for a course at a high-tech field. and $300,000 for all other filers. postsecondary in- LB156, introduced by Gering Refundable credits of 40 percent stitution would be Sen. John Stinner, are offered for investments made in a exempt from state would increase the business located in a distressed area, sales tax. Morfeld Sen. Adam Morfeld annual maximum which is defined as: a city; a county said the bill represents targeted tax available amount with a population of fewer than relief for a constituency that is in need. of the angel invest- 100,000 residents; an unincorporated “Many worthy students either can- ment tax credit to area within a county; or a census tract not afford to go [to school] or they $5 million. Stinner that has an unemployment rate that incur a large amount of debt to do said the bill would Sen. John Stinner exceeds the statewide average, a per so,” he said. “We should do anything fund the tax credit program at its capita income below the statewide we can to ease the financial burden on original proposed amount. average or a population decrease be- students and their parents.” “The angel investment tax credit tween the two most recent censuses. The exemption would apply to fills the identifiable key gaps in Nebras- No one testified in opposition to a textbook regardless of whether it ka’s economic development program,” the bill and the committee took no is sold, leased or rented. Electronic he said. “[LB156] is about growing Ne- immediate action on it. course materials also would qualify braska, creating good paying jobs and for the exemption. rebuilding the middle class.” Apprenticeship tax credit University of Nebraska—Lincoln State statute defines high-tech field considered student Nick Devine spoke in favor to include aerospace, agricultural of the bill, saying that covering the processing, renewable energy, energy Individuals participating in quali- rising costs of textbooks is difficult efficiency and conservation, environ- fied apprenticeships could receive a for students taking full course loads. mental engineering, food technology, tax credit under a bill heard by the “Already we see students who cellulosic ethanol, information tech- Revenue Committee Feb. 4. would rather struggle in class than pay nology, materials science technology, LB255, introduced by Lincoln Sen. for textbooks,” Devine said. “While nanotechnology, telecommunications, Adam Morfeld, would provide a non- the cost of textbooks will no doubt biosolutions, medical device products, refundable income tax credit for wages continue to be a rising cost for stu- pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, biologi- paid to an apprentice participating in dents, the state can further facilitate cals, chemistry and veterinary science. a qualified program. Morfeld said the higher learning in Nebraska [by pass- Eric Dinger, cofounder of Lincoln bill would help keep qualified workers ing LB153].” company Powderhook, spoke in favor in the state.

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 19 February 2 - 6, 2015

“My district faces chronic under- get that in a typical college classroom.” In lieu of a second plate, drivers employment with the closure and Calculation of the tax credit would would be required to purchase a decal downsizing of many companies in equal one dollar for every hour worked for 65 cents to be affixed to the driver’s recent years,” he said. “All too often, by the apprentice during the taxable side of the windshield. I see my friends and family leave the year, not to exceed the lesser of $2,000 Scheer said the bill would give state not because of a lack of jobs, but or 50 percent of the total wages paid to passenger car owners a license plate a lack of living-wage jobs.” the apprentice during the taxable year. option that already is available to A qualified apprenticeship pro- LB255 would decrease state revenue numerous other vehicles in Nebraska, gram must provide between 1,200 and by $11.6 million in fiscal year 2016-17 such as motorcycles and buses. 6,000 hours of on-the-job apprentice- and $12.8 million in FY2017-18. Loy Todd, president of the Ne- ship, certification by the U.S. Bureau The committee did not take im- braska New Car and Truck Dealers of Apprenticeship and Training and mediate action on the bill. Association, testified in favor of the joint administration by labor and bill. For many new cars, license plate management trustees. brackets are an option that dealers Ron Sedlacek, representing the and customers do not want to pay for, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, Todd said. For vehicles sold in Ne- testified in favor of the bill, saying that braska that do not have brackets, holes businesses in the state are in need of must be drilled which can diminish a skilled workforce. the value of high end and collectible Single license plate option for “Typically, in the past, when we’ve cars, he said. cars considered surveyed our members about the bar- Todd recommended that Nebraska riers to doing business in the state, Some cars in Nebraska could dis- switch to single plates for all vehicles, they’ve said things like regulation, play only one license plate under a bill pointing out that 19 states already taxation or the cost of healthcare,” he heard by the Transportation and Tele- follow that policy. said, “But this year, overwhelmingly, communications Committee Feb. 3. Mick Mines, a lobbyist for the 3M they said it is the skills gap and how LB53, introduced by Norfolk Sen. company, testified in opposition to we’re going to address that.” Jim Scheer, would the bill, saying front license plates Michael LaPlant, a third-year elec- allow owners of should not be eliminated for aesthetic trician’s apprentice, also supported passenger cars to reasons. Often, a license plate is the the bill, saying that apprenticeships be issued only a only reflective surface on the front of a provide invaluable experience. rear license plate. vehicle, he said, and having two plates “Through the program I’m getting The fee for the enhances law enforcement’s ability to hands-on work experience,” he said. single plate option quickly identify vehicles. “I’m out there working with the jour- would be $100 in Sen. Jim Scheer The committee took no immediate neymen, building skills that I’m going addition to standard licensing charges. action on the bill. g to use for the rest of my life. You won’t Committee Hearings *Current hearing schedules are always available at: nebraskalegislature.gov/calendar Monday, February 9 for publication of insurance information relating to pregnancy under the Banking, Commerce & Insurance LB632 (Scheer) Prohibit employers and Nebraska Fair Employment Practice Act Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. associations from precluding certain LB306 (Nordquist) Change the LB342 (Howard) Permit insurers to contracts relating to health benefit plans Conveyance Safety Act contract for pharmacist professional LB493 (Nordquist) Adopt the Healthy services Business & Labor and Safe Families and Workplaces Act LB456 (Gloor) Change provisions Room 2102 - 1:30 p.m. relating to the Nebraska Exchange LB334 (Mello) Repeal the Nebraska Education Stakeholder Commission Workforce Investment Act Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. LB531 (Kolterman) Provide requirements LB627 (Mello) Change provisions LB582 (Nordquist) Change provisions

PAGE 20 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 Committee Hearings *Current hearing schedules are always available at: nebraskalegislature.gov/calendar relating to a focus school and program to levy authority, distribution of core Health & Human Services allowance services funds, and state aid calculations Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. LB509 (Cook) Change and eliminate LB528 (Sullivan) Change and eliminate LB471 (Howard) Change provisions provisions relating to a poverty provisions relating to learning relating to prescription drug monitoring allowance under the state aid formula communities LB452 (Hilkemann) Provide advertising LB530 (Sullivan) Provide a duty for the LB529 (Sullivan) Change provisions requirements under the Uniform student achievement coordinator relating to the Tax Equity and Credentialing Act LB524 (Sullivan) Change provisions Educational Opportunities Support Act LB567 (Johnson) Permit transfer of documenting eligibility relating to free prescription information between and reduced-price school meals Transportation & Telecommunications pharmacies as prescribed Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Transportation & Telecommunications LB498 (Hadley) Change sales and use Judiciary Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. tax provisions relating to all-terrain Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB474 (Chambers) Provide for vehicles and utility-type vehicles Appointment: Ruiz, Gerard A. (Fred) - Mountain Lion Protection Plates and LB570 (Brasch) Change operation Crime Victims Reparations Committee create a fund restrictions on golf car vehicles Appointment: Schindler, Michelle - LB597 (Davis) Adopt the Contract LB641 (Garrett) Provide rights and Crime Victims Reparations Committee Carrier Safety Act duties for a person operating a manual LB483 (Pansing Brooks) Change LB31 (Bloomfield) Eliminate motorcycle or motorized wheelchair or bicycle as provisions relating to indeterminate and moped helmet requirements prescribed sentencing LB172 (Chambers) Eliminate certain Tuesday, February 10 Urban Affairs mandatory minimum penalties Agriculture Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. LB173 (Chambers) Change habitual Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. LB197 (Scheer) Provide additional criminal provisions LB176 (Schilz) Change the Competitive powers to certain sanitary and Livestock Markets Act improvement districts Natural Resources LB175 (Schilz) Adopt the Livestock LB300 (Schumacher) Change Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. Growth Act and change provisions provisions relating to enforcement LB536 (K. Haar) Provide for the filing of the Nebraska Advantage Rural of ordinances by sanitary and of an annual report by public power Development Act improvement districts suppliers with the Nebraska Power LB324 (McCollister) Provide authority Review Board Banking, Commerce & Insurance to sanitary and improvement districts LB583 (Schilz) Require a state energy Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. to contract for solid waste collection plan LB78 (Gloor) Change provisions relating services to the public agencies authorized LB420 (Crawford) Require acknowledg- Nebraska Retirement Systems to enter into agreements under the ments from purchasers of real estate in Room 1525 - 12:00 p.m. Intergovernmental Risk Management Act a sanitary and improvement district Appointment: Walden-Newman, Michael LB257 (Nordquist) Require insurers W. - Nebraska Investment Council to provide descriptions relating to Wednesday, February 11 LB467 (Nordquist) Change provisions telehealth and telemonitoring Government, Military & Veterans Affairs relating to State Patrol retirement LB553 (Gloor) Change insurance Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. LB468 (Nordquist) Change benefit provisions relating to dental services LB282 (Baker) Change provisions relating and contribution provisions relating to to closed sessions for public bodies judges retirement Education LB283 (Baker) Allow school districts Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. and educational service units to make Revenue LB421 (Kintner) Eliminate a learning emergency expenditures under the Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. community and provide for distribution Emergency Management Act LB331 (Nordquist) Adopt the of assets as prescribed LB365 (Baker) Allow school districts Bioscience Impact Opportunity Act LB481 (Kintner) Permit school districts and educational service units to keep LB321 (Bolz) Adopt the Nebraska to opt out of a learning community as electronic records Industrial New Job-training Act and prescribed LB403 (Davis) Change requirements for authorize certain payments and taxes LB96 (Smith) Eliminate certain taxing elections by mail LB322 (Bolz) Increase child and authority of learning communities dependent care tax credits LB392 (Crawford) Change and eliminate LB372 (Craighead) Adopt the First-time learning community provisions relating Home Buyer Savings Plan Act and provide income tax adjustments

104TH LEGISLATURE • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • PAGE 21 February 2 - 6, 2015 Committee Hearings *Current hearing schedules are always available at: nebraskalegislature.gov/calendar Thursday, February 12 taxation of mixed-use developments relating to school districts maintaining Government, Military & Veterans Affairs LB277 (B. Harr) Change tax deed lien the only public high school in a county Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. priority LB616 (Larson) Adopt the Independent LB105 (Watermeier) Change provisions LB345 (Kolowski) Adopt the Property Public Schools Act relating to payment of fees and costs Tax Relief Act associated with deaths of incarcerated LB615 (Kintner) Provide a property tax Transportation & Telecommunications persons and grand juries exemption for homesteads of certain Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB106 (Watermeier) Adopt the persons LB311 (Transportation & Telecommu- Livestock Operation Siting and nications) Change provisions relating Expansion Act and change powers of Tuesday, February 17 to CLP-learner’s permit issuance and counties relating to zoning Agriculture applications for commercial drivers’ LB492 (Morfeld) Change provisions Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. licenses relating to fees charged by the register LB377 (Kolterman) Change provisions LB568 (Brasch) Change certain of deeds and procedures relating to the disposi- administrative license revocation LB561 (Stinner) Name the Irrigation tion, care, custody, and costs associ- provisions relating to commercial District Act and change election ated with the impoundment of dogs or drivers’ licenses provisions for irrigation districts cats LB579 (Murante) Change traffic LB360 (Johnson) Change provisions of accident reporting requirements as Health & Human Services the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator prescribed and authorize a fee for a Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. Inspection Act copy of a peace officer report LB80 (Gloor) Provide, change, and LB389 (Kuehn) Change license and eliminate anesthesia and sedation inspection fees under the Commercial Urban Affairs permit provisions under the Dentistry Dog and Cat Operator Inspection Act Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. Practice Act LB359 (Johnson) Change a fee LB455 (Gloor) Change provisions LB315 (Howard) Change provisions collected from dog licensees relating to employment of a full-time fire relating to medicaid recovery audit chief by cities of the first class contractors Appropriations LB378 (Groene) Change requirements Judiciary Room 1003 - 1:30 p.m. for voter approval of borrowing money Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. AM 242 to LB 430 for public improvements by a first-class LB290 (Coash) Eliminate certain city notification requirements under the Sex Banking, Commerce & Insurance LB540 (Crawford) Adopt updated Offender Registration Act and eliminate Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. international building code standards the offense of unlawful use of the LB48 (Scheer) Change unfair insurance Internet by a prohibited sex offender trade practices relating to casualty Wednesday, February 18 LB119 (Schumacher) Change where losses Government, Military & Veterans Affairs certain sentences of imprisonment may LB213 (Schumacher) Provide for Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. be served withholding of insurance proceeds for LB214 (Schumacher) Provide for Appointment: Fisher, Darrell E. - demolition purposes electronic signatures on initiative and Nebraska Commission on Law LB628 (Schilz) Provide for electronic referendum petitions Enforcement and Criminal Justice posting of property and casualty LB367 (Groene) Eliminate a restriction Appointment: Frakes, Scott R. - insurance policies and notices related on paying petition circulators based on Department of Correctional Services to such policies number of signatures LB368 (Groene) Prohibit certain activities Natural Resources Education interfering with petition circulators Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. LB577 (Murante) Permit counties to Appointment: Batie, Donald P. - Nebraska LB478 (Baker) Provide bonding regulate peddlers, hawkers, and solicitors Natural Resources Commission authority for educational service units LB310 (Davis) Change provisions of the LB513 (Craighead) Change provisions Health & Human Services Niobrara Scenic River Act relating to use and leasing of school Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. LB622 (Larson) Change provisions property LB490 (Watermeier) Adopt the Provider relating to the Niobrara Scenic River Act LB431 (Baker) Change provisions Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment Act relating to public school district LB335 (Mello) Create and provide Revenue construction duties for the Intergenerational Poverty Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. LB595 (Davis) Create the Task Force on Task Force LB210 (Ebke) Change provisions School Construction Assistance LB607 (Mello) Adopt the Home Care relating to housing agencies and LB477 (Davis) Change provisions Consumer Bill of Rights Act

PAGE 22 • UNICAMERAL UPDATE • 104TH LEGISLATURE February 2 - 6, 2015 Committee Hearings *Current hearing schedules are always available at: nebraskalegislature.gov/calendar Judiciary Health & Human Services Health & Human Services Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m. LB113 (Larson) Provide a co-payment LB243 (Bolz) Create a pilot project LB196 (Campbell) Change provisions for correctional inmates’ health care relating to family finding services of the Rural Health Systems and services LB441 (Bolz) Change provisions relating Professional Incentive Act LB425 (Riepe) Provide for earned time to the bridge to independence program LB549 (Campbell) Adopt the Health and discontinue the use of good time LB199 (Howard) Provide for stipends Care Transformation Act LB426 (Riepe) Provide for violent for social work students offenders and provide powers and LB296 (Kolterman) Require the Judiciary duties for the Director of Correctional Department of Health & Human Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. Services, the Parole Administrator, the Services to provide notification after LB598 (Schumacher) Change and Board of Parole, and parole officers removal of a child provide requirements regarding LB545 (B. Harr) Provide for additional treatment and segregation of mentally mandatory minimum sentencing as Judiciary ill inmates prescribed Room 1113 - 1:30 p.m. LB592 (Bolz) Change provisions LB406 (Morfeld) Change provisions relating to corrections and parole and Natural Resources relating to actions for the recovery of mentally ill offenders Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m. vacant, platted, and subdivided real LB605 (Mello) Change classification Appointment: Palm, Owen A. - Nebraska property as prescribed of penalties, punishments, probation Natural Resources Commission LB415 (Pansing Brooks) Change and parole provisions, and provisions LB208 (Schilz) Provide an exemption provisions relating to the Uniform relating to criminal records and to water storage reservoir permit Interstate Family Support Act restitution and provide for a special requirements as prescribed LB316 (Kintner) Prohibit joining certain legislative committee LB394 (Schilz) Prohibit interference interstate compacts and the sharing LB606 (Mello) Adopt the Office of with hunting, trapping, or fishing by of red light camera and speed camera Inspector General of the Nebraska intimidation using a telephone or other information with other compact Correctional System Act, change communication device members as prescribed provisions relating to the Public Counsel, and mandate a declaration by Revenue Revenue the Governor of a correctional system Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. overcrowding emergency as prescribed LB419 (Mello) Exempt sales and LB230 (Mello) Change provisions purchases by zoos and aquariums from relating to partition actions Revenue sales and use tax LB293 (Schnoor) Change valuation of Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m. LB280 (Davis) Authorize a school- agricultural land and horticultural land LB200 (Davis) Change the distribution funding surtax and reduce the levy LB350 (Brasch) Change valuation of of sales and use tax revenue and authority of school districts and agricultural land and horticultural land provide duties for the Department of learning communities LB384 (Lindstrom) Provide for Revenue LB357 (Smith) Change income tax reclassification of agricultural land and LB256 (Bloomfield) Change the sales rates and transfer funds from the Cash horticultural land tax rate and the distribution of sales tax Reserve Fund revenue Friday, February 20 LB284 (Riepe) Redefine terms under Thursday, February 19 Government, Military & Veterans Affairs the Sports Arena Facility Financing Government, Military & Veterans Affairs Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Assistance Act Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m. Appointment: Mitchell, Ronnie - LB285 (Riepe) Redefine a term under LB291 (Coash) Remove professional Department of Aeronautics the Sports Arena Facility Financing wrestling from the jurisdiction of the LB465 (B. Harr) Adopt the Electronic Assistance Act g State Athletic Commissioner Notary Public Act LB166 (Crawford) Change filing LB479 (Bloomfield) Change provisions and enforcement provisions of the relating to memorials to veterans Nebraska Political Accountability and LB562 (Morfeld) Adopt the Nebraska Disclosure Act Treasures Act LB400 (Smith) Change filing requirements LR26CA (Larson) Constitutional for statements of financial interest amendment to change the age for LB640 (Garrett) Provide for retrocession eligibility to public office of jurisdiction for land on which the Omaha National Cemetery is located

104TH 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