January 3 marked the first day of the 2023 legislative session. I am more eager than ever to be in Lincoln fighting for District 1. There are many new faces throughout the building, including newly elected Senators and staff, new leadership within the legislative body, and new committee assignments. With this said, I am thrilled to announce that I was elected to serve as the Chairman of the Banking, Commerce, and Insurance committee! My experience growing up with my mom as a teller at Auburn State Bank, focus on insurance law during law school, and two years of service drew me to lead this committee.

I will continue my service on the Executive Board and now also represent Southeast Nebraska on the Natural Resources Committee. I am grateful to District 1’s Cooper Nuclear Station and Nebraska City Station for providing low-cost, base-load energy for the state of Nebraska. I will be sure to keep our public power employees in mind on the Natural Resources Committee.

In other news, I am pleased to share that Senator Brewer introduced his Constitutional Carry bill, LB 77. The right to bear arms is a fundamental right protected by the United States Constitution which individuals should not have to pay a fee or “ask permission” to exercise. You have my word that I will continue to fight for our Second Amendment rights and am a proud co-sponsor of LB 77. I will be sure to keep you informed on the future of this legislation, such as ways to support it and when the hearing date will be scheduled.

As more issues continue to arise, remember this: Nebraska’s unique Unicameral Legislature relies heavily on the citizens of the State of Nebraska. Ensuring that members of the public have the opportunity to have their voices heard is vital to the legislative process. I will be sure to keep you informed on upcoming hot-button issues and the bills impacting Southeast Nebraska.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.