February 25, 2011 

Tax policy was a large focus of legislative debate during the past week.  We debated LB 165, introduced by Senator Fischer, a bill that phases out cities’ ability to collect an occupation tax on telecommunication services.  Currently, 29 Nebraska communities utilize this occupation tax.  My support of LB 165 is because for many, it is perceived the telecommunications occupation tax as a tax on a tax.  However, opposition to the bill sees the legislation as crippling to a city’s ability to raise revenue.  There are several amendments up for consideration on the bill, including an amendment offered by the Revenue Committee.  We will continue to debate this important issue of taxation and LB 165. 

Senators have begun to declare their priority bills, and we advanced one such bill on General File, LB 284, introduced and prioritized by Senator Krist.  LB 284 prohibits protestors at a funeral or memorial service within 500 feet, an increase from 300 feet currently in law.  I support this bill and believe families deserve respect to mourn their loved one. 

It was a busy week for the Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee. LB 21, introduced by Senator McCoy, and LB 583, introduced by Senator Haar, both attempt to change Nebraska’s Electoral College votes.  LB 21 seeks to award electoral votes on a statewide, winner-take-all basis.  On this same day, LB 583 was heard by the committee to create the Interstate Compact on the Agreement Among the States to Elect the President by National Popular Vote.  The compact is basically designed to guarantee that the presidential candidate receiving the most popular votes in all states receives enough electoral votes to win the presidential election.  

Other voting-related proposals heard by the Government Committee were LB 239, introduced by Senator Janssen, to require photo identification in order to vote and LB 605, introduced by Senator Conrad, legislation allowing for election day voter registration. 

Our committee wrapped up the week with hearings on bills proposing changes to county government operations.  LR 2CA, introduced by Senator Harms, is a constitutional amendment providing for county managers.  Another bill, LB 597, introduced by Senator Pahls, would require consolidation of county offices.  Very soon we will meet to consider action on these and other bills that remain in the Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee. 

Once again, I was fortunate to be visited by a number of district 16 residents.  Constituents came to the Capitol with groups such as the Professional Insurance Agents, Nebraska Cattlemen youth, and Nebraska Christian Home Education Association.  I also met with our Oakland librarian during the Nebraska Library Association’s day at the Capitol.  Thanks to all of you who came to our State Capitol last week!  

Friday, I had the honor to participate in the 2011 Nebraska Leadership Prayer Breakfast, an event recognized nationally and taking place concurrently in other states.  It was an uplifting reminder of leadership and the call to serve in District 16.   

Saturday afternoon I met with the Wisner-Pilger School Board during their Annual Meeting held in Lincoln. Excellent discussion was shared regarding pending legislation and challenges.  Saturday night was great fun at the American Legion Post # 70 Baseball Supper Benefit! Sunday’s Pancake Brunch by the Bancroft St. Paul Men’s Club provided a great finale to a much too fast weekend home with warm pancakes, Wimmer’s Smokies and great fellowship. 

As always, please feel free to contact me at (402) 471-2728 or lbrasch@leg.ne.gov.

Serving you in the Nebraska Legislature to keep the good life growing,

Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16

February 18, 2011 

Despite our first recess day of the session on Friday, February 18, we had another full week in the Legislature.  With the recess day and President’s Day on February 21, I was able to spend more time in our legislative district visiting with all of you.  On Sunday evening I met first with a group of educators in Pender to discuss current legislative issues.  Following this meeting, I attended the West Point Chamber of Commerce Partners In Progress banquet.  These events were great to continue meeting with constituents and hear about your educational and business achievements in our communities. 

While in Lincoln for session I also was able to see many of you from District 16.  I visited with retired teachers speaking on behalf of the Nebraska State Education Association and also met with constituents as part of the Nebraska Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors.  Additionally, I attended receptions with Corn Growers and the Well Drillers and Irrigation Associations.  I am always grateful for the opportunity to personally meet with you and appreciate those of you who took time out of your schedules to come to Lincoln and discuss legislative issues of importance to you and/or your organization.

On Thursday, February 17, I presented my case for LB 368 to the entire Legislature.  LB 368 clarifies that the ability of established political party conventions to nominate candidates is limited to situations where a vacancy on the ballot has occurred or in the case of a special election.  This proposal is about a political party’s unlimited ability to bypass the primary election process and nominate candidates at its convention.  As I said previously, I do believe the primaries serve as a fundamental part of the people’s choice for a candidate, and LB 368 protects this process.  The bill advanced to Select File, the second stage of debate. 

Committee hearings addressed a wide array of subject matters.  In the Agriculture Committee, we heard testimony on LB 91, introduced by Senator Price.  LB 91 increases the minimum horsepower of an agricultural tractor that is required to be tested from 40 or more to 100 or more.  As a result, this reduces the number of tractors required to be tested at the University of Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory.  The proposal drew testifiers on both sides of the bill.  We also heard testimony on LB 473, introduced by Senator Louden.  This bill establishes the Black-Tailed Prairie Dog Management Act, and allows counties to adopt such a management plan and, if need be, request assistance from the Department of Agriculture or the Game and Parks Commission.  It is the responsibility of the landowners with troublesome black-tailed prairie dogs to act within the plan.  LB 91 and LB 473 await discussion from the Agriculture Committee. 

Two bills came before the Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee to make expand nonpartisan elections.  LB 214, introduced by Senator Pankonin calls for a nonpartisan election of county and city officials, while LB 186, introduced by Senator Sullivan, requires nonpartisan elections for county officials.  According to those in support, the motivation behind the proposals is to simply allow citizens to vote for whomever they consider to be the best candidate.  Whereas opposition testimony suggested that the candidates or office holders make decisions consistent with party principles.  The Government Committee has not taken immediate action on either bill.

As always, please feel free to contact me at (402) 471-2728 or lbrasch@leg.ne.gov.

Serving you in the Nebraska Legislature to keep the good life growing,

Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16

February 11, 2011

The evening of February 7 I enjoyed an opportunity to attend the Cuming County Feeders annual membership meeting in Beemer.  I saw many constituents and felt privileged to be part of the annual gathering to recognize Ag producers in our district. The warm smiles and kind words from many attending truly lifted and energized me to press forward into a very charged week.

Daily public hearings addressed issues that positioned citizens and our district on varying sides.  First, the General Affairs Committee held hearings on legislation impacting the horse racing industry and keno games.  Introduced by Senator Karpisek, LB 691 calls for distributing a portion of revenue from keno games to a Live Horseracing Endowment Fund, and LB 490 proposes to decrease the time between keno games to increase revenue, also in an effort to fund the horseracing industry.  During the hearing, there was a booklet distributed that stated 44 keno jobs existed in Beemer and Bancroft.  Surprised and interested, I requested a list of those jobs and was kindly informed the keno lobbyists need to correct those figures. I am waiting to see the new figures. Much needs to be considered regarding this bill.

The Agriculture Committee held the public hearing on LB 427 to outline conditions for dog breeders to be listed as an “outstanding breeder” by the Department of Agriculture.  Senator Cornett introduced LB 427, and it was met with opposition from many breeders that already meet and exceed current industry standards of professionalism and care. Several breeders from District 16 counties of Stanton, Thurston and Burt stopped by our office to briefly discuss this important issue. They shared about providing outstanding care for their dogs and having excellent standing with over six annual inspections.

The public hearing on LB 305 followed.  Introduced by Senator Larson and a bill I co-sponsored, LB 305 provides for a state meat inspection program, which inherently would allow for horse slaughter in Nebraska, a practice largely done away with following federal law passed in 2006.  Many in support of LB 305 saw this as an economic opportunity, as well as an option for unwanted horses that cannot be taken in by a horse rescue.  Opposition testimony expressed concern about consumption of horse meat and called horse slaughter inhumane.  The Agriculture Committee has not held a meeting on the proposals. This hearing ended at 7:30 p.m., and afterwards, I attended an ARC Legislative Reception.  I was delighted to be welcomed by Kathy and TJ from West Point.  The program included a panel discussion about interests and challenges of ARC members.  KUDOS to this group and their ongoing hard work.

 Two proposals I introduced had public hearings before the Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee.  LB 343 was introduced on behalf of the Board of Examiners for Land Surveyors, and it removes certain language for land surveyor registration requirements from the statutes and instead, references their Rules and Regulations for such requirements.  This will enable the Board to gradually increase the educational requirements for land surveyors to be consistent with recommended national standards and requirements of our neighboring states.  On Friday, February 11, I also brought LB 691 on behalf of the Nebraska Soybean Association to require state government to give purchasing preference to biobased products.  This means that industrial and common products made of soybeans or corn, for example, would be considered first when purchasing materials and supplies.  I see this as a boost to our agriculture economy and our rural communities for production and product development. 

Legislative debate focused on financial conditions of state government, ultimately leading to advancement of LB 383.  LB 383, introduced by Senator Cornett on behalf of Governor Heineman, eliminates state aid to counties, cities, and natural resources districts.  Without a doubt this marks the start of difficult budget cuts yet to come.  What comes to mind is the quote from philosopher Plato stating “Necessity, who is the mother invention”.  I truly believe that LB 383, although painful, is necessary given the economy.  Yet, I believe our local government will rise to the occasion, and we will find resourceful and innovative ways to move forward.  These are historic times as we face a nearly one billion dollar budget deficit.  Advancement of LB 383 is pivotal as we determine the future of the state and define our responsibilities.  Although I fully recognize and do not make light of this funding loss, however large or small for our local governments, our communities will come out ahead of these difficult financial times.

Keep in mind you may watch the legislative debate on NET2, and public hearings can be viewed online at http://www.netnebraska.org/publicmedia/capitol.html.  You may contact me at (402) 471-2728 or lbrasch@leg.ne.gov.

Serving you in the Nebraska Legislature to keep the good life growing,

Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16

February 4, 2011

Residents of Legislative District 16 have much to be proud about in our communities.  We have many productive and reputable businesses that provide good jobs and enhance our local economies.  Recently, three of our businesses were formally recognized for their growth and accomplishments.  Below are a few examples, keep up the great work and congratulations to all!  

On Jan. 21 USDA Rural Development grant recipients were named to determine the feasibility of renewable energy projects.  Selected to receive grant funding is Burt County Wind West, LLC in Lyons and Midwest Veterinary Services, Inc. in Oakland.  A grant in the amount of $12,502 is awarded to Burt County Wind West, LLC for studying the possibility of a wind farm to be built in Burt County.  Midwest Veterinary Services, Inc. will receive a $25,000 grant to explore converting local sources of organic swine waste into methane through anaerobic digestion. The methane will be used to run a generator that will produce electricity to be used on-site or stored. 

Another District 16 business recently receiving a separate distinction is Wimmer’s Meats.  The State Chamber of Commerce inducted Harold and George Wimmer into the Business Hall of Fame.  I attended the banquet in Lincoln on Thursday, February 3 at which time Dave, Connie, and Delores Wimmer were recognized with this prestigious honor.  Also at the banquet, Jeff Scherer, CFO of Smeal Fire Apparatus Co., was recognized as the new Chairman of the Board of the Chamber’s Executive Council.  There were at least three tables from Cuming County alone to cheer them on!

Speaking to economic development in our district, I also enjoyed the company of several individuals in our district who came to the Capitol with UNL Extension’s LEADING LOCALLY class.  Their efforts and dedication to grow our communities are commendable.  It is an honor to represent such successful businesses and leaders who are determined to create opportunities for growth.

Focusing on the legislative bills taken up this past week, the Legislature passed bills on Final Reading on Friday, February 4^th.  A number of the bills were considered “clean-up” bills from the Legislature’s Executive Board.  In addition, we passed a bill expanding eligibility of persons able to renew driver’s licenses online.  LB 158 also requires that an individual failing the driver’s course in three attempts must complete a driver’s safety course or hold a learner’s permit for 90 days before they may take the exam again.  Previously a driver’s safety course was required after six failed attempts.

The Legislature advanced from General File LB 20, a bill introduced by Senator McCoy that establishes a statewide electronic tracking system to block purchases of pseudoephederine from multiple locations in an effort to impede methamphetamine producers. The system, provided by the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators at no cost to the participating states or retailers, will automatically issue the seller a stop sale alert.  Additionally, we advanced LB 163, introduced by Senator Fischer, to streamline the process for handicapped or disabled parking permits by allowing for online applications, intending to make it a cost savings for the Department of Motor Vehicles and more convenient for those who prefer not to drive to the county courthouse for application and renewals.  The body also approved advancement of LB 68 to Select File.  Introduced by Senator Fulton, LB 68 adds certified nurse midwives to the list of professions with clinical privileges in hospitals.

Public hearings also continued, and one of my proposals, LB 368, had a hearing on Wednesday, February 2^nd before the Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee.  LB 368 was brought to me by Secretary of State Gale and clarifies that the ability of established political party conventions to nominate candidates is limited to situations where a vacancy on the ballot has occurred or in the case of a special election.  This legislation is considered necessary so political parties do not have unlimited authority to bypass the primary election process and nominate candidates for the general election at its convention when a party candidate was not even listed on the ballot for the primaries.  I believe the primaries are vital to the political process, and LB 368 will offer protection and regard for this process.  The committee voted to advance the bill to General File.

As always, please feel free to contact me at (402) 471-2728 or lbrasch@leg.ne.gov.

Serving you in the Nebraska Legislature to keep the good life growing,

Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16

Weekly Legislative Update

January 21, 2011

This past week I was introduced to a variety of policy proposals that allowed me to hear from many of you sharing your views on these important matters.  We are challenged by many important issues that face our state and individual citizens, and I am committed to my responsibilities to make sound decisions as your representative in the Nebraska Legislature.

The Agriculture Committee held hearings on Tuesday, January 25^th on the following bills:

• LB 181, introduced by Senator Tom Hansen allows a surcharge to be implemented by the Nebraska Brand Committee for covering travel expenses incurred by brand inspectors.  The surcharge would be charged to persons requesting a brand inspection or charged to persons required by law to have the inspection and would not exceed $20.00.
• LB 114, introduced by Senator Annette Dubas, requires the Department of Agriculture to adopt a standard definition for honey.  It requires products labeled as honey to meet this definition.  The bill also allows for action to be taken for violating the product label, claiming that a product is honey when it is actually made up of other ingredients.
• LB 108, introduced by Senator Tom Carlson, clarifies the responsibilities of adjacent landowners with regards to fences and conflicting vegetation.

The Agriculture Committee heard interesting and informative testimony on all of these bills.  At this point in time, the committee action on these proposals is pending an executive session.

The Government, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee held hearings on bills that compelled our newspapers to respond, as well as citizens in our district.  Several bills were introduced proposing changes to the method of publishing public notices to citizens prior to an election. Among these are: 

• LB 117, introduced by Senator Bill Avery, directs citizens to a Secretary of State website from a notice placed in the newspaper.  The full text of the constitutional amendment or the initiative and referendum measures can then be read from the website.  Currently, notices must be printed in full in at least one newspaper in each county for three consecutive weeks.  The public hearing was held on Friday, January 21^st. 
• LB 444 had a public hearing on Wednesday, January 26.  Introduced by Senator Avery, this provides additional methods of providing notice of public meetings will include, but not be limited to publication in a newspaper of general circulation.  It could include posting on the public body’s web site or posting in a public building in the community.

While these bills were brought with good intention to utilize current technology and reduce government expenses, I truly believe in the value and abilities of our newspapers in reaching more individuals. I see a great need to continue to publish public notices of constitutional amendments and other meeting notices in our newspapers.  I appreciate all of the communication we have received from you on these bills and am encouraged by the number of people who came together to lend support to our newspapers and their merit.

The focus of floor debate was “taxation” last week.  LB 81 was and will continue to be discussed.  This bill, introduced by Senator Abbie Cornett, was specifically introduced to prohibit cities from charging a wheel tax on nonresidents, a current issue facing those who work in Omaha, but live in communities outside of the city of Omaha.  A user tax has primarily been the focus of those opposing LB 81, while taxation without representation is the major argument of those favoring passage of the bill.  It is my opinion that if  those who live in our rural communities were given a choice as to the location of their employment, the majority would choose to work within walking distance or on or near our hometown Main streets.  An ideal situation is to bring these jobs and commuters out of the city and into our rural communities.  Perhaps this “user tax” will compel employers to open satellite offices, or allow our talented and valued work force in Rural Communities to work from home or farm-based virtual offices.  Debate continues on LB 81 and a compromise is in the works.

On Saturday, January 29, I participated in the Nebraska Walk for Life.  Nebraska Right to Life expressed support of legislation I introduced, LB 690, to require parental consent before a minor can receive an abortion.  It was very gratifying to be part of this assembly of citizens from across Nebraska, all hopeful of achieving the same goal and valuing each and every life.   

As always, please feel free to contact me at (402) 471-2728 or lbrasch@leg.ne.gov.

Serving you in the Nebraska Legislature to keep the good life growing,

Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16