We have completed the 58th day of the 90-day Legislative Session which equals out to 14 weeks. As we get closer to June 6th we will have “late nights” where we will continue floor debate beyond the 9 AM to 5 PM business hours of most.
High Schoolers from Legislative District 17 (Dakota, Thurston and Wayne counties) learn what it’s like to serve as a state senator. The Unicameral Youth Legislature is a four-day legislative simulation in which high school students take on the role of lawmakers. Student senators sponsor bills, conduct committee hearings, debate legislation and discover the unique process of the nation’s only unicameral. The Unicameral Youth Legislature gives behind-the-scenes access to students who have an interest in public office, government, politics, law, public policy, debate or public speaking. Students will learn about the inner workings of the Legislature directly from senators, staff and lobbyists. Bill topics are based on legislation considered during the most recent legislative session. From driving laws to the death penalty, topics selected for the legislature are diverse and engaging. Legislative activities are conducted at the Nebraska State Capitol Building in the historic Warner Chamber, which was home to the Nebraska Senate until the state consolidated to a one-house legislature in 1937. The youth legislature is organized by the Nebraska State 4-H Office and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Office youth development program. The Clerk of the Nebraska Legislature, through the Unicameral Information Office, serves as a technical consultant for the Unicameral Youth Legislature. Registrants are encouraged to apply for a Greg Adams Civic Scholarship award, which covers the full cost of admission. Applicants must submit a short essay. Other $100 scholarships are also available. Contact the Unicameral Information Office for more information. Phone: (402) 471-2788 uio@leg.ne.gov
LB222 was advanced to Enrollment and Review (E&R) Initial for preparation for Select File, which will leave only the Final Reading left to get this bill into law. The bill offers a tax credit to volunteer emergency responders once they have met eligibility. This is a good bill and will benefit those who protect us every day.

LB227 will change provisions governing determination of a public or private nuisance under the Nebraska Right to Farm Act also advanced to E & R. This was a bill which received a lot of attention. Select file will surely extend that discussion.

LB270 would make texting while driving a primary offense; thus, allowing law enforcement to make a stop and issue a warning or ticket for the violation. This passed Final Reading and sent to the Governor on April 11. 2019.

It is always a pleasure to receive correspondence from our constituents. We look forward to engaging in a conversation and learning your view of the legislative process. Please continue to contact our office at 402.471.2716 or jalbrecht@leg.ne.gov and check out NebraskaLegislature.gov for bill updates.