As we prepare to start week 6 of the legislature, we have several bills being heard in committees. We started committee hearings January 23rd, with half day hearings. This week we begin full day hearings which will continue until February 9th. Full day hearings mean that morning hearings start between 9-9:30 and the afternoon hearings start at 1:30. After bills have had an opportunity to hear public testimony during hearing each committee sets a time to hold an executive session.

When an executive session occurs the senators on that committee discuss and vote on whether each bill will be sent to the general file. If a bill goes to general file, it will be scheduled for debate on the floor by Speaker Arch’s office. Priority bills are typically scheduled first. These bills are given priority by a senator, committee, or the speaker.

Once priority bills are scheduled the rest of the bills are traditionally scheduled based on the order they are placed on the general file; some consideration is also given to the amount of time needed for debate. For example, a bill that is more contested will require more time for debate than one that has complete agreement but needs an amendment. Debate on bills on general file is scheduled to begin on Monday February 13th.

One of the bills that I have introduced this year is LB288, which was heard by the Transportation and Telecommunication committee on January 26th. The purpose of this bill is to improve the online insurance verification system. This bill would be an asset to law enforcement. It allows them to check the status of an individual’s insurance on the scene of traffic stops or accidents.

In light of the overturning of Roe V. Wade this last June; This year’s walk for Life held special significance. The walk was held on Saturday January 28th on the north steps before we walked down to the UNL Student Union. This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. John Bruchalski; a former abortion provider who shared his life-altering encounter that led to his change in perspective on life. It is always encouraging to be around others who celebrate life.

As always, contact my office with any questions or thoughts on legislation impacting District 23. You can reach my office at 402-471-2719 or bbostelman@leg.ne.gov