Greetings, we’ve crossed the horizon and the end of session is rapidly approaching. At the time of writing this article, we’re 12 legislative days away from Sine Die.

Senator Albrecht’s LB441, introduced last session, saw intensive debate by the body. The bill would have made changes to obscenity laws by creating a Class I misdemeanor to prepare, distribute, order, produce, exhibit or promote obscene materials in schools. A motion to invoke cloture failed on the 20th.

On March 18th, LB1031, one of my bills and a priority bill for the Transportation and Telecommunications committee, was voted to Select File. LB1031 would change Nebraska statute to end ongoing Nebraska Universal Service Funding (NUSF) support to services that are not capable of at least 100/20 Mbps. speeds 18 months after the effective date of the bill. Under the NUSF program, as it now operates, incumbent providers receive what is called ongoing support. This support is for the long-term sustainability of our broadband network. In rural areas of the state, where there are few customers, the cost of operating and maintaining the network far exceeds what any provider will receive in customer revenues. NUSF support is vital to filling the high-cost gap. Going forward, only those broadband services capable of 100/20 Mbps. speeds will receive the ongoing NUSF support.

On the 20th, my bill, LB1030 was voted to Select File. LB1030 amends the County Bridge Match Program which provides matching grant funds to counties to repair or replace aging and deficient bridges. Specifically, LB1030 creates the County Bridge Match Working Group consisting of three individuals from the Department of Transportation chosen by the Director and two representatives from a list of county highway superintendents, county surveyors, or county engineers. This working group would be responsible for scoring and awarding County Bridge Match Program grants to counties. The bill also provides additional funding to the program to carry out its essential work.

From June 9th-14th, 4-H and the University of Nebraska will be hosting a weeklong simulation for high school students to take on the role of lawmakers. Students will learn about the inner workings of the legislature directly from senators and staff. The deadline to apply is May 20th and 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. For more information you can visit www.nebraskalegislature.com/uyl.

Easter brings hope to our lives, new beginnings and eternal life, all made possible by Christ who loved us enough to die for us. Christ triumphed over death and offers eternal life for us. With Christ we also can rise above setbacks, obstacles and continue living in His grace. The Easter message resounds in the greatest act of Love! May you be Blessed this Easter Season.

Legislative offices will be closed on Friday, March 29th and Monday, April 1st due to the Easter Holiday. You can reach my office at 402-471-2719 or bbostelman@leg.ne.gov.