Heat and thunderstorms, July in Nebraska. The weather may be typical but convening the Legislature in the summer, unless in a special session, is not. Of course, nothing has been typical this year.  When we do convene on the 20th, to some extent we will try to pick up where we left off in March. Bills will be in the same positions as before and with that, my own priority bill is still ready for final reading. LB 1014, creates the statutory authority for the Nebraska Department of Insurance to authorize and regulate group health insurance plans that allow self-employed individuals to participate in a multiemployer healthcare arrangement under Nebraska law. This will allow organizations such as farm associations and cooperatives to offer health insurance.

There are enough priority bills pending in earlier stages of debate that we may not even get through all of those, especially with the issues before us. In addition, the Speaker has said he will not have a ‘consent calendar’, a procedure that allows non-controversial bills to move through the process efficiently; and he advised that any bill with a fiscal note will probably not advance. 

July 15th, which is now tax day for 2020, and July 23rd, when the state forecasting board meets, will be crucial dates in determining what the budget will look like. The impact COVID-19 has had on revenue the last four months of the FY19-20 budget, as well as COVID-19 impacts on future revenue projections determined by the forecasting board, will determine the success of major issues such as property tax relief, school funding, and business incentives. 

The Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) announced that the unemployment program is refocusing on reemployment strategies as Nebraskans continue to return to work. Job search requirements will be returning for workers claiming Unemployment Insurance benefits beginning with the week of July 12, 2020. Individuals wishing to continue to receive unemployment benefits (including the $600 federal supplement available through July 25, 2020) will be required to perform work search activities that had been waived since March 15.

NDOL reminds unemployed workers that they should report any earnings (including PPP payments) and any work refusal when filing their weekly request for payment.  Failing to do so will result in an overpayment of unemployment benefits. Any overpaid benefits (including the $600 federal supplement) must be repaid before an individual can receive any future unemployment benefits. Additionally, failing to report earnings and work refusals can be considered fraud and the individual could be subject to fines and criminal prosecution. For more information go to NEworks.nebraska.gov.

The Paycheck Protection Program resumed accepting applications July 6, 2020. The new deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program loan is August 8, 2020. More details about PPP here. Also, check into the resources available if you have trouble paying your utility bills.

Nebraska NET television broadcasts the Legislature in session, a link can be found on the Unicameral website. Look for the red NET logo on the right side of the page. You can also follow the progress of all bills, find contact information for all senators and additional information here: https://nebraskalegislature.gov/

My office has been open and continues to be accessible around the clock by calling 402-471-2620 to leave your message. Or send me an email at mdorn@leg.ne.gov  I appreciate your calls and messages. Stay safe and well!