109th Legislature, Second Session February 6, 2025 - Bulletin 5
ITEMS OF INTEREST TO MUNICIPALITIES
Stories inside:
• LB 1145: Hearing held on League bill to amend the Open Meetings Act to reinstate how political subdivisions gave “reasonable advance publicized notice” of public meetings for 45 years, from 1975 until passage of LB 148 in 2020
• LB 1071 and LB 1072 (Agency 16 Nebraska Department of Revenue): Hearing held before the Appropriations Committee regarding proposed reduction in MEF by removing first class cities from the municipal equalization formula
• LB 1219 and LR317CA: Bills to limit property taxes levied by political subdivisions heard before Revenue Committee
• LB 1130: Bill that establishes the Community Improvement District Act heard before Urban Affairs Committee
• LB 1154: Revenue Committee hears bill to amend provisions of the Property Tax Growth Limitation Act relating to ‘unused property tax request authority’
• LB 1041: League opposes bill mandating accessory dwelling units to be built as prescribed on single-family residences
• LB 1126: League supports bill to create additional road financing and project delivery options
• LB 1261: League supports bill to allow hyperscale private electric generation to data centers with public power guardrails
• LB 1026: League opposes bill limiting local control of electric generation facilities
• Upcoming committee hearing schedule
LB 1145: Hearing held on League bill to amend the Open Meetings Act
2026
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Bill would reinstate how political subdivisions gave
“reasonable advance publicized notice”
of public meetings
for 45 years,
from 1975 until passage of LB 148 in 2020
Thanks to Sen. Dan Lonowski of Hastings for introducing LB 1145 at the request of the League, Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO), and the Nebraska Association of School Boards (NASB). Thanks to Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue and Sen. Bob Andersen of Omaha for signing on the bill as cosponsors.
The Urban Affairs Committee, chaired by Sen. Sanders, held a hearing on LB 1145 on Feb. 5. Sen. Lonowski’s opening remarks explained why the bill is critically important for political subdivisions across the state. He informed the Committee that LB 1145 would amend Section 841411 of the Open Meetings Act to require public bodies subject to the Act to provide “reasonable advance publicized notice of the time and place of each meeting by a method designated by each public body and recorded in its minutes.” Before passage of LB 148 in 2020, he emphasized this was the law FOR DECADES for all public bodies subject to the Open Meetings Act. Due to passage of LB 148 in 2020, ONLY political subdivisions are required to publish notice in a newspaper of general circulation within the political subdivision’s jurisdiction. Since 2020, ALL other public bodies subject to the Open Meetings Act have continued to provide reasonable advance publicized notice “by a method designated by the public body” and recorded in its minutes. Cities of the second class, villages, and rural and suburban fire districts are required to provide reasonable advance publicized notice of their meetings, but they are exempt from the requirement to publish notice in a newspaper of general circulation within their jurisdiction. Second class cities, villages, and rural and suburban fire districts typically
post their notices in three public places. However, other cities, counties, schools, NRDs, and political subdivisions face ongoing challenges trying to comply with the publication requirements of Section 841411 due to the confusing provisions and the increasing number of instances of newspapers NOT publishing legal notices for meetings as requested by political subdivisions. He told the Committee that no one believes that any newspaper has INTENTIONALLY refused to publish a legal notice for a meeting, post it on the newspaper’s website (if available), or post it on the statewide website (if available) maintained by the Nebraska Press Association (NPA) as a repository for such notices by a majority of Nebraska newspapers. While not intentional, there are serious consequences for the political subdivision if legal notice of a meeting is not provided as required by the Act. Section 84-1414 states, in part: “any motion, resolution, rule, regulation, ordinance or formal action of a public body in violation of the Open Meetings Act shall be declared VOID by the district court if the suit is commenced within 120 days of the meeting of the public body at which the alleged violation occurred.” Any such actions by a public body made or taken in substantial violation of the Act shall be VOIDABLE if the suit is commenced more than 120 days but within one year of the meeting at which the alleged violation occurred. Sen. Lonowski and proponents of LB 1145 testified about the need to repeal provisions in Section 84-1411 that are confusing and have proven to be problematic for political subdivisions since the passage of LB 148 in 2020. In addition to providing “reasonable advance
Continued on page 6 / See LB 1145
Sen. Dan Lonowski District 33
LB 1071 and LB 1072 (Agency 16 Nebraska Department of Revenue):
Hearing held before the Appropriations Committee regarding proposed reduction in MEF by removing first class cities from the municipal equalization formula
OnFeb. 5, the Appropriations Committee held a hearing regarding the proposed reduction in municipal equalization formula (MEF) by removing first class cities from the MEF. Thanks to the following municipal officials who presented compelling testimony on behalf of their respective municipality: Tobias Tempelmeyer, City Administrator of Beatrice; Jack Cheloha, City Administrator of Ralston; Lance Hedquist, City Administrator of South Sioux City; and Wes Blecke, City Administrator of Wayne Thanks to the following municipalities which also provided the League a copy of their letter/email opposing the elimination of first class cities from
MEF funding: Fremont, Grand Island, Plattsmouth, Schuyler, and Scottsbluff. If your city of the first class would be impacted by the proposed reduction in MEF funding, please provide the League a copy of your letter/email to your Senator(s). The League provided information to the Appropriations Committee in opposition to this proposed cut.
As a reminder, the narrative in the Governor’s budget book summarizing mid-biennium budget adjustments states as follows:
“Municipal Equalization – The recommendation includes a cash fund appropriation increase of
Continued on page 5 / See LB 1071
LB 1219 and LR317CA: Bills to limit property taxes levied by political subdivisions heard before Revenue Committee
Abill and a constitutional amendment to limit the total amount of property taxes that may be levied by any political subdivision to 2% plus real growth were heard before the Revenue Committee on Feb. 5. Both provisions, introduced by Plymouth Sen. Tom Brandt, contain language that is very similar to the Property Tax Request Act (otherwise known as the Pink Postcard Bill): “Beginning January 1, 2027, and notwithstanding the Property Tax Growth Limitation Act and the School District Property Tax Limitation Act, the total amount of property taxes that may be levied by a political subdivision in any year shall not exceed the total amount levied in the prior year by more than the allowable growth percentage.” The bill and the resolution go on to define allowable growth percentage as “a percentage equal to the sum of two percent plus the political subdivision’s real growth percentage.”
The proponents of the bill argued that this language is simple to understand and limits all political subdivisions to a small property tax increase each year without any exceptions. Those testifying in favor included Nebraska
Taxpayers for Freedom and the Nebraska Farm Bureau.
In addition to a League representative, the opponents included the Nebraska Association of County Officials , the Community Colleges Association , Stephen Curtiss from the City of Omaha, Meg Harris from the City of La Vista, the Educational Service Units, and various school districts. The opponents stressed the devasting impact these proposals would have on political subdivision budgets resulting in huge cuts in necessary services. Meg Harris highlighted that the definition of real growth does not include the taxincrement financing (TIF) language that is currently part of the Property Tax Request Act. Without including TIF in determining growth, many municipalities will lose that additional growth because those TIF projects will not be included in the formula. The chair of the Revenue Committee, Sen. Brad von Gillern, announced there were a large number of opposition letters submitted, many expressing concern about school funding.
In closing, Sen. Brandt indicated he would consider one of these proposals as his personal priority bill.
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
LB 1130: Bill that establishes the Community Improvement District Act heard before Urban Affairs Committee
OnFeb. 3, North Platte Sen. Mike Jacobson introduced LB 1130 which creates the Community Improvement District Act. Under the bill, property owners may voluntarily form Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) to finance, construct, and maintain public infrastructure and amenities within city or village limits.
Proponents of the bill argue that CIDs provide a locally controlled tool that supplements existing municipal financing options by reducing development risk, lowering the cost of capital, and decreasing upfront costs to create buildable lots. Those testifying in favor of the bill include the Welcome Home Coalition, Nebraska Realtors Association, the State, Omaha and Lincoln Chambers of Commerce, the Nebraska Homebuilders, and the Omaha Habitat for Humanity. Phil Green, City Administrator of Blair, testified in favor of the bill, providing information on how CIDs will be helpful for his community.
There were three testifiers in the neutral position: Black Hills Energy, the City of Lincoln and the League. David Cary from the City of Lincoln provided information on how Lincoln may use CIDs but cautioned that additional sections of law may need to be reviewed and amended. The League highlighted the number of ways municipalities are involved with CIDs, including requirements that municipalities approve: the formation of a CID, the CID acquiring real or personal property, the use of eminent domain, the installation of public infrastructure, use of special assessments, and any changes to increase or decrease the CID territory. Like the City of Lincoln, the League cautioned that additional changes may be needed because it is a new concept for Nebraska. There were no opponents to the bill. There were four letters submitted in favor of the bill and one neutral letter.
LB 1154: Revenue Committee hears bill to amend provisions of the Property Tax Growth Limitation Act relating to ‘unused property tax request authority’
Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston presented LB 1154 to the Revenue Committee this week. This bill was introduced on behalf of the League and the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO). LB 1154 amends section 13-3403 of the Property Tax Growth Limitation Act to change the calculation of a political subdivision’s property tax request authority. The Act only applies to cities, villages, and counties.
Sen. Merv Riepe District 12
The bill modifies the calculation for determining the “preliminary property tax request authority” and increases for the political subdivision’s “growth percentage” and “inflation percentage” by removing “unused property tax request authority” under section 13-3406 from the list of exceptions that are subtracted when determining the base amount used for those calculations. As a result, “unused property tax request authority” is included in the amount of property taxes used to calculate allowable growth and inflation adjustments.
The bill does not alter the remaining statutory exceptions under section 13-3404, nor does it change
the process for carrying forward or using “unused property tax request authority” which cannot exceed an aggregate of five percent of the total property tax request authority from the prior year as provided in section 13-3406. LB 1154 repeals the prior version of section 13-3403 and replaces it with the amended calculation language.
In addition to a League epresentative, there were three additional proponent testifiers: Jon Cannon from NACO, Meg Harris from the City of La Vista, and Stephen Curtiss from the City of Omaha. All the proponents of the bill emphasized that without the ability to have unused authority become part of the base once it is used, there is effectively no incentive for political subdivisions to leave unused authority on the table. Instead of encouraging fiscal restraint, the current law unintentionally rewards maximizing the levy every year. LB 1154 resolves that problem. There were no opponents to the bill. Thanks again to Sen. Riepe for introducing this important measure!
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE
LB 1041: League opposes bill mandating accessory dwelling units to be built as prescribed on single-family residences
TheUrban Affairs Committee held a hearing on LB 1041 on Feb. 3. LB 1041, introduced by Sen. Victor Rountree of Omaha, mandates that a “city shall allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the same lot as a single-family residence” in accordance with the conditions prescribed in the bill.
The bill defines a “city” to include any city or village. There are a number of concerning provisions in LB 1041 including, but not limited to: a city could not impose requirements related to the placement or appearance of an ADU that are more restrictive than those imposed on a single-family residence; a city could not require an ADU to match the exterior design, roof pitch, or finishing materials of the single-family residence; a city could not require that a lot with an ADU have additional parking beyond that required for a single-family residence or require a fee to be paid in lieu of providing such additional parking; and a city could not require a property owner to be a resident or have a familial, marital, or employment relationship with the occupants of the single-family residence. Of course there are numerous other provisions that are problematic. (LB 1041 also applies to counties.)
Sen. Rountree emphasized in his opening remarks that he wants to allow local control but also provide options for ADUs in Nebraska. He noted that Nebraska has a “patchwork system” which makes it difficult for builder and others. A League representative testified against LB 1041 and thanked Sen. Rountree for stating that he wants to work with opponents and incentivize ADUs; he said, “if a city does not want it, it won’t be mandated.”
Many testifying in support of LB 1041 do want municipalities and counties mandated to meet the requirements of the bill to help address the affordable housing crisis. Proponents included a representative of a design-build company in Elkhorn; Zeke Rouse, Policy Fellow of Spark (a community development organization in Omaha); Todd Stubbendieck, State Director of AARP
LB 1071
Continued from page 3
$9,040,000 in FY 2026-27. The agency currently collects local sales taxes for political subdivisions. A percentage of those taxes are allocated to the Municipal Equalization Fund for state aid. The recommendation diverts 65% of the collection fee to the Revenue Enforcement Fund to cover the cost of revenue
Nebraska; and Justin Brady, representing the Nebraska Realtors, Metro Omaha Builders Association, Homebuilders Association of Lincoln; and the Nebraska State Homebuilders Association. Opponents emphasized that municipalities are working hard to determine how to best provide more affordable/workforce housing. Many municipalities already allow ADUs but not in areas designated as R-1. The bill takes away local control as well as input from neighborhoods and other stakeholders. Thanks to the following individuals who testified in strong opposition to LB 1041: David Cary, Director of Planning and Development Services for the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County; Luke Bonkiewicz , Research Program Analyst for NACO; Jennifer Taylor, Deputy City Attorney for the City of Omaha; and Roy Helm, a citizen from Lincoln. The League representative also testified on behalf of the League and the Greater Cities of Nebraska in opposition to LB 1041.
administration, diverts 7% of insurance premium taxes to the General Fund, and removes first class cities from the equalization formula. Nebraska’s smallest municipalities remain eligible for this funding, and the funding reduction will support an increase in property tax relief.”
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
LB 1145
Continued from page 2
publicized notice”, the bill states that notice provided by political subdivisions also shall be given “at least TWICE a year of the regular meeting schedule, location, and the method designated by the public body to provide reasonable advance publicized notice. Such notice shall be given by publication in a legal newspaper of general circulation within the public body’s jurisdiction.” This publication requirement does NOT apply to cities of the second class, villages, and rural or suburban protection fire districts since they typically post notice of their meetings in three public places. (The League representative testifying in strong support of LB 1145 stated the League and representatives of NACO, NASB, and the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) agreed on Feb. 5 to make this publication FOUR times annually.)
Sen. Lonowski and the League representative also told the Committee that LB 1145 outlines procedures for a “safe harbor provision” in case of refusal, neglect, or inability of the newspaper to publish notice IF a public body decides to publish notice in a newspaper of general circulation within the public body’s jurisdiction to meet the notice requirement of providing reasonable advance publicized notice of the time and place of each meeting. Thanks to the following individuals and organizations which testified with a League representative in strong support of LB 1145: NACO , NASB , NARD , ESU Coordinating Council, United Cities of Sarpy County, Matt Hansen (Lancaster County Clerk also representing the Lancaster County Board), and Don
Lease (Banner County Commissioner testifying in his individual capacity). The League representative distributed a handout which provided a historical overview of the Open Meetings Act and highlighted key provisions of LB 1145. Thanks to the municipal officials and others who submitted online comments on the Legislature’s website in support of LB 1145. A letter provided by Joe Kohout, testifying on behalf of the United Cities of Sarpy County, states, in part: “We have encountered situations where a local newspaper has failed to publish a required notice in a timely manner and has refused to forward that notice to the state’s legal publication website. When that occurs, the city has no independent authority to transmit the notice directly to the state’s site. The result is not merely administrative inconvenience; it creates legal exposure. When a required notice is not properly published or transmitted, a city’s action may be subject to challenge. That can delay public hearings, infrastructure projects, bond issuances, zoning decisions, and other critical municipal functions. In some cases, the city must restart the entire notice process, incurring additional cost and delay, through no fault of its own.”
No one testified in opposition to the bill. A representative of the NPA testified in a neutral capacity. Sen. Lonowski asked the Committee to advance LB 1145 to General File so political subdivisions could once again provide “reasonable advance publicized notice” as they did for 45 years before passage of LB 148 in 2020.
LB 1126: League supports bill to create additional road financing and project delivery options
OnFeb. 4, the Legislature's Transportation and Telecommunications Committee heard testimony on LB 1226 introduced by Sen. Mike Moser of Columbus. LB 1226 seeks to create a state infrastructure bank, known as the Infrastructure Development Investment Program, to provide financing to eligible transportation projects of political subdivisions and other eligible entities as defined in the bill. The program would be administered by the State Highway Commission with staffing and operational support by the Department of Transportation.
the Legislature (clarifying authorization for metropolitan and primary class cities and certain eligible counties to engage in publicprivate partnerships [P3s] for transportation projects, providing additional statutory context regarding use of asset concessions in public-private partnerships, requiring the Department to establish procedures for receipt and evaluation of unsolicited P3 proposals, and removing “historic reasonableness” criteria from progressive design-build statutes).
LB 1126 would also modernize alternative delivery contracting requirements as previously authorized by
LB 1126 was supported by the Department of Transportation , several engineering groups , the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, and the League.
Sen. Mike Moser District 22
LEGISLATIVE SESSION 2026
LB 1261: League supports bill to allow hyperscale private electric generation to data centers with public power guardrails
OnFeb. 5, the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee heard testimony on LB 1261, introduced by Sen. Barry Dekay from Niobrara at the request of Gov. Pillen.
LB 1261 would allow private electric generation for a large customer and would prohibit the condemnation of that generation facility if the generation and customer are at a single or adjacent site with an electric load greater than 1000 megawatts.
LB 1261 also provides an extensive array of guardrails to protect the public power utility in which the facility would reside including interconnect requirements, power purchase agreements, and bans on retail sales.
LB 1261 was supported by Omaha Public Power District, Nebraska Public Power District, Nebraska Rural Electric Association, Lincoln Electric System, and the League. All of the public power testifiers emphasized that their support was contingent on all of the guardrails included in the bill be maintained. There was substantial opposition to LB 1261 from environmental groups.
LB 1026: League opposes bill limiting local control of electric generation facilities
OnFeb. 4, the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee heard testimony on LB 1026, introduced by David City Sen. Jared Storm. LB 1026 would ban electric suppliers from retiring, shutting down, ceasing operation of, or substantially altering the operation of an electric generation facility if the electric supplier has customers waiting for electric service, except for the following situations:
1. The retirement of the facility is mandated by federal or state law;
2. The facility is mechanically unsafe to operate;
3. The facility is damaged beyond repair due to a natural disaster; or
4. The continued operation of the facility is uneconomical.
LB 1026 was opposed by Omaha Public Power District, Nebraska Public Power District , Lincoln Electric System, the League, and many others. The League argued that shutting down a generation facility is a matter of local control, and while these are many of the reasons that a generation facility might be shut down there might be others and this should be decided by the local officials managing the facility.
Sen. Barry DeKay District 40
Gov. Jim Pillen
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
NEBRASKA UNICAMERAL LEGISLATURE
109th LEGISLATURE, SECOND SESSION
SCHEDULE OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS
The order of the bills listed may not be the order in which they are heard that day in committee.
Monday, February 9, 2026
Appropriations Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m.
Agency 25
LB946 Dorn
Health and Human Services
State intent regarding appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for medicaid assisted-living facilities
LB1229 Strommen Create the Rural Health Transformation Fund
LB1031 Dorn
Require appropriations from the Hospital Quality Assurance and Access Assessment Fund and state intent regarding medicaid rates for mental health providers
LB1122 Bostar State intent regarding appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services
LB1143 Hardin
Change provisions relating to nursing facility rates and establish a money follows the person program under the Medical Assistance Act
Banking, Commerce and Insurance Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1185 Bostar Adopt the Conversational Artificial Intelligence Safety Act
LB1083 Storer Adopt the Transparency in Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Act, create a fund, and change provisions relating to records which may be withheld from the public
LB1174 Kauth
LB1119 Bosn
LB1160 Hallstrom
LB1014 Spivey
LB813 Bostar
Change provisions related to reports of condition under the Nebraska Money Transmitters Act and provide for a remittance transfer tax
Change provisions relating to the collection and use of personal data and provide additional duties and prohibitions for a covered online service under the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act
Change provisions relating to civil procedure, decedents' estates, trusts, and inheritance taxes
Change provisions relating to notice under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Act and require the Secretary of State to create a web page and charge a fee for electronic publication of notices under the act
Business and Labor Room 1200 - 1:30 p.m.
Change provisions relating to marketplace network contractors under the Employment Security Law
LB879 Guereca Adopt the Guest Worker Permit Act
LB941 Lippincott Exclude certain franchisors from being considered employers under certain labor laws
LB1089 Hughes
Change enforcement provisions of the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act
LB1249 Sorrentino Redefine terms, change provisions relating to the carryover of paid sick time, and repeal obsolete provisions in the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Monday, February 9, 2026 (cont.)
Education Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1112 McKinney
Adopt the Statewide Standardized Grading System Act
LB1184 Fredrickson Adopt the Nebraska Tribal College Investment Act
LB1086 Dover Change eligibility requirements for community college gap assistance
LB1039 Dungan
LB1182 Lippincott
Prohibit school resource officers and security guards from using corporal punishment
Provide for a base salary for certified teachers and state intent relating to changes to the Tax Equity and Educational Opportunities Support Act and a new form of block grant funding
LB1029 Conrad Redefine terms relating to reportable funding from a foreign adversarial source for colleges and universities
General Affairs Room 1023 - 1:30 p.m.
Appointment
Appointment
Appointment
LB1151 Clouse
LB1128 Dover
Coffey, John Michael - Nebraska Liquor Control Commission
Elworth, James A - Nebraska Liquor Control Commission
Synhorst, Robert (Bud) - Nebraska Liquor Control Commission
Provide for a regional craft brewery license under the Nebraska Liquor Control Act
Change provisions relating to entertainment district licenses under the Nebraska Liquor Control Act
LB1004 Clouse Change the regulation of nonalcoholic beer under the Nebraska Liquor Control Act
LB1085 Clouse
Change provisions relating to retail, bottle club, craft brewery, and microdistillery licenses, Nebraska Liquor Control Commission powers and duties, and penalties for violations under the Nebraska Liquor Control Act
LB1115 Storer Exempt microbreweries from certain distribution agreement requirements between beer suppliers and wholesalers
Transportation and Telecommunications Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m.
Appointment
LB1121 Ballard
Mello, Heath - State Highway Commission
Adopt the Recreational Vehicle Industry Regulation Act, change provisions of the Motor Vehicle Industry Regulation Act, and change provisions relating to recreational vehicles
LB1202 Clouse Change provisions relating to ignition interlock devices and ignition interlock permits
LB1104 Dover
LB1188 DeKay
Provide for certain determinations relating to the avoidance of motor vehicle taxes and fees under the Motor Vehicle Registration Act
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Agriculture Room 1023 - 1:30 p.m.
Update a federal reference in the Foreign-owned Real Estate National Security Act and prohibit ownership of real estate in adversary nations by the state and any political subdivision thereof
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (cont.)
Appropriations Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m.
Agency 70
Foster Care Review Board, State Agency 76 Indian Commission, Nebraska Agency 81 Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
LB750 Spivey State legislative intent relating to reimbursement for PACE program services under the Health Care Facility Licensure Act
LB858 Fredrickson Appropriate funds to the Department of Health and Human Services for federally qualified community health centers
LB1106 Prokop Provide for transfers of funds from the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund to the Patient Safety Cash Fund
LB1177 DeBoer Create the Child Care Cash Fund
Banking, Commerce and Insurance Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1118 Bosn Classify certain actions by a social media platform as deceptive trade practices under the Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act
LB1006 Guereca Adopt the Protecting Consumers and Jobs from Predatory Pricing Act
LB1078 Dungan Adopt the Fair Online Pricing Act
LB1152 Ballard Adopt the New Taxpayer Recruitment Grant Act
LB953 von Gillern Change provisions related to eligible activities for and requirements for assistance from the Site and Building Development Fund
LB999 Spivey Adopt the Business Innovation and Startup Commission Act
LB1205 Clouse Require the Department of Economic Development to award grants under the Business Innovation Act
Education Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m.
Appointment
Buckendahl, Chad W - Technical Advisory Committee for Statewide Assessment
Appointment Fields, Joshua - Technical Advisory Committee for Statewide Assessment
Appointment Von Behren, Paul J - Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education
Appointment Wilson, William - Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education
LB855 McKinney Adopt the Youth Early Intervention and Support Act
LB1201 Guereca Provide for a grant program related to classroom libraries and engagement materials
Transportation and Telecommunications Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1092 Bostar Provide for Back the Blue License Plates and Iconic-Design License Plates
LB1099 Hansen Provide for Husker Red License Plates
LB1093 Ballard Redefine excavation under the One-Call Notification System Act
LB1082 Storer
Provide a duty for telecommunications companies under the Nebraska Telecommunications Regulation Act
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (cont.)
Urban Affairs Room 1200 - 1:30 p.m.
LB811 Dover
Change provisions relating to the municipalities that are authorized to form their own land banks under the Nebraska Municipal Land Bank Act
LB1135 Urban Affairs Change provisions of the Nebraska Municipal Land Bank Act
LB799 Urban Affairs Adopt the Service Contract Reporting Act
LB1114 Urban Affairs
Change provisions related to eligibility of redevelopment plans for expedited review under the Community Development Law
LB1214 McKinney Create a pilot program for neighborhood data collaboratives
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Appropriations Room 1003 - 1:30 p.m.
Agency 5
Agency 46
Supreme Court
Correctional Services, Department of Agency 64 State Patrol, Nebraska
Agency 78
Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice
Agency 94 Public Advocacy, Commission on Agency 69 Arts Council, Nebraska
LB752 Spivey State intent regarding appropriations to the Department of Correctional Services
Executive Board Room 1524 - 12:00 p.m.
LB1236 Executive Board
LB1065 Executive Board
LR305CA Lippincott
LB765 Holdcroft
LB884 Andersen
LB1075 Sanders
Change provisions relating to publication, printing, and distribution of legislative journals, session laws, and statutes
Change provisions regarding the publication and distribution of the Constitution of Nebraska
Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m.
Constitutional amendment to authorize the recall of the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Secretary of State, the State Treasurer, the Attorney General, the Auditor of Public Accounts, and members of the Legislature
Change provisions relating to elections for school district bonds and bonds issued by a joint entity that includes a Nebraska school district or educational service unit
Change provisions relating to voter registration, ballots, and poll watchers and observers
Provide requirements for certain village warrants, change various provisions of the Election Act, and change election provisions for exceeding a school district's property tax authority
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 (cont.)
Health and Human Services Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1194 Storer Adopt the Real Food Act
LB1144 Hardin
LB1132 Fredrickson
LB723 Quick
LB1212 Riepe
LB897 Lonowski
LB859 Bostar
LB1169 Wordekemper
LB784 Hallstrom
LB785 Hallstrom
Redefine a term and provide requirements for entities issuing health plans under the Medical Assistance Act
Require the Department of Health and Human Services to file a state plan amendment for coverage of long-acting injectable and extended-release medications for certain individuals
Provide for implementation of community engagement requirements under the Medical Assistance Act
Provide for licensure of internationally trained physicians under the Uniform Credentialing Act
Judiciary Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m.
Change a penalty and provide a fee for violating the open burning ban
Provide for county conflict counsel to represent certain indigent persons when the public defender is unavailable
Prohibit assault on a court operations officer
Change residency requirements for sheriffs in certain counties and continuing education requirements for law enforcement officers
Prohibit conduct involving mail receptacle keys and locks with the intent to defraud or deprive another of property
LB874 Hallstrom Enhance penalties for motor vehicle homicide and motor vehicle homicide of an unborn child caused by wireless communication device violations
Natural Resources Room 1023 - 1:30 p.m.
Appointment
Appointment
Appointment
LB1010 Brandt
Bird, Bradley - Environmental Quality Council
Gottschalk, Kristen - Nebraska Power Review Board
Liegl, David - Nebraska Power Review Board
Provide for eminent domain of electrical energy storage property, storage of electric energy under the Electric Cooperative Corporation Act, and energy storage resources and change application, notice, filing, exemption, and violation provisions relating to electric suppliers
LB1220 Brandt Change provisions relating to hunting, fur-harvesting and fishing
Revenue Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1253 Bostar
LB1257 Hansen
Change provisions relating to the laws that apply to certain tax sale certificates
Eliminate certain sales tax exemptions, impose sales and use taxes on certain services, change school district levy limitations, eliminate the School District Property Tax Relief Act, change provisions of the School District Property Tax Limitation Act, and provide additional foundation aid under the Tax Equity and Educational Opportunities Support Act
LB826 DeKay Change provisions relating to late applications for homestead exemptions
LB873 Hallstrom Provide for an excise tax on kratom products and change provisions of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act relating to adulterated products
LB1193 Prokop
LB1189 Conrad
Provide regulation of and requirements for energy storage resources and change provisions relating to property tax exemptions and the nameplate capacity tax
Create a pilot program to raise awareness of the earned income tax credit
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Appropriations Room 1003 - 1:30 p.m.
Agency 18
Agriculture, Department of Agency 72 Economic Development, Department of
LB806 Ibach
Provide for a grant to a city of the first class from the Site and Building Development Fund
LB844 Rountree Provide for additional grants under the Site and Building Development Fund
LB1030 Dorn Appropriate funds to the Department of Economic Development for state aid to development districts
LB1070 Dover Change appropriations to the Department of Economic Development
LB1167 Dorn State intent regarding appropriations to the Department of Economic Development
LB1190 Conrad Change authorized use of funds appropriated to the Department of Economic Development
LB1231 Strommen Transfer money from the Panhandle Improvement Project Cash Fund to the Animal Damage Control Cash Fund and state legislative intent
Executive Board Room 1524 - 12:00 p.m.
LB1049 Ibach Require the Legislative Fiscal Analyst to prepare economic impact reports for regulatory actions
LB1179 DeBoer Change provisions relating to the Agriculture Committee, Natural Resources Committee, and Transportation and Telecommunications Committee of the Legislature
Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m.
LR293 Kauth
Urge the United States Congress to swiftly enact legislation to provide for veterans' access to treatments for traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder
LB754 Wordekemper Change provisions relating to permits issued by the Nebraska State Patrol for the storage, use, or purchase of explosives and application requirements for display fireworks
LB899 Lonowski Change and eliminate provisions of the Engineers and Architects Regulation Act
Health and Human Services Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1234 Hansen Adopt the Freestanding Birth Center Act
LB1211 Riepe Provide requirements for automated medication systems operated by certain pharmacies under the Automated Medication Systems Act
Judiciary Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m.
LB957 Cavanaugh, J.
Provide a cause of action against certain adults for allowing a minor to possess a handgun and create an offense of leaving a loaded firearm in a location accessible to a minor
LB1079 von Gillern Change provisions relating to the habitual criminal enhancement for theft offenses
LB1097 Conrad Adopt the State and Political Subdivisions Sexual Abuse Liability Act
LR299CA McKinney Constitutional amendment to create the Nebraska Board of Commutation and transfer powers of the Board of Pardons
LB1032 DeBoer Provide for recognition and enforcement of tribal customary adoptions under the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Act and related laws
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Thursday, February 12, 2026 (cont.)
LB1111 Cavanaugh, M.
Natural Resources Room 1023 - 1:30 p.m.
Require an annual data center load report to the Nebraska Power Review Board, provide powers and duties for public power suppliers, allow and require regulation of data centers, and change provisions relating to regulation of cryptocurrency mining operations
LB1064 Bostar Adopt the Large Load Customer Regulation Act
LB1204 Clouse Adopt the Nameplate Capacity Tax Facility Standards Act and change provisions relating to property tax exemptions and the nameplate capacity tax
Revenue Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1117 Ibach
Change provisions relating to tuition waivers and provide for reimbursement to postsecondary institutions
LB890 Clouse Change provisions relating to fees and occupations taxes under the Mechanical Amusement Device Tax Act
LB938 Hallstrom Adopt the First-Time Home Buyer Savings Account Act and provide for income tax adjustments
LB1206 Juarez Exempt income received by certificated teachers, paraeducators, and paraprofessionals from state income taxation
LR292CA Andersen
Constitutional amendment to provide a new method of valuing real property for property tax purposes, provide a limit on property tax increases, provide certain exceptions, provide requirements for declared emergencies, provide for emergency bond levies, and eliminate conflicting constitutional provisions
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
NEBRASKA UNICAMERAL LEGISLATURE
109th LEGISLATURE, SECOND SESSION
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS
The order of the bills listed may not be the order in which they are heard that day in committee.
Appointment
Appointment
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Agriculture Room 1023 - 1:30 p.m.
Hesser, Mark - State Fair Board
Connell, Susan J - Nebraska Brand Committee
LB1187 DeKay Change certain fees and surcharges under the Livestock Brand Act
LB1258 Hansen Rename the Livestock Brand Act as the Livestock Protection Act, eliminate the Nebraska Brand Committee, and change, provide, and eliminate provisions relating to livestock branding and livestock protection
Appropriations Room 1524 - 1:30 p.m.
LB1248 Dover
Agency 28
Change appropriations to the Department of Water, Energy, and Environment
Veterans' Affairs, Department of
Agency 21 State Fire Marshal
Agency 31 Military Department
Agency 65
Administrative Services, Department of
Agency 84 Water, Energy, and Environment, Department of
LB968 Prokop
Appropriate funds to the Military Department for grants for equipment for emergency events
LB989 Sanders Appropriate funds to the Military Department for the Nebraska Nonprofit Security Grant Program
Banking, Commerce and Insurance Room 1507 - 1:30 p.m.
AM1710 Jacobson Amending LB525
LB1003 Meyer, G.
LB1246 Dover
LB810 Dover
LB768 Dover
LB1251 Dover
Adopt the Renewable Energy Consumer Protection Act and provide a deceptive trade practice
Provide duties for the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority and change reporting requirements under the Nebraska Affordable Housing Act
Provide for a deputy director and eliminate notice requirements for cease and desist orders under the Nebraska Real Estate License Act
Provide powers for the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority and change provisions relating to the Nebraska Affordable Housing Act, the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act, and the Middle Income Workforce Housing Investment Act
Change provisions relating to liens of homeowners' associations and unit owners associations
LB762 Dungan Require insurance coverage of pediatric autoimmune disorders
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (cont.)
Education Room 1525 - 1:30 p.m.
LB960 McKinney
Provide a requirement to include nonvoting student members on school boards
LB966 Cavanaugh, M. Adopt the Hunger-Free Schools Act
LB1034 Dungan
LB1207 Juarez
LB1247 Dover
LB1073 Bosn
LB1158 DeBoer
LB1162 Ballard
LB1180 DeBoer
Prohibit school staff from allowing federal immigration enforcement officers to access schools without a judicial warrant
Require school districts to provide mental health leave for school employees
Require postsecondary institution participation in the Nebraska Statewide Workforce and Education Reporting System for the Nebraska Career Scholarship Act
Transportation and Telecommunications Room 1510 - 1:30 p.m.
Require commercial motor vehicle driver training to include antitrafficking training
Change provisions relating to certain motor carriers
Change powers and duties of the Public Service Commission relating to railroad safety
Provide for licenses to engage in intrastate medicaid nonemergency medical transportation services and provide that certain rates charged by certain motor carriers are not subject to regulation by the Public Service Commission
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Appropriations Room 1003 - 1:30 p.m.
Agency 3
Agency 9
Agency 10
Agency 11
Agency 12
Agency 23
Agency 37
Agency 67
Agency 77
Legislative Council
Secretary of State
Auditor of Public Accounts
Attorney General
State Treasurer
Labor, Department of
Workers' Compensation Court
Equal Opportunity Commission
Industrial Relations, Commission of Agency 85 Public Employees Retirement Board, Nebraska
Executive Board Room 1524 - 12:00 p.m.
LR304 Fredrickson
Designate the Legislative Oversight Committee to review, investigate, and assess the effect of child welfare efficiency practices on child safety, quality of services provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, and public and private workforce stability
LR297CA Cavanaugh, M. Constitutional amendment to change provisions related to amending, repealing, modifying, or impairing a law enacted by initiative petition
LR311CA Cavanaugh, J. Constitutional amendment to create a Commission on Redistricting and provide requirements for drawing district boundaries
League of Nebraska Municipalities LEGISLATIVE BULLETIN
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Executive Board Room 1524 - 12:00 p.m.
LB1066 Fredrickson
Require members of the Legislature to complete a civics assessment
LB917 Conrad Change provisions relating to the disposition of property by the University of Nebraska
LB1125 Sorrentino
Require legislative approval of certain University of Nebraska contracts and restrict ownership of certain facilities
The order of the bills listed may not be the order in which they are heard that day in committee. If auxiliary aids or reasonable accommodations are needed for attendance at a hearing, please call the Clerk of the Legislature’s Office at (402) 471-2271. Advance notice of ten business days is needed when requesting an interpreter.
