This week marked the end of bill introduction with a total of 715 Legislative Bills introduced in this 90-day session. I am pleased to share that I have introduced three additional measures, bringing my total to four bills this session. In addition to LB 312 referenced last week, I have introduced LB 697, which would change the requirements related to compounding and delegated dispensing permits under the Pharmacy Practice Act. I found this bill particularly important because it directly and positively affects rural healthcare. LB 698, a bill that proposes to amend provisions of the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, is designed to protect the employees of small business owners. Lastly, LB 699 would revise provisions relating to certain sales and use tax incentives under the ImagiNE Nebraska Act, clarifying and cleaning up the language around tax cuts to ensure it is more straightforward and effective.
In addition to my work on the Appropriations Committee, I am honored to have been elected Vice Chairperson of the Legislature’s Planning Committee. This role, along with my election to The STAR WARS (Statewide Tourism and Recreation Water Access and Resource Sustainability) Special Committee and the Homeland Security Policy Group, will allow me to have a more direct impact on shaping Nebraska’s future, particularly in key areas such as public safety, defense, and strategic policy.
The Rules Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the procedural framework for legislative sessions. One of its primary responsibilities is the ongoing debate and review of permanent rules, which has occurred during the morning sessions. With bill introduction now complete, we have entered the next phase of the legislative process, committee hearings. Senators have begun presenting their individual bills to the respective standing committees. This is a critical step where discussions will take place, citizens can get involved, and where each bill will be carefully considered by committee members.
Every day brings on new opportunities and I’ve made it a priority to attend a variety of networking receptions, where I’ve had the chance to meet with representatives from community organizations, nonprofits, and other essential service providers. These conversations have allowed me to familiarize myself with the range of resources available to our constituents, from educational initiatives to healthcare access, and everything in between.
I look forward to continuing to work on these important issues and will keep you updated as the session progresses.