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LB 818

Change provisions relating to penalties for domestic assault and assault by strangulation or suffocation

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tanya Storer

LB 818 modifies criminal penalties for domestic assault and strangulation/suffocation offenses in Nebraska, adjusting sentencing classifications or mandatory minimums for these violent crimes.

Notice of hearing for January 21, 2026
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Bill Summary · LB 818

Legislative bill overview

LB 818 modifies Nebraska's criminal penalties for domestic assault and assault by strangulation or suffocation offenses. The bill adjusts sentencing provisions, classification levels, or mandatory minimum sentences for these specific violent crime categories. The exact provisions are being reviewed by the Judiciary Committee following its introduction.

Why is this important

Domestic violence and strangulation assault are serious crimes with documented links to escalating violence and homicide risk. Changes to penalty structures directly affect criminal consequences for perpetrators and can influence prosecution decisions, victim safety outcomes, and deterrent effects. These modifications shape how the justice system responds to intimate partner violence.

Potential points of contention

  • Severity of penalties: Whether proposed changes increase or decrease sentences—increased penalties appeal to victim advocates but may face defense arguments about proportionality; decreased penalties would likely draw opposition from domestic violence prevention groups
  • Strangulation classifications: Strangulation/suffocation cases present unique dangerousness concerns; disputes may arise over whether penalties adequately reflect the lethality risk of these assault methods
  • Discretion vs. mandatory minimums: Whether the bill grants judges discretion or imposes rigid sentencing requirements—affects individualized justice considerations versus consistency and deterrence goals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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