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LB 681

Change provisions relating to the definition of graduate degree program

109th Legislature (2025-2026)

LB681 redefines graduate degrees into three tiers: first professional, master’s, and doctoral, replacing 85-931 to clarify program labels and regulatory reporting.

Title printed. Carryover bill
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Bill Summary · LB 681

Summary: Legislative Bill LB681 (Nebraska)

Overview

LB681 reorganizes Neb raska statutes governing professional degree programs by redefining what constitutes a “graduate degree program” under section 85-931. The bill repeals the existing version of 85-931 and enacts a revised, consolidated definition that categorizes degrees into three tiers: first professional degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees. The purpose is to clarify and modernize how graduate programs are defined for regulatory and institutional purposes.

What LB681 Does (Key Provisions)

  • Replaces the current definition of “graduate degree programs” with a structured definition that centers on the degrees awarded.
  • Defines three categories: 1) First professional degrees (the first earned degree in fields such as dentistry, medicine, optometry, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, podiatry, veterinary medicine, chiropractic, law, theology, architecture). 2) Master’s degrees (the first advanced graduate degree; includes both professional master’s programs and general academic/occupational master’s programs). Examples listed include:
    • Professional master’s fields: engineering, education, allied health, nursing, architecture (specialties), planning (community and regional), dentistry, medicine (specialties), optometry, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, podiatry, social work, veterinary medicine, chiropractic, law (specialties), theology (specialties).
    • General/occupational master’s fields: mathematics, languages, biological and physical sciences, literature, fine arts, social sciences, agriculture and natural resources, computer and information sciences, home economics, business and related areas. 3) Doctoral degrees (the earned academic degree conveying the title “Doctor” with examples such as Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Arts).
  • Clarifies that the definitions apply to all programs within those degree classifications.
  • Sec. 2 repeals the original 85-931 and enacts the revised version.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Postsecondary institutions in Nebraska that offer graduate degree programs, and state bodies that rely on degree classifications (e.g., program approvals, reporting, and regulatory definitions).
  • Students and prospective students enrolled in or pursuing graduate-level programs, as the categorization of degrees could influence program designation and regulatory considerations.
  • Postsecondary stakeholders may experience changes in how programs are labeled, evaluated, or reported under state statutes.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: January 22, 2025.
  • Referred to Committee: January 24, 2025 (Education Committee).
  • Status: Notice of hearing issued for March 18, 2025.
  • Principal sponsorship: Education Committee, led by Chair Senator Dave Murman, with committee members listed in the bill’s introduction.

Additional Notes

  • The bill is relatively technical, focusing on definitional clarity rather than creating new programs or funding mechanisms.
  • Interested parties may testify at the March 18, 2025 hearing to explain potential impacts on institutions and programs.

If you want, I can tailor this summary to emphasize how the redefinitions might affect specific institutions or programs you’re tracking.

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

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