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LR 172

Interim study to examine the accessibility of Nebraska's unicameral legislative process to the general public to determine to what extent systemic and logistical barriers impact such accessibility

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Terrell McKinney

Study to identify barriers limiting public access to Nebraska's unicameral process and propose policy changes to improve equitable participation.

Referred to Executive Board
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Bill Summary · LR 172

Summary of Nebraska LR 172: Interim Study on Accessibility of the Unicameral Process

Overview

  • Bill type: Legislative Resolution (LR)
  • Bill number: LR 172
  • Title: Interim study to examine the accessibility of Nebraska's unicameral legislative process to the general public to determine to what extent systemic and logistical barriers impact such accessibility
  • Sponsor: McKinney (primary)
  • Introduced: May 12, 2025
  • Status: Referred to the Executive Board (First Session, 109th Legislature)

Purpose and Scope

LR 172 proposes an interim study conducted by the Executive Board of the Legislative Council. The study aims to evaluate how accessible Nebraska’s unicameral legislative process is to the general public and to determine the extent to which systematic and logistical barriers hamper public accessibility. The resolution directs the study to identify policy and procedural solutions that would increase equitable access for all Nebraskans.

Key Provisions

  • The Executive Board of the Legislative Council is designated to conduct the interim study.
  • Upon completion, the board must report its findings and recommendations to either the Legislative Council or the Legislature.

Barriers to Be Evaluated

The resolution enumerates several barriers to be examined (but allows for consideration of additional factors):
1. Lack of transportation
2. Unfamiliarity with the legislative process
3. Inability to secure paid leave from employment
4. Lack of accessible child care during committee hearings
5. Technological obstacles in accessing or participating virtually in committee hearings

Study Purpose and Deliverables

  • Purpose: Identify policy and procedural solutions to improve equitable access to the legislative process.
  • Deliverable: A findings and recommendations report at the conclusion of the study, submitted to the Legislative Council or Legislature.

Who Is Affected

  • Primarily the general public of Nebraska, including:
    • Individuals facing transportation or childcare barriers
    • Working Nebraskans needing paid leave or flexible participation options
    • Members of the public seeking information or participation in committee hearings (including those participating remotely)

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • LR 172 is a resolution referred to the Executive Board for an interim study.
  • The study is to be conducted during the interval between legislative sessions, with a final report detailing findings and recommendations to be submitted to the Legislative Council or Legislature after completion.
  • No specific deadlines or fiscal impact are provided in the text of the resolution.

Potential Impact

  • If the study identifies practical barriers and develops concrete recommendations, Nebraska could see:
    • Policy changes to expand paid leave or flexible attendance options for Nebraskans seeking to engage with the legislative process
    • Procedures to improve accessibility for individuals with caregiving responsibilities
    • Expanded or improved remote participation options and related technological accommodations
    • Transportation or outreach initiatives to increase public attendance and participation

This resolution signals a focus on making the Nebraska unicameral process more accessible and equitable, addressing practical obstacles that may limit public involvement.

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

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