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LR 235

Interim study to examine the approval process, personnel involved, and costs associated with controlled burn permits

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Woody Wordekemper

Nebraska LR 235 orders an interim study by the Natural Resources Committee to review how controlled burn permits are approved, who handles them, and the related costs.

Notice of hearing for September 12, 2025
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Bill Summary · LR 235

Summary of Nebraska Legislative Resolution LR 235 ( interim study )

Overview

LR 235 is a legislative resolution introduced in the 109th Nebraska Legislature, First Session, on May 15, 2025. It requests an interim study by the Natural Resources Committee to examine the approval process, personnel involved, and costs associated with controlled burn permits. The resolution is not a bill that changes law but directs a committee to investigate and report findings and recommendations.

  • Bill number: LR 235
  • Title: Interim study to examine the approval process, personnel involved, and costs associated with controlled burn permits
  • Type: Resolution (interim study)
  • Introduced: May 15, 2025
  • Primary sponsor: Wordekemper (also sponsored by Brandt, Clouse, DeKay, Ibach, Lonowski, McKeon, Storer)
  • Status: Notice of hearing for September 12, 2025

Purpose

To propose and authorize an interim study assessing how controlled burn permits are approved, who handles the process, and what costs are involved. The study aims to evaluate existing procedures and identify areas for improvement in efficiency, safety, cost management, and ecological outcomes.

Key provisions / areas of study

The resolution outlines several specific topics the study will examine, including but not limited to:

1) Timings and locations of controlled burns
2) Historical complications with controlled burns and effects on affected citizens
3) Weather conditions, dates, and safety precautions preceding burns
4) Regulations governing public versus private burns
5) Long-term environmental goals of controlled burns
6) Current statutes relating to burns
7) Regulations for firebreaks, required equipment for safe burns, and sourcing of equipment
8) Impact of controlled burns on the natural ecosystem

Procedure, oversight, and reporting

  • Designated committee: Natural Resources Committee of the Legislature
  • Purpose of the study: Carry out the enumerated purposes and produce findings and recommendations
  • Reporting: Upon conclusion, the committee will report its findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature

Timeline and hearings

  • Introduction: May 15, 2025
  • Initial referrals: May 15, 2025 (Executive Board); May 19, 2025 (Natural Resources Committee)
  • Hearing notice: July 31, 2025
  • Hearing date: September 12, 2025 (as indicated by the notice of hearing)

Impact and who is affected

  • Agencies and state entities involved in issuing, regulating, or overseeing controlled burn permits
  • Private and public landowners who conduct controlled burns
  • Safety professionals, fire districts, emergency management personnel
  • Citizens living in areas where controlled burns occur
  • Environmental stakeholders evaluating ecological and long-term sustainability goals

Additional context

  • This is an interim study, meaning its outcome will be a report with findings and recommendations, not an immediate change in law.
  • The study’s results could inform future legislative action or rulemaking related to controlled burn permitting processes, safety protocols, and environmental objectives.

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

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