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LR 164

Interim study to examine to what extent inmates between five and twenty-one years of age, under the care of the Department of Correctional Services, are being provided educational services

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

The study will assess how incarcerated youths 5–21 access education (GED/high school), and identify changes to laws or rules needed to ensure instruction.

Referred to Education Committee
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Bill Summary · LR 164

LR 164 — Interim Study on Educational Services for Incarcerated Youth and Young Adults

Overview

LR 164 is a Legislative Resolution introduced in the Nebraska Legislature in 2025. It proposes an interim study by the Education Committee to evaluate how educational services are provided to inmates aged five through twenty-one who are in the care of the Department of Correctional Services, and to identify any statutory or regulatory changes needed to ensure inmates receive educational instruction. The resolution emphasizes programs such as the General Educational Development (GED) program and partnerships with educational institutions (e.g., Southeast Community College).

Purpose and Scope

  • Objective: Assess the extent to which incarcerated individuals aged 5–21 receive educational services and determine what changes, if any, are needed in law or regulation to guarantee such instruction.
  • Key questions the study will address include:
    • How many inmates in this age range participate in educational programs?
    • What educational offerings exist (including GED/high school equivalency programs)?
    • What statutory or regulatory modifications are necessary to enhance access to education?

Key Provisions

  • Designation of the Education Committee to conduct the interim study.
  • The study shall examine participation in educational programs, including GED programs, delivered by the Department of Correctional Services and through partnerships with educational institutions (such as Southeast Community College).
  • The committee will identify and recommend statutory or regulatory changes to ensure inmates receive educational instruction.

Participants and Partners

  • Primary Focus: Incarcerated individuals aged 5–21 under the care of the Department of Correctional Services.
  • Potential Partners: Educational institutions partnering with the department (explicit example given is Southeast Community College).

Reporting and Timing

  • Upon completion, the Education Committee must report findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature.
  • This is an interim study, meaning findings are intended to inform future legislative or administrative action during and after the interim period.

Legislative Actions and Status

  • Introduced: May 9, 2025.
  • Initial referral: Executive Board (May 9, 2025).
  • Subsequent referral: Education Committee (May 19, 2025).
  • Classification: Legislative Resolution (not a bill seeking immediate law, but a study directive).
  • Sponsor: Senator McKinney (primary).

Impact

  • Aims to clarify current educational provision levels for incarcerated youth and young adults.
  • Could lead to concrete recommendations and potential statutory/regulatory changes to strengthen access to education, including GED programs, for inmates.
  • Involves coordination between the Department of Correctional Services and higher education partners.

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

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