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Bill

LR 86

Interim study to identify and examine the state of affordable and accessible housing in Nebraska

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Victor Rountree

An interim study to identify and examine Nebraska’s affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities and recommend policies and resources to support community living.

Notice of hearing for October 24, 2025
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Bill Summary · LR 86

LR 86 — Interim study to identify and examine the state of affordable and accessible housing in Nebraska

Quick facts

  • Bill number: LR 86
  • Title: Interim study to identify and examine the state of affordable and accessible housing in Nebraska
  • Introduced: March 26, 2025
  • Sponsor: Primary – Senator Rountree
  • Status: Notice of hearing for October 24, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Resolution (resolution)
  • Legislative actions:
    • Introduced and referred to Executive Board on March 26, 2025
    • Referred to Urban Affairs Committee on May 19, 2025
    • Hearing notice published for October 24, 2025

Purpose and intent

LR 86 proposes an interim study by the Nebraska Legislature to identify and examine the state of affordable and accessible housing in Nebraska. The study specifically seeks to determine what public policies or resources are needed so Nebraskans with disabilities can actualize the right to community living under Olmstead v. L.C. (1999). The resolution builds on Nebraska’s Olmstead commitments and the statutory authority under section 81-6,122 to form an Olmstead Committee to develop a plan, but LR 86 enlarges the focus to an interim, data-driven study.

Key study topics (scope of the interim study)

The Urban Affairs Committee shall examine, at a minimum, these areas:
1. The nature, characteristics, and importance of accessibility as it relates to housing.
2. The current stock of affordable housing and the extent to which this stock is accessible for people with disabilities.
3. Existing affordable housing programs and resources in Nebraska, including programs and resources to assist with home modifications designed to increase accessibility for people with disabilities.
4. Prospective programs, policies, and resources that could be utilized or leveraged to increase accessible and affordable housing for people with disabilities.
5. A comparison of costs for people with disabilities to live in institutional settings and costs to live within their community, including home modification costs and the provision of community-based services.
6. The long-term effects and costs when an individual is injured in the individual’s home.

Purpose of the study and expected outputs

  • Assess current conditions: accessibility of housing stock and adequacy of affordable housing for people with disabilities.
  • Identify gaps: policies, resources, and programs needed to enhance accessibility and affordable housing.
  • Economic comparison: analyze cost differences between institutional care and community-based living, including home modification expenditures and community-based services.
  • Policy recommendations: develop actionable recommendations and resource needs to support Olmstead commitments and community living.
  • Deliverables: a formal report of findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature upon conclusion of the study.

Affected parties

  • Nebraskans with disabilities and their households seeking accessible, affordable housing.
  • Housing developers, landlords, and property managers.
  • State and local housing agencies, and any programs that support home modifications or accessibility.
  • Providers of community-based services and supports.
  • Public policymakers and budget authorities evaluating future legislation or funding.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • The resolution designates the Urban Affairs Committee to conduct the interim study.
  • The committee is required to report its findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature after completing the study.
  • Hearing: Notice of hearing published for October 24, 2025, indicating a formal opportunity for testimony and input.

Potential impact

  • The study could inform future legislation or policy changes aimed at expanding affordable, accessible housing and advancing community living for Nebraskans with disabilities.
  • Results may influence funding priorities for home modification programs and community-based services.
  • By comparing institutional and community living costs, the study could shape decisions about long-term care arrangements and housing policy.

Note on status

LR 86 is a resolution calling for an interim study rather than immediate statutory changes. Its impact lies in guiding data collection, stakeholder input, and recommendations that could drive future legislative action.

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

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