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Bill

LB 764

Provide for certain Department of Correctional Services employees to be law enforcement officers

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rick Holdcroft

Bill designates certain Nebraska prison staff as law enforcement officers, expanding their authority and likely increasing state costs for training, pay, and liability coverage.

Presented to Governor on April 10, 2026
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Bill Summary · LB 764

Legislative bill overview

LB 764 would designate certain Department of Correctional Services (DCS) employees as law enforcement officers, granting them official peace officer status. This classification change would apply to specific DCS staff members, likely those in security or supervisory roles within Nebraska's correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Classifying DCS employees as law enforcement officers carries significant implications for training requirements, liability protections, arrest authority, and pension/benefits eligibility. The designation could affect how correctional staff interact with inmates, their legal standing in use-of-force incidents, and the state's financial obligations regarding compensation and retirement benefits.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and liability: Law enforcement classification typically requires higher pay, specialized training mandates, and expanded liability coverage, increasing state budget demands
  • Scope and oversight: Ambiguity about which DCS employees qualify and what enforcement powers they would exercise—potentially creating inconsistent authority across facilities
  • Union and labor concerns: May trigger disputes over job classifications, seniority systems, and compensation equity between newly-classified and existing law enforcement officers

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

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