109th Nebraska Legislature
First Session (2025)
BILL TRACKER
VOTING RIGHTS & ELECTIONS
Introduced by Lippincott, L.
OPPOSED
The way Nebraska awards its presidential electoral votes is part of what sets our state apart, and part of what unites us. While most other states give all their electoral college votes to the candidate who wins the popular vote in the state, in Nebraska we can allocate our votes by congressional district. This is a Nebraska tradition because of our deeply nonpartisan heritage that promotes fair representation and boosts participation on Election Day.
Nebraska’s process means more Nebraskans get their voices genuinely heard and ensures that our relatively small state is uniquely represented in national politics, and gives every Nebraska voter a true sense of their participation being critical.
Track this bill
Hearing set for 1:30 pm CST on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 in Room 1507 at the Nebraska State Capitol. More
Introduced by Cavanaugh, J.
NEUTRAL/MONITORING
This bill includes proposals on the timing and arrangement of city elections for Nebraska municipalities in the metropolitan class (400,000 residents).
Introduced by Fredrickson, J.
SUPPORT
This bill establishes processes and rules for implementing automatic voter registration (AVR) in Nebraska for individuals obtaining or renewing a state operator’s (driver’s) license. Under the proposed legislation, eligible Nebraskans will be automatically registered to vote unless they opt out during the application process. The bill outlines clear steps for ensuring voter eligibility, securely transferring information between the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and election officials, and providing individuals the opportunity to update or verify their voter registration information.
The legislation prioritizes accessibility and security, ensuring compliance with federal and state election laws while safeguarding personal data. It also provides flexibility for individuals to decline registration and includes provisions for voter education to inform Nebraskans about their rights and responsibilities under the new system. Civic Nebraska supports this bill as a measure to increase voter participation, streamline registration processes, and strengthen democracy in the state.
Introduced by Lippincott, L.
OPPOSED
The “Faithful Delegate to Federal Article V Convention act” outlines rules for Nebraska’s participation in a federal Article V convention, which Civic Nebraska opposes. The bill requires the Legislature to elect delegates and alternates who must follow strict instructions. Delegates casting “unauthorized votes” exceeding legislative guidance are disqualified, and replacements are appointed. Delegates must take an oath to adhere to state rules, serve without compensation (though expenses may be reimbursed), and cannot accept gifts from lobbyists. An advisory committee, including the Executive Board and Lieutenant Governor, oversees delegate conduct and resolves disputes when the Legislature is not in session.
An Article V convention could risk a runaway convention that could propose sweeping constitutional changes beyond its original intent. Despite state safeguards, an Article V convention could exceed its mandate, threatening existing constitutional protections. Additionally, the act undermines public trust by concentrating decision-making power in the Legislature, leaving little room for broader public input or accountability.
Introduced by Cavanaugh, M.
SUPPORT
This bill empowers county election commissioners and clerks to enhance voting access by allowing them to apply to the Secretary of State to conduct elections by mail for any or all precincts in their county. The application must include a detailed plan outlining how the election will be conducted, including timelines, public notice, and early voting procedures, while adhering to existing legal requirements. Once approved, mail elections will follow established guidelines, with ballots due by the statutory deadline.
To ensure accessibility, counties with approved mail voting plans must provide key voter services. These include secure ballot drop boxes available 24/7 for at least ten days before the election, in-person voting options at the election office on Election Day, and early voting opportunities. Counties may also establish additional secure drop boxes and voting locations to accommodate voters further. Civic Nebraska is monitoring this bill and is neutral on it at this time.
Introduced by Holdcroft, R.
OPPOSE
Our elections are among the most secure and respected in the nation. Gutting online registration, restricting registration by mail, imposing arbitrary hurdles on early voting, and forcing error-prone hand counts may create the illusion of promoting ‘election integrity.’ But in reality, voters have had enough time-consuming, money-wasting security theater. This petty, self-serving legislation is an insult to Nebraska voters and should be rejected outright.
Introduced by Spivey, A.
SUPPORT
This bill aims to ensure that individuals housed in facilities such as jails, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals who are unable to vote in person due to travel limitations have equitable access to the electoral process. It mandates election commissioners or county clerks to collaborate with facility administrators to develop and implement an election plan.
Introduced by Storm, J.;
OPPOSE
This bill proposes several changes to Nebraska’s initiative and referendum petition process. Civic Nebraska opposes this bill due to increased procedural hurdles that may discourage or complicate citizen-led initiatives. It introduces complex procedural requirements that may deter grassroots efforts to bring initiatives or referendums to the ballot. Also, confidentiality provisions and additional review layers could delay public awareness and participation. The stricter review process and potential for litigation create a high barrier for citizens’ groups, limiting access to direct democracy tools.
Introduced by Lippincott, L.
OPPOSED
This Legislative Resolution seeks to expedite the calling of an Article V convention of states to propose new constitutional amendments. It emphasizes imposing fiscal restraints on the federal government, limiting its power and jurisdiction, and establishing term limits for federal officials and members of Congress. The resolution declares that states, not Congress, hold authority over delegate selection, convention rules, and voting procedures. It also asserts a “one state, one vote” framework and allows the Legislature to recall delegates who breach their duties. The resolution repeals a prior application (Legislative Resolution 14 from 2022) that included an automatic rescission clause, replacing it with a continuing application until two-thirds of state legislatures support the effort.
Civic Nebraska opposes this resolution because there is potential for a runaway convention that could propose far-reaching changes beyond the stated topics, threatening constitutional protections. By fast-tracking this effort and removing a sunset clause, the resolution heightens the risks of unintended consequences in amending the U.S. Constitution.
Introduced by Lippincott, L.
OPPOSED
This Legislative Resolution seeks to apply to Congress under Article V of the U.S. Constitution to convene a convention for proposing a constitutional amendment to impose term limits on members of the U.S. House and Senate. It specifies that this application will combine with similar applications from other states to reach the two-thirds threshold required to call the convention. The application will remain active until the required number of states have submitted similar requests.
Why Civic Nebraska Opposes This Resolution
Civic Nebraska opposes this resolution due to the risks of an Article V convention, which could lead to unintended constitutional changes. Term limits also weaken voters’ ability to choose their representatives and reduce institutional knowledge in Congress, undermining its effectiveness. Civic Nebraska supports reforms that promote voter engagement and accountability instead.
Introduced by Dorn, M.
OPPOSE
The way Nebraska awards its electoral votes is part of what sets our state apart, and part of what unites us. While most other states give all their electoral college votes to the candidate who wins the popular vote in the state, in Nebraska we can allocate our votes by congressional district. This is a Nebraska tradition because of our deeply nonpartisan heritage that promotes fair representation and boosts participation on Election Day.
Nebraska’s process means more Nebraskans get their voices genuinely heard ensures that our relatively small state is uniquely represented in national politics, and gives every Nebraska voter a true sense of their participation being critical.
Hearing set for 1:30 pm CST on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 in Room 1507 at the Nebraska State Capitol. More
GOVERNANCE
Introduced by Hunt, M.
NEUTRAL/MONITORING
Anyone who pays for materials promoting or opposing a candidate or ballot issue must include a disclaimer:
Printed materials (like billboards, posters, or pamphlets): The name and address or P.O. box of the person or organization paying for it must appear on the item.
Radio or TV ads: The name of the person or organization must be mentioned in the ad. The station must keep the payer’s address or post office box on file for six months and share it with anyone who asks.
The Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission will establish rules about how disclaimers should look and where they should be placed. Certain items like yard signs, bumper stickers, campaign buttons, or balloons may be exempt. Anyone who knowingly violates this law commits a Class IV misdemeanor.
Introduced by Hunt, M.
NEUTRAL/MONITORING
Except as otherwise provided in the Nebraska Political Accountability and Disclosure Act, this bill allows any committee to also spend expenditures for a host of campaign expenses, including the operation of the campaign office or offices of the candidate or political committee; social events primarily for the benefit of campaign workers and volunteers or constituents; getting public input and opinion; repaying campaign loans incurred before election day; and newsletters and other communications for information, thanks, acknowledgment, or greetings or for political organization and planning, among other expenditures.
Introduced by Cavanaugh, M.
NEUTRAL/MONITORING
This bill addresses concerns about the proliferation of boards, commissions, and similar entities in Nebraska state government, citing a lack of sufficient oversight and accountability. It asserts that the Legislature, as the body responsible for fiscal policy and administration, should have authority to terminate, continue, or modify such entities to ensure compliance with legislative directives. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that these entities cannot function effectively when vacancies remain unfilled, undermining their intended purpose.
To address prolonged vacancies, the bill outlines a process for filling seats. If a gubernatorial appointment remains vacant for six months or more, the legislative committee of jurisdiction may accept applications and forward recommendations to the Governor. If the vacancy persists for three additional months after recommendations are made, the Executive Board of the Legislative Council may step in to make the appointment directly. Civic Nebraska is monitoring this bill and has adopted a neutral position, recognizing its potential to improve oversight while noting the importance of balanced implementation.
Introduced by Dorn, M.
SUPPORT
A proposal to amend the state constitution to increase annual salaries for state senators from $12,000 to $30,000. If approved, it would go before Nebraska voters in November 2026. Senators would also be reimbursed for travel expenses to and from legislative sessions. They would not receive additional pay or benefits beyond their salary and travel reimbursement. Legislative staff would continue to receive only their salary or per diem.
The proposed salary increase makes serving in office more accessible to a broader range of Nebraskans, not just those who can afford to serve on the current lower pay.
Introduced by Dover, R.
SUPPORT
A proposal to amend the state constitution to increase the number of consecutive four-year terms a state senator can serve in the Nebraska Legislature, from the current two to three. This strengthens the legislative process and fosters more effective governance. Nebraska’s unique unicameral Legislature benefits from institutional knowledge and experience, which take time to develop. Allowing senators to serve three consecutive terms would enable them to deepen their understanding of complex issues, build stronger relationships across political divides, and craft better-informed policies that address Nebraskans’ needs.
Term limits, while safeguarding against entrenched power, can inadvertently weaken our Legislature by forcing out experienced and effective lawmakers prematurely. This balance will lead to more thoughtful, consistent policymaking and ultimately benefit Nebraskans.
Introduced by Hansen, B.
SUPPORT
A proposal to amend the state constitution to increase annual salaries for state senators to the current hourly minimum wage and to establish health insurance coverage for senators. If approved, it would go before Nebraska voters in November 2026.
The proposed salary increase makes serving in office more accessible to a broader range of Nebraskans, not just those who can afford to serve on the current lower pay.
Introduced by Hunt, M.
SUPPORT
A proposal to amend the state constitution to increase the number of consecutive four-year terms a state senator can serve in the Nebraska Legislature, from the current two to three. This strengthens the legislative process and fosters more effective governance. Nebraska’s unique unicameral Legislature benefits from institutional knowledge and experience, which take time to develop. Allowing senators to serve three consecutive terms would enable them to deepen their understanding of complex issues, build stronger relationships across political divides, and craft better-informed policies that address Nebraskans’ needs.
Term limits, while safeguarding against entrenched power, can inadvertently weaken our Legislature by forcing out experienced and effective lawmakers prematurely. This balance will lead to more thoughtful, consistent policymaking and ultimately benefit Nebraskans
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HOW A BILL BECOMES A LAW IN NEBRASKA
1. Bill Introduction
When a Nebraska senator has an idea for a new law, they team up with a bill drafter to turn that idea into the official legal format for a bill. Nebraska is a bit unique—bills here can only cover one subject at a time.
Most senators introduce their bills during the first 10 days of the legislative session, which kicks off every January.
2. Committee
Next, the bill is assigned to one of 14 committees. Every bill gets a public hearing in committee. This is where citizens can share their opinions with lawmakers.
Once the hearing ends, the committee can vote to send the bill to the floor (with or without changes), shelve it indefinitely, or take no action at all.
3. General File
4. Select File
5. Final Reading & Passage
Bills can’t be debated or amended, but can be sent back to Select File for a specific change. Voting on a bill can’t happen until at least five legislative days after it’s introduced and one day after it’s placed on Final Reading. Bills need a simple majority (25 votes) to move to the governor. Those with an emergency clause require two-thirds (33 votes).
A proposed constitutional amendment takes 30 votes to put it on the general election ballot and 40 votes to add it to a primary or special election ballot.
