Omaha Public Schools legislative report: board briefed on LB 645 and LB 653 implications

OMAHA, Neb. — At its May 19 meeting the Omaha Public Schools Board of Education received a legislative committee report covering several bills under consideration by the Nebraska Legislature and possible effects on the district.

Committee representatives told the board that LB 645, initially drafted to remove the state’s 2% contribution to the State School Employees Plan, was amended before debate to clarify it would not eliminate the state contribution to OSERS (the Omaha Schools Employees Retirement System). The board’s prior decision to adopt a position opposing LB 645 was noted by staff as having been prudent; the bill was sent to the governor with the amendment retaining the contribution for OSERS.

The committee report also discussed LB 653, a bill that began as a special-education measure but has been expanded to include other provisions. Board staff cautioned that one portion of LB 653 — language similar to the previously discussed LB 507 — would expand transportation obligations for special-education students who attend the district but live outside its boundaries. Currently the district does not have that obligation. Committee staff said they submitted a fiscal note estimating costs for the district and the state if that portion remains in the bill. Another provision within LB 653 would allow release of students one day per week for religious instruction; the Speaker has asked sponsors to slim down the bill to address concerns.

Board members were told the legislative session’s 90th and final day is scheduled for June 9; debate over the state budget was expected to occupy much of the remaining calendar. Committee representatives thanked lobbyists and staff for monitoring the bills and said they would continue to update the board if LB 653 or related measures advance.