Executive Board hears bill to change timing of certified Nebraska Constitution publication

Senator Ben Hansen, chair of the Executive Board, introduced LB1065 as an update intended to streamline compilation, certification and dissemination of Nebraska's constitution so that the reviser compiles an updated certified copy after each regular legislative session rather than only after constitutional amendment elections. Hansen said the change would allow more consistent revisions that could include notes on section sources and judicial declarations and ensure availability in both electronic and print forms.

Under the bill as described, the reviser would compile an updated copy and transmit it to the secretary of state for review and certification; the certified copy would then be made available electronically on the Legislature's website and printed pamphlets would be distributed on request. Hansen said certified copies would continue to serve as prima facie evidence in Nebraska courts.

Marcia McClurg, adviser of statutes and bill director, told the committee the purpose of LB1065 is to change only the timing of certification and not the substance of the certified version. She provided committee materials showing that section 49-17O1 was enacted in 2016 by Legislative Bill 686 (introduced by Senator Chambers) and said the reviser's office would continue to follow the statement of intent when preparing certified versions.

There were no in-person proponents or opponents at the microphone for LB1065; the committee received one neutral letter. The committee took no vote and closed the hearing on LB1065.