As a freshman senator, I've found there is a lot to learn, and I imagine I'll be learning more as the years go by. Participating in the legislative process is more interesting than I had realized it would be. I love being able to brainstorm with people in the District and with my colleagues here in order to find workable solutions that help both rural and urban Nebraska. Ever in my mind, though, are the differences between the needs of rural people and the needs of large urban areas such as Lincoln and Omaha.

 

For instance, a few weeks ago, an ATV bill (LB 307) came to the Floor for debate. Having to carry proof of insurance on an open vehicle out in a muddy field or as you're driving through the pasture in all kinds of weather did not seem practical to me, yet I understood the intent of the bill.

So, I offered an amendment to change the bill from asking the driver to carry the proof to simply needing to show proof within five days of a request for it. As a result, rural needs were brought into the mix, a center of agreement was found between urban and rural senators, and the bill passed.

I am happy that the practical, hands-on experience of farming and growing up in a rural setting plays a role here in Lincoln. I am also hoping that little steps like this can help build a bridge between western Nebraska and eastern Nebraska. My home and heart is in western Nebraska, and I intend on continually bringing our needs to the table here in the east.

The hearing for LB 700 (Human Cloning Prohibition Act) was well-attended. We were not happy with the disinformation coming from the university's expert in opposition.

This bill only prohibits the cloning of humans by somatic cell nuclear transfer. Somatic cell nuclear transfer is the name of the process by which clones are created. The result of the human cloning process is a new human being at its earliest stage of development, an embryo.

My bill prohibits this process of creating cloned human embryos. Indeed, this bill is compatible with the existing regulations the University has on itself. There are 27 co-signers on LB 700, so it rightfully should be debated on the Floor. However, the Committee will probably be split on it, which means it likely won't make it out of Committee. 

 

LB 701 (my water bill) is my priority bill this year. At the hearing, LB 458 was heard just before LB 701. Although I agree with Senator Carlson that vegetation control needs to be part of the solution, I am concerned that there are insufficient funds built into his bill to allow for clean-up of dead vegetation as well as to keep vegetation down once it is initially cleared.

I am concerned that the level of water credit can't be maintained as predicted. I estimate a credit of 1,000-2,000 acre feet, which does put a dent in the balance we owe Kansas, but it falls short of the total needed.

I have expressed these concerns, and we will see how things turn out. I do appreciate Senator Carlson for his focus on solutions for the Basin.

 

My office has gotten several e-mails, letters and phone calls regarding several of the bills being discussed this year. Thank you.

Keep up the communications!