2016 Legislative Session--On the ground and running

The 2016, second session of the 104th Legislature officially began last week on January 6, 2016. This is the "short session", meaning we will meet for business 60 days.  Since this the second half of the two-year Legislature there was no leadership reorganization.  the only exception was to elect a new Chair of the Retirement Committee.  Former Senator Jeremy Nordquist resigned to take the position of Chief of Staff for Congressman Brad Ashford and Senator John Kolterman was elected to take his seat as Chair.

This session has started at a brisk pace, new rules implemented by the Speaker and the desire to address critical issues carried over from last year means there has been a flurry of activity.

Bill introduction began immediately. In this first eight days of session 448 Legislative Bills and 34 Legislative Resolutions have been introduced. They will continue bill introduction until the 10th legislative day, January 20th.

A $110 million economic shortfall projected by the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board, will set the tone for what is prioritized.  If it costs money it will likely fall our of favor with the body.

Even with a number of controversial priority issues that must be addressed by the Legislature, we expect a number of bills to be aimed at the electric industry in Nebraska. While some topics may be frustrating we are given the opportunity to tell the Rural Electric Story.  Active engagement by NREA members will be import this session!

I am currently working on bill summaries and updating our bill tracking documents to include the new introductions.  I will send notice out when updates are available.

NREA has had two bills introduced on our behalf.  LB 736, introduced by Senator Curt Friesen will amend the Community Based Energy Development (CBED) statutes  to authorize all Nebraska utilities to purchase the energy generated by a CBED facility.  Currently the statues limit who can negotiate contracts to Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), Lincoln Electric System (LES) and Tri-State. the bill essentially broadens the markets for CBEDs and it gives mall utilities an option to purchase local renewable energy if it is in the best interest of their customers. LB 736 will be have a public hearing on January 28, 1:30 p.m., Room 1525 of the State Capitol. The Nebraska Power Association will support the bill.

LB 973, introduced by Senator Jim Smith will amend statues that address the permitting and movement of oversized loads in the state.  Even with provisions requiring notification of utilities when loads will be moving through service territory and a prohibition for anyone not authorized and qualified by the utility to manipulate the power lines, we are continuously seeing violations.  Changes to the statute will increase the penalty for failure to notify and for unauthorized manipulation of infrastructure from $100 to $1000--that is a change from a Class III misdemeanor to a Class II misdemeanor.  The bill will also require the movers to carry proof of notification from the utility and will require the permit to have a statement outlining both issues and the penalty for violation. Safety is the most important factor.  We will also work with law enforcement to educate them on the need to enforce the provisions of the statute. LB 973 is not yet scheduled for a hearing.

There are several bills that have been introduced so far this year that impact the industry.  I will use this blog to provide an update and background information.  If you are interested in quick tidbits on up-to-the-moment happenings, I encourage you to follow me on Twitter @GottschalkNREA.

As always if you have questions or comments please feel free to contact me.