Interim studies

The time between when the legislature adjourns for the year and when we start again in January is called the interim. During this time, legislative committees will hold hearings on interim study resolutions. The resolutions authorize a committee to study an issue following the adjournment of a legislative session. The chairperson may hold some of the hearings outside of the Capitol, if it has a greater effect on a particular part of the state.

This past week the committees that I sit on held 9 hearings. On Monday September 21, I attend a Natural Resources Committee hearing in North Platte on LR 323, introduced by Senator Mike Groene. It was a study to examine issues surrounding the N-CORPE augmentation project in Lincoln County.

Tuesday, the Natural Resources Committee held two hearings in Sidney. LR 154 was introduced by Senator John Stinner. It is an interim study regarding the authority of the Nebraska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission and its role in decisions regarding the reinjection of wastewater into non producing oil or gas wells. The other hearing was LR 247, introduced by Senator Ken Harr, it is a study to examine the process of eliminating the Nebraska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission.

On Wednesday, Sept. 23, there was a Natural Resources Committee hearing, LR 272 is a resolution introduced by Senator Ken Haar, a study to examine the Niobrara Council and its current statutory authority outlined in the Niobrara Scenic Act.

On Friday morning we held General Affair Committee interim hearings. We heard 3 resolutions brought by Senator Tyson Larson. LR 288, a study to examine the statutory relationship between cities of the second class and villages and the public libraries within their jurisdictions. LR 290, a study to examine how public libraries are archiving newspapers. The final hearing was on LR 307, a study to review and examine ways to improve the pickle card industry.

Friday afternoon I attended the Urban Affairs Committee hearings. LR 152 introduced by Senator Sue Crawford, is a study to examine the Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act. We also heard, LR 155, introduced on behalf of the Urban Affairs Committee, it is a study to examine current and potential economic development tools available to municipalities.

While I was in Lincoln last week I had an opportunity to sit down with the new director of the Department of Natural Resources, Jeff Fassett. I was impressed by his knowledge of water and the enthusiasm he brings to his new job and his fresh approach.

I look forward to hearing from you. Please feel free to contact my office with any questions or concerns that you might have. My email address is dhughes@leg.ne.gov and my phone number is (402) 471-2805. You can read more about the bills at www.nebraska.gov you can also watch live streaming video.