Game & Parks bill takes up time

A bill which took up a large amount of time this week was LB 745, which would increase available funds for Nebraska's Game and Parks Department, by allowing the department to charge more for some types of permits.

Nebraska long ago decided on responsible fiscal policy toward our natural resources by working to ensure that much of the operations of Game and Parks would be funded by fees collected by the department.

As time has gone by, inflation has raised their costs, but the amount they are permitted by law to charge has not. In order to ensure that that operational cost increase doesn't draw more from the state, I believe it is best to support Game and Parks by simply adjusting what is paid by those who enjoy all that it offers. In addition to managing the fish and wildlife, they also have responsibility for all of the state parks and outdoor recreation resources. The bill came up against several hours of filibuster by Senator Chambers, who emphasized his support for a ban on mountain lion hunting, and objected to increased budgetary authority for Game and Parks, which administers all hunting permits in Nebraska.

By the time you read this, we will likely have debated LB 900, which would lift the helmet requirement for Nebraska motorcyclists over the age of 21, replacing it with a protective eyewear requirement.

I believe that this will be an important step for Nebraska away from "nanny state" thinking, and toward an emphasis on personal freedom, coupled with personal responsibility for the decisions we make. The bill will also raise motorcycle registration fees and penalties for operating a motorcycle without a license to do so.

The money would be put toward a new Motorcycle Safety and Brain Injury Trust Fund.

On Thursday of last week, the legislature was treated to delicious bake & take cinnamon rolls from the Nebraska Wheat Growers' Association.

My colleagues deeply appreciate what Nebraska wheat growers do to feed the state, the nation, and the world; and of course as a wheat grower myself, I know firsthand the positive impact that our farmers have on Nebraska's economy.

I always enjoy hearing from the Nebraskans I represent. 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 bills and other work of the Legislature at www.nebraskalegislature.gov, and you can click on the Live Video Streaming NET logo to watch sessions, hearings, and other Capitol events.