The Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature has told lawmakers there will be some long days and nights starting next Tuesday with just eight days remaining in the session.
Sen. John Arch discussed his plans on the floor Thursday, noting that out of 103 priority bills this session, 14 have yet to get general file debate, including 9 still in committee.
With limited time before the end of the 60-day session, Arch told colleagues he’s not inclined to have ‘Christmas Tree’ bills like last year. “How long each debate lasts, and whether extra time is spent on adding non priority bills to priority bills, will determine how many of the remaining priority bills we get to,” said Arch. “So, I know it’s the end of the session. I know everybody’s trying to find a vehicle to to attach a bill to a non priority bill to attach to, but again, that takes that takes time. So if you come and ask me ‘What what do you think?’ I’m going to say ‘No, let’s keep moving the priority bills’.”
The La Vista lawmaker said to maximize productivity, lawmakers can expect to be working on the 60th day, and through that point, everyone needs to do their part, including deciding how much time they want to spend discussing bills, both pro and con.
For bills with significant opposition, Arch said he will require sponsors to provide a vote card showing enough support to overcome any filibusters before they are scheduled for debate.
