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How a Bill Becomes a Law in Nebraska
NOTE: We're in the process of launching a new Family First website with exciting new features and information, including a robust "Legislative Action Center." Please check back regularly over the next few weeks as we progress through the roll-out. Thanks for your patience and support.
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Unicameral 101
The Nebraska Unicameral consists of 49 senators from 49 legislative districts. Nebraska is unique in that we have only one house (thus the title “unicameral). The Unicameral is non-partisan – that is, senators do not run as republicans or democrats.
There are four keys things to remember regarding the process of how a bill becomes a law.
Bill Introduction/Committee Hearings
Bills are introduced during the first ten days of the legislative session.
Every bill is referred to one of thirteen standing committees (i.e. Judiciary, Education, Revenue etc.).
Every bill in Nebraska must have a public hearing. At these hearings, proponents and opponents of the legislation have the opportunity to testify regarding the merits of the bill. Subsequent to the hearing, the committee can be do three things with the bill:
- Kill the bill
- Advance the bill for debate by the entire legislature (either with or without committee amendments)
- Hold the bill (take no action).
General File
General File is generally referred to as the first round of legislative debate.
During General File, proponents, opponents and those who are undecided are given the opportunity to discuss the proposed legislation. Senators also have the option to 1) amend the bill; 2) kill the bill; 3) bracket (delay) the bill; 4) advance the bill to Select File for second round debate; and 5) refuse to advance the bill. A majority of 25 votes are needed to advance the bill.
Select File
Select File is the second round of debate. All of the options available to senators on General File are also available on Select File.
Final Reading
In actuality, debate is not allowed during Final Reading. However, senators may file motions to return the legislation to Select File for a specific amendment. Absent any motions, 25 votes are needed to pass the bill. If a bill passes, it is sent to the Governor, who may sign, veto or let the bill become law without his/her signature.
