We’re beginning this legislative update, sadly and frustratingly, with another update about continued workplace harassment at the Capitol.
While we advocate for gender equity in workplaces and communities free from gender-based violence, members of the legislature continue to harass their colleagues, disbelieve survivors and ignore the harm while pushing destructive narratives and policies that do nothing to make Nebraskans free or safe. Not only does this create unsafe work environments, but it limits the advancement of women in government and creates barriers for everyday Nebraskans to participate in policymaking.
When we shine a light on the abuse, the patterns appear and the power shifts. And we’re keeping a close eye on this as we remain committed to creating spaces and communities where women can contribute, lead and thrive.
THE BUDGET
Looming over this session is the $471 million budget deficit that lawmakers must address. While we do not receive state funding, we are closely monitoring these hearings and discussions as several bills will impact women and their families. For instance:
- LB 1071 prohibits the use of state funds for anything related to DEI, specifically defining these as any activity, training or program that discusses, among other things, anti-racism, allyship, “transgender ideology,” marginalization and social justice.
- LB 1072 would sweep existing money from dozens of critical state-funded programs, like the Rural and Middle-Income Workforce Housing programs and the Foster Care Review Office fund, eliminating necessary funding for affordable housing programs and important government oversight.
- Additional budget-related bills are proposing $152 million cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services that would raise health care costs and limit access to quality treatment for all Nebraskans.
Women are nearly two-thirds of those accessing public assistance and are 13% more likely than men to live at or near poverty level. So, when support systems are reduced, women and families are the most negatively impacted in our state. Follow partner organizations, like OpenSky Policy Institute, for more information about the state budget.
KEY BILL UPDATES (AND TWO ACTION ITEMS!)
Tomorrow is the final day for senators to select priority legislation. Each legislator selects one bill, each committee selects several bills to create a Committee Priority package, and Speaker John Arch selects up to 25 bills to designate as Speaker Priority bills. As we wrap up committee hearings, it will be important for you to contact your senator directly with support or opposition for bills. We’ll continue to keep you updated on when to act—follow our social media for action alerts!
❌ LB 258 (Sen. Jane Raybould) was the first bill to pass this legislative session and it will reverse what voters approved in 2022, creating a sub-minimum wage for workers under 20 and adding restrictions to future cost of living increases at a time when everyday expenses are overwhelming hardworking families. Read more from the Nebraska Examiner and see how your senator voted.
❌ LB 512, an anti-abortion bill from last session, has been prioritized by the introducer, Sen. Rick Holdcroft. Already significantly restricted, LB 512 would put further barriers in place for people seeking abortion care while also adding criminal penalties for doctors.
🚨 ACTION: Contact your senator now to oppose this anti-abortion legislation and block another attempt by lawmakers to push care out of reach.
❌ LB 669 (Sen. Tonya Storer) failed to reach cloture during General File which means the bill fails to pass. During debate, senators co-opted language around helping survivors of gender-based violence by conflating reproductive coercion and abortion care. The bill was introduced to further an anti-abortion agenda and add unnecessary barriers to care. Forced pregnancy of any kind, by a person or by the state, is gender-based violence. Read more from the Lincoln Journal Star.
❌ LB 732 (Sen. Kathleen Kauth) has advanced from the Health and Human Services Committee by a vote of 4-3. This bill, now on General File, would further expand the ban on life-saving, gender-affirming care. A senator, committee or the speaker needs to prioritize the bill before it gets scheduled for debate. We’ll continue to monitor, but it’s always a good time to let you senator know you oppose harmful, anti-trans legislation.
🚨 ACTION: Find your senator and stay ready to contact them.
✅ LB 751 (Sen. Ashlei Spivey) has now moved to Final Reading! The legislation would require a study to improve the reporting and investigation of missing Black women and children.
UPCOMING HEARINGS
Hearings will continue through February 27 with full day floor debates beginning on Tuesday, March 3. We’ve recently testified in support of paid sick leave, expanding free school meals and preventing domestic violence by removing firearms from perpetrators.
Committee hearings happen each afternoon. Make your plan now to attend in person or stream the hearings online. If you can’t attend to testify, you can submit online comments for the record by 8 am the day of the hearing.
✅ LB 843 (Sen. Victor Rountree) – Requires food assistance services for refugee and immigrants.
- Health & Human Services Committee, Room #1510
- Hearing begins at 1:30 pm
- Add your comment of support by 8 am Thursday
✅ LB 739 (Sen. Rountree) – Adjusts the name change process, helping survivors of gender-based violence.
- Judiciary Committee, Room #1525
- Hearing begins at 1:30 pm
- Add your comment of support by 8 am Friday
Lead the Change Fund works in strategic partnership with the Women’s Fund of Omaha.