Did you know? Nebraska has the smallest state legislature in the United States. Comprised of 49 Senators, in a single unicameral house. Officially, Senators are supposed to be non-partisan. The Legislative session last for 90 days in odd-numbered years and just 60 in even-numbered years.
The lawmaking process in Nebraska officially begins when a senator introduces a bill into the Legislature, which meets each January. However, the process actually begins much earlier, when a senator first begins to formulate ideas for new laws. An idea for a new law may be suggested by anyone: concerned citizens, special interest groups, state agencies or the governor. But before the Legislature can formally consider the idea, it must be introduced as a bill by a senator or legislative committee.
Senators serve for a four year term, with half of the seats up for election every two years. Since 2000 Senators are limited to two consecutive terms.
The short legislative season, means that quite a lot happens very quickly each January. Since the laws passed by the Nebraska Legislature have a direct and often serious impact on the home building industry, it is important to keep current on what Nebraska's Senator's are considering and doing. With jobs and families this can be an impossible task for the average individual. The Nebraska State Home Builders understands that it is impractical to be in Lincoln for two or three months every year. The Nebraska State Home Builders closely monitors the Unicameral and will post updates on what happens that could impact the Home Building industry right here. But we can't do this work alone. Please, sign-up to receive our Unicameral email updates, join your local Nebraska State Home Builders local association, contribute to the NSHBA-PAC, and attend our annual Legislative Banquet where you will have the opportunity to speak directly to your State Senators about your problems and concerns and how they can help you and the industry remain strong.