The last week of February was the home stretch for committee hearings for the 107th Nebraska Legislature. Speaker Mike Hilgers was preparing the senators for full floor debate as we approached the month of March. I am very appreciative of the measures he has taken as our new speaker to ensure that we are all keeping safe and sensible during these tumultuous times.
Last week, we finished up our hearings in both the Agricultural and Health and Human Services Committees. We will be hearing no further introduced bills as we will vote in committee to see which bills will continue to the floor for full debate.
Monday was the last day for the Business and Labor committee to meet to hear final testimony on the final few bills left before the committee voted to send them to the floor. It has been a great honor to serve as the chairman of the Business and Labor committee and I look forward to floor debate and how I can continue to serve my district better each day.
On Feb. 19, I testified in support for my bill LB 301, which changes drug schedules and penalties and adopts federal drug provisions under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. This bill would update the Nebraska Controlled Substances Schedule to conform to the federal Controlled Substances Schedule. It would also de-schedule specific FDA-approved drugs containing CBD such as the brand name drug Epidolex, which helps those with epilepsy. The hearing was well received and I am confident the Judiciary committee will vote to advance this bill to the floor.
On Wednesday, I will testified on behalf of my 2nd amendment bill that will change provisions relating to carrying a concealed weapon.
My bill, LB 436, the athletic trainer bill, has been voted out of Executive Committee from the Health and Human Services Committee unanimously and will go to the floor. I greatly appreciate the work they have done and I’m glad we were able to advance this bill. This bill will give a section of our healthcare workers, athletic trainers, a broader scope of practice to those who can and will benefit from their training and experience.
Additionally, I want to thank all of my constituents from District 16. I have received so many emails covering so many issues both federally and locally. I always encourage any constituent to reach out to my office as we love to be of assistance to the amazing people of Washington, Burt, and Cumming counties.
You’re welcome to contact our office at 402-471-2728 to speak with my Administrative Assistant and Committee Clerk Ellie Stangl or my Legislative Aide Christopher Prosch. You can also email me at bhansen@leg.ne.gov. To follow along with the session please visit nebraskalegislature.gov or you may watch the live stream when available at netnebraska.org
