School emergency expenditure bill approved

Schools will be allowed to make emergency expenditures under a bill approved May 20.

Currently when there is a disaster, emergency or civil defense situation, local governments may make expenditures for emergency management purposes. LB283, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Roy Baker, extends that authority to school districts and educational service units (ESUs).

Prior to making expenditures, a school district or ESU will be required to secure an emergency proclamation from the emergency management director serving the local jurisdiction in which the school or ESU is located.

The public hearing requirement for altering a budget will not apply to emergency expenditures.

LB283 passed on a 48-0 vote and takes effect immediately.