State employee volunteerism bill narrowed, advanced

Lawmakers narrowed and advanced a bill May 21 that would authorize adjustments to state employee work schedules to allow participation in approved youth mentoring programs.

Under LB511, introduced by Gordon Sen. Tom Brewer, a manager could adjust a state employee’s work schedule by up to one hour per week in order to allow participation in an approved program. Paid leave for this purpose would not be authorized.

The state director of personnel would be required to develop a process and criteria to approve programs based on nationally recognized standards for quality youth mentoring.

During select file debate, Blair Sen. Ben Hansen offered an amendment that would remove provisions of his LB381, which were incorporated into the bill on general file and would change the travel reimbursement method for state employees.

Hansen said his decision was based on concerns that the provisions would not be cost neutral.

“I would like a little more time over the interim to make sure that we are introducing a sound, fiscally responsible bill and I do not want this to impede the progress of the underlying bill,” he said.

Following the 35-1 adoption of the amendment, senators advanced LB511 to final reading by voice vote.