Bill restricting frivolous lawsuits by inmates approved

A bill aimed at restricting frivolous lawsuits filed by inmates at public expense was given final approval April 10.

Under LB793, introduced by Omaha Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh, an inmate who previously has filed three civil lawsuits deemed by a court to be frivolous is prohibited from filing a civil case at the public’s expense. An inmate may continue to file civil suits at his or her personal expense.

Exceptions to the rule include criminal appeals and cases in which an inmate is in danger of bodily harm. The “three-strike rule” will apply only to lawsuits filed after the law takes effect.

The bill passed on a 47-1 vote.