African American commission created

Lawmakers passed a bill Aug. 11 that creates a state Commission on African American Affairs.

Under LB918, introduced by Omaha Sen. Justin Wayne, the commission will promote state and federal legislation beneficial to African Americans in Nebraska, work with similar commissions from other states and coordinate housing, education, welfare, medical and dental care, employment and other programs affecting African Americans in Nebraska.

The 14 commissioners, who must be of African ancestry, will be appointed by the governor and serve four-year terms.

LB918 passed on a 39-2 vote.