Executive board publication bill advanced

A measure that would update state law related to the compilation, printing and distribution of several official legislative documents was advanced from first-round debate March 12.

LB1236, introduced by the Executive Board, would consolidate those duties under the Clerk of the Legislature’s Office. Blair Sen. Ben Hansen, committee chairperson, said the bill would centralize work that currently is spread across a number of entities, including the Secretary of State’s Office and the Nebraska Supreme Court.

“By consolidating these functions within the legislative branch, the bill aims to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens on other branches of government and ensure timely access to legislative materials for public officials,” Hansen said.

A committee amendment, adopted 29-0 replaced the bill with a modified version of the proposal. Under the amendment, the clerk of the legislature would be authorized to distribute session laws, the legislative journal and state statutes in print, electronic or both formats.

The amendment also would change current mandatory and fixed numbers of copies to “up to” and “provided upon request.” Hansen said the change would promote flexibility and reduce unnecessary printing, potentially saving up to $300,000 if more people move to an electronic format, without compromising access to important documents.

LB1236 advanced to select file on a 29-0 vote.