State board, commission cleanup measure approved

Lawmakers passed a cleanup measure April 10 that clarifies the elimination or consolidation of several state boards and commissions and accompanying cash funds.

LB905, introduced by La Vista Sen. John Arch, corrects some aspects of a bill passed last year that eliminated nearly 40 state boards, councils and commissions.

The bill provides a number of clarifications regarding transfers of duties and disposition of associated cash funds. Among other provisions, the measure transfers the duties of three eliminated boards as follows:
• Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselling to the Board of Mental Health Practice;
• Foster Care Reimbursement Rate Committee and Bridge to Independence Advisory Committee to the Nebraska Children’s Commission; and
• Board of Examiners of County Highway and City Street Superintendents to the Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards.

Finally, the measure eliminates 39 inactive funds and transfers them into the state General Fund, and modifies the Information Management Revolving Fund, Vacant Building and Excess Land Cash Fund and Nebraska Capital Construction Fund.

LB905 passed on a 49-0 vote and takes effect immediately.