Cloture attempt fails on campaign call debate

Senators continued debating a bill on general file Jan. 23 that would create an exemption for automatic dialing-announcing devices used for campaign purposes. An attempt to invoke cloture—or cease debate on the bill and vote—failed by seven votes.

Currently, political calls made by automatic dialing-announcing devices are overseen by two commissions: the Public Service Commission (PSC)—a regulatory agency whose responsibilities include oversight of the telecommunications industry in the state, and the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission (NADC)—a regulatory agency that administers and enforces the state’s campaign finance, lobbying and conflict of interest laws.

Any person who uses such a device for a reason other than solicitation is required to register with the PSC and include an explanation of the planned message.

LB418, introduced by Omaha Sen. John Nelson, would create an exemption from registering automatic dialing-announcing devices with the PSC and would give regulatory authority to the NADC. As amended the bill would require eligible persons who make automated calls relating to a political candidate or ballot to register the use of such a message with the NADC. It would not require a submission of the entire script as the PSC currently requires.

The name and address of the person paying for the message would be provided, as well as a detailed description of the planned use. No fee would be charged for such registration.

Omaha Sen. Heath Mello led debate against the bill, arguing that the bill would undo the accountability measure originally put in place to regulate automated dialing calls.

After eight hours of discussion spanning several days, Nelson offered a motion to invoke cloture. The motion failed on a 26-17 vote; 33 votes were needed.

A failed cloture motion results in the debate on the bill ending for the day.