Transportation and Telecommunications Committee

January 27, 2025

Committee Chair: Sen. Mike Moser | Bills Heard: 1 | Full Transcript (PDF)

LB362: 911 Service System Act cleanup and modernization

Introduced by: Sen. Wendy DeBoer | Testimony: 4 proponents, 0 opponents, 0 neutral | Read bill text (PDF)

Nebraska advances 911 statute cleanup to reflect next-generation technology already deployed statewide. LB362 consolidates three separate 911-related acts into a single modernized statute, eliminating outdated terminology and redundant advisory boards. The bill reflects reality on the ground: as of January 2025, all 67 Nebraska public safety answering points are already connected to next generation 911 technology, which allows callers to transmit photos, videos, and text in addition to voice.

Why it matters: The current statutory scheme uses inconsistent language across three different acts, creating confusion in oversight and enforcement. Streamlining the law ensures clear direction for 911 operations and mandates all PSAPs maintain next generation 911 capability by July 1, 2026—a deadline that's already nearly met.

What they're saying: - "LB362 ensures that Nebraska's 911 statutes are consistent and in-line with current practice," said David Sankey, director of the state 911 Department. - Sheriff Neil Miller noted the 2023 fiber optic cuts that crippled 911 service underscore the importance of protecting critical infrastructure and modernizing the system. - The Nebraska Telecommunications Association, representing 21 companies, supports the bill's advancement.

By the numbers: All 67 Nebraska PSAPs connected to next generation 911 as of January 2025; all but one already next generation 911-capable; staggered three-year terms replace simultaneous expiration of all advisory committee members' terms.

What's next: No opposition testimony was offered. The bill advanced with unanimous support from all testifiers. Sen. DeBoer indicated no negative feedback is expected.

Committee sentiment:   Supportive: Sen. Tom Brandt, Sen. Dunixi Guereca

Sentiment estimated from questions and comments — not stated positions.

Session Notes

The committee also heard gubernatorial appointments to the Underground Excavation Safety Committee. Three appointees testified: Josh Hohensee (Black Hills Energy, line locate supervisor), Edward Jarrett (damage prevention professional with 20 years experience), and Robert Knapp (Bauer Underground, Omaha area manager). A fourth appointee, Aaron Krebs, was unable to attend and his appointment was rescheduled. The committee received extensive testimony about excavation damage prevention, the 811 call system, and challenges with contract locating services. No votes were taken on the appointments during this hearing.

Generated by NE Wire Service | Source: Nebraska Legislature Transcribers Office This is an AI-generated summary. Verify all claims against the official transcript.