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The end of the 2007-2008 legislative sessions is rapidly coming to a close. I have officially navigated my freshman year accumulating a great deal of understanding about the ins and outs of the legislative process and my responsibilities as your state senator. I understood, as much as was possible, the duties and obligations of a legislator. Though often times you can't fully understand something until you have the experience personally. That was the case for me. The work is demanding and time consuming. Multi-tasking has taken on a whole new meaning as I juggle committee assignments, bill introduction, floor debate, phone calls, constituents meetings and correspondence as well as personal obligations. I have been challenged and educated and aside from the time away from my farm and family, I am enjoying my experience. Interacting with my colleagues and my constituents is the best part of the job.
We have tackled the majority of the major issues such as the budget, state aid to education, statewide student assessment and roads funding.
I battled against the state aid to education bill and statewide student testing bill to no avail. I am very concerned about the impact these two bills will have on our rural schools. History is proving that smaller schools will continue to face state aid challenges. Roads funding will also continue to be an on going concern. Senator Fischer has introduced two interim studies to examine questions dealing with the Department of Roads. We must insure accountability from the roads department and work on a sustainable source of support for the roads infrastructure. Relying solely on the current gas tax formula may no longer be a workable option.
Several bills of interest will likely be decided in the closing days. LB 911 introduced by Senator Carol Hudkins deals with the federally mandated Real ID Act. The initial bill called for the creation of regional state run drivers license testing stations. The bill was radically amended so that the only change in obtaining your drivers license will be where it is issued. You will still go to your local court house or DMV to do the necessary paper work and have your picture taken. You will then be issued a temporary drivers license. The paper work will be sent to a central office where the information will be entered into a database and then they will send you the regulation drivers license. Beginning in 2010 only drivers licenses issued through a secure process that meets federal standards will be recognized as valid. Many states are still fighting the federal government over this change which basically is a major unfunded mandate. Governor Heineman has asked the Department of Homeland Security for an extension of time to deal with compliance issues. There is a possibility changes could be made to this requirement with the new administration.
LB 245 introduced by Senator Joel Johnson calls for cities and towns with at least 1,000 residents require fluoride in their drinking water. The bill provides for a vote to opt out of the requirement. Fluoridation has generated strong feelings of opposition from most of my contacts. Communities are concerned with the cost, especially if you have multiple wells. Estimates of $5000 per well place a strain on already tight local budgets. Because of the financial demands, I oppose this bill but it seems to have the needed support to advance to the Governor for his consideration.
My final two town hall meetings will be April 19th in Silver Creek and Polk. Watch the paper or check my website for time and place details. Thanks to all who took the time to share your questions and concerns with me during the session. I appreciate your input. As always, do not hesitate to contact me with your comments or concerns.
Senator Annette Dubas
State Capitol
PO Box 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509-4604
adubas@leg.ne.gov
(402) 471-2630
www.annettedubas.com
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