Nebraska

Strong disclosure requirements that make it easy to see all activities by a given lobbyist or client. A simplicity and clarity that is partly the result of having a unicameral legislature. And what seems to be a mistake on a page offering calendars and other notices of legislative activity–”This page is designed to help members of the lobby,” instead of “members of the public”–speaks to the fact that Nebraska is providing insider-level information to members of the general public, which is commendable.

The Omaha Public Schools Environmental Stewardship plan stresses the dangers of greenhouse gas emissions: “Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, causing a blanket-like effect on the planet that results in increased temperatures and other extreme weather. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are largely created by the burning of fossil fuels for energy. “

Despite this focus on climate change, the Omaha Public Schools share the lobbying firm of O’Hara Lindsay & Associates with two fossil fuel companies, Black Hills Energy and Tallgrass Energy. In 2024, this firm successfully lobbied for a new law that will prohibit local governments from adopting local ordinances that shift their local energy use away from gas or other fossil fuels.

Beginning in 2025, the legislature will also provide video recordings of committee hearings, which would increase Nebraska’s current grade of a C to a B-.

Best feature: Site includes great feature that lets users look up all positions taken on any bill. Also, compared to other states, having a unicameral legislature makes it easier to track lobbyists or, frankly, anything!

Worst feature: Client and lobbyist lists are browsable but not searchable.

Additional Findings