This bill would allow the Department of Economic Development to develop a grant process for nonprofit bike share operators in Nebraska.

Accessible, safe, and enjoyable bike-share systems impact economic development, infrastructure, education, health, public safety, job opportunities, the environment, and more. Working alongside Heartland Bike Share for years, we’ve seen the impact of effective, connected bike share systems in a community.

Bike Walk Nebraska is a long-standing proponent of bike share systems in the state.

Requires all drivers to use hands-free technology while operating a motor vehicle, meaning no texting while driving. It changes the use of a handheld device (smartphone) from a secondary to a primary offense, meaning drivers can be pulled over for having their phone in their hand.

Our Stance: We are cautious about supporting a distracted driving bill. Effectively enforcing such laws is difficult and also raises concerns for the perpetuation of inequitable enforcement towards marginalized demographics. Additionally, environmental changes are far more effective than enforcement in supporting safety for vulnerable road users and changing driver behavior.

These two bills both support the pursuit of railways within Nebraska. Anytime there’s an opportunity for alternative transportation options that minimize the amount of cars on the road, Bike Walk Nebraska will be in support.

LB 256: Creates a commission to promote development and implementation of improvements to intercity passenger rail service in the Midwest.

LB 1098: Authorizes an annual study of what current passenger rail servcies exist and the potential for additional passenger rail service.

We opposed this bill in 2024 and 2025. The language the bill removes the statement: “The department shall consider the preservation of the existing state highway system asset as its primary priority…”.

Our Stance: Our opposition is based on the most fiscally responsible policy to be the preservation of transportation systems, rather than the proliferation of more highways that we can’t afford to maintain.

This bill would allow for camera systems on school buses to ensure no traffic violations occur while picking up and dropping off students.

The cameras capture the vehicle's license plate, and a peace officer would review footage of the alleged violation and mail a citation to the driver. The driver will then have the opportunity to appeal the citation within 30 days of its delivery.

Research shows automated enforcement is effective in making long-lasting changes to driver behavior.