Governor & Sen. Avery to Propose Legislation
to Update Lobbying Statutes

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman outlined a legislative proposal today that would reform state law by requiring state elected officials to wait two years before registering as a lobbyist with the Nebraska Legislature.

The bill is a cooperative effort with sponsor Sen. Bill Avery of Lincoln. He is a member of the Legislature’s Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee where this legislation will be heard.

“This is legislation that would help to promote good government,” Gov. Heineman said. “We know that Nebraskans elect government leaders that tend to be ethically-minded individuals. Nebraskans expect their elected leaders to focus on the duties of their office. It is in the best interest of the public that there is some period of time between when you are in office and when you become a lobbyist.”

The bill would institute a two-year moratorium before elected leaders could become lobbyists after leaving office. The bill would apply to constitutional officers and members of the Legislature, as well as members of the Public Service Commission, State Board of Education and the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.

The proposal exempts those who have already left elective office.

Sen. Avery said, “This bill is designed to prevent former government officials and lawmakers from using their connections in government to benefit themselves or clients they may represent. It will provide a safeguard against any impropriety by elected officials. I appreciate the opportunity to work with Governor Heineman on this important legislation.”

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