Sen. Williams: Legislative update, broadband speed tests
Greetings District 36! This week Legislative Committees wrapped up public hearings and floor debate began with morning sessions. Committees have been meeting in the afternoon to finalize action on bills and decide which bills will be advanced to the floor for debate by the full Legislature.
During the morning debates, several “cleanup” bills I introduced on behalf of the Department of Banking, the Department of Insurance, the Appraiser Board, and the Secretary of State passed Final Reading. They now await signature by the Governor before becoming law. In addition, my personal priority bill, LB322, had its first round of debate by the full Legislature.
As I have reported previously, LB322 would create the statewide School Safety and Security Reporting System Act. The Reporting system includes a report line called Safe2Help Nebraska, and provides an electronic mechanism for students, teachers, parents and others to report concerning behavior related to students and school property. In addition, the system provides a mechanism to deal with the concerning behavior reported by using de-escalation techniques along with providing a supportive environment. I am pleased to report that LB322 passed General File by a vote of 33-5. Further information on LB322 can be found by going to ncsa.org.
I have been asked by the South Central Economic Development District (SCEDD) to let people in District 36 know about a statewide broadband mapping project that SCEDD, in collaboration with the Nebraska Regional Officials Council (NROC), is rolling out. As part of the project, people are encouraged to do one-minute speed tests on different devices at different times of the day. The goal is to pinpoint and map internet access, service, and speeds across Nebraska. The purpose of the project is to provide data to help guide decision making for broadband infrastructure expansion or enhancement projects. To participate in the free broadband speed testing project go to www.nebraskaspeedtest.org, www.speedtestne.org, or SCEDD’s website, www.scedd.us/broadband. This testing will be available through June of 2022 and the data gathered can be pulled for specific areas. SCEDD states that it is eager to have the information to identify underserved and unserved areas to inform future investment decisions. The Governor has made access to broadband a legislative priority. I hope people in District 36 will participate in the testing to provide needed data to support broadband investment in our area.
Finally, I would like to congratulate the Ansley-Litchfield Spartans on reaching the Boys State Basketball Tournament, and all our student athletes that participated in winter sports. I am proud of your hard work and dedication especially in this unusual time of uncertainty!
As always, feel free to contact me anytime at (402) 471-2642 or mwilliams@leg.ne.gov. Thanks again for your continued support.