The Nebraska State Legislature is currently in session, and there are a number of bills related to family law. Find below an overview of the bills that passed last session, the bills that will carry over and the new bills that have been introduced.
Last session, several bills were passed regarding family law, specifically LB 183 and LB 11:
LB 183: In Forma Pauperis in Name Change Proceedings
Introduced by Senator Machaela Cavanaugh
This bill was amended into LB 157 and passed in 2023.
It allows low-income petitioners, in name change proceedings, to file without court fees, thereby increasing access to the legal name change process.
LB 11: Protection of Household Pets in Protection Orders
Introduced by Senator Carol Blood
This bill passed as an amendment to LB 157.
It provides additional protection for abuse victims and their pets in protection orders. In doing so, it recognizes the link between pet harm and domestic abuse.
Because this is the second session, any bills not passed in the first session carry over and can be passed this session. Relevant bills include LB 316 and LB 23:
LB 316: Removing Gendered Terms from Marriage Statutes
Introduced by Senator John Fredrickson
This bill aims to remove gendered terms like "husband," "wife," "bride," and "groom" from marriage-related statutes, applications, licenses, and certificates. It ensures much-needed equal access and alignment to families with gender-diverse spouses.
LB 23: Changes in Interventions in Paternity Proceedings
Introduced by Senator Justin Wayne
By changing genetic testing from a requirement to an option, this bill affects paternity proceedings which is particularly relevant when a presumptive father intervenes in an existing juvenile court case. This will affect those children who are under the authority of the Court and who do not have a legal father.
Several bills of interest have been introduced in this legislative session, including LB978 and LB 1098:
LB 978: Adoption by a Second Adult Person
Introduced by Senator DeBoer
This bill is related to bill LB 331 that was carried over from the first session.
This bill allows for the adoption of a child by a second adult person, effectively changing provisions related to adoptions, ensuring consent, a parent-child relationship, and completion of an adoptive home study. It also clarifies that no second parent adoption may result in a child having more than two legal parents.
LB 1098: Protection Orders
Introduced by Senator Barry DeKay
This bill clarifies conditions for harassment and sexual assault protection orders allowing for dismissal of petitions if an ex parte protection order is declined. Additionally, this bill extends protection orders for an initial period from one to two years. Lastly, LB 1098 requires notice be given to the respondent about the prohibition on possessing firearms or ammunition.
At McGill Law, we are committed to staying on top of new legislation that may affect your family. We always have your back, give us a call to further discuss your needs 402-548-5418