This bill amends sections 75-311 and 75-342 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to update the requirements for common carriers and contract carriers, particularly in relation to the issuance of certificates and permits. It introduces new burdens of proof for applicants and protestants regarding the fitness and responsiveness of proposed services to public demand. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the applicant must demonstrate their capability to perform the proposed service and that it meets public needs, while any protestant must show that existing carriers can meet the proposed demand without compromising their operations.

Additionally, the bill modifies the authorization process for transportation network companies and participating drivers providing services under contracts with the Department of Health and Human Services. It requires the commission to grant specific authorization unless a protestant can prove that existing carriers are adequately meeting the proposed service needs and that the new service would not endanger existing operations. The bill also deletes several obsolete provisions and harmonizes existing laws, ensuring that the updated regulations reflect current practices and public interests.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 75-311, 75-342