Legislative Bill 42 seeks to establish the Office of Public Counsel Act in Nebraska, enhancing the oversight and accountability of the state's administrative agencies, particularly in the areas of child welfare and correctional systems. The bill introduces significant changes, including the appointment process for the Public Counsel, which now requires a two-thirds vote from the Legislature or the Legislative Council if not in session. The Public Counsel will serve a six-year term and can only be removed for cause, with clarified powers to investigate administrative acts, issue subpoenas, and address complaints related to juvenile rehabilitation. Additionally, the bill creates the Division of Legislative Oversight, which will conduct assessments and investigations of state government operations, emphasizing confidentiality and imposing penalties for unauthorized disclosures.

The bill also amends various sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to redefine the roles of the Office of Inspector General for Nebraska Child Welfare and the Nebraska Correctional System. It establishes a clear framework for investigations, including the requirement for the Inspector General to maintain confidentiality regarding law enforcement reports and to prioritize investigations based on legislative oversight needs. Key provisions include the authority for the Inspector General to conduct audits and investigations, the establishment of the Legislative Oversight Committee to direct these efforts, and the introduction of new definitions related to the child welfare system. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen oversight, improve transparency, and enhance the operational capabilities of Nebraska's legislative framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-4301, 43-4302, 43-4303, 43-4317, 43-4318, 43-4320, 43-4321, 43-4322, 43-4323, 43-4324, 43-4325, 43-4326, 43-4327, 43-4328, 43-4329, 43-4330, 43-4331, 43-4332, 47-901, 47-902, 47-903, 47-904, 47-905, 47-907, 47-908, 47-909, 47-910, 47-911, 47-912, 47-913, 47-914, 47-915, 47-916, 47-917, 47-918, 47-919, 47-920, 28-711, 28-712.01, 29-2011.02, 29-2011.03, 50-401.01, 50-402, 50-406, 50-406.01, 50-407, 50-408, 50-409, 50-410, 50-416, 50-418, 50-420, 50-1201, 50-1202, 50-1203, 50-1204, 50-1205, 50-1205.01, 50-1206, 50-1210, 50-1211, 50-1212, 50-1303, 50-1304, 73-401, 77-2711, 81-1114, 83-178, 84-304, 84-311, 84-322, 84-910