This bill amends several sections of the Weights and Measures Act in Nebraska, primarily to update the standards adopted by reference to align with the National Institute of Standards and Technology as of January 1, 2025. It introduces new provisions regarding the registration and inspection fees for commercial weighing and measuring devices, which have been significantly increased from previous amounts. For instance, the registration fee for scales up to 35 pounds capacity has risen from approximately $8 to $37, while fees for larger scales and various meters have also seen substantial increases. Additionally, the bill establishes a new administrative fee structure for delinquent payments, increasing the penalty from 25% to 50% of the annual fees due.

The bill also modifies the requirements for weighing and measuring establishments, including the process for obtaining permits and the conditions under which these permits may lapse. Notably, it removes the requirement for permitholders to return their permits to the department upon permanent closure of their establishments, instead mandating that they notify the department in writing at least thirty days prior to any changes that would require a new permit. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting the urgency of these updates to ensure compliance with federal standards and improve the enforcement of the Weights and Measures Act in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 89-186, 89-187, 89-187.02, 89-187.05