This bill aims to enhance the rights and protections of firefighters in Nebraska by defining key terms and establishing requirements for formal investigations related to complaints against them. It introduces definitions for "complaint," "firefighter," "formal investigation," and "interview," and outlines the procedures that must be followed during a formal investigation. These procedures include timely completion of investigations, providing written summaries of complaints to firefighters prior to interviews, allowing legal representation during hearings, recording interviews, and ensuring confidentiality of all related documents unless legally required to disclose them. Additionally, the bill allows firefighters to seek damages for false complaints and to challenge disciplinary actions through established grievance procedures.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of safe working conditions and access to necessary training, equipment, and mental health services for firefighters. It ensures that personal information remains confidential unless consent is given for disclosure and permits firefighters to engage in political activities while off-duty. Firefighters are also granted the right to access their personnel and training records at any time. Overall, this legislation seeks to provide a more supportive and fair environment for firefighters in Nebraska.