This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to eliminate the Riparian Vegetation Management Task Force and modify the uses of the Water Resources Cash Fund. It introduces provisions for grants aimed at the removal of certain riparian vegetation and the acquisition of related equipment. The Department of Water, Energy, and Environment is tasked with administering these grants, which are intended to improve the conveyance of streamflow in natural streams. The bill also defines terms related to eligible purposes and qualified applicants for these grants, which include weed management entities, weed control authorities, and natural resources districts.

Additionally, the bill makes changes to the Water Resources Cash Fund, allowing it to be used for grants to weed management entities as part of the integrated management plan. It specifies that the fund shall not be used for administrative expenses or salaries for political subdivisions. The bill repeals certain sections of existing law, including those related to the now-defunct Riparian Vegetation Management Task Force, and harmonizes various provisions to ensure consistency in the management of noxious weeds and invasive plant species.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2-945.02, 2-953, 2-958, 2-958.02, 2-969, 61-218
Final Reading: 2-969, 2-958.02, 61-218
Slip Law: 2-969, 2-958.02, 61-218