This bill amends several sections of Nebraska's civil procedure laws to allow for the use of unsworn declarations in civil proceedings, alongside traditional affidavits. It defines an affidavit as a document signed under oath before an authorized officer, requiring specific details such as the officer's signature and notary seal. The bill introduces the concept of an unsworn declaration, which can be signed within the U.S. and must include a declaration under penalty of perjury. The bill also specifies that unsworn declarations can be used in place of affidavits for most purposes in civil proceedings, with exceptions for certain court orders and statutory prohibitions.

Additionally, the bill revises the definitions and penalties associated with perjury and false statements made under oath or in unsworn declarations. It clarifies that making a false statement in an unsworn declaration that meets specific requirements can lead to misdemeanor charges, depending on the context of the statement. The bill repeals outdated sections and harmonizes existing laws to reflect these changes, ensuring that both affidavits and unsworn declarations are recognized as valid legal documents in Nebraska's civil proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 25-1245, 25-1244, 28-915, 28-915.01, 49-1808