The proposed bill, known as the State Rail Plan Act, establishes a framework for the development and maintenance of a state rail plan in Nebraska. It designates the Department of Transportation as the rail transportation authority responsible for preparing, coordinating, and administering the state rail plan, while the Governor or their designee is given the authority to approve the plan. The bill mandates that the Department conduct an annual study of passenger rail service in the state, with findings to be reported to the Clerk of the Legislature by December 31 each year. Additionally, the Department is required to prepare a comprehensive state rail plan by June 30, 2027, in accordance with federal guidelines.

The state rail plan must include various elements such as descriptions of existing passenger rail services, proposals for improvements, and a list of necessary upgrades to railroad tracks. It also emphasizes the importance of public and advocacy group feedback in the planning process. The Department is empowered to conduct studies, gather public input, and adopt regulations to effectively implement the provisions of the State Rail Plan Act.