The next in a series of contentious bills advanced by the Nebraska Legislature is LB 77. Sometimes referred to as the “Constitutional Concealed Carry” bill, LB 77 eliminates the current requirements for Nebraskan gun owners (age 21 and older) to receive permits and training to participate in concealed firearm carry.
The bill passed its last round of debate with a 33-14 vote, generally along “party” lines. Omaha Senators Justin Wayne and Terrell McKinney, who have voiced a degree of support for the bill, did not vote.
The bill was sponsored by State Sen. Tom Brewer. A compromise was struck with the Omaha Police Union. An amendment was brought forward that would create a new crime for concealed carry owners who commit dangerous misdemeanors.
This bill spurred much debate amongst Nebraska lawmakers. Several dimensions of the bill were discussed at length on the floor of the legislature. Key points of debate for lawmakers included (but weren’t limited to) public safety, constitutionality, and 2nd amendments rights.
Senator Mike Jacobson of North Platte supported the bill, “It’s time for us to allow law-abiding citizens, who have gone through all of the requirements for an open carry permit to be able to conceal that gun as well… If anybody thinks your gonna go eliminate guns in this country, its just not gonna happen. Any more than were gonna eliminate drugs. This is about exercising constitutional rights.”
Senator Jane Raybould of Lincoln opposed the bill, “Please stand with me and other law-abiding responsible gun owners for common sense gun safety, please vote no on LB 77… We have so much at stake on this vote. Children, families, law enforcement, and communities will be at greater risk if we pass this bill.”
Lincoln Police Chief Teresa Ewins, who has previously voiced opposition to LB 77, released a statement following the passed of the bill. She said she is “disappointed in the legislature’s decision because the most important factor in making these decisions should be public safety and the men and women who serve our community.”
Having passed through the Nebraska Unicameral, the bill is now expected to be signed into law by Governor Jim Pillen.