Nebraska 2023-2024 Regular Session

Nebraska Legislature Bill LR14CA

Introduced
1/6/23  
Refer
1/10/23  

Caption

Constitutional amendment to provide for recall of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, Attorney General, or Auditor of Public Accounts or a member of the Legislature

Impact

If passed, LR14CA will necessitate changes to the state constitution that governs the recall process. It introduces clear provisions on how a recall election can be initiated, the necessary qualifications for triggering such an election, and the procedures for conducting the recall votes. This bill seeks to empower voters, providing them with the tools to hold their elected officials accountable for their actions in office, potentially leading to increased civic engagement and participation in the political process.

Context

The discussions around LR14CA highlight the ongoing debate about the effectiveness and risks associated with recall processes. It reflects a larger trend in some states to look for mechanisms that enhance direct democracy while balancing the risks of frivolous recalls that could undermine the stability of governance. As it stands, the outcome of this amendment will hinge on broader public perceptions of governance, accountability, and the balance of power in the state.

Summary

LR14CA proposes a constitutional amendment that establishes a process for the recall of certain state officials including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, Attorney General, and members of the Legislature. The amendment aims to enhance public accountability by allowing voters to remove elected officials from office before their terms are completed, under specific circumstances determined by the voters. This is a significant measure as it directly impacts the balance of power between elected officials and the electorate.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LR14CA include concerns from various political factions about the implications of enabling recall elections. Proponents argue that this bill is essential for ensuring that elected officials remain responsive to their constituents throughout their tenure. However, critics warn that it may lead to political instability, with increased potential for misuse or abuse of recall efforts fueled by partisan agendas, distracting from governing and policy-making.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NE LR3CA

Constitutional amendment to provide for nonpartisan nomination and election of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Auditor of Public Accounts, and State Treasurer

NE LR280CA

Constitutional amendment to remove the Attorney General and the Secretary of State from the Board of Pardons

NE LR25CA

Constitutional amendment to change the compensation of members of the Legislature and provide for health insurance

NE LR278CA

Constitutional amendment to change the membership of the State Board of Education

NE LR28CA

Constitutional amendment to change the membership of the State Board of Education

NE LR29CA

Constitutional amendment to provide term limits for the members of the State Board of Education

NE LR24CA

Constitutional amendment to eliminate the State Board of Education and provide for the Governor to appoint the Commissioner of Education

NE LR284CA

Constitutional amendment to create the office of Public Counsel in the Legislature

NE LR2CA

Constitutional amendments to change from a unicameral legislature to a bicameral legislature, provide for election of members of the Legislature on a partisan ballot, require election of legislative officers and committee chairpersons by a public vote, and require all meetings of the Legislature to be open to the public

NE HJM4002

Applying for a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution relating to fiscal restraints on the federal government, the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit terms of office for federal officials and for members of congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.