Nebraska 2023-2024 Regular Session

Nebraska Legislature Bill LB257

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/12/23  
Engrossed
2/8/24  
Enrolled
2/20/24  
Passed
3/7/24  

Caption

Change provisions relating to cemeteries and abandonment and reversion of cemetery lots

Impact

The implementation of LB257 is likely to alter the legal landscape regarding local government responsibilities and powers in cemetery management. By stipulating that abandoned cemetery lots revert to local governments, it empowers those entities to make decisive actions regarding neglected sites. This may include decisions about redeveloping the land in a manner that could better serve the community, whether through park development or other civic projects. Moreover, the bill aims to streamline processes that can often be mired in legal ambiguity, fostering a more straightforward approach towards cemetery management.

Summary

LB257 seeks to address issues pertaining to cemeteries, particularly those that are abandoned. The bill introduces amendments that clarify the reversion of cemetery lots to municipalities and other governing bodies. The intent behind this legislation is to provide local authorities with clearer guidelines for managing neglected burial sites while ensuring that the remains interred are treated with dignity and respect. This will also aid in the effective utilization of land that has been rendered unusable due to issues related to cemetery abandonment.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around LB257 has been largely positive, with many legislators and community members recognizing the importance of maintaining respectful management of cemeteries. There has been a general consensus that the bill addresses a significant gap in the law, providing local governments the authority necessary to handle abandoned sites effectively. However, discussions have surfaced regarding the implications of such reversions and whether this might lead to unintended consequences for families and communities tied to these burial sites.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LB257 include concerns from advocacy groups about the treatment of human remains and the historical significance of some cemeteries. Critics argue that while the bill aims to streamline processes, it could inadvertently prioritize property rights over the sanctity of burial sites. They emphasize the need for careful consideration to ensure that family members of the deceased have adequate voice in decisions that affect the final resting places of their loved ones. Legislative discussions have highlighted the balance that must be struck between community needs and respect for historical burials, reflecting differing values regarding heritage and property rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NE LB373

Change provisions relating to section lines and vacation or abandonment of public roads

NE LB1174

Change provisions relating to section lines and vacation or abandonment of public roads

NE H0049

Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries

NE H1215

Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries

NE LB981

Change and eliminate provisions relating to the Nebraska Lottery and Raffle Act and the Nebraska Small Lottery and Raffle Act

NE H7376

Cemeteries

NE SB1062

African American cemeteries and graves; appropriations by DHR.

NE LB727

Change provisions relating to revenue and taxation

NE H1577

Abandoned Cemeteries

NE LB468

Change provisions relating to inheritance taxes, change certain fee and tax provisions, and eliminate a sales tax exemption relating to data centers

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.