Require certain school lands be open to the public for hunting as prescribed and provide powers and duties relating to the use of such school lands for hunting
Impact
If passed, LB1247 will have a significant impact on the management of state school lands. By opening these lands to public hunting, the bill facilitates an avenue for enhancing recreational opportunities while promoting responsible land use. This change is expected to bolster local economies by attracting hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, thereby increasing tourism and related revenues. Additionally, such a policy may encourage the sustainable management of wildlife populations in areas that have been previously restricted.
Summary
LB1247 proposes to require that certain designated school lands be opened to the public for hunting activities. This bill aims to enhance the recreational use of state school lands by providing structured access for hunting, which proponents argue will not only allow citizens to engage in outdoor activities but also contribute to wildlife management and conservation efforts. The bill details provisions that outline the powers and responsibilities of relevant authorities managing these lands, enforcing regulations to ensure public safety and wildlife protection during hunting seasons.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, LB1247 could also stir discord among various stakeholders. Opponents may argue that making school lands accessible for hunting could compromise safety and ecological integrity, particularly in areas close to populated regions or where endangered species may reside. There are concerns regarding the potential overpopulation of hunters, which may lead to conflicts and safety issues in the community. Furthermore, some may advocate for preservation over recreational use, prioritizing the ecological value of these lands rather than transforming them into hunting grounds.
Require schools to install a secure master key box as prescribed, provide powers and duties to the state school security director, change provisions relating to a grant program for security-related infrastructure projects and the School Safety and Security Fund, and provide for a transfer from the Cash Reserve Fund
Provide for removal from a rental agreement of a cotenant or occupant who has committed domestic violence, require landlords to change locks, and provide landlords with related powers and duties
Change provisions relating to handguns and firearms in school environments, classification of school districts, excessive absenteeism and truancy, the enrollment option program, certain educational certificates, permits, and endorsements, certain tax levy and bonding authority of school districts, requirements for various school and education programs, and the Nebraska Career Scholarship Act, provide for grants relating to school mapping data, prohibit certain debt collection activities, and provide requirements for the use of certain maps for schools
Require that school counselors spend a certain percentage of such counselor's time during normal school hours in the direct counseling of students as prescribed
Improving school safety by extending penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and extracurricular activities and requiring schools to notify the public of such penalties.