An attempt by Senator Megan Hunt to override Governor Jim Pillen’s veto of her public health protection measure failed in the Nebraska Legislature, falling short with a 27-20 vote (30 votes were required).
Senator Hunt’s LB 307 aimed to give local jurisdictions the choice to distribute hypodermic needles to curb the spread of diseases like HIV, through Syringe Service Programs. These programs are widely accepted across the U.S., with the exception of five states including Nebraska. Hunt emphasized that the bill had undergone scrutiny, committee support, and floor advancement.
During the debate, Hunt expressed disappointment in the lack of communication from Governor Pillen regarding potential amendments or improvements to the bill. She addressed concerns raised against the bill, dismissing claims that it would turn Nebraska into a city like San Francisco, highlighting the bill’s focus on local decision-making and harm reduction.
Speaker of the Legislature John Arch backed Hunt’s override attempt, citing the bill’s improvements and his own research. He described the bill as a disagreement over policy, emphasizing that it empowers elected officials to decide on implementing SSP programs.
Senator Tom Brandt supported Hunt’s bill and the veto override, stating that the bill provides local control and addresses addiction problems.
The debate was briefly interrupted by a fire alarm, causing a pause in proceedings before debate resumed.
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