Nebraska lawmakers have introduced a multi-step plan, called the GOAT Government Oversight, Accountability, and Transparency to streamline state regulations, periodically review existing rules, and ultimately save taxpayers money.
The legislative package, led by State Sens. Bob Andersen, Danielle Conrad, Dan McKeon, Dan Quick, Merv Riepe, and Tanya Storer, aims to address the growing administrative state and ensure that rules are not outdated or cost-prohibitive.
Key proposals include:
- Legislative Bill 29 (from Conrad), which would require executive agencies to review regulations every three years to assess their necessity and effectiveness.
- LB 366 (from Riepe and Conrad), establishing a Legislative Economic Analysis Unit to review regulations with potential economic impacts over $1 million.
- Creating an office to ensure cost-benefit analysis of regulations.
- Proposals for business challenges to regulations in local courts and for examining federal funds received by the state.
The efforts are modeled after similar initiatives in other states, such as Virginia, where regulatory reviews led to significant savings. This initiative seeks to reduce burdens on businesses, promote economic freedom, and ensure that regulations align with the needs and safety of Nebraskans.