Platte Institute
OMAHA, NE — The Platte Institute is advancing its vision for a more competitive and efficient Nebraska by releasing three new resources aimed at educating on opportunities to modernize the state’s regulatory and occupational licensing systems. Together, these resources provide a roadmap for reducing red tape, improving economic opportunities, and empowering Nebraskans to take charge of their regulatory future.
A Vision for a REINS Act in Nebraska Video
The Platte Institute’s new animated video advocates for a state-level Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act. Similar to laws enacted in Florida, Kansas, and Wisconsin among others, this legislation would require legislative approval for high-cost regulations before they could take effect. By placing accountability and oversight at the forefront, the REINS Act would also introduce mechanisms to sunset outdated rules and cap regulatory growth, reducing unnecessary burdens on businesses, entrepreneurs, and families alike.
Regulatory Reform Progress and Opportunities
A new paper by Patrick A. McLaughlin, Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center, “Regulatory Reform in Nebraska: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities,” highlights Nebraska’s notable achievements in cutting regulatory restrictions. Since 2017, the state has reduced regulations by 24.3%, positioning itself as a leader in red tape reduction. However, Dr. McLaughlin identifies additional steps Nebraska can take, such as adopting regulatory budgeting, establishing stronger sunset provisions, and implementing a REINS Act to further streamline the regulatory landscape.
Occupational Licensing Reform: Past Successes and Future Goals
Platte Institute Senior Fellow Laura Ebke, Ph.D., builds on Nebraska’s accomplishments in occupational licensing reform in her latest report, “2023-2024 Nebraska Occupational Licensing Review.” The paper examines the impact of the 2018 Occupational Board Reform Act (OBRA) and subsequent reforms, including universal recognition of licenses and fair chance licensing for individuals with criminal records. Dr. Ebke also identifies future opportunities, such as strengthening sunrise reviews for proposed licenses and expanding public membership on licensing boards to enhance transparency and accountability.
“These three resources work together to show what’s possible for Nebraska,” said Platte Institute CEO Jim Vokal. “By tackling outdated regulations, improving oversight, and advancing occupational licensing reform, Nebraska can lead the nation in creating a regulatory environment that fosters growth, reduces costs, and puts individual—not bureaucracy—in charge.”
The Platte Institute envisions a regulatory framework where unnecessary rules no longer stand in the way of progress and where new regulations undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure they serve Nebraskans' best interests. By embracing these reforms, Nebraska can unlock its full economic potential, making the state more competitive and resilient for future generations. The new video and papers are available now at PlatteInstitute.org.
Contact Ryan Kopsa at (402) 366-4432 or via email at [email protected]to schedule an interview or learn more about these initiatives. The Platte Institute works to advance policies that remove barriers to growth and opportunity in Nebraska. Learn more at PlatteInstitute.org.