LINCOLN — The public comment period for a Nebraska Agriculture Committee hearing has been extended as multiple wildfires continue to impact western parts of the state.
Niobrara Sen. Barry DeKay, chairperson of the Legislature’s Agriculture Committee, announced he requested the extension due to four ongoing wildfires that have burned more than 800,000 acres across western Nebraska.
Legislative Speaker John Arch approved the request, allowing additional time for residents affected by the fires to participate in the process.
The hearing, which will focus on a proposed amendment to DeKay’s LB1187, is scheduled for 12 p.m. Thursday in Room 1525 at the State Capitol.
LB1187 is an agriculture-focused bill that deals with how Nebraska responds to and manages livestock health and disease concerns, particularly in situations that could impact the state’s cattle industry and food supply. The bill addresses state authority and response measures during animal disease outbreaks, including coordination efforts to contain and limit the spread of illness.
Under normal rules, members of the public must submit online comments by 8 a.m. Central Time on the day of a hearing. However, due to travel complications and the widespread impact of the fires, lawmakers are making an exception.
Online public comments will now be accepted until 5 p.m. Central Time on March 19.
“This will allow those interested in LB1187 to provide input based on the hearing if they are unable to attend in person,” DeKay said.
State officials say the extension is intended to ensure Nebraskans still have an opportunity to weigh in, even as emergency conditions continue to affect parts of the state.