Nebraska officials are working to improve legal processes for defendants with severe mental health issues through Legislative Bill 350 (LB 350). Introduced by Senator John Cavanaugh, the bill aims to shorten the timeline for mental competency court hearings from 60 days to just 5, ensuring quicker evaluations and reducing delays in the legal system. Criminal defense attorney Spike Eickholt supports the bill, noting its importance in helping individuals who are unable to understand or participate in legal proceedings due to mental health conditions. LB 350 was recommended by the 2022 Mental Health Care Capacity Strategic Planning Committee. The Nebraska Legislature has yet to decide on its passage.

Nebraska lawmakers are working to improve legal procedures for defendants with severe mental health issues through Legislative Bill 350. Introduced by Senator John Cavanaugh, the bill aims to speed up the process of determining a defendant’s mental competency by reducing the time for related court hearings from 60 days to just 5. It also mandates that reports be filed directly with the court to improve communication and efficiency. Criminal defense attorney Spike Eickholt supports the bill, noting it will help prevent mentally unfit defendants from being stuck in the legal system without receiving needed care. LB 350 stems from recommendations by the 2022 Mental Health Care Capacity Strategic Planning Committee. The bill is still awaiting a decision from the legislature.

Nebraska State Senator Rick Holdcroft introduced a bill on March 12 aimed at combating human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. The bill proposed requiring sex offender registration for those convicted of sex trafficking or profiting from it in Nebraska, including retroactive cases. Supporters, like Pamela Mock, a street outreach specialist, emphasized the importance of protecting survivors. Opponents, such as defense attorney Spike Eickel, argued that lifetime registration requirements are unfair to those who have already served their sentences. Ultimately, the bill (LB511) did not pass through the Judiciary Committee and did not become law.