Senator Annette Dubas http://annettedubas.com/ en-us Nucleus CMS v3.24 © Weblog http://backend.userland.com/rss http://annettedubas.com//nucleus/nucleus2.gif Senator Annette Dubas http://annettedubas.com/ Mobile Office-Hall County http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=115
Where: Hall County Administration Building (121 S. Pine Street, GI)
Hall County Board of Supervisors Meeting Room
Wednesday, August 27th
9:30-1:30 PM

Please call and schedule a personal appointment if you would like to meet with me. You can reach me at 402.471.2630 or email me at adubas@leg.ne.gov

I hope to see you there!]]> General http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=115 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:20:46 -0500 Mobile Office-Hamilton County http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=114
Where: Hamilton County Courthouse
Hamiton County Board of Supervisors Meeting Room
Tuesday, August 26th
1:30-5:00 PM

Please call to schedule a personal appointment to meet with me. 402.471.2630 or email me at adubas@leg.ne.gov
I hope to see you there!]]> General http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=114 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:17:00 -0500 July Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=113


Serving the public as an elected official is rewarding, educational and sometimes a frustrating experience. A compromising spirit is important to move ideas forward. Everyone has a different approach os one tries to remain focused on the ultimate goal. Challenging the status quo can make life interesting, as I have recently found. That seems to be the case with the existance of my district office.

The local office was very convenient for me as well as my constituents. With no cost to me or the state it was hard to see a problem! I was able to conduct legislative buisness without having to travel to Lincoln or far from my home, especially with the use of my legislative laptop and personal cell phone. The question seemed to arise out of the use of my staff outside of the Lincoln office. Liability and accountability of hours worked are legitimate yet not insurmountable concerns. I am more productive working closer to home and more accessible to the needs of my district. The best way to build trust in government is through transparency, accountability and by being easily accessible to the people we serve. I plan to continue to work with the Executive Committee to find solutions for more flexible use of staff during the interim.

In the meantime, I am planning to initiate a mobile office and circulate throughout the district so that my office can be near you. It will not be permanent, but it will give you a chance to meet with me in your community. I plan to be in the various counities in the 34th Legislative district during the months of August and September beginning with Hall County on August 27th, 2008. I will be available to meet with you from 9:30 AM-1:30 PM in the Hall County Board of Supervisors Room in the Hall County Administration Building at 121 S. Pine Street in Grand Island. Additional details of upcoming meetings in Hamilton, Merrick, Polk and Nance will be announced through the media including through my website, radio stations, newspapers and local television stations. I will be available for one-on-one meetings about your specific issues of concern. I have made arrangements to have space available for private meetings. If you would like to visit with me in person please call or email my office and we can schedule a meeting time. Also, if you are in the area, please feel free to stop by and just say hi.

I appreciate the positive feedback regarding my district office. I intend to share your feelings with the involved parties in Lincoln. Hopefully it will help them to realize the importance of our work as state senators especially outside of the confines of the Capitol building and outside of Lincoln.

On one further note, if you are in Hamilton County and are in need of assistance after the recent tornado, you can call the FEMA helpline at 800.621.3362 or check my website for a link that will take you to an on-line application process for federal assistance (www.fema.gov).

As always I can be reached at 402-471-2630, or email at adubas@leg.ne.gov and my website address is www.annettedubas.com.]]> Weekly Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=113 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:55:10 -0500 Federal Aid Information - Hamilton County http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=112
Assistance for Affected Individuals and Families Can Include as Required:

Rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are unlivable. Initial assistance may be provided for up to three months for homeowners and at least one month for renters. Assistance may be extended if requested after the initial period based on a review of individual applicant requirements. (Source: FEMA funded and administered.)

Grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance to make damaged dwellings safe, sanitary and functional. (Source: FEMA funded and administered.)

Grants to replace personal property and help meet medical, dental, funeral, transportation and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other federal, state and charitable aid programs. (Source: FEMA funded at 75 percent of total eligible costs; 25 percent funded by the state.)

Unemployment payments up to 26 weeks for workers who temporarily lost jobs because of the disaster and who do not qualify for state benefits, such as self-employed individuals. (Source: FEMA funded; state administered.)

Low-interest loans to cover residential losses not fully compensated by insurance. Loans available up to $200,000 for primary residence; $40,000 for personal property, including renter losses. Loans available up to $1.5 million for business property losses not fully compensated by insurance. (Source: U.S. Small Business Administration.)

Loans up to $1.5 million for small businesses that have suffered disaster-related cash flow problems and need funds for working capital to recover from the disaster's adverse economic impact. This loan in combination with a property loss loan cannot exceed a total of $1.5 million. (Source: U.S. Small Business Administration.)

Loans up to $500,000 for farmers, ranchers and aquaculture operators to cover production and property losses, excluding primary residence. (Source: Farm Service Agency, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.)

Other relief programs: Crisis counseling for those traumatized by the disaster; income tax assistance for filing casualty losses; advisory assistance for legal, veterans benefits and social security matters.
Assistance for the State and Affected Local Governments Can Include as Required:

Payment of not less than 75 percent of the eligible costs for repairing or replacing damaged public facilities, such as roads, bridges, utilities, buildings, schools, recreational areas and similar publicly owned property, as well as certain private non-profit organizations engaged in community service activities. (Source: FEMA funded, state administered.)

Payment of not less than 75 percent of the eligible costs for removing debris from public areas and for emergency measures taken to save lives and protect property and public health. (Source: FEMA funded, state administered.)

Payment of not more than 75 percent of the approved costs for hazard mitigation projects undertaken by state, tribal and local governments to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural or technological disasters. (Source: FEMA funded, state administered.)
How to Apply for Assistance:

Those in the counties designated for assistance to affected residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process tomorrow by registering online at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice. Applicants registering for aid should be prepared to provide basic information about themselves (name, permanent address, phone number), insurance coverage and any other information to help substantiate losses.

Application procedures for local governments will be explained at a series of federal/state applicant briefings with locations to be announced in the affected area by recovery officials. Approved public repair projects are paid through the state from funding provided by FEMA and other participating federal agencies.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.]]> General http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=112 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:32:08 -0500 Federal Assistance http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=111
If you live in Hamilton County and were hit by the tornado and storms in May, 2008 you may qualify for federal disaster assistance.

To find out if you qualify apply online at: www.fema.gov/assistance

or call

1.800.621.FEMA
]]> General http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=111 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:24:48 -0500 June Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=110


I toured Hamilton County with the Lt. Governor after the tornado hit in early June. While the devastation was heart wrenching, community spirit, care and compassion was on full display. While the victims of the storm were still in shock, friends, neighbors and complete strangers from far and near showed up with food, equipment and strong backs to begin clearing away the debris. That same great community spirit is evident all across the area as we continue to deal with Mother Nature. People are coming together to fill sand bags, build dikes and clean up water damage.

The up-to-date and well practiced emergency management plan paid dividends for Hamilton County residents. I was a part of several of their briefings. They were well organized, professional and the open communication helped everyone understand the situation and how things were being handled. The cooperation between rural fire districts, county and city government deserves recognition and a pat on the back. All of our area law enforcement and emergency personnel, as well as other groups that work to serve and protect the public are working hard to help restore order. I would like to extend my thanks to all who are giving of their time and energy to help during these challenging times.

My office is beginning to field calls from residents asking about what, if any help will be available. Right now FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and NEMA (Nebraska Emergency Management Agency) are in the midst of gathering detailed information about the extent and costs of the storm damage. If we meet the threshold limits for damage the governor will ask for a disaster declaration. There are different types of assistance available and those determinations will be made after all the information has been collected.

I visited with NEMA to find out what individuals should be doing at the present time. Patience may be a little hard to come by right now and while we are anxious to clean up the mess and move forward we all know the wheels of government move slowly. Different agencies have rules that must be followed so it is important that we have open communication. Government officials need to understand the high anxiety level of the storm victims and be as empathetic as possible. This may be something that they are trained to deal with but it is new and very stressful experience for those in the midst of the destruction. Residents need to understand there are rules in places for valid reasons and a few phone calls can usually give you the needed direction. Your local County Emergency Manager is a good place to start.

If you haven’t already done so it is important to document in writing and with pictures everything you have lost and what your clean up entailed. The more you document the easier it will be to receive assistance if it becomes available.

Right now the amount and type of assistance that will become available is uncertain. When that information becomes known it will be widely publicized through the media outlets along with how to access the needed help. I will also place this information on my web site. Please feel free to contact my office with any questions or to seek assistance when dealing with any government agency. My thoughts are with everyone who has suffered any loss due to the storm. I am grateful we are only replacing things and not grieving the loss of loved ones.


As always I can be reached at 402-471-2630, or email at adubas@leg.ne.gov and my website address is www.annettedubas.com.]]> Weekly Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=110 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:20:54 -0500 Weekly Column 04.19.08 http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=106
I will continue to write my columns on a monthly rather than a weekly basis. Again, I want to thank the newspapers for printing my columns. It is the best way for me to keep you informed. I would also like to publicly thank my husband and family for all of their support. The families of state legislators truly are the ones who make the sacrifices. They remain at home and carry the extra load so that we can perform our legislative duties.

I’m looking forward to moving home and to the researching and relative calm of the interim. Even though the 100th Legislature's Second Session is officially ended, I will continue working to serve Nebraska’s 34th Legislative District. As always, do not hesitate to contact me with your comments or concerns.

Senator Annette Dubas
State Capitol
PO Box 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509-4604

adubas@leg.ne.gov
402.471.2630
www.annettedubas.com]]> Weekly Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=106 Sat, 19 Apr 2008 15:11:00 -0500 Weekly Column 04.11.08 http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=109
We have tackled the majority of the major issues such as the budget, state aid to education, statewide student assessment and roads funding. I battled against the state aid to education bill and statewide student testing bill to no avail. I am very concerned about the impact these two bills will have on our rural schools. History is proving that smaller schools will continue to face state aid challenges. Roads funding will also continue to be an on going concern. Senator Fischer has introduced two interim studies to examine questions dealing with the Department of Roads. We must insure accountability from the roads department and work on a sustainable source of support for the roads infrastructure. Relying solely on the current gas tax formula may no longer be a workable option.

Several bills of interest will likely be decided in the closing days. LB 911 introduced by Senator Carol Hudkins deals with the federally mandated Real ID Act. The initial bill called for the creation of regional state run drivers license testing stations. The bill was radically amended so that the only change in obtaining your drivers license will be where it is issued. You will still go to your local court house or DMV to do the necessary paper work and have your picture taken. You will then be issued a temporary drivers license. The paper work will be sent to a central office where the information will be entered into a database and then they will send you the regulation drivers license. Beginning in 2010 only drivers licenses issued through a secure process that meets federal standards will be recognized as valid. Many states are still fighting the federal government over this change which basically is a major unfunded mandate. Governor Heineman has asked the Department of Homeland Security for an extension of time to deal with compliance issues. There is a possibility changes could be made to this requirement with the new administration.

LB 245 introduced by Senator Joel Johnson calls for cities and towns with at least 1,000 residents require fluoride in their drinking water. The bill provides for a vote to opt out of the requirement. Fluoridation has generated strong feelings of opposition from most of my contacts. Communities are concerned with the cost, especially if you have multiple wells. Estimates of $5000 per well place a strain on already tight local budgets. Because of the financial demands, I oppose this bill but it seems to have the needed support to advance to the Governor for his consideration.

My final two town hall meetings will be April 19th in Silver Creek and Polk. Watch the paper or check my website for time and place details. Thanks to all who took the time to share your questions and concerns with me during the session. I appreciate your input.

As always, do not hesitate to contact me with your comments or concerns.

Senator Annette Dubas
State Capitol
PO Box 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509-4604

adubas@leg.ne.gov
402.471.2630
www.annettedubas.com]]> Weekly Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=109 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:00:00 -0500 Genoa Town Hall Meeting http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=105
Saturday, March 15th
Pawnee Senior Center
115 N. Oak Street
Genoa
9 AM - 10 AM

Residents of the 34th Legislative District and Media are welcome!]]> Town Hall Meetings http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=105 Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:29:17 -0500 Weekly Column 03.07.08 http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=104
'Christmas tree' bills allow similar legislation to be incorporated into one bill. In a short session it helps move more bills through the process and allows for discussion. Rules of the Legislature give Senators many opportunities to raise issues for the public record. That public record is important for use in future legislation, and for the judicial and executive branches to interpret laws that are passed.

This legislative session I introduced six bills. Of those six bills two have been killed in committee. The other four are being held in committee several with possibility of becoming a part of a ‘Christmas tree’ bill. I am looking forward to the advancement of several bills. You may ask, can a bill that has been killed in Committee be amended to a ‘Christmas tree’? The answer is yes, but it takes considerable more votes.

LB 676 from last year and LB 1069 introduced this year were both killed by the Transportation Committee. These bills were collectively known as the railroad legislation. As I have stated, the topic seems to rise to the top for constituent comments and a desire for remedy. The interim hearings indicated that this is a statewide frustration. While I appreciate what the rail industry contributes to the state most people expect them to be considerate corporate neighbors. Time is money for the railroads and the same is true for other individuals and businesses in the local economy.

The rationale for killing these bills is that it is difficult for states to legislate local railroad issues as they are mostly controlled at the Federal level. While that is true to a degree, similar statute remains on the books that makes the blocking of a public railroad crossings by a train at a standstill for longer than 10 minutes illegal and subject to a fine. Thirty-two other states have some type of controls or penalties in place for blocked crossing. I am convinced that this is good policy and that the issue has become convoluted.

I am happy to report that meetings between railroad officials and local law enforcement are now occurring. In fact, because of the legislation and interim hearings, a coalition of individuals has emerged including emergency personnel representatives, local law enforcement and railroad officials who are trying to address the public safety concerns of blocked crossings at the local level. As long as a solution can be worked out through these meetings, then I am happy to leave legislation out of the picture.

Thank you for your continued contact. For the record, I do not support LB 958 or eroding your 2nd amendment gun rights. Thank you for contacting my office with your opposition. Please do not hesitate to contact me with other concerns:

Senator Annette Dubas
State Capitol
PO BOX 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509-4604

Email: adubas@leg.ne.gov
Phone: 402.471.2630
Website: www.annettedubas.com]]> Weekly Column http://annettedubas.com/index.php?itemid=104 Fri, 7 Mar 2008 13:47:44 -0600