All legislative bills receive a public hearing before a committee of senators. After a legislative bill is heard, Senators will vote to decide whether the bill can advance to floor debate, another step toward becoming law. If you are considering attending a hearing to observe or testify, the following information may help you prepare.
Anyone can attend a public committee hearing regardless of their background or circumstances. This includes individuals who are:
The Nebraska State Capitol is located at 1445 K Street in Lincoln. Committee hearings often begin at 1:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted, and multiple legislative bills may be heard in one day. A good rule of thumb is to arrive at least 30 minutes before the hearing to allow time to park, find the hearing room, locate the bathroom, and fill out a piece of paper to indicate which legislative bill you plan to testify on, including what position you will take.
Parking can be challenging at the Capitol.
Free parking is available on the streets surrounding the Capitol building, but it is limited to 1-2 hours. You may get ticketed/towed if you are parked longer. Free street parking is available in the neighborhoods on the south, east, and west sides of the Capitol. Parking fills up fast, especially on hearing days. Metered parking is available throughout downtown Lincoln. You may have to park several blocks away.
Additionally, there are parking garages you can pay for a few blocks away from the Capitol, including 1318 M Street Garage. You can find more parking garages using the City of Lincoln Find Parking tool.
When planning your visit to the Capitol, connect with others or organizations to explore carpooling options.
You can wear what feels comfortable for you. Many people choose business or professional attire, but this is not required. It’s helpful to wear comfortable shoes as you may have a long walk from your parking spot to the Capitol and then to the hearing room. Dressing in layers can be helpful, as the building temperature can vary.
If you plan to testify and have written testimony,
bring 15 copies. You may also want to bring:
A notebook and pen
A snack and water
Anything that helps you stay comfortable
during a longer wait
Each committee meets in a different room.
Committee hearing rooms are listed on the Legislature’s
website. When you enter the Capitol, you can visit the information
desk in the center of the building on the first floor for directions or use the building map.
At the front of the room, senators sit at a table facing the audience. A smaller table is set up where people sit when giving testimony. A camera will be set up to record the hearing (more information about this below).
If you plan to testify:
If you are observing, you do not need to fill out a testifier sheet. You may choose to sign in and make your view on a legislative bill known by filling out a gold sign-in sheet.
Yes. Hearings are livestreamed on Nebraska Public Media, recorded, and transcribed as part of the public record. Recorded videos are then uploaded to the Nebraska Legislature Video Archive 24-48 hours after the committee hearing. Media may also be present.
Watching a livestream or recording may help you prepare for attending a hearing or testifying.
Senators may be reviewing information, using devices, or stepping in and out of the room. This does not necessarily mean they are not paying attention. They are often balancing multiple responsibilities at the same time, including introducing other legislative bills in other hearing rooms.
Committee hearings are open to the public. You are welcome to attend a hearing to observe or support someone else. You may be there for a long time, and you may hear information that brings up emotions. You can step out at any time and take breaks as needed.
If you would like guidance or support in preparing for a hearing, you can contact the Nebraska Coalition. The Nebraska Coalition offers one-on-one support to survivors of sexual, domestic, and similar types of violence who choose to share their stories and testify on legislative bills. We can provide resources, guidance, and emotional support to help you navigate the legislative process.
Comfort Buddies may also be available at the Capitol on hearing days. Comfort Buddies are trusted licensed therapists, mental health professionals, and advocates who can support you before, during, and after the hearing. They are easily identified by wearing a Comfort Buddy pin. The Comfort Buddies Program is made possible through the Women’s Fund of Omaha with Nebraska Coalition as a partner.
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