LINCOLN- Nebraska lawmakers gave final approval Thursday to merge two state agencies this summer and create one central department intended to increase the state’s focus on water. Legislative Bill 317, from State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, passed 34-12 without debate. This July 1, the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources will be folded into the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, creating the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment.

Gov. Jim Pillen said Thursday he would sign LB 317 next week. Brandt introduced it on his behalf. The governor has also created a “Water Quality and Quantity Task Force,” focusing on a resource that he said “is our lifeblood.” Pillen called the legislation a “win-win” that would help streamline operations and cut red tape.

“As a farming and ranching state that is growing, this is the right time for Nebraska to create a modern model of stewardship and double down on our work to protect and enhance our water resources,” Pillen said in a statement.

For the full article click HERE