LINCOLN- In June, Ruben Cano, Principal of Omaha South Magnet High School called on the Legislature's Judiciary Committee to not stop once the protests are over. He says for his students, the American Dream is something they strive for but because of varying societal factors, it is harder for them. Cano encouraged the senators to work on legislation that will finally end the systemic racism his students and others experience. However, the senators were not able to get much done. Now, Cano along with activist groups would like to see a special session so the senators can focus on specific issues.

Senators have started to file interim study resolutions that specifically target racial justice issues.

LR146 seeks to examine the feasibility of a prosecutor-transparency act to collect data and establish a process to report on city and county prosecutors. This was introduced by Senator Justin Wayne (District 13).

LR347, also introduced by Sen. Wayne looks at the historic practices of redlining in Nebraska's cities.

LR377, introduced by Senator Patty Pansing Brooks (District 28) focuses on reforming policing in Nebraska through independent government oversight of law enforcement agencies. It also looks at reforming chokeholding, electroshock weapons, irritants and high-impact mutations for crowd controlling practices.

LR417 looks at policies about law enforcement's use of force. This study was filed by Senator Matt Hansen (District 26).

LR421 takes a look at the racial and ethnic disproportionality in Nebraska's foster care and juvenile systems, specifically at Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers. Senators Sara Howard (District 9) and Steve Lathrop (District 12) introduced this study.

LR449, introduced by Senator Tony Vargas (District 7) would examine systemic and institutional racism in Nebraska and make recommendations to improve systems to make them more equitable for those who are biracial, interracial and people of color.

Read these specific bills by clicking HERE