LINCOLN- The $335 million aid project that was approved in the last legislative session still has $250 million that needs to be allocated. Where that money goes is dependent on a bill this session but multiple delays have slowed the progress of the remaining funds. One problem contributing to the delay is the engineering firm Olsson who is recommending ideas for the money. Olsson has pushed the deadline back for their report now twice and is now expected in the coming weeks.

Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, the leading lawmaker for the project, said he hopes the list will be finalized by Jan. 9, but it could come later. He said multiple minor problems, primarily a slew of illnesses, contributed to the delays. If the recommendations do come when expected, that leaves lawmakers with very little time to introduce a bill as they must be introduced by January 18th.

Senator Wayne said the legislation drafting is already underway and that there are ways to amend the legislation in the future. If the recommendations are not submitted, Wayne said he would introduce what he called a "shell bill," which is legislation that explains the general ideas of a proposal but leaves certain areas blank to fill in with specifics later.

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