Bill Advances to Add Judge in Douglas County

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – A bill that would add another judge to Nebraska’s largest county to help with a growing caseload has won first-round approval in the Legislature.

But the measure advanced on Wednesday but won’t pass until lawmakers figure out a way to pay for it while balancing the state budget.

The measure by state Sen. Steve Lathrop, of Omaha, would bring the total number of district court judges to 17 in the fourth judicial district, which encompasses Douglas County. Supporters say adding a judge is necessary to adjust to the large number of court cases that are handled in Omaha each year.

Lawmakers advanced the bill on a 35-0 vote. Two additional votes are required before it goes to the governor.