Nebraska's government is incredibly unique, another mark on our independent streak. Nebraska's legislative branch is a unicameral, meaning there is only one legislative body rather than both a House of Representatives and a Senate. This restructuring of government was proposed by Senator George Norris in the 1930's. Norris campaigned for his idea of a nonpartisan unicameral all across the state, going to every radio station and newspaper that would have him. In 1934, Nebraskans voted this unicameral legislature into reality.

There are pros and cons to Nebraska's Unicameral. A unicameral's smaller size requires less personnel, less administrative efforts, and overall less cost to operate. The legislative process is also simplified and more efficient, since bills only have to face the approval of one house. Having one house also allows for easier communication between senators and the people. The nonpartisan nature of the Unicameral works to prevent divisiveness within the legislative body and on the ballot.

However, an element you lose with a unicameral is an additonal barrier of checks and balances. By requiring two legislative houses' approval to pass bills, you are more easily able to prevent one party from taking over. Despite our unicameral's official nonpartisanship, our senators do have their own beliefs and belong to their respective parties, which is inherently partisan.

But here's the truth: Nebraska's Unicameral has worked for us for nearly one hundred years, and it can be even better if we work together.