Several Nebraska legislative committees heard testimony Monday about three proposed changes to laws that governor motorists.

LB-984, introduced by Sen. Bob Krist, would double the amount of coverage required for uninsured and underinsured drivers. Currently, the minimum requirement for each driver is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash. The coverage is designed to protect a driver in the event an underinsured or uninsured driver causes a crash. During testimony, the committee was told we can expect a 3% increase in premiums if LB-984 passes.

LB 1003, introduced by Sen. Paul Schumacher, would also double the amount of coverage required for liability insurance. Currently, the minimum requirement for each driver is also $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash.

One argument for increasing the limited coverage is to keep up with the reality of higher costs of cars, property and medical bills in the event of a crash.

LB-1155, introduced by Sen. Steve Lathrop, addresses people caught driving without a driver’s license. Currently, the offense is considered a Class II Misdemeanor. The penalty after the first offense is an additional one year suspension. The penalty after the second offense is an additional two years suspension. LB-1155 would make the fourth offense a Class I Misdemeanor rather than a Class II Misdemeanor. It also allows for the driver’s vehicle to be impounded,