Nebraska Administrative Code Topic - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF
1. Procurement and Purchasing Procedures (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 1–2)
Summary:
DAS oversees procurement rules for state agencies, ensuring competitive bidding, transparency, and proper use of public funds.
Case Example:
A Nebraska state agency needs to purchase new computers for 200 employees:
The agency must solicit competitive bids according to DAS procurement rules.
All bids are reviewed for compliance with specifications, cost-effectiveness, and vendor qualifications.
A contract is awarded to the vendor that meets the requirements, and DAS may audit the process to ensure fairness.
Implication:
This ensures public funds are used responsibly, prevents favoritism, and promotes transparency in state contracting.
2. State Employee Travel Reimbursement (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 8)
Summary:
DAS sets rules for travel reimbursement, including per diem rates, mileage, lodging, and meal expenses for state employees.
Case Example:
A state employee travels from Lincoln to Omaha for a conference:
The employee submits a travel authorization form before departure.
Receipts for lodging, meals, and transportation are submitted to DAS for reimbursement.
DAS ensures the claim follows allowable rates; any noncompliant expenses (e.g., first-class flights) are denied.
Implication:
The rules ensure accountability for taxpayer funds and standardized treatment of travel expenses across all state agencies.
3. Risk Management and Workers’ Compensation (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 10)
Summary:
DAS administers risk management programs, including insurance coverage for state employees and property.
Case Example:
A state maintenance worker is injured while repairing a state building:
The employee files a workers’ compensation claim through DAS.
DAS investigates the claim, determines eligibility, and processes medical and wage benefits.
DAS also implements safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents.
Implication:
These rules protect state employees and minimize liability for the state while promoting workplace safety.
4. State Fleet Management (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 16)
Summary:
DAS manages the acquisition, maintenance, and disposal of state-owned vehicles to ensure cost-effective and safe operations.
Case Example:
A state agency requests a replacement van for transporting staff:
DAS evaluates the request, selects a vehicle from approved vendors, and schedules delivery.
The agency must follow rules for maintenance, fuel usage, and reporting vehicle condition.
If the vehicle is later involved in an accident, DAS risk management procedures are followed.
Implication:
Centralized fleet management promotes efficiency, cost control, and accountability for state property.
5. State Property and Facilities Management (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 20)
Summary:
DAS establishes standards for leasing, maintaining, and utilizing state-owned or leased facilities.
Case Example:
A new office building in Lincoln is leased for a state agency:
DAS reviews the lease terms, ensures compliance with safety codes, and monitors space utilization.
Maintenance requests are coordinated through DAS to ensure timely repairs and compliance with building standards.
Periodic inspections are conducted to ensure ADA accessibility and safety compliance.
Implication:
These procedures ensure state facilities are safe, efficient, and properly maintained for employees and the public.
6. Budget and Financial Oversight (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 22)
Summary:
DAS provides oversight for agency budgets, including expenditure monitoring, compliance with legislative appropriations, and financial reporting.
Case Example:
A state agency overspends its office supply budget:
DAS reviews expenditure reports and identifies discrepancies.
The agency must submit a corrective plan and justify any overspending.
DAS may withhold certain reimbursements or redirect funds to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Implication:
Budget oversight ensures that agencies operate within appropriations and maintains fiscal accountability across all state departments.
7. Public Records and Open Meetings Compliance (Title 291 NAC, Chapter 28)
Summary:
DAS provides guidance to agencies to comply with Nebraska’s public records and open meetings laws, ensuring transparency.
Case Example:
A state board wants to discuss a contract in a private meeting without public notice:
DAS reviews the agenda and notifies the board that open meeting rules require public notice and access.
The meeting is rescheduled to comply with public transparency rules.
Minutes and records are maintained and made accessible to the public.
Implication:
Compliance with open records and meetings laws ensures government transparency and public trust.
✅ Summary
The Nebraska Department of Administrative Services establishes rules in areas including:
Procurement – competitive bidding and contract oversight
Travel reimbursement – standardization and accountability for expenses
Risk management – workers’ compensation and liability protection
Fleet management – vehicle acquisition, maintenance, and safety
Facilities management – leasing, maintenance, and ADA compliance
Budget oversight – financial accountability and expenditure monitoring
Public records and open meetings – transparency and compliance
Each case illustrates how DAS rules are applied practically to protect state resources, ensure compliance, and maintain accountability.
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