LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Circulating a ballot petition in Nebraska could become easier under several bills presented to lawmakers.

Petition circulators said Wednesday that current restrictions hinder grassroots movements led by citizens, often referred to as the “second house” of Nebraska’s single-chamber Legislature.

A measure by Columbus Sen. Paul Schumacher would allow petition circulators to gather signatures electronically, which he says is a more thoughtful and accessible approach.

North Platte Sen. Mike Groene is pushing legislation to prohibit “blockers” from interfering with petitioners, while allowing petition circulators to be paid by signature, rather than an hourly wage.

Opponents included the League of Nebraska Municipalities and the Secretary of State’s office, which argued that petitions need checks and balances, just like other political processes.