In 1965, the Nebraska State legislature recognized the need for a long-range program to establish a statewide system of area comprehensive community colleges. Authorization was given in that year for the creation of multi-county two-year institutions to meet area occupational needs; the bill provided for districts to be formed by a vote of electors. A great deal of resistance to the area system within the State slowed down implementation of the plan. In 1969, a bill passed by the legislature containing a statewide system incorporating all two-year institutions into one comprehensive system was vetoed by the governor because of questions concerning area boundaries and the constitutionality of the plan. Studies were then conducted of the definition of comprehensive community colleges and the development of a statewide community college system. Another bill was passed successfully in the 1971 session. Details concerning area boundaries and funding were then ironed out, and the total system was fully implemented on July 1, 1973. A schedule and general outline for a State master plan has been set up, and work on the plan has begun. (KM)