LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Third-party political candidates could have an easier time getting on the Nebraska ballot thanks to a Libertarian state senator who is working to build her party.

Sen. Laura Ebke of Crete will present a bill this week that would create a new way for parties to maintain ballot access, allowing them to divert more resources into local races and fundraising.

If it passes, parties could automatically appear on the ballot if they have at least 10,000 registered members. The Libertarian Party of Nebraska cleared the threshold late last year, but the measure could also help the Nebraska Green Party and other groups.

"I think it's a good thing for everybody," said Ebke, a former Republican who registered as a Libertarian last year. "I believe the more parties we have and the more competition, the more it requires every party to be more thoughtful and hone its message. It forces them to examine what they believe."