LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (<a target="_blank" href="https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/">NDBF</a>) is part of an $80 million&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.csbs.org/newsroom/state-regulators-issue-80-million-penalty-block-inc-cash-app-bsaaml-violations">multi-state enforcement action</a>&nbsp;against Block Inc. for&nbsp;violations of the federal Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), as well as anti-money laundering (AML) laws that safeguard the financial system from illicit use.&nbsp;

More than 50 million U.S. consumers use Cash App, which is Block’s mobile payment service, to spend, send, store, and invest money. Block cooperated with the states in the settlement.

Block has agreed to pay a combined $80 million penalty to the participating state agencies, hire an independent consultant to review the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of its BSA/AML program, and submit a report to the states within nine months. Block then will have a year to correct any deficiencies.&nbsp;

NDBF Director Kelly Lammers said: “This is another example of our staff’s work with multi-state coalitions to protect Nebraskans and maintain confidence in the financial services industry. In just the last few weeks, the Department has participated in three multi-state settlements that have returned more than $1.5 million to Nebraska and ensured our regulated financial institutions are complying with Nebraska law.”

Under BSA/AML rules, financial services firms must perform due diligence on customers, including verifying customer identities, reporting suspicious activity, and applying appropriate controls for high-risk accounts. State regulators found that Block was not in compliance with certain requirements, creating the potential for its services to be used to support money laundering, terrorism financing, or other illegal activities.&nbsp;

State financial regulators – like the NDBF – license and serve as the primary supervisor of money transmitters. In fiscal year 2023-24, the NDBF oversaw 185 money transmitters with combined assets of $735.2 billion.

Additional information on the state regulatory framework for money transmission can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.csbs.org/reality-money-transmission-secure-convenient-and-trusted-under-state-supervision">here.</a>&nbsp;Nebraska residents with questions regarding the settlement may call the NDBF at (402) 471-2171 or send an email via the NDBF’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/about/contact-us">contact page</a>&nbsp;at ndbf.nebraska.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737036958128.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (<a target="_blank" href="https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/">NDBF</a>) is part of an $80 million&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.csbs.org/newsroom/state-regulators-issue-80-million-penalty-block-inc-cash-app-bsaaml-violations">multi-state enforcement action</a>&nbsp;against Block Inc. for&nbsp;violations of the federal Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), as well as anti-money laundering (AML) laws that safeguard the financial system from illicit use.&nbsp;More than 50 million U.S. consumers use Cash App, which is Block’s mobile payment service, to spend, send, store, and invest money. Block cooperated with the states in the settlement.Block has agreed to pay a combined $80 million penalty to the participating state agencies, hire an independent consultant to review the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of its BSA/AML program, and submit a report to the states within nine months. Block then will have a year to correct any deficiencies.&nbsp;NDBF Director Kelly Lammers said: “This is another example of our staff’s work with multi-state coalitions to protect Nebraskans and maintain confidence in the financial services industry. In just the last few weeks, the Department has participated in three multi-state settlements that have returned more than $1.5 million to Nebraska and ensured our regulated financial institutions are complying with Nebraska law.”Under BSA/AML rules, financial services firms must perform due diligence on customers, including verifying customer identities, reporting suspicious activity, and applying appropriate controls for high-risk accounts. State regulators found that Block was not in compliance with certain requirements, creating the potential for its services to be used to support money laundering, terrorism financing, or other illegal activities.&nbsp;State financial regulators – like the NDBF – license and serve as the primary supervisor of money transmitters. In fiscal year 2023-24, the NDBF oversaw 185 money transmitters with combined assets of $735.2 billion.Additional information on the state regulatory framework for money transmission can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.csbs.org/reality-money-transmission-secure-convenient-and-trusted-under-state-supervision">here.</a>&nbsp;Nebraska residents with questions regarding the settlement may call the NDBF at (402) 471-2171 or send an email via the NDBF’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/about/contact-us">contact page</a>&nbsp;at ndbf.nebraska.gov.

Nebraska Joins $80M Enforcement Action Against Block, Cash App for Violations

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/14/new-nebraska-bills-focus-on-human-development-education-health-director-authority/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska’s K-12 schools would be required to teach students from elementary to high schools about human development under a new bill proposed Tuesday in the Legislature.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59291" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 213</a>, from State Sen. Rick Holdcroft of Bellevue, was one of 66 proposals introduced on the fifth legislative day. Holdcroft’s bill would require the State Board of Education, by March 1, 2026, to adopt measurable content standards for human embryology as part of the state’s science education standards. Teachings would need to begin by August 2026.

The curriculum must cover the stages of human embryonic development and include high-definition videos showing the development of the brain, heart, sex organs and other vital organs.

The State Board of Education has not adopted health education standards, and Holdcroft, when asked, said his bill is not about sex education, which embroiled the board more than three years ago, partly leading to significant changes in board membership and public attention.

“That’s why we call it human development, not sex education,” Holdcroft said. “Part of the bill is that if parents think that’s too much for their child, well, then they can opt-out.”

Holdcroft said LB 213 aims to raise understanding among young children, such as by first or second grade, of what is going on in a mother’s womb and “hopefully start to build some knowledge of the importance of the unborn.”

His goal for the legislation is similar to that of laws in other states where lawmakers mandated viewings of videos like “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-lQOooYAs8" target="_blank">Meet Baby Olivia</a>,” which was produced by an anti-abortion group and walks through the stages of human development from conception to just before birth.

He said such efforts rarely go much beyond showing the development of the embryo and fetus in the mother’s womb.

State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha reintroduced multiple health care-related bills from her first two years as a lawmaker, including:

A third bill,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58780" target="_blank">LB 203</a>, would require&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/15/lawmakers-weigh-whether-to-restrict-local-health-directors-authority-over-public-health-measures/">health department directors</a>&nbsp;to get written approval from a majority of local elected representatives, primarily county board members, before issuing community-wide directed health measures in which there is no “epidemiological link.” Such measures would need to be ratified at the next regularly scheduled meeting of a local board.&nbsp;

The bill is a response to backlash that health officials in Lincoln and Omaha faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of which led to a recall campaign against Lincoln officials and a lawsuit against the health director in Omaha for issuing a mask mandate without the city council’s approval.

“If you’re talking about removing someone’s rights, that can only be an elected representative, because then we have a chance to unelect them,” Kauth said, referring to her LB 203.

Suicide awareness, disaster area penalties

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59381" target="_blank">LB 217</a>, from State Sen. John Fredrickson of Omaha, would require that all staff serving in the child welfare system of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and employees of child-placing agencies receive suicide awareness and prevention training.

That was a recent recommendation of the Office of Inspector General for Child Welfare.

“When you think about our youth in foster care, these are some of the most vulnerable kids in the state of Nebraska,” Fredrickson said. “It’s incumbent upon us as a state to ensure that we’re doing everything to ensure their safety and well-being.”

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58809" target="_blank">LB 206</a>, from State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Omaha, would bump up criminal penalties by one degree for a list of 10 offenses, if committed in an emergency or disaster area. This includes assault, robbery, arson, burglary or theft, criminal mischief or trespassing.

The bill is in response to the “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/29/gov-pillen-outlines-nebraskas-local-federal-next-steps-following-war-zone-tornadoes/">war zone</a>” tornadoes that tore through eastern Nebraska, including in the Elkhorn area that von Gillern represents, that led to looting and other crimes.

“It just seems to strike a chord that people believe that if you steal from somebody, that’s bad,” von Gillern said. “If you steal from somebody that’s just been through a horrible disaster, it’s even worse.”

Bill introduction continues through Wednesday, Jan. 22.&nbsp;

Among other legislation introduced Tuesday was:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736971924983.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Rick Holdcroft of Bellevue applauds an announced guest during Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s State of the State address on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Holdcroft of Bellevue applauds an announced guest during Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s State of the State address on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/14/new-nebraska-bills-focus-on-human-development-education-health-director-authority/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska’s K-12 schools would be required to teach students from elementary to high schools about human development under a new bill proposed Tuesday in the Legislature.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59291" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 213</a>, from State Sen. Rick Holdcroft of Bellevue, was one of 66 proposals introduced on the fifth legislative day. Holdcroft’s bill would require the State Board of Education, by March 1, 2026, to adopt measurable content standards for human embryology as part of the state’s science education standards. Teachings would need to begin by August 2026.The curriculum must cover the stages of human embryonic development and include high-definition videos showing the development of the brain, heart, sex organs and other vital organs.The State Board of Education has not adopted health education standards, and Holdcroft, when asked, said his bill is not about sex education, which embroiled the board more than three years ago, partly leading to significant changes in board membership and public attention.“That’s why we call it human development, not sex education,” Holdcroft said. “Part of the bill is that if parents think that’s too much for their child, well, then they can opt-out.”Holdcroft said LB 213 aims to raise understanding among young children, such as by first or second grade, of what is going on in a mother’s womb and “hopefully start to build some knowledge of the importance of the unborn.”His goal for the legislation is similar to that of laws in other states where lawmakers mandated viewings of videos like “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-lQOooYAs8" target="_blank">Meet Baby Olivia</a>,” which was produced by an anti-abortion group and walks through the stages of human development from conception to just before birth.He said such efforts rarely go much beyond showing the development of the embryo and fetus in the mother’s womb.<h2>Health-related measures</h2>State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha reintroduced multiple health care-related bills from her first two years as a lawmaker, including:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58779" target="_blank">LB 202</a>&nbsp;to prohibit discipline against a health care provider’s license to practice medicine or surgery as a result of the person expressing an opinion in a public or professional forum. Kauth said some providers have not spoken out on certain topics, such as those related to COVID-19 or gender dysphoria, out of fear they will be “shunned and silenced and censored.”</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58083" target="_blank">LB 204</a>, the Biometric Autonomy Liberty Law, to require private entities to get users’ written consent before either collecting, storing or selling biological characteristics, such as fingerprints, voice prints, retina or iris images or other unique identifiers. Kauth said, each day, people are asked “more and more and more to give away the rights to your face, to your fingerprints, to your breath, to your emotions, how your body moves, and people don’t realize that. They just breeze through a 300,000-word disclosure and say, ‘Oh, it’s fine.’”</li>
 </ul>A third bill,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58780" target="_blank">LB 203</a>, would require&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/15/lawmakers-weigh-whether-to-restrict-local-health-directors-authority-over-public-health-measures/">health department directors</a>&nbsp;to get written approval from a majority of local elected representatives, primarily county board members, before issuing community-wide directed health measures in which there is no “epidemiological link.” Such measures would need to be ratified at the next regularly scheduled meeting of a local board.&nbsp;The bill is a response to backlash that health officials in Lincoln and Omaha faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of which led to a recall campaign against Lincoln officials and a lawsuit against the health director in Omaha for issuing a mask mandate without the city council’s approval.“If you’re talking about removing someone’s rights, that can only be an elected representative, because then we have a chance to unelect them,” Kauth said, referring to her LB 203.<h2>Suicide awareness, disaster area penalties</h2><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59381" target="_blank">LB 217</a>, from State Sen. John Fredrickson of Omaha, would require that all staff serving in the child welfare system of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and employees of child-placing agencies receive suicide awareness and prevention training.That was a recent recommendation of the Office of Inspector General for Child Welfare.“When you think about our youth in foster care, these are some of the most vulnerable kids in the state of Nebraska,” Fredrickson said. “It’s incumbent upon us as a state to ensure that we’re doing everything to ensure their safety and well-being.”<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58809" target="_blank">LB 206</a>, from State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Omaha, would bump up criminal penalties by one degree for a list of 10 offenses, if committed in an emergency or disaster area. This includes assault, robbery, arson, burglary or theft, criminal mischief or trespassing.The bill is in response to the “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/29/gov-pillen-outlines-nebraskas-local-federal-next-steps-following-war-zone-tornadoes/">war zone</a>” tornadoes that tore through eastern Nebraska, including in the Elkhorn area that von Gillern represents, that led to looting and other crimes.“It just seems to strike a chord that people believe that if you steal from somebody, that’s bad,” von Gillern said. “If you steal from somebody that’s just been through a horrible disaster, it’s even worse.”Bill introduction continues through Wednesday, Jan. 22.&nbsp;<h2>Other new bills</h2>Among other legislation introduced Tuesday was:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59103" target="_blank">LB 196</a>, by State Sen. Jared Storm of David City, would allow snowmobiles and other snow-removal vehicles to operate between sunset and sunrise.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59260" target="_blank">LB 207</a>, also by von Gillern, would increase the $150 fee for commercially registered alternative fuel vehicles weighing more than 7,500 pounds, such as Amazon delivery trucks, to $450. Motorcycles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles would be $75, and any other alternative fuel vehicle would be $150. The goal is to make up for the lack of state revenue from fuel taxes that are used to maintain roads.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59371" target="_blank">LB 212</a>, by State Sen. Dave “Woody” Wordekemper of Fremont, would tax cigars, cheroots and stogies at 20% of their purchase price, up to a maximum of 50 cents.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59263" target="_blank">LB 220</a>, by State Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, would require certain legislative proposals to include an impact note describing what the potential effects of new laws could be on persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59531" target="_blank">LB 221</a>, also by Cavanaugh, would set an approximate nine-month process by which the Legislature could fill vacant gubernatorial appointments to boards or commissions.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59595" target="_blank">LB 224</a>, by State Sen. Dunixi Guereca of Omaha, would offer 12 weeks of paid maternity leave to state employees.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59411" target="_blank">LB 226</a>, by State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, would set up a process to set aside and expunge records related to convictions and adjudications for certain concealed weapon offenses that existed before Sept. 2, 2023. That was the date that a new state law took effect allowing people to carry concealed weapons without having first completed training or obtained a permit.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58948" target="_blank">LB 233</a>, by State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, would require in vitro fertilization to be covered by health insurance for state employees. It could be limited to four completed egg retrievals and to individuals who have been unable to conceive or produce conception or sustain a successful pregnancy through less expensive and medically viable treatments or procedures that are otherwise covered.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59447" target="_blank">LB 258</a>, by State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, would slow annual increases in the state’s minimum wage after Jan. 1, 2027, when it reaches $15 an hour. Rather than increasing automatically by changes in cost of living, the wage would increase to the lesser of 1.5%, rounded to the nearest cent, or the cost of living. The bill also would create a lower baseline $13.50 youth minimum wage, for teens aged 14 or 15, and a training wage for employees aged 16 or 17 at $13.50 through Dec. 31, 2026. After that point, the training wage would be 75% of the general minimum wage.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59049" target="_blank">Legislative Resolution 12CA</a>, also by Kauth, is modeled after California’s Proposition 13, which passed in 1978. The Nebraska version would&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/05/property-valuations-freeze-could-be-backup-plan-during-nebraskas-tax-focused-special-session/">lock in property valuations</a>&nbsp;for tax purposes at no more than 1.5% above its “full cash value, or the initial purchase or construction value of a property after 2025. That valuation could increase annually at the rate of inflation, but by no more than 2%. Valuations for existing properties would be locked in at the 2027 level. If approved by the Legislature, voters would weigh in at the November 2026 election.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59122" target="_blank">LR 13CA</a>, by State Sen. Bob Hallstrom of Syracuse, would allow voters to outlaw counties from imposing an inheritance tax on someone who inherits money or property after someone in Nebraska has died. Lawmakers have been looking for replacement funds to offset the loss in tax revenue for counties if the tax were to go away.</li>
 </ul>

New Nebraska bills focus on human development education, health director authority

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen and state senators presented three bills critical to preserving and protecting agriculture in Nebraska.&nbsp;

“As the first farmer-governor in more than 100 years, I know how important it is that we take steps to preserve our way of life, for the benefit of those who consume our products,” said Gov. Pillen. “We feed the world and save the planet. To ensure that we can do that for generations to come, we need to take steps that protect our water supply, the data that farmers use to improve their yields and their profits and that we keep extremists from introducing unproven meat products from being sold to consumers.”&nbsp;

Senator Barry DeKay is bringing legislation to keep lab-grown meat from being manufactured, distributed, or sold in Nebraska. The bill defines “cultivated food protein” and requires those products to be labeled “adulterated food products” under the Pure Food Act.&nbsp;

"There are clear, recognized benefits of meat as a source of protein. It is uncertain whether manufactured meat protein is a substitute for natural meat sources as essential dietary needs. I question elevating lab meat to a level of equivalency with real meat,“ said Sen. DeKay. “Until or unless there are clear labeling rules that adequately disclose that cultured meat is not real meat, its sale allows lab meats to unfairly benefit from industry investments in marketing and production. What’s more, this industry is supported by organizations that want to do away with animal production in Nebraska and the United States. This is part of the process that we’re going to go through to make sure our way of life, our livestock, and our product that we can put on the dinner table stays intact going forward."

Gov. Pillen added, “It's important we get on the offense so that Nebraska farmers and ranchers are not undermined. Our job is to protect consumers, grow agriculture and defend agriculture. Most of us want government out of our hair, but there are places where government needs to step in and protect us.”&nbsp;

At the request of the Governor, Senator Tom Brandt is bringing a bill to merge the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Policies and programs focused on water quality and quantity will now be under the same leadership. This will improve long-range planning for water and natural resource management issues such as nitrogen management and soil health. Related to nitrogen management, the Governor also announced the formation of his Task Force on Water Quality and Quantity.&nbsp;

Speaking on the merger, Sen. Brandt said, "By merging the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Environment and Energy, we are streamlining government operations to better address our state’s critical water needs. This legislation represents an opportunity to enhance efficiency, strengthen resource management, and ensure a sustainable future for Nebraska."&nbsp;

Another emerging issue for the agricultural community is producer data privacy.&nbsp; Senator Mike Jacobson’s planned bill will keep the ownership of producer generated data with the farm or the producer where it was created. It prohibits sale of that information to other agricultural corporations. In this regard, it would be similar to the recently adopted Consumer Data Privacy Act. If passed, Nebraska would be a national leader by being the first state to have a law restricting the sale of agricultural data.

“Nebraska farmers and ranchers are increasingly concerned about the variety of new ag data products that are arriving on the market,” said Sen. Jacobson. “They want to know what happens to their data once they provide it to ag tech providers. They have a lot of questions about how the data is used, if they can retrieve it and should they trust the providers?”

“It’s important we not only defend agriculture but go on the offensive,” said Gov. Pillen. “The better agriculture does, the better our economy does. I’m eager to work with the legislature this year to lead the nation and protect and grow our agriculture industry.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736971735555.jpeg" alt="Governor Jim Pillen at the podium" />
 <figcaption>Governor Jim Pillen at the podium</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen and state senators presented three bills critical to preserving and protecting agriculture in Nebraska.&nbsp;“As the first farmer-governor in more than 100 years, I know how important it is that we take steps to preserve our way of life, for the benefit of those who consume our products,” said Gov. Pillen. “We feed the world and save the planet. To ensure that we can do that for generations to come, we need to take steps that protect our water supply, the data that farmers use to improve their yields and their profits and that we keep extremists from introducing unproven meat products from being sold to consumers.”&nbsp;Lab-Grown MeatSenator Barry DeKay is bringing legislation to keep lab-grown meat from being manufactured, distributed, or sold in Nebraska. The bill defines “cultivated food protein” and requires those products to be labeled “adulterated food products” under the Pure Food Act.&nbsp;"There are clear, recognized benefits of meat as a source of protein. It is uncertain whether manufactured meat protein is a substitute for natural meat sources as essential dietary needs. I question elevating lab meat to a level of equivalency with real meat,“ said Sen. DeKay. “Until or unless there are clear labeling rules that adequately disclose that cultured meat is not real meat, its sale allows lab meats to unfairly benefit from industry investments in marketing and production. What’s more, this industry is supported by organizations that want to do away with animal production in Nebraska and the United States. This is part of the process that we’re going to go through to make sure our way of life, our livestock, and our product that we can put on the dinner table stays intact going forward."Gov. Pillen added, “It's important we get on the offense so that Nebraska farmers and ranchers are not undermined. Our job is to protect consumers, grow agriculture and defend agriculture. Most of us want government out of our hair, but there are places where government needs to step in and protect us.”&nbsp;Merging NDEE &amp; DNRAt the request of the Governor, Senator Tom Brandt is bringing a bill to merge the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Policies and programs focused on water quality and quantity will now be under the same leadership. This will improve long-range planning for water and natural resource management issues such as nitrogen management and soil health. Related to nitrogen management, the Governor also announced the formation of his Task Force on Water Quality and Quantity.&nbsp;Speaking on the merger, Sen. Brandt said, "By merging the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Environment and Energy, we are streamlining government operations to better address our state’s critical water needs. This legislation represents an opportunity to enhance efficiency, strengthen resource management, and ensure a sustainable future for Nebraska."&nbsp;Agricultural Data PrivacyAnother emerging issue for the agricultural community is producer data privacy.&nbsp; Senator Mike Jacobson’s planned bill will keep the ownership of producer generated data with the farm or the producer where it was created. It prohibits sale of that information to other agricultural corporations. In this regard, it would be similar to the recently adopted Consumer Data Privacy Act. If passed, Nebraska would be a national leader by being the first state to have a law restricting the sale of agricultural data.“Nebraska farmers and ranchers are increasingly concerned about the variety of new ag data products that are arriving on the market,” said Sen. Jacobson. “They want to know what happens to their data once they provide it to ag tech providers. They have a lot of questions about how the data is used, if they can retrieve it and should they trust the providers?”“It’s important we not only defend agriculture but go on the offensive,” said Gov. Pillen. “The better agriculture does, the better our economy does. I’m eager to work with the legislature this year to lead the nation and protect and grow our agriculture industry.”

Governor Pillen and Senators Introduce Legislation to Benefit Nebraska Agriculture

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;-- President Kelly, Speaker Arch, members of the 109th Legislature, tribal leaders, fellow Nebraskans.

What a time of promise and opportunity for our state and nation.

What a tremendous moment for those of us who have been blessed with the privilege to serve our fellow citizens in public office.

I am as grateful today for that privilege as I was when I stood in this chamber just over two years ago and swore to uphold our Constitution—and I am more invigorated than ever before.

I recently had a very real reminder of the preciousness of each moment.

For the many Nebraskans whose livelihood depends on their stewardship of powerful animals, respect for that power is no mystery.

I dropped my guard, and I was humbled by a reminder of that power.

I am here before you today only by God’s grace.

But a life-GIVING moment like the one I experienced can have the effect of clarifying one’s sense of mission.

It reminds one of how delicate life is, and to make the most of every moment one is given.

I’m grateful that almighty God has given me a second shot, and I continue on the road to recovery, instilled with a renewed commitment to spending my days fighting for the people of this state and, most importantly, making a positive difference.

I am grateful beyond words to my wife and our First Lady, Suzanne, for her constant love and care.

And I am grateful for the outpouring of support from so many Nebraskans, and I am especially grateful for the power of their prayers and for sending me the gift of the holy spirit.

To all of the public servants in this room—and especially to our new senators and their families—thank you for answering the call to public life and for taking on the burdens and sacrifices of service.

The road ahead is full of long days and late nights, of time away from loved ones, and of sometimes trying debates and disagreements.

But with it comes the daily opportunity to leave the greatest place in the world even better than we found it for our kids and grand babies.

If we keep their futures and the betterment of this state as our north star—and set our own personal political fortunes aside—there is no limit to what we can achieve here.

I am excited to partner with both the veterans and the new arrivals to this Legislature.

And, I assure you, every moment will be worth it.

I am pleased to report that the state of our state is extraordinarily strong.

Our unemployment rate is among the lowest in America.

Our state’s population is growing faster than it has in decades, and our population has now topped two million people.

The engines of our economy are powering that growth—from our agricultural backbone to our powerhouse financial services and manufacturing sectors.

Our state government is smaller, more efficient, and more productive.

And, at long last, the tax burden on our citizens to pay for that government is less than it was two years ago.

Our natural resources are plentiful, our people are the hardest-working of anywhere on earth, and it will soon be morning again in America with the return of a presidency and congress committed to making this nation prosperous, secure, strong, and healthy again.

But even with these strengths, this legislative session affords us tremendous opportunities to take further steps forward.

Simply put, the work of making Nebraska a low-tax state is far from over.

We should remember how we got here and why our tax system is so out of whack.

In the past, during a deflationary period, city, county, and state government in Nebraska grew at an excessive rate.

There was little fiscal restraint—and the result was bloated government growing unchecked on the backs of its people.

And to make Nebraska competitive with our neighbors, we must set the example at the state level.

Despite dire warnings of budget shortfalls, I have presented a budget that SHRINKS state spending by half a percent over the next biennium.

In fact, if you set aside increased and unreimbursed Medicaid spending required by the federal government, State spending in this budget is REDUCED by 2.3 percent.

Even as we make a multigenerational investment in the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and significantly increase our state commitment to supporting the mission of Offutt Air Force Base and U.S. Strategic Command, we have presented to you a fully balanced budget that CUTS spending.

We have achieved this historic spending restraint by having the courage to say no, and to focus on needs, not wants, and we will continue to have that courage.

Not all are happy when we work to fix the tax system.

But as my dad used to tell us on the farm: what does happy have to do with it? We have work to do.

Our job as public servants is not to make everyone happy—much less any one industry or special interest group.

Our job is to focus on schools, public safety, roads, and critical services—the NEEDS of Nebraskans and nothing else.

This year we will prioritize improvements to Nebraska’s school funding system.

TEEOSA—Nebraska’s thirty-year-old formula for school funding—remains broken, burdening local communities and property tax payers in districts with limited resources and shortchanging our kids.

It would shock most Nebraskans to hear that 25 years ago, 226 school districts received state aid—by 2024, that number had shrunk to 60.

That was not the intent with the original law.

We are going to have the courage to make serious and lasting fixes to this system.

I will establish a blue-ribbon commission of experts to cut through the bureaucracy and vested special interests in our current school funding system and recommend a new model for Nebraska, which THIS Legislature will be able to consider and adopt.

And along with other technical changes to strengthen TEEOSA, Senator Hughes is championing a bill that will honor the state’s constitutional obligation to fund K-12 education by increasing the foundation aid per student across the state, consistent with the principle that school funding should ALWAYS follow the student, not the system.

Although you wouldn’t always know it reading the papers, last year did result in real wins for Nebraskans struggling with our spiraling property tax crisis.

After years in which only some Nebraska homeowners took advantage of property tax credits, now ALL homeowners receive this relief.

For the first time in a generation, Nebraskans opened their property tax statements last month to find the amount they owed was LOWER than the year before.

Like many of you, I have been overwhelmed by the gratitude shown by so many Nebraskans for this relief.

For the first time EVER, the amount of property taxes local governments can collect will be capped, with commonsense flexibility to allow investments in public safety, police, and firefighters.

But the work is not done, and we must do more this year.

There are leaders in this body like Senator Clements who continue the fight to eliminate Nebraska’s death tax.

By making commonsense adjustments to our tax code and making it more competitive with other states, we will invest two hundred million MORE dollars into Nebraska’s property tax credit fund.

From Harrison to Omaha, Nebraskans of all stripes have recognized how out of whack our property taxes have become and what a burden they put on families, communities, and our ability to grow.

They expect us to continue to work to solve it—and we WILL.

To shrink government we must eliminate its obsolete parts and clean out its closets.

Over the years, we have created far too many boards and commissions.

Many have missions duplicative of those of other government agencies, or which have grown outdated over time.

All add regulatory power or more government where none is needed.

Especially at a time when we must tighten our belt and treat every nickel like manhole covers, we must continually assess which parts of government are still of use to the people.

The clock ran out on these efforts last session, but we must right size our boards and commissions with a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will eliminate or consolidate dozens of them.

Speaker Arch has reintroduced a bill that will do just that.

I am grateful for his leadership on this important issue and I look forward to signing it into law.

We have an opportunity to consolidate and streamline two of our major code agencies, as well.

Water is the lifeblood of Nebraska, and what we do to protect our QUANTITY and improve our QUALITY of water will be our legacy.

Through both our vast system of surface waterways and our treasured Ogallala Aquifer—we have a natural hedge against drought and therefore a God-given foundation for our agricultural and industrial economy in the toughest of times.

State government bifurcates its management of this resource through two separate departments—of Environment and Energy and of Natural Resources.

By doing so, we needlessly divide our focus on water quality and quantity.

Given the interrelatedness of these two things, this makes no sense.

Further, it places Nebraska out of step and uncompetitive with the majority of our fellow states.

For our most treasured resource to remain the envy of North America for the next seven generations, a new model of stewardship is needed.

I am grateful to Senator Brandt for carrying an important measure that will combine DEE and DNR and establish the new combined Department of Water, Energy, and Environment.

It will save costs, eliminate duplicative overhead, and streamline the mission of stewarding and protecting our natural resources and environment, and enhance collaboration, as well.

We have begun the work of consolidating all of the important work of these two agencies under unified leadership, and I look forward to working with you to carry that work to its completion.

Now more than ever, it is vital that our state speaks with a unified voice on the national stage.

For three decades, under our current allocation of electoral college votes by congressional district, we have divided our voice and diminished our impact in presidential elections.

Not one of our fellow states except one has followed us down this path.

Now is the time to fix it, and I thank Senator Lippincott for his leadership in giving it the priority it deserves.

With no presidential election right around the corner, there is no better time to dispassionately deliver on the will of a majority of the people of this state, honor our constitutional founding, and unify our voice in our most important exercise of national democracy.

I call on this body to end this thirty year experiment and pass winner take all THIS legislative session.

In the modern world, it can be extremely difficult to protect our kids and culture from the harmful effects of ever-present social media, online bullying, and attacks on our values.

Every parent knows firsthand the worry of what their kids are being exposed to online and on screens.

Here in Nebraska, we are going to level the playing field between parents and Big Tech giants.

Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;-- President Kelly, Speaker Arch, members of the 109th Legislature, tribal leaders, fellow Nebraskans.What a time of promise and opportunity for our state and nation.What a tremendous moment for those of us who have been blessed with the privilege to serve our fellow citizens in public office.I am as grateful today for that privilege as I was when I stood in this chamber just over two years ago and swore to uphold our Constitution—and I am more invigorated than ever before.***I recently had a very real reminder of the preciousness of each moment.For the many Nebraskans whose livelihood depends on their stewardship of powerful animals, respect for that power is no mystery.I dropped my guard, and I was humbled by a reminder of that power.I am here before you today only by God’s grace.But a life-GIVING moment like the one I experienced can have the effect of clarifying one’s sense of mission.It reminds one of how delicate life is, and to make the most of every moment one is given.I’m grateful that almighty God has given me a second shot, and I continue on the road to recovery, instilled with a renewed commitment to spending my days fighting for the people of this state and, most importantly, making a positive difference.I am grateful beyond words to my wife and our First Lady, Suzanne, for her constant love and care.And I am grateful for the outpouring of support from so many Nebraskans, and I am especially grateful for the power of their prayers and for sending me the gift of the holy spirit.Thank you.Okay, no more horsing around.***To all of the public servants in this room—and especially to our new senators and their families—thank you for answering the call to public life and for taking on the burdens and sacrifices of service.The road ahead is full of long days and late nights, of time away from loved ones, and of sometimes trying debates and disagreements.But with it comes the daily opportunity to leave the greatest place in the world even better than we found it for our kids and grand babies.If we keep their futures and the betterment of this state as our north star—and set our own personal political fortunes aside—there is no limit to what we can achieve here.I am excited to partner with both the veterans and the new arrivals to this Legislature.And, I assure you, every moment will be worth it.***I am pleased to report that the state of our state is extraordinarily strong.Our unemployment rate is among the lowest in America.Our state’s population is growing faster than it has in decades, and our population has now topped two million people.The engines of our economy are powering that growth—from our agricultural backbone to our powerhouse financial services and manufacturing sectors.Our state government is smaller, more efficient, and more productive.And, at long last, the tax burden on our citizens to pay for that government is less than it was two years ago.Our natural resources are plentiful, our people are the hardest-working of anywhere on earth, and it will soon be morning again in America with the return of a presidency and congress committed to making this nation prosperous, secure, strong, and healthy again.But even with these strengths, this legislative session affords us tremendous opportunities to take further steps forward.***Simply put, the work of making Nebraska a low-tax state is far from over.We should remember how we got here and why our tax system is so out of whack.In the past, during a deflationary period, city, county, and state government in Nebraska grew at an excessive rate.There was little fiscal restraint—and the result was bloated government growing unchecked on the backs of its people.The burden is upon US to correct it NOW.And to make Nebraska competitive with our neighbors, we must set the example at the state level.Despite dire warnings of budget shortfalls, I have presented a budget that SHRINKS state spending by half a percent over the next biennium.In fact, if you set aside increased and unreimbursed Medicaid spending required by the federal government, State spending in this budget is REDUCED by 2.3 percent.Even as we make a multigenerational investment in the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and significantly increase our state commitment to supporting the mission of Offutt Air Force Base and U.S. Strategic Command, we have presented to you a fully balanced budget that CUTS spending.We have achieved this historic spending restraint by having the courage to say no, and to focus on needs, not wants, and we will continue to have that courage.***Not all are happy when we work to fix the tax system.But as my dad used to tell us on the farm: what does happy have to do with it? We have work to do.Our job as public servants is not to make everyone happy—much less any one industry or special interest group.Our job is to focus on schools, public safety, roads, and critical services—the NEEDS of Nebraskans and nothing else.***This year we will prioritize improvements to Nebraska’s school funding system.TEEOSA—Nebraska’s thirty-year-old formula for school funding—remains broken, burdening local communities and property tax payers in districts with limited resources and shortchanging our kids.It would shock most Nebraskans to hear that 25 years ago, 226 school districts received state aid—by 2024, that number had shrunk to 60.That was not the intent with the original law.We are going to have the courage to make serious and lasting fixes to this system.I will establish a blue-ribbon commission of experts to cut through the bureaucracy and vested special interests in our current school funding system and recommend a new model for Nebraska, which THIS Legislature will be able to consider and adopt.And along with other technical changes to strengthen TEEOSA, Senator Hughes is championing a bill that will honor the state’s constitutional obligation to fund K-12 education by increasing the foundation aid per student across the state, consistent with the principle that school funding should ALWAYS follow the student, not the system.***Although you wouldn’t always know it reading the papers, last year did result in real wins for Nebraskans struggling with our spiraling property tax crisis.After years in which only some Nebraska homeowners took advantage of property tax credits, now ALL homeowners receive this relief.For the first time in a generation, Nebraskans opened their property tax statements last month to find the amount they owed was LOWER than the year before.Like many of you, I have been overwhelmed by the gratitude shown by so many Nebraskans for this relief.For the first time EVER, the amount of property taxes local governments can collect will be capped, with commonsense flexibility to allow investments in public safety, police, and firefighters.But the work is not done, and we must do more this year.There are leaders in this body like Senator Clements who continue the fight to eliminate Nebraska’s death tax.By making commonsense adjustments to our tax code and making it more competitive with other states, we will invest two hundred million MORE dollars into Nebraska’s property tax credit fund.From Harrison to Omaha, Nebraskans of all stripes have recognized how out of whack our property taxes have become and what a burden they put on families, communities, and our ability to grow.They expect us to continue to work to solve it—and we WILL.***To shrink government we must eliminate its obsolete parts and clean out its closets.Over the years, we have created far too many boards and commissions.Many have missions duplicative of those of other government agencies, or which have grown outdated over time.All add regulatory power or more government where none is needed.Especially at a time when we must tighten our belt and treat every nickel like manhole covers, we must continually assess which parts of government are still of use to the people.The clock ran out on these efforts last session, but we must right size our boards and commissions with a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will eliminate or consolidate dozens of them.Speaker Arch has reintroduced a bill that will do just that.I am grateful for his leadership on this important issue and I look forward to signing it into law.***We have an opportunity to consolidate and streamline two of our major code agencies, as well.Water is the lifeblood of Nebraska, and what we do to protect our QUANTITY and improve our QUALITY of water will be our legacy.Through both our vast system of surface waterways and our treasured Ogallala Aquifer—we have a natural hedge against drought and therefore a God-given foundation for our agricultural and industrial economy in the toughest of times.State government bifurcates its management of this resource through two separate departments—of Environment and Energy and of Natural Resources.By doing so, we needlessly divide our focus on water quality and quantity.Given the interrelatedness of these two things, this makes no sense.Further, it places Nebraska out of step and uncompetitive with the majority of our fellow states.For our most treasured resource to remain the envy of North America for the next seven generations, a new model of stewardship is needed.I am grateful to Senator Brandt for carrying an important measure that will combine DEE and DNR and establish the new combined Department of Water, Energy, and Environment.It will save costs, eliminate duplicative overhead, and streamline the mission of stewarding and protecting our natural resources and environment, and enhance collaboration, as well.We have begun the work of consolidating all of the important work of these two agencies under unified leadership, and I look forward to working with you to carry that work to its completion.***Now more than ever, it is vital that our state speaks with a unified voice on the national stage.For three decades, under our current allocation of electoral college votes by congressional district, we have divided our voice and diminished our impact in presidential elections.Not one of our fellow states except one has followed us down this path.Now is the time to fix it, and I thank Senator Lippincott for his leadership in giving it the priority it deserves.With no presidential election right around the corner, there is no better time to dispassionately deliver on the will of a majority of the people of this state, honor our constitutional founding, and unify our voice in our most important exercise of national democracy.I call on this body to end this thirty year experiment and pass winner take all THIS legislative session.***In the modern world, it can be extremely difficult to protect our kids and culture from the harmful effects of ever-present social media, online bullying, and attacks on our values.Every parent knows firsthand the worry of what their kids are being exposed to online and on screens.Here in Nebraska, we are going to level the playing field between parents and Big Tech giants.I am grateful to Senators Sanders, Hardin, Bosn, and Storer for introducing a package of bills to protect children from the harms of social media, ban phones in classrooms, and fix our child pornography laws to include AI-generated images.We protect kids from tobacco, alcohol, tattoos under certain ages, and even restrict the age when kids can work—there’s no reason why we should not protect their mental health from the damage caused by social media, too.***We must protect our kids—and especially our daughters and granddaughters—in other ways, too.In a world where common sense has become uncommon, it remains our north star here in Nebraska.It’s hard to understand, a small minority believe it is acceptable to allow biological boys to share bathrooms, locker rooms, and playing fields with girls.This is unfair, unconscionable, and a recipe for predatory behavior.Senator Kauth has brought back a new and improved Stand With Women Act, which will make sure that women’s spaces are protected FOR women.I don’t want my granddaughters—or ANYONE’S daughters and granddaughters, for that matter, sharing a locker room with boys, and I know the overwhelming majority of Nebraskans agree.Pass the Stand With Women Act to my desk so we can protect common sense here in Nebraska.***Last, but absolutely not least, we must take steps to protect both our farmers and producers AND the consumers of the food our state produces.I’m grateful to Senator Jacobson for his work to protect farmers’ data from being taken advantage of by large corporate and big data interests.We have another opportunity to protect both our consumers and our agricultural producers in a single step.The big food industry wants to flood our supermarket shelves with deceptively-named products that purport to be “meat” on par with what our ranchers, feeders, and farmers produce throughout Nebraska.But in reality, this stuff is made in bio-reactors, and is a masquerade of the original, with unreliable protein, unknowable ingredients, and a flat-out dishonest label on the front.The backers of these products are cut from the same cloth as the anti-farmer activists who want to put our agriculture producers out of business, and we need to recognize them as such.I will never stop fighting for Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers, and I stand with Senator DeKay, who has introduced a strong bill to “beef up” our consumer protections and false labeling laws to eliminate these dishonest products from Nebraska’s grocery shelves.***Last year, Nebraskans experienced countless examples of public service in its purest form.2024 was a year when we felt mother nature’s wrath time after time.Record blizzards, raging wildfires, torrential floods, and vicious tornadoes set the stage for a record ELEVEN declared emergencies throughout the year.Many Nebraskans experienced the worst day of their lives, with homes destroyed, families in peril, and futures uncertain.But in the darkest moments, the people of our state were at their best.Nebraskans helped Nebraskans, and the strength and resilience of our people shone through.One of the greatest privileges of the work as your Governor is to get to know firsthand the men and women who have answered the call to be the first to respond when crisis strikes.With us today is Chris Potter, the chief of the Kennard Volunteer Fire Department from Washington County, whose fire and EMS responders were there for their community moments after a deadly tornado tore through it.Please join me in welcoming him as a representative of all of our first responders across Nebraska.Also with us is the entire Nebraska Emergency Management Agency team.These dedicated professionals are the hub of the wheel of our state’s emergency response system.When the call comes in the middle of the night, they are the ones making it.Their work is often unseen and unknown to many Nebraskans, but that in no way diminishes the dedication of their work or the pride with which they do it.Join me in welcoming the NEMA team, honoring them, and thanking them.***Many important issues will consume our focus throughout this legislative session.I pledge to you that we will be your partner through it all.Thank you for your service to our state, and thank you to your families.God bless you and God bless the State of Nebraska.

Gov. Pillen’s State of the State Address

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/14/former-nebraska-state-senators-family-flees-flames-in-los-angeles-area/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Suitcases are packed. The cat carrier is by the front door. And the family of former State Sen. Abbie Cornett is ready to flee again, if necessary, the horrific fires torching neighborhoods near their home in Los Angeles County.

The family, who has lived in the L.A. suburb of Monrovia for 11 years, fled once already — a week ago when wildfires blew out of containment, powered by up to 100 mph winds and extreme drought conditions. As of midday Tuesday, more than 12,000 structures and been destroyed or damaged, 24 people had died, and an area comparable in size to half of Omaha was blackened.

“It was like a hurricane with fire and without rain,” said Cornett via cell phone. “It’s really rough in places. It looks like a nuclear holocaust.”

Roads were strewn with ash and debris, sort of like the aftermath of a midwestern tornado, she said. One of the family’s cars suffered two flat tires as they fled, forcing them to leave it behind.

Ultimately, though, the Eaton Canyon fire, the one closest to their home, burned away from their residence.

On Monday, Cornett was cleaning up the ash that coated the inside of their home, gathering up clothing and toys to donate to relief efforts and hoping the latest forecasts of a resumption of Santa Ana winds, with gusts up to 70 mph, don’t exacerbate the spread of the four active fires in the L.A. area.

“We’re on pins and needles,” she said.

While their home was spared, others — including some former Nebraskans she knows — weren’t so lucky, losing homes and a lifetime of possessions. Along major streets, there are people standing in line for food and water and donation centers “everywhere,” Cornett said, plus calls for people to temporarily house pets displaced by the fires.

“So many people need so much help out here,” she said. “It is not a red or blue issue. It just isn’t. This is a humanitarian issue.”

Cornett added that many of the fire victims lacked insurance because several companies have stopped offering coverage in California — due to the spate of recent calamities — and homeowners couldn’t afford the high-cost of the remaining policies.

“Knock on wood, we came out really lucky. There are too many people out here who didn’t,” she said.

They returned to their home on Thursday and power was restored on Friday, said Cornett, who represented the Bellevue area in the Nebraska Legislature from 2005 to 2013.

The former senator, now a writer for a health magazine and the host of a podcast, hasn’t lost her sense of humor. On Saturday, her family hosted some neighbors whose electricity was still out. They watched the film, “Backdraft,” and sipped on a red wine called “Inferno.”

“If you can’t laugh at it, you’re just going to curl up and cry,” Cornett said.

Ironically, she said, the Los Angeles fires broke out on the same week, 17 years earlier, when their family’s home in Bellevue&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/state-senators-home-destroyed-by-fire/article_20e20b4e-2bd9-5519-9795-c4d32f461358.html" target="_blank">burned while she was serving</a>.

Cornett said she is soon to compile work on a second master’s degree, this one in health care administration, and wants to continue to live in the area to follow the movie and television careers of their twin daughters, Victoria and Madison. The twins use their mother’s middle name, Abbott, as their last name for their film work. A third daughter, Cameron, is planning to attend college this spring.

But she admitted that she told her husband “we’re moving to Palm Springs” amid the fury of the fires.

“I don’t think anyone who lives in California doesn’t have a love-hate relationship with it,” Cornett said.

“Insurance is insane, traffic is insane, they have ‘fire season’ — it’s not a season in Nebraska, it’s an element — and homelessness is horrible,” she said. “But it has its charms. And for the twins, it’s where they work.”

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/14/former-nebraska-state-senators-family-flees-flames-in-los-angeles-area/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Suitcases are packed. The cat carrier is by the front door. And the family of former State Sen. Abbie Cornett is ready to flee again, if necessary, the horrific fires torching neighborhoods near their home in Los Angeles County.The family, who has lived in the L.A. suburb of Monrovia for 11 years, fled once already — a week ago when wildfires blew out of containment, powered by up to 100 mph winds and extreme drought conditions. As of midday Tuesday, more than 12,000 structures and been destroyed or damaged, 24 people had died, and an area comparable in size to half of Omaha was blackened.“It was like a hurricane with fire and without rain,” said Cornett via cell phone. “It’s really rough in places. It looks like a nuclear holocaust.”<h2>Strewn with debris</h2>Roads were strewn with ash and debris, sort of like the aftermath of a midwestern tornado, she said. One of the family’s cars suffered two flat tires as they fled, forcing them to leave it behind.Ultimately, though, the Eaton Canyon fire, the one closest to their home, burned away from their residence.On Monday, Cornett was cleaning up the ash that coated the inside of their home, gathering up clothing and toys to donate to relief efforts and hoping the latest forecasts of a resumption of Santa Ana winds, with gusts up to 70 mph, don’t exacerbate the spread of the four active fires in the L.A. area.“We’re on pins and needles,” she said.While their home was spared, others — including some former Nebraskans she knows — weren’t so lucky, losing homes and a lifetime of possessions. Along major streets, there are people standing in line for food and water and donation centers “everywhere,” Cornett said, plus calls for people to temporarily house pets displaced by the fires.“So many people need so much help out here,” she said. “It is not a red or blue issue. It just isn’t. This is a humanitarian issue.”Cornett added that many of the fire victims lacked insurance because several companies have stopped offering coverage in California — due to the spate of recent calamities — and homeowners couldn’t afford the high-cost of the remaining policies.“Knock on wood, we came out really lucky. There are too many people out here who didn’t,” she said.They returned to their home on Thursday and power was restored on Friday, said Cornett, who represented the Bellevue area in the Nebraska Legislature from 2005 to 2013.<h2>Humor in sadness</h2>The former senator, now a writer for a health magazine and the host of a podcast, hasn’t lost her sense of humor. On Saturday, her family hosted some neighbors whose electricity was still out. They watched the film, “Backdraft,” and sipped on a red wine called “Inferno.”“If you can’t laugh at it, you’re just going to curl up and cry,” Cornett said.Ironically, she said, the Los Angeles fires broke out on the same week, 17 years earlier, when their family’s home in Bellevue&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/state-senators-home-destroyed-by-fire/article_20e20b4e-2bd9-5519-9795-c4d32f461358.html" target="_blank">burned while she was serving</a>.Cornett said she is soon to compile work on a second master’s degree, this one in health care administration, and wants to continue to live in the area to follow the movie and television careers of their twin daughters, Victoria and Madison. The twins use their mother’s middle name, Abbott, as their last name for their film work. A third daughter, Cameron, is planning to attend college this spring.But she admitted that she told her husband “we’re moving to Palm Springs” amid the fury of the fires.“I don’t think anyone who lives in California doesn’t have a love-hate relationship with it,” Cornett said.“Insurance is insane, traffic is insane, they have ‘fire season’ — it’s not a season in Nebraska, it’s an element — and homelessness is horrible,” she said. “But it has its charms. And for the twins, it’s where they work.”

Former Nebraska State Senator’s Family Flees Flames in L.A. Area

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, questioned Pete Hegseth at&nbsp;the confirmation hearing on his expected nomination to be Secretary of Defense.

During the hearing, Senator Fischer asked Hegseth about his stance on nuclear deterrence and emphasized the critical importance of maintaining a robust nuclear triad. She also questioned him on his plans to transform the culture within the Department of Defense to enhance efficiency and expedite the delivery of nuclear capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Senator Fischer questions Pete Hegseth:

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome, Mr. Hegseth, to you and to your family. Thank you for the meeting that we had; we talked about a number of things. First and foremost was that nuclear weapons are foundational to our national defense and having a safe, effective and credible nuclear deterrent underpins our alliances, and as you know, deters our adversaries. Nuclear deterrence has been and—you and I, I believe, agreed on this—it must continue to be, unequivocally, the highest priority mission of the Department of Defense. But deterrence only works if our adversaries believe our nuclear forces are effective and credible. All three legs of our triad are undergoing generational recapitalization programs, and we cannot afford any more delays in those programs, Sir, do you believe and agree with President Trump's 2018 Nuclear Posture Review that preventing adversary and nuclear attacks is “the highest priority of the United States”?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Senator, yes, I do.&nbsp;

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;If confirmed, will you commit to supporting all three legs of the nuclear triad and using every tool available to deliver these systems on schedule?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Senator, yes, I do. Because ultimately, our deterrence, our survival, is reliant upon the capability—the perception and the reality of the capability—of our nuclear triad. We have to invest in its modernization for the defense of our nation.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;While former Secretaries of Defense have stated that nuclear deterrence is the highest priority, we haven't really seen that translated into budget requests or using the tools like the Defense Production Act. You've spoken about increasing lethality. You've spoken about getting programs done faster. How would you actually implement a culture change so that we can see these delivery schedules move forward? I can tell you, in most every briefing we have, the schedules we're on are too late. So, what would you do?&nbsp;

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Well, ultimately, focus first on the things that are most important, as we have discussed, Senator: the nuclear triad, understanding—whether it's the B-21 or the Minuteman to the Sentinel, all aspects of the Columbia-class submarines, ballistic missiles—what are the priorities that need to be focused on. And ensure that in those particular cases—you mentioned it, Senator—use the Defense Production Act, emergency powers. If we're at a place where our nuclear capabilities are perceived to not be what they are, that is an emergency. And we have an ally in our incoming commander-in-chief, in President Donald Trump, who has spoken about these things, understands the power and strength of nuclear deterrence, will not allow them to be deprioritized.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;But it’s the existential threat. It’s the existential threat to this nation. How do you change the culture? It's not just the Defense Production Act that's going to be able to do it. How are you going to move forward faster?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Competition. Senator, it’s important, critically important. The Death Valley that was talked about, leveraging the innovation of Silicon Valley, which for the first time in generations, has shown a willingness, desire, and capability to bring its best technologies to bear at the Pentagon, a Pentagon that has become too insular and tries to block new technologies from coming in. So, we have to embrace that. There's some great Office of Strategic Capital, DIU initiatives that provide loans to companies to participate. Because you have to invest in the defense industrial base for the longer-term projects we have to have the capability for, the missiles and the munitions, but also to rapidly field emerging technologies that we need on the battlefield right now. So, as we learn things, say, in the war in Ukraine, those technologies: as we look at threats we're going to face, find ways to rapidly field those using off the shelf technologies or standard designs, modular designs. Another easy one, Senator, that became evident in the process is digital designs. The Pentagon often builds entire systems without first using a digital design, which means you build prototypes and then scrap them and start over again. No private sector business could survive doing business that way. So, there's a lot of innovation, and I'm going to hire a lot of smart people—already have—to help with that.S

enator Fischer:&nbsp;The 2025 NDAA, it established a new position, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical and Biological Defense Policy and Programs. And that was established so we could cut through a lot of the bureaucratic stovepipes that that we see in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. If confirmed, will you direct the Department of Defense components to expeditiously implement this reform?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;I would want to look directly at exactly what that reform is. I take your word that it is great, Senator. I will review it robustly, and I look forward to implementing it.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Okay, thank you. During the first Trump administration, the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review concluded that the US needed to once again develop and deploy a nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile known as SLCM-N, to offset significant Russian and Chinese advantages in theater range nuclear capabilities. Since then, Congress, on a strong bipartisan basis, has directed the Navy and the National Nuclear Security Administration to continue this effort. Do you support the SLCM-N program?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;As of right now, Senator, based on what I know, I do. But one of my answers I'll have repeatedly throughout this morning is getting an opportunity to look under the hood of classified material, get an understanding of true capabilities vis-à-vis enemy capabilities. Because what we know right now on the nuclear side is that Russia and China are rushing to modernize and build arsenals larger than ours. We need to match threats to capabilities, and the systems we elevate will be tied to whether those capabilities are needed based on the adversaries we face. Yes, ma’am?

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Would you ensure that this program is executed according to law?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Absolutely, absolutely, Senator.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;What is your plan to revitalize the industrial base in this country?

Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Serious investment targeted at systems that we truly need by also incentivizing competition and laser focus from the OSD, from the Office of Secretary of Defense, to all the particular strategic initiatives to revive them. So, it's not just one system, it's multiple systems.

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, questioned Pete Hegseth at&nbsp;the confirmation hearing on his expected nomination to be Secretary of Defense.During the hearing, Senator Fischer asked Hegseth about his stance on nuclear deterrence and emphasized the critical importance of maintaining a robust nuclear triad. She also questioned him on his plans to transform the culture within the Department of Defense to enhance efficiency and expedite the delivery of nuclear capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator Fischer questions Pete Hegseth:Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome, Mr. Hegseth, to you and to your family. Thank you for the meeting that we had; we talked about a number of things. First and foremost was that nuclear weapons are foundational to our national defense and having a safe, effective and credible nuclear deterrent underpins our alliances, and as you know, deters our adversaries. Nuclear deterrence has been and—you and I, I believe, agreed on this—it must continue to be, unequivocally, the highest priority mission of the Department of Defense. But deterrence only works if our adversaries believe our nuclear forces are effective and credible. All three legs of our triad are undergoing generational recapitalization programs, and we cannot afford any more delays in those programs, Sir, do you believe and agree with President Trump's 2018 Nuclear Posture Review that preventing adversary and nuclear attacks is “the highest priority of the United States”?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Senator, yes, I do.&nbsp;Senator Fischer:&nbsp;If confirmed, will you commit to supporting all three legs of the nuclear triad and using every tool available to deliver these systems on schedule?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Senator, yes, I do. Because ultimately, our deterrence, our survival, is reliant upon the capability—the perception and the reality of the capability—of our nuclear triad. We have to invest in its modernization for the defense of our nation.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;While former Secretaries of Defense have stated that nuclear deterrence is the highest priority, we haven't really seen that translated into budget requests or using the tools like the Defense Production Act. You've spoken about increasing lethality. You've spoken about getting programs done faster. How would you actually implement a culture change so that we can see these delivery schedules move forward? I can tell you, in most every briefing we have, the schedules we're on are too late. So, what would you do?&nbsp;Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Well, ultimately, focus first on the things that are most important, as we have discussed, Senator: the nuclear triad, understanding—whether it's the B-21 or the Minuteman to the Sentinel, all aspects of the Columbia-class submarines, ballistic missiles—what are the priorities that need to be focused on. And ensure that in those particular cases—you mentioned it, Senator—use the Defense Production Act, emergency powers. If we're at a place where our nuclear capabilities are perceived to not be what they are, that is an emergency. And we have an ally in our incoming commander-in-chief, in President Donald Trump, who has spoken about these things, understands the power and strength of nuclear deterrence, will not allow them to be deprioritized.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;But it’s the existential threat. It’s the existential threat to this nation. How do you change the culture? It's not just the Defense Production Act that's going to be able to do it. How are you going to move forward faster?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Competition. Senator, it’s important, critically important. The Death Valley that was talked about, leveraging the innovation of Silicon Valley, which for the first time in generations, has shown a willingness, desire, and capability to bring its best technologies to bear at the Pentagon, a Pentagon that has become too insular and tries to block new technologies from coming in. So, we have to embrace that. There's some great Office of Strategic Capital, DIU initiatives that provide loans to companies to participate. Because you have to invest in the defense industrial base for the longer-term projects we have to have the capability for, the missiles and the munitions, but also to rapidly field emerging technologies that we need on the battlefield right now. So, as we learn things, say, in the war in Ukraine, those technologies: as we look at threats we're going to face, find ways to rapidly field those using off the shelf technologies or standard designs, modular designs. Another easy one, Senator, that became evident in the process is digital designs. The Pentagon often builds entire systems without first using a digital design, which means you build prototypes and then scrap them and start over again. No private sector business could survive doing business that way. So, there's a lot of innovation, and I'm going to hire a lot of smart people—already have—to help with that.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;The 2025 NDAA, it established a new position, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical and Biological Defense Policy and Programs. And that was established so we could cut through a lot of the bureaucratic stovepipes that that we see in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. If confirmed, will you direct the Department of Defense components to expeditiously implement this reform?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;I would want to look directly at exactly what that reform is. I take your word that it is great, Senator. I will review it robustly, and I look forward to implementing it.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Okay, thank you. During the first Trump administration, the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review concluded that the US needed to once again develop and deploy a nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile known as SLCM-N, to offset significant Russian and Chinese advantages in theater range nuclear capabilities. Since then, Congress, on a strong bipartisan basis, has directed the Navy and the National Nuclear Security Administration to continue this effort. Do you support the SLCM-N program?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;As of right now, Senator, based on what I know, I do. But one of my answers I'll have repeatedly throughout this morning is getting an opportunity to look under the hood of classified material, get an understanding of true capabilities vis-à-vis enemy capabilities. Because what we know right now on the nuclear side is that Russia and China are rushing to modernize and build arsenals larger than ours. We need to match threats to capabilities, and the systems we elevate will be tied to whether those capabilities are needed based on the adversaries we face. Yes, ma’am?Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Would you ensure that this program is executed according to law?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Absolutely, absolutely, Senator.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;What is your plan to revitalize the industrial base in this country?Pete Hegseth:&nbsp;Serious investment targeted at systems that we truly need by also incentivizing competition and laser focus from the OSD, from the Office of Secretary of Defense, to all the particular strategic initiatives to revive them. So, it's not just one system, it's multiple systems.

Fischer Questions Pete Hegseth at Confirmation Hearing

The FDA is revoking the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 as a matter of law, based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/changes-science-law-and-regulatory-authorities/part-iii-drugs-and-foods-under-1938-act-and-its-amendments">Delaney Clause</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/laws-enforced-fda/federal-food-drug-and-cosmetic-act-fdc-act">Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&amp;C Act)</a>. The FDA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-00830/petition-color-additive-center-for-science-in-the-public-interest-et-al-request-to-revoke-color">amending its color additive regulations</a>&nbsp;to no longer allow for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FAP-CAP&amp;id=CAP_3C0323&amp;sort=Petition_Type_Number&amp;order=ASC&amp;startrow=1&amp;type=basic&amp;search=red">color additive petition</a>.

The petition requested the agency review whether the Delaney Clause applied and cited, among other data and information, two studies that showed cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 due to a rat specific hormonal mechanism. The way that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans. Relevant exposure levels to FD&amp;C Red No. 3 for humans are typically much lower than those that cause the effects shown in male rats. Studies in other animals and in humans did not show these effects; claims that the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and in ingested drugs puts people at risk are not supported by the available scientific information.&nbsp;

The Delaney Clause, enacted in 1960 as part of the Color Additives Amendment to the FD&amp;C Act, prohibits FDA authorization of a food additive or color additive if it has been found to induce cancer in humans or animals. This is not the first time the agency revoked an authorization based on the Delaney Clause. For example, in 2018, the FDA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-removes-7-synthetic-flavoring-substances-food-additives-list">revoked the authorization for certain synthetic flavors</a>&nbsp;based on the Delaney Clause in response to a food additive petition.&nbsp;

FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a synthetic food dye that gives foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color. The FDA estimates that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is not as widely used in food and drugs when compared to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers">other certified colors</a>&nbsp;based on information available in third-party food product labeling databases, food manufacturers’ websites and other public information, and the FDA’s certification data. FD&amp;C Red No. 3 has been primarily used in certain food products, such as candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings, as well as certain ingested drugs.&nbsp;

Manufacturers who use FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. Other countries still currently allow for certain uses of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 (called erythrosine in other countries). However, foods imported to the U.S. must comply with U.S. requirements.

The FDA is revoking the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 as a matter of law, based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/changes-science-law-and-regulatory-authorities/part-iii-drugs-and-foods-under-1938-act-and-its-amendments">Delaney Clause</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/laws-enforced-fda/federal-food-drug-and-cosmetic-act-fdc-act">Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&amp;C Act)</a>. The FDA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-00830/petition-color-additive-center-for-science-in-the-public-interest-et-al-request-to-revoke-color">amending its color additive regulations</a>&nbsp;to no longer allow for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FAP-CAP&amp;id=CAP_3C0323&amp;sort=Petition_Type_Number&amp;order=ASC&amp;startrow=1&amp;type=basic&amp;search=red">color additive petition</a>. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, the FDA is issuing an order to revoke the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022 color additive petition that requested the agency to review whether the Delaney Clause applied. <a href="https://t.co/Qd0NFOIUz8">https://t.co/Qd0NFOIUz8</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bpr6XNC8OR">pic.twitter.com/Bpr6XNC8OR</a>&mdash; U.S. FDA Human Foods Program (@FDAfood) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDAfood/status/1879532094730227991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The petition requested the agency review whether the Delaney Clause applied and cited, among other data and information, two studies that showed cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 due to a rat specific hormonal mechanism. The way that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans. Relevant exposure levels to FD&amp;C Red No. 3 for humans are typically much lower than those that cause the effects shown in male rats. Studies in other animals and in humans did not show these effects; claims that the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and in ingested drugs puts people at risk are not supported by the available scientific information.&nbsp;The Delaney Clause, enacted in 1960 as part of the Color Additives Amendment to the FD&amp;C Act, prohibits FDA authorization of a food additive or color additive if it has been found to induce cancer in humans or animals. This is not the first time the agency revoked an authorization based on the Delaney Clause. For example, in 2018, the FDA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-removes-7-synthetic-flavoring-substances-food-additives-list">revoked the authorization for certain synthetic flavors</a>&nbsp;based on the Delaney Clause in response to a food additive petition.&nbsp;FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a synthetic food dye that gives foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color. The FDA estimates that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is not as widely used in food and drugs when compared to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers">other certified colors</a>&nbsp;based on information available in third-party food product labeling databases, food manufacturers’ websites and other public information, and the FDA’s certification data. FD&amp;C Red No. 3 has been primarily used in certain food products, such as candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings, as well as certain ingested drugs.&nbsp;Manufacturers who use FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. Other countries still currently allow for certain uses of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 (called erythrosine in other countries). However, foods imported to the U.S. must comply with U.S. requirements.

FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 from Foods

Nebraska's Natural Resources District

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts hosts their annual Legislative Conference to highlight partnerships and discuss natural resources policy at the Lincoln Embassy Suites Jan. 28-29, 2025.

The two-day conference brings together Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), elected officials and public-private partners integrally involved in conservation, technology, and policymaking. The conference also provides attendees an opportunity to learn how Nebraska’s NRDs work with landowners, state and federal agencies, and members of the public to protect Nebraska’s natural resources.

Governor Jim Pillen will kick off the event Tuesday, Jan. 28, followed by a property tax reform panel with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Nebraska Association of School Boards; and a discussion of proposed legislation of interest to the NRDs. During the evening Senators Reception, NRD leaders will meet with state senators to discuss natural resources challenges and successes in the districts.

The conference continues Wednesday, Jan. 29, with breakout sessions for attendees, including:

More than 300 natural resources stakeholders are expected to attend the conference, which is presented by Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts with a range of local and national sponsors including Blue Cross Blue Shield Nebraska, Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA), HDR, Houston Engineering Inc., JEO Consulting Group, Olsson, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and The Nebraska Water Center.

Conference registration is available on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts’ website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrdnet.org/events" target="_blank">https://www.nrdnet.org/events</a>.

The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), the trade association for Nebraska's 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRD), works with individual districts to protect lives, property and the future of Nebraska’s natural resources. NRDs are unique to Nebraska, and act as local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect Nebraska’s natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond to local conservation and resource management needs. Learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>.

Nebraska's Natural Resources DistrictLINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts hosts their annual Legislative Conference to highlight partnerships and discuss natural resources policy at the Lincoln Embassy Suites Jan. 28-29, 2025.The two-day conference brings together Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), elected officials and public-private partners integrally involved in conservation, technology, and policymaking. The conference also provides attendees an opportunity to learn how Nebraska’s NRDs work with landowners, state and federal agencies, and members of the public to protect Nebraska’s natural resources.Governor Jim Pillen will kick off the event Tuesday, Jan. 28, followed by a property tax reform panel with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Nebraska Association of School Boards; and a discussion of proposed legislation of interest to the NRDs. During the evening Senators Reception, NRD leaders will meet with state senators to discuss natural resources challenges and successes in the districts.The conference continues Wednesday, Jan. 29, with breakout sessions for attendees, including:<ul>
 <li>Improving Nitrogen-Use Efficiency for Corn in Nebraska: In-Season Management</li><li>Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Dam Rehabilitation</li><li>Revitalizing Irrigation: Restoring Aging Canals for Sustainable Water Management</li><li>Update on Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s ONE RED Program</li><li>Examining the Effect of Fertilizer Application Practices on Soil Nitrate and Water Quality</li><li>Funding the Future: Strategies for Infrastructure Implementation</li><li>Maximizing Producer Profits through Carbon-Smart Practices and the 45Z Tax Credit</li><li>Nebraska Hydrology</li><li>Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA) Recharge Mapping and Focus Area Assessments</li><li>Update on the Resilient Soils Act and the Nitrogen Reduction Act</li><li>Bringing Life Back to Methodist Cove: Harlan County Lake Ecosystem Restoration</li>
 </ul>More than 300 natural resources stakeholders are expected to attend the conference, which is presented by Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts with a range of local and national sponsors including Blue Cross Blue Shield Nebraska, Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA), HDR, Houston Engineering Inc., JEO Consulting Group, Olsson, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and The Nebraska Water Center.Conference registration is available on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts’ website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrdnet.org/events" target="_blank">https://www.nrdnet.org/events</a>.The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), the trade association for Nebraska's 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRD), works with individual districts to protect lives, property and the future of Nebraska’s natural resources. NRDs are unique to Nebraska, and act as local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect Nebraska’s natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond to local conservation and resource management needs. Learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>.

NRD Legislative Conference Brings Together Elected Leaders, Highlights Partnerships

&nbsp;PALM BEACH —The Presidential inauguration is January 20.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, the Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Company, James Quincey presented President-elect Trump the first ever Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736905668769.png" alt="Photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications, Donald J. Trump for President&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications, Donald J. Trump for President&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;PALM BEACH —The Presidential inauguration is January 20.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, the Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Company, James Quincey presented President-elect Trump the first ever Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736905639822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trump is a long-time Diet Coke fanatic.

Coca-Cola gives Trump commemorative inaugural Diet Coke bottle

Lincoln, January 14, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission has approved an Order(<a href="https://www.nebraska.gov/psc/orders/state911/2025-01-14%20911-075%20PI-248%20911-077%20C-5581%20PI-252%20Order%20Issuing%20Findings%20and%20Closing%20Investigation.pdf" target="_blank">911-075/PI-248, 911-077/C-5581/PI-252</a>) closing its investigation and issuing its findings into three separate 911 outages/disruptions involving telecommunications carrier Lumen.

The three separate Lumen outages/disruptions occurred on August 31, 2023, April 17 &amp; July 9,2024, impacting 911 service over a wide area of Lumens’ Nebraska network.

“Lumen guaranteed, and we expect Nebraska’s 911 system to be available 99.999 percent (five-nines) of the time, and that didn’t happen,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.

Through its investigation and hearings, the Commission finds that Lumen’s level of performance was not acceptable for Nebraska’s 911 system and that the carrier failed to meet the level of service provided within its state contract.

Commission Chair Schram said, “While Lumen has engaged in substantial work to improve its network, the carrier’s lack of redundancy and diversity remains a concern.”

Deb CollinsLincoln, January 14, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission has approved an Order(<a href="https://www.nebraska.gov/psc/orders/state911/2025-01-14%20911-075%20PI-248%20911-077%20C-5581%20PI-252%20Order%20Issuing%20Findings%20and%20Closing%20Investigation.pdf" target="_blank">911-075/PI-248, 911-077/C-5581/PI-252</a>) closing its investigation and issuing its findings into three separate 911 outages/disruptions involving telecommunications carrier Lumen.The three separate Lumen outages/disruptions occurred on August 31, 2023, April 17 &amp; July 9,2024, impacting 911 service over a wide area of Lumens’ Nebraska network.“Lumen guaranteed, and we expect Nebraska’s 911 system to be available 99.999 percent (five-nines) of the time, and that didn’t happen,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.Through its investigation and hearings, the Commission finds that Lumen’s level of performance was not acceptable for Nebraska’s 911 system and that the carrier failed to meet the level of service provided within its state contract.Commission Chair Schram said, “While Lumen has engaged in substantial work to improve its network, the carrier’s lack of redundancy and diversity remains a concern.”The Commission directed the State 911 Department to identify potential changes to the state’ scurrent 911 system. To support the process, Commission consultant 911 Authority will conduct an independent verification and validation of the Next Generation 911 system provided by Lumen.State 911 Department Director, David Sankey said, “This independent testing is important to determine whether Lumen is capable of fulfilling its contractual obligations to provide the level of service the Commission expects and demands moving forward.”Additional information to include the Order can be found on the PSC website at &lt;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/lumen-affiliates-911-outage-investigation" target="_blank">https://psc.nebraska.gov/lumen-affiliates-911-outage-investigation</a>&nbsp;&gt;