<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/08/first-day-of-2025-nebraska-legislature-underscores-conservative-stronghold/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The conservative stronghold on the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature became clearer Wednesday, as state lawmakers chose Republicans for the top leadership spots on all but one of 17 key legislative committees.

The lone Democrat elected to a chair position was State Sen. Terrell McKinney — and he ran unopposed in his bid to preside over the Urban Affairs Committee for two more years.

In the couple of races when a Republican competed against another Republican for a committee chair, the lawmaker with the more conservative voting record won. (Republicans this year again hold 33 of 49 seats in the Legislature, the exact size of supermajority needed to break filibusters and advance often contentious legislation. Democrats number at 15, and one state lawmaker is a progressive nonpartisan.)

In yet another contested race, the longest current tenured senator, Democrat Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, lost to the youngest member of the Legislature, Republican Beau Ballard, to preside over the Nebraska Retirement Systems. Also of Lincoln, Ballard served two years as a gubernatorial appointee before being elected in November to his first full term.&nbsp;

This will be Ballard’s first year on the Retirement Systems Committee, which Conrad has served on for four years. He won on a 25-24 vote.

Chairs help steer legislation through their respective committees, scheduling hearings and later votes to advance proposals to the full Legislature. This can sometimes be critical to the survivability of different measures. Any senator can throw their name into the ring for the chairs, or they can be nominated from the floor.

State Sen. Merv Riepe, a moderate Republican from Ralston, said he hoped the Legislature’s ideological divide “does not grind us down” to partisanship when dealing with broader legislative matters.

“This has all the makings of being a contentious session,” said Riepe, who was defeated in his quest to preside over the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee. State Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering, also a Republican, won 28-21.

Perhaps the day’s most sparks came as State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward faced off with State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil for the chair of the Education Committee. Both are Republican.

Hughes, who had served four years in Seward on its school board, said she had no ill will against Murman and that her decision to compete was out of passion for education and school finance reform.

She said others told her it was against “political norms” to challenge an incumbent Republican for chair. To her colleagues, Hughes also asked if the Legislature has become a “union environment,” where time served in a position is the key determinant that matters.

“I thought, ‘This is garbage. I’m going to put my name in,’” she said.

Murman won on a 29-20 vote. He served as chair the previous two years and underscored his work to reduce state talent “brain drain” with more scholarships and internship programs.

Much of the first day of the 2025 legislative session was pomp and circumstance, as one-third of the 49-member Legislature was newly sworn in, along with many of their returning colleagues, following the November election. A crowd including family members and friends of the legislators filled the Unicameral, snapping photos and congratulating new and returning state senators.

Former State Sen. Brenda Council of Omaha was among them and remarked about the diversity in the freshman class.

State Sen. Margo Juarez of South Omaha is believed to be the first Latina elected to the body. State Sen. Dunixi Guereca, also of Omaha, is the son of Mexican immigrants.

State Sen. Victor Rountree of Bellevue and State Sen. Ashlei Spivey of Omaha joined McKinney to be the most Black lawmakers the Legislature has had, said Council. Council in 2009, along with Tanya Cook, became the first two elected African-American women to serve in the Legislature.

“It’s historically diverse,” Council said of the current Legislature.

Guereca on Wednesday was named chair of the Enrollment and Review Committee. It’s a committee, however, that has no competitive race, as the chair traditionally goes to the youngest member of the incoming freshman legislative class, which this year is him.

Despite the partisan showing in committee chair elections, Guereca said he has felt ”nothing but acceptance and welcomed” by his legislative colleagues.

“I’m optimistic we’ll have a good and productive session,” he said.&nbsp;

Also re-elected to a second term as Speaker of the Legislature was John Arch of La Vista, who was unopposed.&nbsp;

He said he has tried to avoid stifling voices and has strived for transparency.

“I’ll be the first to admit there were challenges along the way,” he said of his first term.

Arch said his goal again will be to “cultivate a culture that allows for productive debate and decision-making.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736441273304.jpeg" alt="Nebraska lawmakers mingle with newly elected State Sen. Ashlei Spivey of North Omaha. She and others elected in November were sworn into office Wednesday — the first day of the 2025 legislative session. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska lawmakers mingle with newly elected State Sen. Ashlei Spivey of North Omaha. She and others elected in November were sworn into office Wednesday — the first day of the 2025 legislative session. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/08/first-day-of-2025-nebraska-legislature-underscores-conservative-stronghold/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The conservative stronghold on the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature became clearer Wednesday, as state lawmakers chose Republicans for the top leadership spots on all but one of 17 key legislative committees.The lone Democrat elected to a chair position was State Sen. Terrell McKinney — and he ran unopposed in his bid to preside over the Urban Affairs Committee for two more years.In the couple of races when a Republican competed against another Republican for a committee chair, the lawmaker with the more conservative voting record won. (Republicans this year again hold 33 of 49 seats in the Legislature, the exact size of supermajority needed to break filibusters and advance often contentious legislation. Democrats number at 15, and one state lawmaker is a progressive nonpartisan.)In yet another contested race, the longest current tenured senator, Democrat Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, lost to the youngest member of the Legislature, Republican Beau Ballard, to preside over the Nebraska Retirement Systems. Also of Lincoln, Ballard served two years as a gubernatorial appointee before being elected in November to his first full term.&nbsp;This will be Ballard’s first year on the Retirement Systems Committee, which Conrad has served on for four years. He won on a 25-24 vote.<h2>Why do committee chairs matter?</h2>Chairs help steer legislation through their respective committees, scheduling hearings and later votes to advance proposals to the full Legislature. This can sometimes be critical to the survivability of different measures. Any senator can throw their name into the ring for the chairs, or they can be nominated from the floor.State Sen. Merv Riepe, a moderate Republican from Ralston, said he hoped the Legislature’s ideological divide “does not grind us down” to partisanship when dealing with broader legislative matters.“This has all the makings of being a contentious session,” said Riepe, who was defeated in his quest to preside over the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee. State Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering, also a Republican, won 28-21.Perhaps the day’s most sparks came as State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward faced off with State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil for the chair of the Education Committee. Both are Republican.Hughes, who had served four years in Seward on its school board, said she had no ill will against Murman and that her decision to compete was out of passion for education and school finance reform.She said others told her it was against “political norms” to challenge an incumbent Republican for chair. To her colleagues, Hughes also asked if the Legislature has become a “union environment,” where time served in a position is the key determinant that matters.“I thought, ‘This is garbage. I’m going to put my name in,’” she said.Murman won on a 29-20 vote. He served as chair the previous two years and underscored his work to reduce state talent “brain drain” with more scholarships and internship programs.Much of the first day of the 2025 legislative session was pomp and circumstance, as one-third of the 49-member Legislature was newly sworn in, along with many of their returning colleagues, following the November election. A crowd including family members and friends of the legislators filled the Unicameral, snapping photos and congratulating new and returning state senators.Former State Sen. Brenda Council of Omaha was among them and remarked about the diversity in the freshman class.State Sen. Margo Juarez of South Omaha is believed to be the first Latina elected to the body. State Sen. Dunixi Guereca, also of Omaha, is the son of Mexican immigrants.State Sen. Victor Rountree of Bellevue and State Sen. Ashlei Spivey of Omaha joined McKinney to be the most Black lawmakers the Legislature has had, said Council. Council in 2009, along with Tanya Cook, became the first two elected African-American women to serve in the Legislature.“It’s historically diverse,” Council said of the current Legislature.Guereca on Wednesday was named chair of the Enrollment and Review Committee. It’s a committee, however, that has no competitive race, as the chair traditionally goes to the youngest member of the incoming freshman legislative class, which this year is him.Despite the partisan showing in committee chair elections, Guereca said he has felt ”nothing but acceptance and welcomed” by his legislative colleagues.“I’m optimistic we’ll have a good and productive session,” he said.&nbsp;Also re-elected to a second term as Speaker of the Legislature was John Arch of La Vista, who was unopposed.&nbsp;He said he has tried to avoid stifling voices and has strived for transparency.“I’ll be the first to admit there were challenges along the way,” he said of his first term.Arch said his goal again will be to “cultivate a culture that allows for productive debate and decision-making.”&nbsp;

First Day of 2025 Nebraska Legislature Underscores Conservative Stronghold

(Scottsbluff, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in western Nebraska.

At approximately 7:50 p.m. MT Tuesday, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 driving with a license plate violation on Highway 385 near Bridgeport. As the trooper attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated and fled northbound on Highway 385. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle fled westbound on Link 62A, driving in the wrong lane of travel. After approximately two miles, the driver pulled into a residential driveway and came to a stop. The male driver then fled on foot and a female passenger remained in the vehicle. She was taken into custody without incident.

Additional troopers, Morrill County deputies, and a Gering Police Department K9 unit assisted in a search of the area. During the search, troopers located a man in the sleeper berth of a disabled semi cab. The man exited the sleeper, and the driver of the F-150 was located under the bed of the sleeper. Both men were taken into custody. Inside the F-150, troopers located two sets of brass knuckles and suspected methamphetamine.

The driver, Thomas Tagg, 42, of Denver, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, obstructing a peace officer, and numerous traffic offenses. The passenger, Corie Kolthoff, 36, of Brighton, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon with no disclosure, and obstructing a peace officer. The third person, Benjamin Franklin, 27, of Mitchell, Nebraska, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer and aiding and abetting a felony.

All three were lodged in Morrill County Jail.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(Scottsbluff, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in western Nebraska.At approximately 7:50 p.m. MT Tuesday, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 driving with a license plate violation on Highway 385 near Bridgeport. As the trooper attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated and fled northbound on Highway 385. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle fled westbound on Link 62A, driving in the wrong lane of travel. After approximately two miles, the driver pulled into a residential driveway and came to a stop. The male driver then fled on foot and a female passenger remained in the vehicle. She was taken into custody without incident.Additional troopers, Morrill County deputies, and a Gering Police Department K9 unit assisted in a search of the area. During the search, troopers located a man in the sleeper berth of a disabled semi cab. The man exited the sleeper, and the driver of the F-150 was located under the bed of the sleeper. Both men were taken into custody. Inside the F-150, troopers located two sets of brass knuckles and suspected methamphetamine.The driver, Thomas Tagg, 42, of Denver, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, obstructing a peace officer, and numerous traffic offenses. The passenger, Corie Kolthoff, 36, of Brighton, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon with no disclosure, and obstructing a peace officer. The third person, Benjamin Franklin, 27, of Mitchell, Nebraska, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer and aiding and abetting a felony.All three were lodged in Morrill County Jail.

 Three Arrested After Pursuit in Panhandle

YEMEN—U.S. forces conducted multiple precision strikes against two Iranian-backed Houthi underground Advanced Conventional Weapon&nbsp; storage facilities within Houthi-controlled territories of Yemen on Wednesday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 The Houthis used these facilities to conduct attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment.

"The strikes are part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iranian-backed Houthi attempts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736385717405.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>YEMEN—U.S. forces conducted multiple precision strikes against two Iranian-backed Houthi underground Advanced Conventional Weapon&nbsp; storage facilities within Houthi-controlled territories of Yemen on Wednesday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The Houthis used these facilities to conduct attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment."The strikes are part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iranian-backed Houthi attempts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region."

U.S. strikes Terrorist Weapons Storage Facilities in Yemen

WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police officers prevented a man from bringing a machete and three knives past a screening checkpoint in the Capitol Visitor Center.

Just after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, during security screening at the CVC’s north doors, USCP officers spotted a machete in a bag, which was going through the x-ray machine. Officers stopped the machine and searched the bag, which contained a machete and three knives.&nbsp;

“Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger. “It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe.”

44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, D.C., was arrested for multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon.&nbsp;

Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. Public viewing for the lying in state was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning.&nbsp;

Horne will be interviewed by USCP investigators to determine his motive. At this time there is no on-going threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public.

WASHINGTON —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an incident Wednesday in Washington.

Just after 2:00 p.m., U.S. Capitol Police officers stopped and arrested a man who tried to get a machete into the Capitol Visitor Center, according to a media release.

Three knives were also found in the bag, along with the machete. Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center while police investigated.

The man is being held on multiple requested charges of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon. Check the Post for more information once it is available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730837573908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police officers prevented a man from bringing a machete and three knives past a screening checkpoint in the Capitol Visitor Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736381404606.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, during security screening at the CVC’s north doors, USCP officers spotted a machete in a bag, which was going through the x-ray machine. Officers stopped the machine and searched the bag, which contained a machete and three knives.&nbsp;“Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger. “It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe.”44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, D.C., was arrested for multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon.&nbsp;Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. Public viewing for the lying in state was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning.&nbsp;Horne will be interviewed by USCP investigators to determine his motive. At this time there is no on-going threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public.-----------WASHINGTON —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an incident Wednesday in Washington.Just after 2:00 p.m., U.S. Capitol Police officers stopped and arrested a man who tried to get a machete into the Capitol Visitor Center, according to a media release.Three knives were also found in the bag, along with the machete. Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center while police investigated.The man is being held on multiple requested charges of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon. Check the Post for more information once it is available.

Police: Man with Machete Attempted to Enter U.S. Capitol 

&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Yesterday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) was appointed deputy whip by newly-elected Majority Whip, Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). In this role, Fischer will unite her caucus around Republican priorities and drive forward the president’s legislative agenda.

“I am honored Senator Barrasso chose me to serve as one of his deputy whips, and I look forward to working alongside him in the upcoming Congress. With a newly elected Republican trifecta, we have the unique opportunity to achieve meaningful progress for our country, focusing on a safer, more affordable America. As deputy whip, I am excited to help lead our caucus in putting the American people first,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“I’m glad to have Deb as a member of our Whip Team. Deb brings the values of the Heartland to the Senate. That means she keeps her word and works tirelessly to find the best solution. She believes in a stronger America—from national security to economic opportunity. Deb never stops fighting for her team,”&nbsp;said Senator Barrasso.

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Yesterday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) was appointed deputy whip by newly-elected Majority Whip, Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). In this role, Fischer will unite her caucus around Republican priorities and drive forward the president’s legislative agenda.“I am honored Senator Barrasso chose me to serve as one of his deputy whips, and I look forward to working alongside him in the upcoming Congress. With a newly elected Republican trifecta, we have the unique opportunity to achieve meaningful progress for our country, focusing on a safer, more affordable America. As deputy whip, I am excited to help lead our caucus in putting the American people first,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“I’m glad to have Deb as a member of our Whip Team. Deb brings the values of the Heartland to the Senate. That means she keeps her word and works tirelessly to find the best solution. She believes in a stronger America—from national security to economic opportunity. Deb never stops fighting for her team,”&nbsp;said Senator Barrasso.

Fischer Appointed Deputy Whip

On Tuesday, Vice President Harris announced a final rule by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. This rule will reduce the burden of medical debt and ensure that patients are not denied access to credit for home mortgages, car loans, or small business loans due to unpaid medical bills.&nbsp;

Further, Vice President Harris announced that states and localities have leveraged American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to support the elimination of over $1 billion in medical debt for more than 700,000 Americans. These actions build on the Vice President’s call to action for states to reduce the burden of medical debt, including by directly purchasing the debt from providers and third parties. 

"Overall, jurisdictions are on track to eliminate roughly $15 billion in medical debt for up to nearly 6 million Americans.&nbsp;“No one should be&nbsp;denied economic opportunity because they got sick or experienced a medical emergency. That is why President Biden and I cancelled over $1 billion in medical debt – part of our overall plan to forgive $7 billion by 2026 – with support from our American Rescue Plan, legislation that I advanced with my tie-breaking vote in the Senate."

We also reduced the burden of medical debt by increasing pathways to forgiveness and cracking down on predatory debt collection tactics,”&nbsp;said Vice President Harris.&nbsp;“Today, we are building on this meaningful work by announcing an unprecedented final rule that will make it so medical debt is no longer included in your credit score. This will be lifechanging for millions of families, making it easier for them to be approved for a car loan, a home loan, or a small-business loan. As someone who has spent my entire career fighting to protect consumers and lower medical bills, I know that our historic rule will help more Americans save money, build wealth, and thrive.”&nbsp;More than 100 million Americans struggle with medical debt. Medical debt is the largest source of debt in collections, making up a larger proportion of debt tradelines than credit cards, utilities, and auto loans. 

However, medical debt is not like other forms of debt because it is often the result of unavoidable medical complications and medical bills often contain significant errors, such as inflated or duplicative charges and fees for services never received or already paid. Reducing the burden of medical debt has been a key priority in President Biden and Vice President Harris’s effort to lower cost for American families.&nbsp;

Removing Medical Debt from Consumer Credit Reports&nbsp;The CFPB is finalizing a rule that will remove medical debt from the credit reports of more than 15 million Americans, raising their credit scores by an estimated average of 20 points and leading to the approval of approximately 22,000 additional mortgages every year. 

Under the CFPB rule, there will be zero Americans with medical debt listed on their credit reports, down from 46 million in 2020.&nbsp;CFPB’s research indicates that medical bills are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-study-finds-medical-debt-overly-penalizes-consumer-credit-scores/">poor predictors</a>&nbsp;of an individual’s ability to repay a loan and that medical bills are often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-report-spotlights-medical-billing-challenges/">confusing and erroneous</a>.

In March 2022, the CFPB released a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-estimates-88-billion-in-medical-bills-on-credit-reports/">report</a>&nbsp;estimating that medical bills made up $88 billion of reported debts on credit reports. After the March 2022 report, the three largest credit reporting agencies announced that they would no longer include paid medical debts, unpaid medical debts less than a year old, and medical debt under $500 from credit reporting.&nbsp;Despite these voluntary changes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-finds-15-million-americans-have-medical-bills-on-their-credit-reports/">15 million Americans</a>&nbsp;still have $49 billion in outstanding medical bills in collections appearing in the credit reporting system.

Today’s action will remove these outstanding $49 billion in unpaid medical bills from the credit reports of the remaining 15 million impacted Americans.&nbsp;Vice President Harris’s Call to Action, Leveraging Federal Funds to Eliminate Medical Debt&nbsp;In June 2024, Vice President Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/06/11/fact-sheet-vice-president-harris-announces-proposal-to-prohibit-medical-bills-from-being-included-on-credit-reports-and-calls-on-states-and-localities-to-take-further-actions-to-reduce-medical-debt/">called on states, local governments, and health care providers to take action</a>&nbsp;to reduce the burden of medical debt. States and localities have responded to this call by directly relieving debt and launching innovative programs to improve their health systems. Thanks to the President Biden and Vice President Harris’s American Rescue Plan, states, counties, and cities have already eliminated more than an estimated $1 billion in medical debt for over 750,000 Americans, including:

These and other jurisdictions are on track to eliminate an estimated up to $7 billion in medical debt for nearly 3 million Americans by the end of 2026 thanks to ARP-supported efforts.

In addition to directly relieving debt, states and localities have responded to Vice President Harris’s call by launching innovative programs to improve their health systems. For instance, North Carolina&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2024/08/12/north-carolina-hospitals-sign-relieve-medical-debt">recently announced</a>&nbsp;that all of the state’s 99 eligible hospitals have committed to participate in medical debt relief program that will eliminate up to $4 billion in existing medical debt for nearly 2 million low-and middle-income North Carolinians.&nbsp; The program also ensures that hospitals have policies in place to reduce the chance individuals will end up in debt in the first place. North Carolina’s program utilizes a novel approach, where hospital systems become eligible for enhanced Medicaid reimbursements under the State Directed Payments Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program by implementing policies that:

Preventing the Accumulation of Medical Debt Through Increased Oversight

Today’s announcements build on efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration to reduce the burden of medical debt, including:

On Tuesday, Vice President Harris announced a final rule by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. This rule will reduce the burden of medical debt and ensure that patients are not denied access to credit for home mortgages, car loans, or small business loans due to unpaid medical bills.&nbsp;Further, Vice President Harris announced that states and localities have leveraged American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to support the elimination of over $1 billion in medical debt for more than 700,000 Americans. These actions build on the Vice President’s call to action for states to reduce the burden of medical debt, including by directly purchasing the debt from providers and third parties. "Overall, jurisdictions are on track to eliminate roughly $15 billion in medical debt for up to nearly 6 million Americans.&nbsp;“No one should be&nbsp;denied economic opportunity because they got sick or experienced a medical emergency. That is why President Biden and I cancelled over $1 billion in medical debt – part of our overall plan to forgive $7 billion by 2026 – with support from our American Rescue Plan, legislation that I advanced with my tie-breaking vote in the Senate."We also reduced the burden of medical debt by increasing pathways to forgiveness and cracking down on predatory debt collection tactics,”&nbsp;said Vice President Harris.&nbsp;“Today, we are building on this meaningful work by announcing an unprecedented final rule that will make it so medical debt is no longer included in your credit score. This will be lifechanging for millions of families, making it easier for them to be approved for a car loan, a home loan, or a small-business loan. As someone who has spent my entire career fighting to protect consumers and lower medical bills, I know that our historic rule will help more Americans save money, build wealth, and thrive.”&nbsp;More than 100 million Americans struggle with medical debt. Medical debt is the largest source of debt in collections, making up a larger proportion of debt tradelines than credit cards, utilities, and auto loans. However, medical debt is not like other forms of debt because it is often the result of unavoidable medical complications and medical bills often contain significant errors, such as inflated or duplicative charges and fees for services never received or already paid. Reducing the burden of medical debt has been a key priority in President Biden and Vice President Harris’s effort to lower cost for American families.&nbsp;Removing Medical Debt from Consumer Credit Reports&nbsp;The CFPB is finalizing a rule that will remove medical debt from the credit reports of more than 15 million Americans, raising their credit scores by an estimated average of 20 points and leading to the approval of approximately 22,000 additional mortgages every year. Under the CFPB rule, there will be zero Americans with medical debt listed on their credit reports, down from 46 million in 2020.&nbsp;CFPB’s research indicates that medical bills are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-study-finds-medical-debt-overly-penalizes-consumer-credit-scores/">poor predictors</a>&nbsp;of an individual’s ability to repay a loan and that medical bills are often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-report-spotlights-medical-billing-challenges/">confusing and erroneous</a>. In March 2022, the CFPB released a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-estimates-88-billion-in-medical-bills-on-credit-reports/">report</a>&nbsp;estimating that medical bills made up $88 billion of reported debts on credit reports. After the March 2022 report, the three largest credit reporting agencies announced that they would no longer include paid medical debts, unpaid medical debts less than a year old, and medical debt under $500 from credit reporting.&nbsp;Despite these voluntary changes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-finds-15-million-americans-have-medical-bills-on-their-credit-reports/">15 million Americans</a>&nbsp;still have $49 billion in outstanding medical bills in collections appearing in the credit reporting system. Today’s action will remove these outstanding $49 billion in unpaid medical bills from the credit reports of the remaining 15 million impacted Americans.&nbsp;Vice President Harris’s Call to Action, Leveraging Federal Funds to Eliminate Medical Debt&nbsp;In June 2024, Vice President Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/06/11/fact-sheet-vice-president-harris-announces-proposal-to-prohibit-medical-bills-from-being-included-on-credit-reports-and-calls-on-states-and-localities-to-take-further-actions-to-reduce-medical-debt/">called on states, local governments, and health care providers to take action</a>&nbsp;to reduce the burden of medical debt. States and localities have responded to this call by directly relieving debt and launching innovative programs to improve their health systems. Thanks to the President Biden and Vice President Harris’s American Rescue Plan, states, counties, and cities have already eliminated more than an estimated $1 billion in medical debt for over 750,000 Americans, including:<ul>
 <li>Cook County, Illinois has eliminated over $382 million in medical debt for over 210,000 residents.</li><li>New Jersey has eliminated $220 million in medical debt for over 120,00 residents.</li><li>Cleveland, Ohio has eliminated nearly $137 million in medical debt for over 130,000 residents.</li><li>Toledo and Lucas County, Ohio partnered to eliminate over $87 million in medical debt for over 140,000 residents.</li><li>New Orleans, Louisiana has eliminated nearly $70 million in medical debt for 75,000 residents.</li><li>St. Paul, Minnesota has eliminated $40 million in medical debt for over 30,000 residents.</li><li>Washington, DC has eliminated $42 million in medical debt for over 60,000 residents.</li><li>Connecticut has eliminated $30 million in medical debt for 23,000 residents.</li><li>Wayne County, Michigan has eliminated $27 million in medical debt for more than 46,000 residents.</li><li>Oakland County, Michigan has eliminated $9 million in medical debt for more than 14,000 residents.</li>
 </ul>These and other jurisdictions are on track to eliminate an estimated up to $7 billion in medical debt for nearly 3 million Americans by the end of 2026 thanks to ARP-supported efforts.In addition to directly relieving debt, states and localities have responded to Vice President Harris’s call by launching innovative programs to improve their health systems. For instance, North Carolina&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2024/08/12/north-carolina-hospitals-sign-relieve-medical-debt">recently announced</a>&nbsp;that all of the state’s 99 eligible hospitals have committed to participate in medical debt relief program that will eliminate up to $4 billion in existing medical debt for nearly 2 million low-and middle-income North Carolinians.&nbsp; The program also ensures that hospitals have policies in place to reduce the chance individuals will end up in debt in the first place. North Carolina’s program utilizes a novel approach, where hospital systems become eligible for enhanced Medicaid reimbursements under the State Directed Payments Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program by implementing policies that:<ul>
 <li>Relieve all medical debt deemed uncollectible dating back to Jan. 1, 2014, for any individuals not enrolled in Medicaid with incomes at or below at least 350% of the federal poverty level (FPL) or for whom total debt exceeds 5% of annual income.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Relieve all unpaid medical debt dating back to Jan. 1, 2014, for individuals who are enrolled in Medicaid.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Sets a charity care floor in the state that provides discounts on medical bills of between 50-100% for patients with incomes at or below 300% FPL, with the amount of the discount varying based on the patient’s income.</li><li>Automatically enroll people into financial assistance, known as charity care, by implementing a policy for presumptively determining individuals eligible for financial assistance through a streamlined screening and income validation approach.&nbsp;</li><li>Not sell any medical debt for consumers with incomes at or below 300% FPL to debt collectors.&nbsp;</li><li>Not report a patient’s debt covered by these policies to a credit reporting agency.</li>
 </ul>Preventing the Accumulation of Medical Debt Through Increased OversightToday’s announcements build on efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration to reduce the burden of medical debt, including:<ul>
 <li>The Internal Revenue Service&nbsp;<a href="https://news.bloombergtax.com/daily-tax-report/irs-plans-more-nonprofit-hospital-audits-as-scrutiny-heats-up">announced</a>&nbsp;new steps to ensure that non-profit hospitals provide free and reduced-price care for patients that need it, as is required by law. This includes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-counsel/2024-2025-priority-guidance-plan-initial-version.pdf">issuing new guidance</a>&nbsp;in the coming months to clarify the obligations of tax-exempt hospitals&nbsp; to offer and publicize financial assistance policies and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5313.pdf">committing to prioritizing enforcement actions</a>&nbsp;against tax-exempt hospitals that violate these responsibilities.</li><li>The CFPB issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-takes-aim-at-double-billing-and-inflated-charges-in-medical-debt-collection/">Advisory Opinion</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/consumer-advisory-pause-and-review-your-rights-when-you-hear-from-a-medical-debt-collector/">Consumer Advisory</a>&nbsp;clarifying the responsibilities of debt collectors to confirm that debts are accurate, valid, and substantiated before engaging in collection actions and explaining to consumers what actions they can take when they suspect that they have been improperly billed or if they have had improper or illegal collection actions taken against them.</li><li>The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) implemented&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/03/01/fact-sheet-supporting-veterans-experiencing-financial-hardship-and-addressing-the-harmful-effects-of-military-environmental-exposures/#:~:text=VA%20will%20streamline%20the%20request%20process%20and%20set,effect%20in%20the%20next%2090%20to%20120%20days.">a streamlined process</a>&nbsp;to make it easier and faster for lower-income veterans to get their VA medical debt forgiven, already&nbsp;providing relief to over 10,000 veterans and saved them more than $10 million in copay debt.</li><li>The Department of Defense has proposed a rule aimed at providing financial relief for civilians receiving medical care at military medical treatment facilities (MTFs). &nbsp;If finalized as proposed, this rule would implement fee reductions through a sliding scale discount program as well as catastrophic cap waivers. &nbsp;Through these measures, the DoD aims to significantly reduce the financial burden on patients while maintaining high-quality care.</li><li>The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhfa.gov/Media/PublicAffairs/Documents/CS-Fact-Sheet-2022.pdf">validated and approved</a>&nbsp;the use of VantageScore 4.0, along with FICO 10T, for the underwriting of mortgages by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, marking the first time that a credit score that excludes medical debt has been approved for mortgage underwriting of Enterprise loans.</li><li>The Small Business Administration (SBA) is taking steps to reduce the role of medical debt in the underwriting of loans&nbsp;for its flagship 7(a) guaranteed loan program, including revising its lender Standard Operating Procedures and Lender Match tool to discourage consideration of medical debt.</li><li>The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued memorandum&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/M-22-17.pdf">M-22-17</a>&nbsp;to direct agencies to reduce the impact of medical debt in the underwriting of Federal credit programs, helping to spur the actions by VA, FHFA, and SBA listed above.</li><li>The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Department of the Treasury&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/notice-opportunities-comment/archive-closed/request-for-information-on-medical-payment-products/">issued a joint request for information</a>&nbsp;seeking comment on the prevalence, nature, and impact of medical payment products.</li><li>CMS and CFPB issued guidance clarifying protections against inappropriate patient billing and costs for the approximately 8 million low-income Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program.&nbsp;</li><li>The Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury have prioritized implementing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/03/06/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-new-steps-to-lower-prescription-drug-and-health-care-costs-expand-access-to-health-care-and-protect-consumers/">surprise billing protections</a>, preventing 1 million surprise medical bills every single month.</li><li>As a part of the Inflation Reduction Act, President Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/03/02/fact-sheet-president-bidens-cap-on-the-cost-of-insulin-could-benefit-millions-of-americans-in-all-50-states/#:~:text=Eli%20Lilly%20announced%20they%20are%20lowering%20the%20cost,diabetes%20in%20all%20fifty%20states%20and%20U.S.%20territories.">capped the cost of insulin at $35</a>&nbsp;for a month’s supply of each covered insulin&nbsp;and capped out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 in 2025 for seniors and others with Medicare. Thanks to the $3500 cap, nearly 1.5 million Medicare enrollees saved nearly $1 billion on prescription drugs in just the first half of 2024. Since taking these actions, President Biden has called on Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/03/06/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-new-steps-to-lower-prescription-drug-and-health-care-costs-expand-access-to-health-care-and-protect-consumers/#:~:text=Expand%20Cap%20on%20Out%2Dof%2DPocket%20Prescription%20Drug%20Costs.&amp;text=The%20President%20is%20calling%20on,putting%20food%20on%20the%20table.">to expand the cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs</a>&nbsp;to cover all Americans.</li><li>President Biden has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/08/10/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-lowers-health-care-costs/">called on states</a>&nbsp;to close the Medicaid coverage gap and create new pathways to health coverage by expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act.</li><li>Secretary Becerra directed HHS to evaluate how providers’ billing practices impact access and affordability of care and the accrual of medical debt. HHS, CFPB, and the Treasury Department requested information and data on medical bill collection practices, lawsuits against patients, financial assistance, financial product offerings, and 3rd party contracting or debt buying practices. HHS, for the first time, considered weighing this information in their funding decisions.</li><li>The CFPB and the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a joint letter affirming that nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid are prohibited from forcing a resident’s family or friends to assume responsibility for the cost of care as a condition of admission or continued stay in the facility.</li><li>HHS is collecting evidence and data to inform future actions by adding new questions on medical debt to Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey and Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, two of the most important sources of data on health care in the United States.</li><li>HHS released a set of&nbsp;<a href="https://oig.hhs.gov/faqs/general-questions-regarding-certain-fraud-and-abuse-authorities/#13-does-the-federal-anti-kickback-statute-or-the-beneficiary-inducements-cmp-prohibit-hospitals-from-waiving-their-patients-cost-sharing-amounts-pursuant-to-hospitals-financial-assistance-policies-also-known-as-charity-care-policies.">frequently asked questions</a>&nbsp;clarifying that hospitals have the ability to provide relief to uninsured and underinsured patients who cannot afford their hospital bills and to Medicare beneficiaries who cannot afford their Medicare cost.</li><li>The Biden-Harris Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/03/28/fact-sheet-president-biden-announces-new-landmark-rule-to-protect-americans-from-junk-health-insurance/#:~:text=Under%20the%20new%20rules%2C%20new%20plans%20that%20claim,they%20in%20fact%20provided%20little%20to%20no%20coverage.">issued</a>&nbsp;a final rule that protects consumers from junk health insurance and makes sure Americans aren’t scammed into low-quality coverage that leaves consumers on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical bills.</li><li>CMS is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/10/2024-23103/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-hhs-notice-of-benefit-and-payment-parameters-for-2026-and">soliciting comment</a>&nbsp;on how hospital-based personnel who help consumers enroll in Marketplace coverage could connect consumers to hospital financial assistance programs designed to reduce medical debt.</li><li>The White House<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/12/08/readout-of-the-white-house-state-convening-on-medical-debt/">&nbsp;convened state and local leaders</a>&nbsp;to discuss initiatives to further lower health care costs and reduce the burden of medical debt, including addressing medical payment products, unfair debt collection practices, surprise billing and facility fees, and charity care.</li>
 </ul>

Medical Debt Banned from Credit Reports by New Biden Admin Rule

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/07/speaker-arch-nebraska-budget-without-a-doubt-biggest-issue-of-2025-session/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Speaker John Arch of La Vista this week outlined the Nebraska Legislature’s biggest 2025 issue as lawmakers return to Lincoln: the state budget.

Arch, who is so far running unopposed to helm Nebraska’s legislative branch for two more years, said the budget would “without a doubt” be state lawmakers’ biggest issue in 2025 when they return for a 90-day session beginning Wednesday at 10 a.m.&nbsp;

That priority comes as the state budget is forecasted to be running more than&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/Current/PDF/Budget/status.pdf" target="_blank">$432 million short</a>&nbsp;in the next two fiscal years, which begin July 1 and end June 30, 2027. Legislative solutions will likely need to be massaged by the Legislature’s Appropriations and Revenue Committees.

If left unchecked, estimates show that the budget hole could grow to $1.13 billion by the middle of 2029, partly because of 2023 legislative decisions to decrease tax rates for top income and corporate earners.

Now, Arch said, lawmakers will see the reality and real numbers of those changes.

“We’ll have to have some time to digest,” Arch told the Nebraska Examiner on Monday. “We took some pretty big swings in the last couple of sessions.”

This spring will be the final time that corporate taxpayers in Nebraska pay a tiered tax rate based on how much they earn. It’s part of a step-down approach to reducing top individual income tax rates and corporate tax rates to 3.99% beginning in 2027.

The start of the year also ushered in new income tax credits for grocery stores, restaurants and agricultural producers that donate to food banks, pantries or rescues; for family caregivers’ costs for eligible family members; for film and TV production companies’ qualifying expenditures to film in Nebraska; and for contributions to qualifying pregnancy help organizations.

Arch said crafting the 2025-27 budget will be “more normal” than past bienniums, as lawmakers continue to move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic era of being flush with “American Rescue Plan Act” federal relief dollars or a major budget surplus of state cash reserves.

The first duty for state lawmakers will be selecting legislative leadership, including the chairs of the Legislature’s 14 standing committees that consider the vast majority of legislative proposals.

Of those committees, as well as three special or select committees, at least 13 will choose new leaders, most because of term limits, while two current chairs seek other positions.

At least five of the 14 standing committees are expected to have contested elections, based on announced candidates up to Tuesday morning, including the tax-focused Revenue Committee to succeed term-limited State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha.

State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Omaha, the current Revenue Committee vice chair, and George Dungan of Lincoln have announced bids to succeed Linehan.

State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood is so far running unopposed for chair of the Appropriations Committee, which sets the budget.&nbsp;

The Legislature will also vote on slates of senators to serve on the Committee on Committees, which doles out&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/pdf/committees/roster.pdf" target="_blank">committee assignments</a>&nbsp;to all 49 lawmakers, and the Executive Board, which monitors the hiring of legislative employees and the day-to-day operations of the legislative branch.

The 2025 legislative session will see 16 newly elected lawmakers and one former state senator from Grand Island returning.

Arch said he had the chance to meet with new senators&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/16/improving-oversight-eyed-as-a-hallmark-issue-of-2025-legislative-session/">at a legislative retreat in December</a>&nbsp;and looks forward to working with them.

“I feel like we’ve got a good group of senators coming in ready to learn and ready to problem solve,” Arch said. “I think with that, we’re setting ourselves up for dealing with some of the difficult issues that we’re asked to deal with.”

Bill introductions will begin Thursday, on the second day of the session, and continue through the 10th day, scheduled for Jan. 22.

Among proposals on the docket is a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/09/nebraska-governors-priorities-shift-focus-from-spending-and-tax-changes/">quartet of priorities</a>&nbsp;from Gov. Jim Pillen:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736351761005.jpeg" alt=" Speaker John Arch of La Vista. July 26, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Speaker John Arch of La Vista. July 26, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/07/speaker-arch-nebraska-budget-without-a-doubt-biggest-issue-of-2025-session/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Speaker John Arch of La Vista this week outlined the Nebraska Legislature’s biggest 2025 issue as lawmakers return to Lincoln: the state budget.Arch, who is so far running unopposed to helm Nebraska’s legislative branch for two more years, said the budget would “without a doubt” be state lawmakers’ biggest issue in 2025 when they return for a 90-day session beginning Wednesday at 10 a.m.&nbsp;That priority comes as the state budget is forecasted to be running more than&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/Current/PDF/Budget/status.pdf" target="_blank">$432 million short</a>&nbsp;in the next two fiscal years, which begin July 1 and end June 30, 2027. Legislative solutions will likely need to be massaged by the Legislature’s Appropriations and Revenue Committees.If left unchecked, estimates show that the budget hole could grow to $1.13 billion by the middle of 2029, partly because of 2023 legislative decisions to decrease tax rates for top income and corporate earners.Now, Arch said, lawmakers will see the reality and real numbers of those changes.“We’ll have to have some time to digest,” Arch told the Nebraska Examiner on Monday. “We took some pretty big swings in the last couple of sessions.”<h2>Revenue changes</h2>This spring will be the final time that corporate taxpayers in Nebraska pay a tiered tax rate based on how much they earn. It’s part of a step-down approach to reducing top individual income tax rates and corporate tax rates to 3.99% beginning in 2027.The start of the year also ushered in new income tax credits for grocery stores, restaurants and agricultural producers that donate to food banks, pantries or rescues; for family caregivers’ costs for eligible family members; for film and TV production companies’ qualifying expenditures to film in Nebraska; and for contributions to qualifying pregnancy help organizations.Arch said crafting the 2025-27 budget will be “more normal” than past bienniums, as lawmakers continue to move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic era of being flush with “American Rescue Plan Act” federal relief dollars or a major budget surplus of state cash reserves.<h2>Choosing legislative leadership</h2>The first duty for state lawmakers will be selecting legislative leadership, including the chairs of the Legislature’s 14 standing committees that consider the vast majority of legislative proposals.Of those committees, as well as three special or select committees, at least 13 will choose new leaders, most because of term limits, while two current chairs seek other positions.At least five of the 14 standing committees are expected to have contested elections, based on announced candidates up to Tuesday morning, including the tax-focused Revenue Committee to succeed term-limited State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha.State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Omaha, the current Revenue Committee vice chair, and George Dungan of Lincoln have announced bids to succeed Linehan.State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood is so far running unopposed for chair of the Appropriations Committee, which sets the budget.&nbsp;The Legislature will also vote on slates of senators to serve on the Committee on Committees, which doles out&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/pdf/committees/roster.pdf" target="_blank">committee assignments</a>&nbsp;to all 49 lawmakers, and the Executive Board, which monitors the hiring of legislative employees and the day-to-day operations of the legislative branch.The 2025 legislative session will see 16 newly elected lawmakers and one former state senator from Grand Island returning.Arch said he had the chance to meet with new senators&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/16/improving-oversight-eyed-as-a-hallmark-issue-of-2025-legislative-session/">at a legislative retreat in December</a>&nbsp;and looks forward to working with them.“I feel like we’ve got a good group of senators coming in ready to learn and ready to problem solve,” Arch said. “I think with that, we’re setting ourselves up for dealing with some of the difficult issues that we’re asked to deal with.”<h2>Other key issues</h2>Bill introductions will begin Thursday, on the second day of the session, and continue through the 10th day, scheduled for Jan. 22.Among proposals on the docket is a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/09/nebraska-governors-priorities-shift-focus-from-spending-and-tax-changes/">quartet of priorities</a>&nbsp;from Gov. Jim Pillen:<ul>
 <li>Sex-based restrictions for K-12 bathrooms, locker rooms and sports teams, which could more broadly mirror a Pillen-enacted “Women’s Bill of Rights” and extend to higher education or other areas of state government.&nbsp;</li><li>Changing how the state allocates funding to K-12 schools to take pressure off of property taxes.</li><li>Cracking down on sales of lab-grown meat and how it is labeled.</li><li>Changing how the state awards its Electoral College votes. Lawmakers told the Examiner the proposal might come in one of two ways, either by a legislative bill or a constitutional amendment the public would vote on in 2026.</li>
 </ul>

Speaker Arch: Nebraska Budget ‘Without a Doubt’ Biggest Issue of 2025 Session

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers are investigating a Scotts Bluff County hunting incident in which a woman was shot by a firearm.

Jeff Clauson, Game and Parks law enforcement administrator, said the 24-year-old woman was shot by another member of the hunting party and later treated for non-life-threatening injuries in Scottsbluff.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers are investigating a Scotts Bluff County hunting incident in which a woman was shot by a firearm.Jeff Clauson, Game and Parks law enforcement administrator, said the 24-year-old woman was shot by another member of the hunting party and later treated for non-life-threatening injuries in Scottsbluff.

Panhandle Woman Shot During Hunting Incident

As 2025 begins, the Alzheimer’s Association encourages everyone to prioritize brain-healthy habits as part of their New Year’s resolutions. Research shows that adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. More than 6 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, including nearly 36,000 Nebraska residents.

While age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that healthy lifestyle changes—including nutritious eating, regular exercise, and cognitive engagement—may promote better brain health. Recent findings highlight key actions that can make a difference:

“Research into how healthy behaviors impact cognitive health is rapidly evolving,” said Sadie Hinkel, Programming Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter. “While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, simple steps can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Small changes today can have lasting benefits.”

Five Tips for Brain-Healthy Living&nbsp;The Alzheimer’s Association recommends these strategies to support brain health:

“Incorporating these habits at any age is beneficial,” Hinkel added. “Start with one or two changes and build from there. Every step counts toward better health.”

The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter offers free educational programming about symptoms, care resources, and prevention tips for community members statewide. To see a full list of our upcoming programs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/Nebraska" target="_blank">alz.org/Nebraska</a>&nbsp;or call our 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). If your business or organization is interested in hosting an educational program, please contact the Nebraska Chapter at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nebraskainfo@alz.org" target="_blank">nebraskainfo@alz.org</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Alzheimer’s AssociationAs 2025 begins, the Alzheimer’s Association encourages everyone to prioritize brain-healthy habits as part of their New Year’s resolutions. Research shows that adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. More than 6 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, including nearly 36,000 Nebraska residents.While age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that healthy lifestyle changes—including nutritious eating, regular exercise, and cognitive engagement—may promote better brain health. Recent findings highlight key actions that can make a difference:<ul>
 <li>Eating a diet rich in whole foods and limiting ultra-processed foods (like chips, candy, and soft drinks) can slow cognitive decline.</li><li>Engaging in regular physical activity, even light exercise such as stretching, may help protect brain cells from damage.</li>
 </ul>“Research into how healthy behaviors impact cognitive health is rapidly evolving,” said Sadie Hinkel, Programming Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter. “While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, simple steps can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Small changes today can have lasting benefits.”Five Tips for Brain-Healthy Living&nbsp;The Alzheimer’s Association recommends these strategies to support brain health:<ol>
 <li>Exercise regularly&nbsp;— Cardiovascular exercise boosts blood flow to the brain, improving memory and thinking.</li><li>Maintain a heart-healthy diet&nbsp;— Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The Mediterranean and DASH diets are linked to better brain health.</li><li>Get proper sleep&nbsp;— Aim for seven or more hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. A regular sleep schedule promotes brain health.</li><li>Stay socially and mentally engaged&nbsp;— Connect with friends and family, try puzzles or strategy games, or learn a new skill to keep your mind active.</li><li>Keep your heart healthy&nbsp;— Managing high blood pressure and other heart conditions can significantly reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).</li>
 </ol>“Incorporating these habits at any age is beneficial,” Hinkel added. “Start with one or two changes and build from there. Every step counts toward better health.”The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter offers free educational programming about symptoms, care resources, and prevention tips for community members statewide. To see a full list of our upcoming programs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/Nebraska" target="_blank">alz.org/Nebraska</a>&nbsp;or call our 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). If your business or organization is interested in hosting an educational program, please contact the Nebraska Chapter at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nebraskainfo@alz.org" target="_blank">nebraskainfo@alz.org</a>.&nbsp;

A New Year’s Resolution to Reduce Risk of Cognitive Decline

&nbsp;(Kearney, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person following a pursuit in central Nebraska Tuesday.

At approximately 10:15 a.m., a trooper saw a BMW SUV traveling eastbound at 125 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney at mile marker 268. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle exited I-80 at the Kearney interchange and began traveling southbound on Highway 44. The driver continued southbound for several miles until it ran the stop sign at the intersection of Highway 44 and Highway 6. The vehicle then crossed railroad tracks at a high rate of speed, lost control, and crashed into a field.

The driver, Elias Areyzaga, 23, of Wheaton, Illinois, was taken into custody without further incident. Areyzaga refused medical transport but was transported by a trooper to Kearney Regional Medical Center for medical clearance. He was then lodged in Buffalo County Jail for flight to avoid arrest and willful reckless driving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736339333101.jpeg" alt="Elias Areyzaga (Buffalo County Jail)" />
 <figcaption>Elias Areyzaga (Buffalo County Jail)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol&nbsp;(Kearney, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person following a pursuit in central Nebraska Tuesday.At approximately 10:15 a.m., a trooper saw a BMW SUV traveling eastbound at 125 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney at mile marker 268. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle exited I-80 at the Kearney interchange and began traveling southbound on Highway 44. The driver continued southbound for several miles until it ran the stop sign at the intersection of Highway 44 and Highway 6. The vehicle then crossed railroad tracks at a high rate of speed, lost control, and crashed into a field.The driver, Elias Areyzaga, 23, of Wheaton, Illinois, was taken into custody without further incident. Areyzaga refused medical transport but was transported by a trooper to Kearney Regional Medical Center for medical clearance. He was then lodged in Buffalo County Jail for flight to avoid arrest and willful reckless driving.

Illinois Man Arrested After Central Nebraska Pursuit

&nbsp;President Jimmy Carter will continue to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda Wednesday ahead of his state funeral.

The 39th president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-dies-18c198c20352c835bca3eec276020dd7">died Dec. 29 at the age of 100</a>.

Jimmy Carter's state funeral moved to Washington on Tuesday after observances in Georgia. The 39th president's remains will lie in state through Wednesday. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy at his funeral on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736283143560.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;President Jimmy Carter will continue to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda Wednesday ahead of his state funeral.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter&#39;s casket arrives in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. <a href="https://t.co/t1YMjvbLHt">pic.twitter.com/t1YMjvbLHt</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876754969094758700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 39th president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-dies-18c198c20352c835bca3eec276020dd7">died Dec. 29 at the age of 100</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalAcademy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NavalAcademy</a> Glee Club performs &#39;My Country, &#39;Tis of Thee&#39; at President Jimmy Carter Memorial Service. <a href="https://t.co/PVd51SHLwp">pic.twitter.com/PVd51SHLwp</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876762661955760293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Carter served as president from 1977-81.-----------Jimmy Carter's state funeral moved to Washington on Tuesday after observances in Georgia. The 39th president's remains will lie in state through Wednesday. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy at his funeral on Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter arrival ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland (<a href="https://twitter.com/Andrews_JBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Andrews_JBA</a>). <a href="https://t.co/iO2fnY7zvl">pic.twitter.com/iO2fnY7zvl</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876718862659465265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter procession from the U.S. Naval Memorial to U.S. Capitol. <a href="https://t.co/sb2PkfYIcI">pic.twitter.com/sb2PkfYIcI</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876736917779169666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter&#39;s casket arrives at the U.S. Capitol. <a href="https://t.co/hSc7alh0lj">pic.twitter.com/hSc7alh0lj</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876754915273441546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalAcademy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NavalAcademy</a> Glee Club performs &#39;My Country, &#39;Tis of Thee&#39; at President Jimmy Carter Memorial Service. <a href="https://t.co/PVd51SHLwp">pic.twitter.com/PVd51SHLwp</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876762661955760293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Jimmy Carter Continues to Lie in State at Capitol Rotunda Ahead of State Funeral

President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;held a news conference at his Palm Beach, Florida resort on Tuesday.&nbsp; He discussed a variety of topics including the Panama Canal, Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico and pardons for the January 6th defendants.

President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;held a news conference at his Palm Beach, Florida resort on Tuesday.&nbsp; He discussed a variety of topics including the Panama Canal, Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico and pardons for the January 6th defendants.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Question on Greenland and Panama Canal: &quot;Can you assure the world that as you try to get control of these areas you are not going to use military or economic coercion? President-Elect Trump: &quot;No...I can&#39;t assure you on either of those two. We need them for economic security...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zJ8Fb67ZrX">pic.twitter.com/zJ8Fb67ZrX</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876678479053259091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-elect Trump: &quot;We&#39;re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America...what a beautiful name. It&#39;s appropriate.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZspLXgkgcZ">pic.twitter.com/ZspLXgkgcZ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876674752741314677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-Elect Trump pardoning January 6th defendants: &quot;We&#39;re be looking at the whole thing, but yes I&#39;ll be making major pardons, yes.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/arHvANly7j">pic.twitter.com/arHvANly7j</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876679962188468655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-Elect Trump: &quot;If those hostages aren&#39;t back...If they&#39;re not back by the time I get into office all hell will break out in the Middle East. It will no be good for Hamas. It will not be good frankly for anyone.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/iz5yiATPA2">pic.twitter.com/iz5yiATPA2</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876681429322445012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump on Panama Canal, renaming Gulf of Mexico and pardons

On Jan. 7, 2025 Governor Jim Pillen signed a proclamation honoring&nbsp;2025 One Book One Nebraska:&nbsp;The Long March Home: A&nbsp;World War II: Novel of the Pacific&nbsp;(Revell, 2023)&nbsp;by Marcus Brotherton, and Tosca Lee. Rebecca Faber, Nebraska Center for the Book (NCB) Board member spoke about the program and selection.&nbsp;The Long March Home&nbsp;is a historical fiction novel inspired by true stories of friendship, sacrifice, and hope on the Bataan Death March. It is a gripping coming-of-age tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the power of unrelenting hope. The full proclamation can be viewed on the One Book One Nebraska webpages at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/">http://onebook.nebraska.gov</a>.

The One Book One Nebraska reading program, sponsored by the Nebraska Center for the Book, Nebraska Library Commission, and Humanities Nebraska is entering its twenty-first year. It encourages Nebraskans across the state to read and discuss one book, chosen from books written by Nebraska authors or that have a Nebraska theme or setting. Libraries across Nebraska will join other literary and cultural organizations in planning book discussions, activities, and events to encourage Nebraskans to read and discuss this book. Support materials to assist with local reading/discussion activities are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/">http://onebook.nebraska.gov</a>. The author, Tosca Lee, is available for speaking events, writing clinics, and book discussions her&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://toscalee.com/contact/">website contact form</a>.

The&nbsp;Nebraska Center for the Book&nbsp;is housed at the Nebraska Library Commission and brings together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word. The Nebraska Center for the Book is supported by the Nebraska Library Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736353868547.jpeg" alt="The Long March Home" />
 <figcaption>The Long March Home</figcaption>
 </figure>On Jan. 7, 2025 Governor Jim Pillen signed a proclamation honoring&nbsp;2025 One Book One Nebraska:&nbsp;The Long March Home: A&nbsp;World War II: Novel of the Pacific&nbsp;(Revell, 2023)&nbsp;by Marcus Brotherton, and Tosca Lee. Rebecca Faber, Nebraska Center for the Book (NCB) Board member spoke about the program and selection.&nbsp;The Long March Home&nbsp;is a historical fiction novel inspired by true stories of friendship, sacrifice, and hope on the Bataan Death March. It is a gripping coming-of-age tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the power of unrelenting hope. The full proclamation can be viewed on the One Book One Nebraska webpages at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/">http://onebook.nebraska.gov</a>.The One Book One Nebraska reading program, sponsored by the Nebraska Center for the Book, Nebraska Library Commission, and Humanities Nebraska is entering its twenty-first year. It encourages Nebraskans across the state to read and discuss one book, chosen from books written by Nebraska authors or that have a Nebraska theme or setting. Libraries across Nebraska will join other literary and cultural organizations in planning book discussions, activities, and events to encourage Nebraskans to read and discuss this book. Support materials to assist with local reading/discussion activities are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/">http://onebook.nebraska.gov</a>. The author, Tosca Lee, is available for speaking events, writing clinics, and book discussions her&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://toscalee.com/contact/">website contact form</a>.The&nbsp;Nebraska Center for the Book&nbsp;is housed at the Nebraska Library Commission and brings together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word. The Nebraska Center for the Book is supported by the Nebraska Library Commission.

The Long March Home: A World War II Novel of the Pacific Proclaimed the 2025 One Book One Nebraska

Lincoln, January 7, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has elected TimSchram of Gretna to serve as its Chair for 2025.&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/tim-schram" target="_blank">Commissioner Schram</a>&nbsp;was approved duringthe |Commission’s January 7, meeting in Lincoln.

First elected to the Commission in 2006, Schram is serving his fourth term representing the third district which covers Sarpy, Saunders, and western Douglas Counites in eastern Nebraska.

Elected Vice Chair was&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/administration/kevin-stocker" target="_blank">Commissioner Kevin Stocker</a>&nbsp;of Scottsbluff. A Commissioner since2022, he represents the fifth district comprised of 51 counties encompassing greater Nebraska.

Commission leadership positions are elected on an annual basis

Lincoln, January 7, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has elected TimSchram of Gretna to serve as its Chair for 2025.&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/tim-schram" target="_blank">Commissioner Schram</a>&nbsp;was approved duringthe |Commission’s January 7, meeting in Lincoln.First elected to the Commission in 2006, Schram is serving his fourth term representing the third district which covers Sarpy, Saunders, and western Douglas Counites in eastern Nebraska.Elected Vice Chair was&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/administration/kevin-stocker" target="_blank">Commissioner Kevin Stocker</a>&nbsp;of Scottsbluff. A Commissioner since2022, he represents the fifth district comprised of 51 counties encompassing greater Nebraska.Commission leadership positions are elected on an annual basis

Commission Elects 2025 Leadership

&nbsp;(Arlington, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident that involved deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 2:07 p.m. Monday, a Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy performed a traffic stop on a Jeep Cherokee near 100 West Eagle Street in Arlington. During the traffic stop, the vehicle was occupied by a female driver, male passenger, and a 1-year-old child. The driver was arrested by deputies for driving under suspension and was transported to Washington County Jail. The male passenger was identified as David Boettcher, 48, of Omaha. Boettcher had an active felony warrant for assault.

Preliminary investigation shows that Boettcher refused to cooperate with deputies and deputies became aware that Boettcher was in possession of a firearm. After several minutes, Boettcher exited the passenger side of the vehicle and began firing shots toward the deputies. Multiple deputies returned fire, striking the suspect.

Deputies then attempted to render aid to Boettcher, who continued resisting. A trooper arrived on scene to assist, and Boettcher was taken into custody. He has been transported to UNMC in Omaha with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. No deputies were hurt during this incident. The handgun used by Boettcher was recovered from the scene.

The child was not injured and has been placed in protective care. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office requested the Nebraska State Patrol to investigate the incident. That investigation is ongoing.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol&nbsp;(Arlington, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident that involved deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.At approximately 2:07 p.m. Monday, a Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy performed a traffic stop on a Jeep Cherokee near 100 West Eagle Street in Arlington. During the traffic stop, the vehicle was occupied by a female driver, male passenger, and a 1-year-old child. The driver was arrested by deputies for driving under suspension and was transported to Washington County Jail. The male passenger was identified as David Boettcher, 48, of Omaha. Boettcher had an active felony warrant for assault.Preliminary investigation shows that Boettcher refused to cooperate with deputies and deputies became aware that Boettcher was in possession of a firearm. After several minutes, Boettcher exited the passenger side of the vehicle and began firing shots toward the deputies. Multiple deputies returned fire, striking the suspect.Deputies then attempted to render aid to Boettcher, who continued resisting. A trooper arrived on scene to assist, and Boettcher was taken into custody. He has been transported to UNMC in Omaha with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. No deputies were hurt during this incident. The handgun used by Boettcher was recovered from the scene.The child was not injured and has been placed in protective care. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office requested the Nebraska State Patrol to investigate the incident. That investigation is ongoing.

 Nebraska State Patrol Investigating Eastern Nebraska Officer-Involved Shooting

(Lincoln, NE)&nbsp; Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese invited Nebraskans interested in examining how state dollars are spent to visit the new and improved state spending website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://statespending.nebraska.gov/</a>.

The Nebraska State Treasurer is responsible for the receipting and disbursing of all state funds, which includes recording transactions and informing the Legislature through a yearly report on the state's financial state.

<a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">StateSpending.</a><a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;is a searchable, user-friendly website which allows citizens a simple and straightforward method to see how the State of Nebraska spends and receives funds. This interactive site is designed to allow users to select an item and then continue to examine further spending information or definitions of services provided by a state agency.

"On Nebraska's State Capitol building is the inscription 'The Salvation of the State is the Watchfulness in the Citizen' and I couldn't agree more.&nbsp; Public officials have the duty to show the public how tax dollars are spent and to answer for every cent. This revamped website will allow Nebraskans a quick, easy, and user-friendly way to keep a watchful eye on state spending," Treasurer Briese said.

The website is also available by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://treasurer.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://treasurer.nebraska.gov/</a>&nbsp;and clicking on "<a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">statespending.nebraska.gov</a>" in the upper right hand corner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Lincoln, NE)&nbsp; Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese invited Nebraskans interested in examining how state dollars are spent to visit the new and improved state spending website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://statespending.nebraska.gov/</a>.The Nebraska State Treasurer is responsible for the receipting and disbursing of all state funds, which includes recording transactions and informing the Legislature through a yearly report on the state's financial state.<a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">StateSpending.</a><a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;is a searchable, user-friendly website which allows citizens a simple and straightforward method to see how the State of Nebraska spends and receives funds. This interactive site is designed to allow users to select an item and then continue to examine further spending information or definitions of services provided by a state agency."On Nebraska's State Capitol building is the inscription 'The Salvation of the State is the Watchfulness in the Citizen' and I couldn't agree more.&nbsp; Public officials have the duty to show the public how tax dollars are spent and to answer for every cent. This revamped website will allow Nebraskans a quick, easy, and user-friendly way to keep a watchful eye on state spending," Treasurer Briese said.The website is also available by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://treasurer.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://treasurer.nebraska.gov/</a>&nbsp;and clicking on "<a href="http://statespending.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">statespending.nebraska.gov</a>" in the upper right hand corner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Briese Announces New State Spending Website

DAMASCUS —U.S. and partner forces conducted operations in Iraq and Syria over the past week in support of the ongoing Defeat ISIS (D-ISIS) campaign.

From December 30 to January 6, U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan,  organize, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well  as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and  beyond. 

 During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged Coalition forces  on several occasions, resulting in the employment of Coalition air  strikes, using F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s. The A-10s tasked to support ground forces in the area were successful in eliminating the ISIS fighters within a cave.

One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different  nations. There were no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to U.S.  equipment.

From January 2 to January 3, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), enabled by CENTCOM forces, conducted  a D-ISIS operation near Dayr az-Zawr, Syria, resulting in the capture  of an ISIS attack cell leader. 

"The  U.S. and members of the multinational Combined Joint Task Force –  Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF – OIR) maintain our ongoing commitment  to the fight against ISIS."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736212305306.png" alt="U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolts photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolts photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —U.S. and partner forces conducted operations in Iraq and Syria over the past week in support of the ongoing Defeat ISIS (D-ISIS) campaign.From December 30 to January 6, U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond. During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged Coalition forces on several occasions, resulting in the employment of Coalition air strikes, using F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s. The A-10s tasked to support ground forces in the area were successful in eliminating the ISIS fighters within a cave.One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different nations. There were no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to U.S. equipment.From January 2 to January 3, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), enabled by CENTCOM forces, conducted a D-ISIS operation near Dayr az-Zawr, Syria, resulting in the capture of an ISIS attack cell leader. "The U.S. and members of the multinational Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF – OIR) maintain our ongoing commitment to the fight against ISIS."

U.S. and task force attack in Syria captures ISIS cell leader 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has expanded Social Security benefits for more than 2 million Americans by signing broadly bipartisan legislation that Congress approved late last year.

The ceremony on Sunday marked one of the last times Biden is expected to sign major legislation as president, since Congress is now controlled by Republicans and his term is set to end on Jan. 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office.

“By signing this bill, we’re extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers … and other public employees, and their spouses and survivors,” Biden said. “That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. That’s a big deal.”

The nearly 2.5 million people covered under the new law, he said, would “receive a lump sum payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in benefits they should have gotten in 2024.”

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024456" target="_blank">voted 327-75</a>&nbsp;in November to pass the bill and the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00338.htm" target="_blank">voted 76-20</a>&nbsp;in December to send the bill to Biden.

The new law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">eliminates the windfall elimination provision and government pension offset</a>&nbsp;that for decades had reduced the amount some Americans receive in Social Security benefits.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who attended the signing ceremony at the White House, released a written statement saying she was “pleased” that “these unfair provisions in our Social Security system have finally been repealed.”

“This is a victory for thousands of teachers, first responders, public servants, and the countless advocates who fought for years to correct this unfairness,” Collins wrote. “For too long, the WEP and GPO have denied retirees and their spouses the Social Security benefits they earned through years of work and contributions to the system. This law ensures that public service will no longer come at the expense of one’s earned retirement benefits.”

Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat who chose not to seek reelection to Congress to pursue a run for the Virginia governor’s office, wrote on social media that eliminating the two provisions had been a long time coming.

“Our retired police officers, firefighters, teachers, and public employees worked for DECADES to right this wrong,” wrote Spanberger, who co-sponsored the House version of the bill last Congress.

The expansion of benefits is expected to cost $195.65 billion during the next 10 years and move up the program’s insolvency date by about six months,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60690" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

“If H.R. 82 was enacted, the balance of the (Old-Age and Survivors Insurance) trust fund would, CBO projects, be exhausted roughly half a year earlier than it would be under current law,” CBO Director Phillip L. Swagel wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2024-11/60876-HR82.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley. “The agency estimates that under current law, the balance of the OASI trust fund would be exhausted during fiscal year 2033.”

Other members of Congress attending the signing ceremony included Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Oregon Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Carey, Louisiana Democratic Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Republican Reps. Clay Higgins and Julia Letlow, Ohio Democratic Reps. Marcy Kaptur and Greg Landsman and Virginia Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott, according to a list provided by the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736114570429.png" alt="photo White House" />
 <figcaption>photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has expanded Social Security benefits for more than 2 million Americans by signing broadly bipartisan legislation that Congress approved late last year.The ceremony on Sunday marked one of the last times Biden is expected to sign major legislation as president, since Congress is now controlled by Republicans and his term is set to end on Jan. 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office.“By signing this bill, we’re extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers … and other public employees, and their spouses and survivors,” Biden said. “That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. That’s a big deal.”The nearly 2.5 million people covered under the new law, he said, would “receive a lump sum payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in benefits they should have gotten in 2024.”The House&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024456" target="_blank">voted 327-75</a>&nbsp;in November to pass the bill and the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00338.htm" target="_blank">voted 76-20</a>&nbsp;in December to send the bill to Biden.The new law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">eliminates the windfall elimination provision and government pension offset</a>&nbsp;that for decades had reduced the amount some Americans receive in Social Security benefits.Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who attended the signing ceremony at the White House, released a written statement saying she was “pleased” that “these unfair provisions in our Social Security system have finally been repealed.”“This is a victory for thousands of teachers, first responders, public servants, and the countless advocates who fought for years to correct this unfairness,” Collins wrote. “For too long, the WEP and GPO have denied retirees and their spouses the Social Security benefits they earned through years of work and contributions to the system. This law ensures that public service will no longer come at the expense of one’s earned retirement benefits.”Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat who chose not to seek reelection to Congress to pursue a run for the Virginia governor’s office, wrote on social media that eliminating the two provisions had been a long time coming.“Our retired police officers, firefighters, teachers, and public employees worked for DECADES to right this wrong,” wrote Spanberger, who co-sponsored the House version of the bill last Congress.<h2>Insolvency date moves up</h2>The expansion of benefits is expected to cost $195.65 billion during the next 10 years and move up the program’s insolvency date by about six months,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60690" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.“If H.R. 82 was enacted, the balance of the (Old-Age and Survivors Insurance) trust fund would, CBO projects, be exhausted roughly half a year earlier than it would be under current law,” CBO Director Phillip L. Swagel wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2024-11/60876-HR82.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley. “The agency estimates that under current law, the balance of the OASI trust fund would be exhausted during fiscal year 2033.”Other members of Congress attending the signing ceremony included Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Oregon Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Carey, Louisiana Democratic Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Republican Reps. Clay Higgins and Julia Letlow, Ohio Democratic Reps. Marcy Kaptur and Greg Landsman and Virginia Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott, according to a list provided by the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Biden signs bill expanding Social Security benefits for retired teachers, public employees

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen designated Jewel Rodgers of Omaha as Nebraska’s new state poet. Her work, along with that from three other finalists, was advanced to the Governor for his review and selection. In her letter of consideration, Rodgers said she hoped to use her role as state poet to expand on her experiences using the spoken word to make poetry accessible and relevant to all Nebraskans.

“Jewel has received numerous honors and awards for her presentations. As someone who excels at speaking, as well as writing, she will be a great ambassador for Nebraska in the role of state poet,” said Gov. Pillen. “Jewel joins the ranks of other notable writers and poets from Nebraska who have distinguished themselves and inspired future generations through their creativity.”

Rodgers follows a relatively short line of designated state poets, which began with John G. Neihardt becoming the Nebraska poet laureate in 1921 through passage of a legislative resolution. State poets appointed by governors have included William C. Kloefkorn (1982), Twyla M. Hansen (2013) and Matt Mason, who was named in 2019.

The selection process is coordinated through the Nebraska Arts Council, Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Library Commission. A committee oversees the criteria, submission requirements and selection procedure, from which finalists are selected and interviewed.

The state poet serves a five-year renewable term as an advocate for poetry, literacy and literature in Nebraska. Duties include giving public presentations and readings, leading workshops and discussions, and providing outreach in schools, libraries, literary festivals and other venues in communities throughout Nebraska. The person must be a full-time resident for at least three years prior to the application deadline and must remain a resident while serving as state poet. They must demonstrate not only professional success as a poet, but also community service in advancing poetry in Nebraska and an ability to interact effectively with an audience.

Rodgers has been a spoken word poet for more than a decade and has performed in schools, festivals, community settings, conferences, public events and other venues. She has written and performed for the city of Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), University of Nebraska – Omaha (UNO) and upon request for public officials like Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, Congressman Don Bacon and Gov. Pillen.

Rodgers has been a three-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards nominee for best performance, and a three-time TEDx speaker. She has received numerous accolades, including being a 2022 Union for Contemporary Art Fellow, a 2023 Andy Warhol Populus Fund Grantee, and a 2024 finalist in the Blackberry Peach Poetry Slam. She is also a teaching artist with the Nebraska Writers Collective and cohosts the Nebraska Poetry Society’s monthly Vocal Fry Open Mic.&nbsp; Some of her works include,&nbsp;Impossible Ain’t Nothin’,&nbsp;King’s Legacy&nbsp;and&nbsp;They Love You.

“To me, this appointment is not about being the best poet there ever was, but rather, expanding where, how and to whom poetry can matter,” said Rodgers.

She said she has three key initiatives: education through poetry, increasing access to diverse communities and nurturing more Nebraska writers.

“The three initiatives I aim to achieve during my tenure will expand Nebraska’s proximity to poetry while showcasing and elevating our talented multi-generational Nebraska poets,” added Rodgers.

Rodgers received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL). She has a master’s degree in real estate development from New York University.

Rodgers will be installed as the Nebraska State Poet during a ceremony to be announced at a future date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736190907722.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen designated Jewel Rodgers of Omaha as Nebraska’s new state poet. Her work, along with that from three other finalists, was advanced to the Governor for his review and selection. In her letter of consideration, Rodgers said she hoped to use her role as state poet to expand on her experiences using the spoken word to make poetry accessible and relevant to all Nebraskans.“Jewel has received numerous honors and awards for her presentations. As someone who excels at speaking, as well as writing, she will be a great ambassador for Nebraska in the role of state poet,” said Gov. Pillen. “Jewel joins the ranks of other notable writers and poets from Nebraska who have distinguished themselves and inspired future generations through their creativity.”Rodgers follows a relatively short line of designated state poets, which began with John G. Neihardt becoming the Nebraska poet laureate in 1921 through passage of a legislative resolution. State poets appointed by governors have included William C. Kloefkorn (1982), Twyla M. Hansen (2013) and Matt Mason, who was named in 2019.The selection process is coordinated through the Nebraska Arts Council, Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Library Commission. A committee oversees the criteria, submission requirements and selection procedure, from which finalists are selected and interviewed.The state poet serves a five-year renewable term as an advocate for poetry, literacy and literature in Nebraska. Duties include giving public presentations and readings, leading workshops and discussions, and providing outreach in schools, libraries, literary festivals and other venues in communities throughout Nebraska. The person must be a full-time resident for at least three years prior to the application deadline and must remain a resident while serving as state poet. They must demonstrate not only professional success as a poet, but also community service in advancing poetry in Nebraska and an ability to interact effectively with an audience.Rodgers has been a spoken word poet for more than a decade and has performed in schools, festivals, community settings, conferences, public events and other venues. She has written and performed for the city of Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), University of Nebraska – Omaha (UNO) and upon request for public officials like Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, Congressman Don Bacon and Gov. Pillen.Rodgers has been a three-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards nominee for best performance, and a three-time TEDx speaker. She has received numerous accolades, including being a 2022 Union for Contemporary Art Fellow, a 2023 Andy Warhol Populus Fund Grantee, and a 2024 finalist in the Blackberry Peach Poetry Slam. She is also a teaching artist with the Nebraska Writers Collective and cohosts the Nebraska Poetry Society’s monthly Vocal Fry Open Mic.&nbsp; Some of her works include,&nbsp;Impossible Ain’t Nothin’,&nbsp;King’s Legacy&nbsp;and&nbsp;They Love You.“To me, this appointment is not about being the best poet there ever was, but rather, expanding where, how and to whom poetry can matter,” said Rodgers.She said she has three key initiatives: education through poetry, increasing access to diverse communities and nurturing more Nebraska writers.“The three initiatives I aim to achieve during my tenure will expand Nebraska’s proximity to poetry while showcasing and elevating our talented multi-generational Nebraska poets,” added Rodgers.Rodgers received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL). She has a master’s degree in real estate development from New York University.Rodgers will be installed as the Nebraska State Poet during a ceremony to be announced at a future date.

Gov. Pillen Announces Jewel Rodgers as Nebraska State Poet

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) celebrates several legislative victories she secured for Nebraska’s families and their communities during the 118th Congress. With a focus on addressing workforce challenges, supporting our veterans, making America more energy independent, and strengthening our national security, Senator Fischer’s efforts have delivered tangible results for Nebraskans and the nation.

“Last&nbsp;Congress I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass legislation that makes a real&nbsp;difference to Nebraskans. It’s a privilege to serve our great&nbsp;state, and&nbsp;I will keep fighting for a brighter future for all Nebraskans,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

Here is a summary of the bills Senator Fischer championed and successfully passed into law during the 118th Congress:

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-bill-to-recruit-more-police-heads-to-president">Recruit and Retain Act:</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-bill-to-recruit-more-police-heads-to-president"></a>Addresses staffing shortages nationwide by enhancing law enforcement agencies' access to federal hiring tools.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/10/fischer-bill-signed-into-law-expands-vets-access-to-cdl-schools">Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023:</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/10/fischer-bill-signed-into-law-expands-vets-access-to-cdl-schools"></a>Creates a path for military veterans to obtain their commercial driver’s licenses more easily, helping them transition from military service to civilian careers.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=66E57E35-4989-466F-AE60-DBC48FCAB3D7">Restoring American Deterrence Act of 2024:</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=66E57E35-4989-466F-AE60-DBC48FCAB3D7"></a>Overhauls U.S. nuclear preparedness and enacts key updates to America’s strategic posture. Contains multiple&nbsp;provisions to ensure that the&nbsp;U.S. can continue to deter China and Russia.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F7114FAD-BCA0-4C2D-BE11-B31D182270D5">REEF Act:</a>Protects railroad employees by ending government mandated cuts to their unemployment and sickness benefits once and for all.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">Advanced Aviation Act:</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill"></a>Establishes an Advanced Aviation Steering Committee to improve rulemaking and better coordinate new technologies entering the aviation space.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">S</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">ustain Regional Air Travel Act:</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill"></a>Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate the pilot shortage’s impact on rural, regional carriers and recommend concrete ways to address the constraints.

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) celebrates several legislative victories she secured for Nebraska’s families and their communities during the 118th Congress. With a focus on addressing workforce challenges, supporting our veterans, making America more energy independent, and strengthening our national security, Senator Fischer’s efforts have delivered tangible results for Nebraskans and the nation.“Last&nbsp;Congress I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass legislation that makes a real&nbsp;difference to Nebraskans. It’s a privilege to serve our great&nbsp;state, and&nbsp;I will keep fighting for a brighter future for all Nebraskans,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.Here is a summary of the bills Senator Fischer championed and successfully passed into law during the 118th Congress:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-bill-to-recruit-more-police-heads-to-president">Recruit and Retain Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-bill-to-recruit-more-police-heads-to-president"></a>Addresses staffing shortages nationwide by enhancing law enforcement agencies' access to federal hiring tools.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/10/fischer-bill-signed-into-law-expands-vets-access-to-cdl-schools">Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/10/fischer-bill-signed-into-law-expands-vets-access-to-cdl-schools"></a>Creates a path for military veterans to obtain their commercial driver’s licenses more easily, helping them transition from military service to civilian careers.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=66E57E35-4989-466F-AE60-DBC48FCAB3D7">Restoring American Deterrence Act of 2024:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=66E57E35-4989-466F-AE60-DBC48FCAB3D7"></a>Overhauls U.S. nuclear preparedness and enacts key updates to America’s strategic posture. Contains multiple&nbsp;provisions to ensure that the&nbsp;U.S. can continue to deter China and Russia.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F7114FAD-BCA0-4C2D-BE11-B31D182270D5">REEF Act:</a>Protects railroad employees by ending government mandated cuts to their unemployment and sickness benefits once and for all.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">Advanced Aviation Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill"></a>Establishes an Advanced Aviation Steering Committee to improve rulemaking and better coordinate new technologies entering the aviation space.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">S</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill">ustain Regional Air Travel Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-welcomes-senate-passage-of-faa-bill"></a>Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate the pilot shortage’s impact on rural, regional carriers and recommend concrete ways to address the constraints.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/7/fischer-legislation-returning-land-to-nebraska-s-winnebago-tribe-signed-into-law#:~:text=U.S.%20Senator%20Deb%20Fischer's%20(R,U.S.%20Army%20Corps%20of%20Engineers.">Winnebago Land Transfer Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/7/fischer-legislation-returning-land-to-nebraska-s-winnebago-tribe-signed-into-law#:~:text=U.S.%20Senator%20Deb%20Fischer's%20(R,U.S.%20Army%20Corps%20of%20Engineers."></a>Transfers approximately 1,600 acres of land back to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska that was seized in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E6CB48C2-3CF7-4662-9D9D-39335604467F">Swanson and Hugh Butler Reservoirs Land Conveyance Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E6CB48C2-3CF7-4662-9D9D-39335604467F"></a>Transfers the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR) Swanson Reservoir land to Hitchcock County and the BoR Red Willow Reservoir land to Frontier County.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D417B10-5511-40FC-8A90-E960F9DB98E7">National Advisory Committee on Indian Education Improvement (NACIE) Improvement Act:</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D417B10-5511-40FC-8A90-E960F9DB98E7"></a>Gives Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them by requiring at least one of NACIE’s members be the president of a Tribal College or University.&nbsp;&nbsp;