<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/04/governor-expresses-disappointment-that-most-school-districts-overrode-spending-cap/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen expressed disappointment Monday that despite an influx of $324 million in additional state aid to K-12 schools, property taxes for local education statewide still increased by $85 million.

“It’s unacceptable. … Year one is not where we want to be,” said Pillen, referring to the impact of his state aid plan, passed earlier this year, to lower local property taxes.

During his first year in office, the Republican governor was able to get a package of what he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-k-12-education-funding-bill-moves-closer-to-passage/">called “transformative” changes in funding</a>&nbsp;of K-12 schools passed by the Nebraska Legislature.

Those changes included establishing a $1 billion “Education Future Fund” that will provide, for the first time, yearly foundation aid of $1,500 per K-12 student. In addition, the state increased funding of special education costs.

All told, Pillen said, the state increased aid to local schools by $324 million, which allowed 92 of the state’s 244 school districts to lower their collection of property taxes or keep them flat.

But 188 of the 244 districts voted to override the 3% revenue cap that was imposed as part of Legislative Bill 583, which helped lead to the overall increase in property taxes. (Some districts did both, so the two numbers don’t add up to 244.)

“The intent … was that overriding the 3% would be the exception to the rule,” Pillen said.

“We have to stop spending money,” he added later.

The 3% so-called “soft” cap on additional revenue, Pillen said, was a figure superintendents told him was a reasonable cap that school districts could handle.

The head of a Lincoln think tank that tracks state policies, however, said the “one-size-fits-all funding mechanism” promoted by Pillen is the wrong approach in meeting the educational needs of students across Nebraska at a time of rising costs.

“Locally elected school board members are best positioned to determine what resources are needed to provide the learning environment and support from teachers to prepare students for a bright future,” said Rebecca Firestone of the OpenSky Policy Institute.

Whether or not Pillen will seek a “harder” cap on revenue in the 2024 session — as at least&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/30/platte-institute-calls-for-another-leap-in-tax-relief-in-nebraska/">one other think tank has called for</a>&nbsp;— was unclear Monday.

When asked, he said it wasn’t his intent to seek a tougher cap during the next session, but later Pillen said he planned to work with senators during the 2024 session to further reduce property taxes.

Property taxes reduced, but not dollar for dollar

Joining Pillen at Monday’s press conference were superintendents of the Elwood and Norris school districts, which were able to reduce property taxes due to the influx of new state money. The purpose of the event was to thank them for reducing taxes, as Pillen’s plan intended.

But both superintendents, while thanking the governor for the influx of funding, said they were unable to produce a “dollar-for-dollar” decrease in property taxes as Pillen hoped because of the need to increase staff salaries and deal with inflated costs of fuel and other materials.

At Norris, the state delivered an additional $2.1 million in aid, while the decrease in property taxes was about $626,000.

Superintendent Brian Maschmann said the district needed to increase salaries and benefits, deal with enrollment growth and finance 30 bus routes that travel the sprawling district that covers nine communities south of Lincoln.

“There’s a lot of inflation that school districts have to take care of,” Maschmann said.

Yet, he said, the added state aid allowed his district to reduce its property tax rate from $1.15 per $100 of valuation to 93 cents.

When asked what he’d tell the 188 school districts that overrode the 3% rate, Maschmann said every school district is different financially, with different needs.

“I think we can live within the cap,” he said, adding that he couldn’t speak for other districts.

Pillen said LB 583 was a good first step, “but we need to do more.”

“We have to cut significant dollars from our property tax payments,” he said. “We’re committed to doing it. We’ll work day and night to get it done. We’ll work very, very hard with our partners in the Legislature to get that done this session.”

Pillen said property taxes are “so out of whack” that something needs to be done. He adding that repeal of the state’s inheritance tax — which he called “a slush fund” — is on his wish list.

“We have to become more fiscally responsible everywhere,” he added. “We can’t say ‘yes’ to everything.”

Pillen and his state budget director, Lee Will, both said they disagreed with a projection made last week that the Education Future Fund would be depleted faster than anticipated. The governor said school superintendents need to trust that the state will continue to provide the increased aid.

Last week, the Legislative Fiscal Office released a projection that the $1 billion fund would diminish to near $500 million as soon as the 2025-26 fiscal year, about four years earlier that the Governor’s Office anticipated.

Will said Monday that the projection failed to take into account investment income from the fund, which he said will easily sustain the fund, as originally expected.

Firestone, of OpenSky, said there are serious questions about the sustainability of the Education Future Fund and whether the additional state aid it promises will continue into the future.

“Ultimately, the sustainability of state aid for K-12 education is critical not just to addressing property tax reform but to ensuring that school funding is sufficient to improve student outcomes,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701792563600.jpeg" alt="Gov. Jim Pillen, right, speaks at a Monday news conference on state aid to K-12 schools. Looking on is Elwood Schools Superintendent Daren Hatch (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Jim Pillen, right, speaks at a Monday news conference on state aid to K-12 schools. Looking on is Elwood Schools Superintendent Daren Hatch (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/04/governor-expresses-disappointment-that-most-school-districts-overrode-spending-cap/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen expressed disappointment Monday that despite an influx of $324 million in additional state aid to K-12 schools, property taxes for local education statewide still increased by $85 million.“It’s unacceptable. … Year one is not where we want to be,” said Pillen, referring to the impact of his state aid plan, passed earlier this year, to lower local property taxes.During his first year in office, the Republican governor was able to get a package of what he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-k-12-education-funding-bill-moves-closer-to-passage/">called “transformative” changes in funding</a>&nbsp;of K-12 schools passed by the Nebraska Legislature.Those changes included establishing a $1 billion “Education Future Fund” that will provide, for the first time, yearly foundation aid of $1,500 per K-12 student. In addition, the state increased funding of special education costs.All told, Pillen said, the state increased aid to local schools by $324 million, which allowed 92 of the state’s 244 school districts to lower their collection of property taxes or keep them flat.<h2>Most districts overrode cap</h2>But 188 of the 244 districts voted to override the 3% revenue cap that was imposed as part of Legislative Bill 583, which helped lead to the overall increase in property taxes. (Some districts did both, so the two numbers don’t add up to 244.)“The intent … was that overriding the 3% would be the exception to the rule,” Pillen said.“We have to stop spending money,” he added later.The 3% so-called “soft” cap on additional revenue, Pillen said, was a figure superintendents told him was a reasonable cap that school districts could handle.The head of a Lincoln think tank that tracks state policies, however, said the “one-size-fits-all funding mechanism” promoted by Pillen is the wrong approach in meeting the educational needs of students across Nebraska at a time of rising costs.“Locally elected school board members are best positioned to determine what resources are needed to provide the learning environment and support from teachers to prepare students for a bright future,” said Rebecca Firestone of the OpenSky Policy Institute.Whether or not Pillen will seek a “harder” cap on revenue in the 2024 session — as at least&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/30/platte-institute-calls-for-another-leap-in-tax-relief-in-nebraska/">one other think tank has called for</a>&nbsp;— was unclear Monday.When asked, he said it wasn’t his intent to seek a tougher cap during the next session, but later Pillen said he planned to work with senators during the 2024 session to further reduce property taxes.<h2>Property taxes reduced, but not dollar for dollar</h2>Joining Pillen at Monday’s press conference were superintendents of the Elwood and Norris school districts, which were able to reduce property taxes due to the influx of new state money. The purpose of the event was to thank them for reducing taxes, as Pillen’s plan intended.But both superintendents, while thanking the governor for the influx of funding, said they were unable to produce a “dollar-for-dollar” decrease in property taxes as Pillen hoped because of the need to increase staff salaries and deal with inflated costs of fuel and other materials.At Norris, the state delivered an additional $2.1 million in aid, while the decrease in property taxes was about $626,000.Superintendent Brian Maschmann said the district needed to increase salaries and benefits, deal with enrollment growth and finance 30 bus routes that travel the sprawling district that covers nine communities south of Lincoln.“There’s a lot of inflation that school districts have to take care of,” Maschmann said.Yet, he said, the added state aid allowed his district to reduce its property tax rate from $1.15 per $100 of valuation to 93 cents.When asked what he’d tell the 188 school districts that overrode the 3% rate, Maschmann said every school district is different financially, with different needs.“I think we can live within the cap,” he said, adding that he couldn’t speak for other districts.<h2>Must cut ‘significant dollars’</h2>Pillen said LB 583 was a good first step, “but we need to do more.”“We have to cut significant dollars from our property tax payments,” he said. “We’re committed to doing it. We’ll work day and night to get it done. We’ll work very, very hard with our partners in the Legislature to get that done this session.”Pillen said property taxes are “so out of whack” that something needs to be done. He adding that repeal of the state’s inheritance tax — which he called “a slush fund” — is on his wish list.“We have to become more fiscally responsible everywhere,” he added. “We can’t say ‘yes’ to everything.”Pillen and his state budget director, Lee Will, both said they disagreed with a projection made last week that the Education Future Fund would be depleted faster than anticipated. The governor said school superintendents need to trust that the state will continue to provide the increased aid.Last week, the Legislative Fiscal Office released a projection that the $1 billion fund would diminish to near $500 million as soon as the 2025-26 fiscal year, about four years earlier that the Governor’s Office anticipated.Will said Monday that the projection failed to take into account investment income from the fund, which he said will easily sustain the fund, as originally expected.Firestone, of OpenSky, said there are serious questions about the sustainability of the Education Future Fund and whether the additional state aid it promises will continue into the future.“Ultimately, the sustainability of state aid for K-12 education is critical not just to addressing property tax reform but to ensuring that school funding is sufficient to improve student outcomes,” she said.

Governor expresses disappointment that most school districts overrode spending cap

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday seemed inclined to uphold a tax on foreign income while leaving questions about a broader, never-enacted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-personal-taxes-bb51ab8b987c32e00c743a05d428079c">tax on wealth</a>&nbsp;for another day.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/22-800">Click here</a>&nbsp;to listen to a replay of the oral argument&nbsp;

On the first issue, conservative and liberal justices voiced concerns that ruling for a Washington state couple challenging a provision of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2d9e099660064f2b8a8fc2237b4e7e4e">2017 tax bill</a>&nbsp;would threaten other provisions of the tax code.

After two hours of arguments, there seemed to be a consensus on the court that "there is room for some narrow ground” to decide the case, as Justice Neil Gorsuch said. Such an outcome would avoid what Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar said would be “several trillion dollars in lost revenues.”

At the same time, the court would not address the bigger question of Congress' ability to enact taxes based on wealth, instead of income.

The case argued Tuesday was brought by Charles and Kathleen Moore of Redmond, Washington. They challenged a $15,000 tax bill based on Charles Moore’s investment in an Indian company.

Backed by anti-regulatory and business interests, they contend that the tax violates the 16th Amendment, which allows the federal government to impose an income tax on Americans. Moore said in a sworn statement that he never received any money from the company, KisanKraft Machine Tools Private Limited.

The 2017 tax law that was passed by a Republican Congress and signed by then-President Donald Trump includes a provision that applies to companies that are owned by Americans, but do their business in foreign countries. It imposes a one-time tax on investors’ shares of profits that have not been passed along to them, in order to offset other tax benefits.

The provision is expected to generate $340 billion, mainly from the foreign subsidiaries of domestic corporations that parked money abroad to shield it from U.S. taxes.

The case attracted outsize attention because some groups allied with the Moores argue that the challenged provision is similar to a wealth tax, which would apply not to the incomes of the very richest Americans but to their assets, like stock holdings, that now only get taxed when they are sold.

Paul Ryan, the Wisconsin Republican who was speaker of the House when the tax bill was passed by a Republican Congress and signed into law by then-President Donald Trump, has called the challenge misguided and has said “a lot of the tax code would be unconstitutional if that thing prevailed.”

Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon said a court ruling for the Moores could stymie legislation like the Billionaires Income Tax he introduced last week. “The Moore case could make it impossible to close those loopholes,” Wyden said.

Some conservative justices seemed to have a wealth tax in mind when they asked Prelogar, the Biden administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, about the “far-reaching consequences,” in Justice Samuel Alito's words, of her arguments.

But Justice Brett Kavanaugh chimed in to say “we don't have to agree with you on that for you to prevail.” Even Alito at one point acknowledged he “was quite concerned by the potential implications” of the Moores' arguments.

The case also has kicked up ethical concerns and raised questions about the story the Moores' lawyers told in court filings. Public documents show that Charles Moore's involvement with the company, including serving as a director for five years, is far more extensive than court filings indicate.

Alito&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/090823zor_21o2.pdf">rejected</a>&nbsp;calls from Senate Democrats to step away from the case because of his ties to David Rivkin, a lawyer who is representing the Moores.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;is taking up a case Tuesday over a Washington couple's $15,000 tax bill that is widely seen as a test of a never-enacted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-personal-taxes-bb51ab8b987c32e00c743a05d428079c">tax on wealth</a>.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/22-800">Click here</a> to listen to a replay of the oral argument&nbsp;

A decision in favor of Charles and Kathleen Moore of Redmond, Washington, could strike down a provision of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2d9e099660064f2b8a8fc2237b4e7e4e">2017 tax bill</a>&nbsp;that is expected to bring in $340 billion, threaten other provisions of the tax code and rule out a wealth tax that is favored by some Democrats who argue that the wealthiest Americans don't pay their fair share of taxes.

Paul Ryan, the Wisconsin Republican who was Speaker of the House when the tax bill was passed by a Republican Congress and signed into law by then-President Donald Trump, has called the challenge “misguided” and said “a lot of the tax code would be unconstitutional if that thing prevailed.”

The couple is backed by conservative political groups and business interests, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The law applies to companies that are owned by Americans, but do their business in foreign countries. It imposes a one-time tax on investors’ shares of profits that have not been passed along to them, in order to offset other tax benefits.

The Moores paid $15,000 in taxes based on Charles Moore’s investment in an Indian company.

They argue that the tax violates the 16th Amendment, which allows the federal government to impose an income tax on Americans. Moore said in a sworn statement that he never received any money from the company, KisanKraft Machine Tools Private Limited.

Some groups allied with the Moores argue that the challenged provision is similar to a wealth tax, which would apply not to the incomes of the very richest Americans, but their assets, like stock holdings, that now only get taxed when they are sold.

Senate Democrats had asked Justice Samuel Alito to step aside from the case because of his interactions with David Rivkin, a lawyer who is representing the Moores. The Democrats said Alito had cast doubt on his ability to judge the case fairly because he sat for four hours of Wall Street Journal opinion page interviews with an editor at the newspaper and Rivkin.

Alito rejected the demands in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/090823zor_21o2.pdf">a four-page statement</a>&nbsp;issued by the court in which he said there “is no valid reason” for his recusal.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday seemed inclined to uphold a tax on foreign income while leaving questions about a broader, never-enacted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-personal-taxes-bb51ab8b987c32e00c743a05d428079c">tax on wealth</a>&nbsp;for another day.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/22-800">Click here</a>&nbsp;to listen to a replay of the oral argument&nbsp;On the first issue, conservative and liberal justices voiced concerns that ruling for a Washington state couple challenging a provision of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2d9e099660064f2b8a8fc2237b4e7e4e">2017 tax bill</a>&nbsp;would threaten other provisions of the tax code.After two hours of arguments, there seemed to be a consensus on the court that "there is room for some narrow ground” to decide the case, as Justice Neil Gorsuch said. Such an outcome would avoid what Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar said would be “several trillion dollars in lost revenues.”At the same time, the court would not address the bigger question of Congress' ability to enact taxes based on wealth, instead of income.The case argued Tuesday was brought by Charles and Kathleen Moore of Redmond, Washington. They challenged a $15,000 tax bill based on Charles Moore’s investment in an Indian company.Backed by anti-regulatory and business interests, they contend that the tax violates the 16th Amendment, which allows the federal government to impose an income tax on Americans. Moore said in a sworn statement that he never received any money from the company, KisanKraft Machine Tools Private Limited.The 2017 tax law that was passed by a Republican Congress and signed by then-President Donald Trump includes a provision that applies to companies that are owned by Americans, but do their business in foreign countries. It imposes a one-time tax on investors’ shares of profits that have not been passed along to them, in order to offset other tax benefits.The provision is expected to generate $340 billion, mainly from the foreign subsidiaries of domestic corporations that parked money abroad to shield it from U.S. taxes.The case attracted outsize attention because some groups allied with the Moores argue that the challenged provision is similar to a wealth tax, which would apply not to the incomes of the very richest Americans but to their assets, like stock holdings, that now only get taxed when they are sold.Paul Ryan, the Wisconsin Republican who was speaker of the House when the tax bill was passed by a Republican Congress and signed into law by then-President Donald Trump, has called the challenge misguided and has said “a lot of the tax code would be unconstitutional if that thing prevailed.”Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon said a court ruling for the Moores could stymie legislation like the Billionaires Income Tax he introduced last week. “The Moore case could make it impossible to close those loopholes,” Wyden said.Some conservative justices seemed to have a wealth tax in mind when they asked Prelogar, the Biden administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, about the “far-reaching consequences,” in Justice Samuel Alito's words, of her arguments.But Justice Brett Kavanaugh chimed in to say “we don't have to agree with you on that for you to prevail.” Even Alito at one point acknowledged he “was quite concerned by the potential implications” of the Moores' arguments.The case also has kicked up ethical concerns and raised questions about the story the Moores' lawyers told in court filings. Public documents show that Charles Moore's involvement with the company, including serving as a director for five years, is far more extensive than court filings indicate.Alito&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/090823zor_21o2.pdf">rejected</a>&nbsp;calls from Senate Democrats to step away from the case because of his ties to David Rivkin, a lawyer who is representing the Moores.------------WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;is taking up a case Tuesday over a Washington couple's $15,000 tax bill that is widely seen as a test of a never-enacted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-personal-taxes-bb51ab8b987c32e00c743a05d428079c">tax on wealth</a>.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/22-800">Click here</a> to listen to a replay of the oral argument&nbsp;A decision in favor of Charles and Kathleen Moore of Redmond, Washington, could strike down a provision of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2d9e099660064f2b8a8fc2237b4e7e4e">2017 tax bill</a>&nbsp;that is expected to bring in $340 billion, threaten other provisions of the tax code and rule out a wealth tax that is favored by some Democrats who argue that the wealthiest Americans don't pay their fair share of taxes.Paul Ryan, the Wisconsin Republican who was Speaker of the House when the tax bill was passed by a Republican Congress and signed into law by then-President Donald Trump, has called the challenge “misguided” and said “a lot of the tax code would be unconstitutional if that thing prevailed.”The couple is backed by conservative political groups and business interests, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.The law applies to companies that are owned by Americans, but do their business in foreign countries. It imposes a one-time tax on investors’ shares of profits that have not been passed along to them, in order to offset other tax benefits.The Moores paid $15,000 in taxes based on Charles Moore’s investment in an Indian company.They argue that the tax violates the 16th Amendment, which allows the federal government to impose an income tax on Americans. Moore said in a sworn statement that he never received any money from the company, KisanKraft Machine Tools Private Limited.Some groups allied with the Moores argue that the challenged provision is similar to a wealth tax, which would apply not to the incomes of the very richest Americans, but their assets, like stock holdings, that now only get taxed when they are sold.Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon said a court ruling for the Moores could stymie legislation like the Billionaires Income Tax he introduced last week. “The Moore case could make it impossible to close those loopholes,” Wyden said.The case also has kicked up ethical concerns and raised questions about the story the Moores' lawyers told in court filings. Public documents show that Charles Moore's involvement with the company, including serving as a director for five years, is far more extensive than court filings indicate.Senate Democrats had asked Justice Samuel Alito to step aside from the case because of his interactions with David Rivkin, a lawyer who is representing the Moores. The Democrats said Alito had cast doubt on his ability to judge the case fairly because he sat for four hours of Wall Street Journal opinion page interviews with an editor at the newspaper and Rivkin.Alito rejected the demands in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/090823zor_21o2.pdf">a four-page statement</a>&nbsp;issued by the court in which he said there “is no valid reason” for his recusal.

🎥Supreme Court hears case that could upend current tax system

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen has joined 16 Republican governors in calling on President Joe Biden, the U.S. Congress, and other federal leaders to take necessary action protecting states from being targeted in land grabs by foreign, adversarial nations. While some states have passed legislation to restrict foreign land ownership, the governors say more needs to happen at the national level.&nbsp;

“These governments are 100% adversarial and enemies of the U.S., strategically buying up our property for their own benefit and purposes,” said Gov. Pillen. “We have turned a blind eye for too long to this threat – one that has the potential to impact our security, our businesses, and here in Nebraska, the number one driver of our economy – agriculture.”

“For too long we have allowed dangerous and adversarial governments to infiltrate our country,” stated the governors’ letter. “Our States will tolerate such allowances no longer.”

Earlier this year, Gov. Pillen issued an executive order banning the state of Nebraska and its contractors from using communications equipment and services produced by technology companies owned or controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). That was followed by a bill passed by a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, signed by the Governor in May.

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen has joined 16 Republican governors in calling on President Joe Biden, the U.S. Congress, and other federal leaders to take necessary action protecting states from being targeted in land grabs by foreign, adversarial nations. While some states have passed legislation to restrict foreign land ownership, the governors say more needs to happen at the national level.&nbsp;“These governments are 100% adversarial and enemies of the U.S., strategically buying up our property for their own benefit and purposes,” said Gov. Pillen. “We have turned a blind eye for too long to this threat – one that has the potential to impact our security, our businesses, and here in Nebraska, the number one driver of our economy – agriculture.”“For too long we have allowed dangerous and adversarial governments to infiltrate our country,” stated the governors’ letter. “Our States will tolerate such allowances no longer.”Earlier this year, Gov. Pillen issued an executive order banning the state of Nebraska and its contractors from using communications equipment and services produced by technology companies owned or controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). That was followed by a bill passed by a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, signed by the Governor in May.

Gov. Pillen Joins Letter Calling for Halt to Foreign Land Grabs

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp; An annual celebration, now in its 75th&nbsp;year, will play out once again on Sunday, Dec. 10 in the State Capitol Rotunda. Governor Jim Pillen and First Lady Suzanne Pillen will host the official lighting of the State Christmas Tree. The event includes music, singers, holiday carols and a countdown to flipping the switch on the decorated 20 foot, Colorado blue spruce donated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District.

The program, emceed by Charlie Brogan of KFOR, will start at 2:00 p.m. Performers include the choirs from Concordia Lutheran High School of Omaha and St. Teresa’s Elementary School of Lincoln. Brogan will also lead the audience in a short sing along of traditional holiday carols. Gov. Pillen will deliver his Christmas message prior to joining his wife Suzanne and their grandchildren in lighting the tree.

Following the ceremony, a&nbsp;Hometown Christmas&nbsp;will be celebrated outdoors at the Governor’s Residence, 1425 H Street, Lincoln. Open to the public, this inaugural holiday tradition will feature Mr. &amp; Mrs. Claus, a live nativity scene, hayrack and horse drawn carriage rides, face painting, a balloon artist, hot cocoa, cookies and much more. The festivities will get underway at 3:00 p.m. and continue until 5:00 p.m. The stretch of H Street in front of the Governor’s Residence will be closed to traffic during that time.&nbsp; As all events will take place outside, attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather.

The State Capitol will remain open for public tours during the holiday season, except for Christmas and New Year’s Day.&nbsp; Those wishing to see the tree are encouraged to come to the Capitol before it is disassembled on Dec. 28.

Free guided tours are offered hourly, except noon, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on weekdays, 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and 1:00 p.m. on Sunday. The final tour of the day begins at 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; Please call the Tour Office at (402) 471-0448 for more information about visiting the Capitol.

The Dec. 10 tree lighting ceremony will be aired on 1240 KFOR radio from 8 to 9 p.m.&nbsp; It will also be posted on KFOR’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kfornow.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C3e85e5fdd677411aa42708dbf52ab634%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638373336036761031%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MSltehHRHrJTse0NwmJxBDO7XTUVCIixN2kELg47fmY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kfornow.com</a>. Black Hills Energy is a presenting sponsor of the tree-lighting broadcast.

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp; An annual celebration, now in its 75th&nbsp;year, will play out once again on Sunday, Dec. 10 in the State Capitol Rotunda. Governor Jim Pillen and First Lady Suzanne Pillen will host the official lighting of the State Christmas Tree. The event includes music, singers, holiday carols and a countdown to flipping the switch on the decorated 20 foot, Colorado blue spruce donated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District.The program, emceed by Charlie Brogan of KFOR, will start at 2:00 p.m. Performers include the choirs from Concordia Lutheran High School of Omaha and St. Teresa’s Elementary School of Lincoln. Brogan will also lead the audience in a short sing along of traditional holiday carols. Gov. Pillen will deliver his Christmas message prior to joining his wife Suzanne and their grandchildren in lighting the tree.Following the ceremony, a&nbsp;Hometown Christmas&nbsp;will be celebrated outdoors at the Governor’s Residence, 1425 H Street, Lincoln. Open to the public, this inaugural holiday tradition will feature Mr. &amp; Mrs. Claus, a live nativity scene, hayrack and horse drawn carriage rides, face painting, a balloon artist, hot cocoa, cookies and much more. The festivities will get underway at 3:00 p.m. and continue until 5:00 p.m. The stretch of H Street in front of the Governor’s Residence will be closed to traffic during that time.&nbsp; As all events will take place outside, attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather.The State Capitol will remain open for public tours during the holiday season, except for Christmas and New Year’s Day.&nbsp; Those wishing to see the tree are encouraged to come to the Capitol before it is disassembled on Dec. 28.Free guided tours are offered hourly, except noon, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on weekdays, 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and 1:00 p.m. on Sunday. The final tour of the day begins at 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; Please call the Tour Office at (402) 471-0448 for more information about visiting the Capitol.The Dec. 10 tree lighting ceremony will be aired on 1240 KFOR radio from 8 to 9 p.m.&nbsp; It will also be posted on KFOR’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kfornow.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C3e85e5fdd677411aa42708dbf52ab634%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638373336036761031%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MSltehHRHrJTse0NwmJxBDO7XTUVCIixN2kELg47fmY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kfornow.com</a>. Black Hills Energy is a presenting sponsor of the tree-lighting broadcast.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701785488987.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Capitol Tree Lighting & Hometown Christmas Details Released

LAS VEGAS (AP) — NCAA President Charlie Baker is asking members to make one of the most dramatic shifts in the history of college sports by allowing highly resourced schools to pay some of their athletes.

<a href="https://x.com/ralphDrussoAP/status/1732053828382695564?s=20">In a letter sent</a>&nbsp;to more than 350 Division I schools Tuesday, Baker said he wants the association to create a new tier of NCAA Division I sports where schools would be required to offer at least half their athletes a payment of at least $30,000 per year through a trust fund.

Baker also proposed allowing all Division I schools to offer unlimited educational benefits and enter into name, image and likeness licensing deals with athletes.

He said the disparity in resources between the wealthiest schools in the top tier of Division I called the Football Bowl Subdivision and other D-I members — along with the hundreds of Division II and III schools — is creating “a new series of challenges.”

“The challenges are competitive as well as financial and are complicated further by the intersection of name, image and likeness opportunities for student-athletes and the arrival of the Transfer Portal,” wrote Baker, the former Massachusetts governor who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-president-championships-transgender-60ce6172d9fb317a02b3a7e93db457da">took over at the NCAA in March.</a>

Division I is currently divided for football into the FBS, which has 133 schools, and FCS (Football Championship Subdivision).

Baker's proposal is aimed at creating a new subdivision, covering all sports, where the richest athletic departments in the so-called Power Five conferences — the Big Ten, Southeastern Conference, Big 12, Atlantic Coast Conference and Pac-12 — can operate differently than the rest.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/acc-conference-realignment-expansion-stanford-cal-smu-95e7d6f990dd35a638f9bef72fe96ee7">Conference realignment starting in 2024</a>&nbsp;will move the Pac-12 out of that group.

The proposed shift would not require all members of a conference to be part of the new subdivision. Schools would be allowed to make that determination individually.

Baker noted athletic budgets in Division I range from $5 million and $250 million annually, with 59 schools spending over $100 million annually and another 32 spending over $50 million. He said 259 Division I schools, however, spend less than $50 million on their athletic programs.

Baker said the difference in the way schools that participate in revenue-generating college sports such as major college football and basketball operate and the vast majority of college sports is complicating attempts to modernize the entire enterprise.

“The contextual environment is equally challenging, as the courts and other public entities continue to debate reform measures that in many cases would seriously damage parts or all of college athletics,” he wrote.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">Baker and college sports leaders have been pleading with Congress</a>&nbsp;to help the NCAA with a federal law to regulate the way athletes can be paid for NIL deals.

“I am 100% supportive of your efforts. Intercollegiate Athletics needs the proactive and forward thinking you are providing,” Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said in a post on social media platform X.

Smith oversees one of the largest athletic departments in the country with operating expenses of above $225 million annually.

The NCAA is also facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">a new round of legal threats</a>&nbsp;that could force its members to share some of the billions in revenue generated by major college football and basketball, along with giving athletes employees status.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-lawsuit-house-3c6b373a3c18cd02be0f2f9abcfcfdbf">One antitrust</a>&nbsp;case working its way through federal court could cost the NCAA billions in damages.

Baker called on NCAA member schools to create a new framework to make what he called “fundamental changes.”

“First, we should make it possible for all Division I colleges and universities to offer student-athletes any level of enhanced educational benefits they deem appropriate. Second, rules should change for any Division I school, at their choice, to enter into name, image and likeness licensing opportunities with their student-athletes,” he wrote. “These two changes will enhance the financial opportunities available to all Division I student-athletes.”

Currently, school are allowed — though not required — to provide athletes $5,980 per year in educational benefits under NCAA rules.

Baker said the changes would help level the playing field between men's and women's athletics by forcing schools to abide by gender equity regulations as they invest.

He said schools in a new tier of Division I should be allowed, while staying compliant with Title IX, to “invest at least $30,000 per year into an enhanced educational trust fund for at least half of the institution’s eligible student-athletes.”

A new D-I subdivision should also allow members to create rules unique rules regarding “scholarship commitment and roster size, recruitment, transfers or NIL,” he said.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — NCAA President Charlie Baker is asking members to make one of the most dramatic shifts in the history of college sports by allowing highly resourced schools to pay some of their athletes.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NCAA president Charlie Baker sent a letter today to Division I members proposing a new tier of Division I membership for the highest resourced schools. Here are the highlights of enhanced benefits for athletes that would be allowed. <a href="https://t.co/gK0eztHBe4">pic.twitter.com/gK0eztHBe4</a>&mdash; Ralph D. Russo (@ralphDrussoAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ralphDrussoAP/status/1732053828382695564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://x.com/ralphDrussoAP/status/1732053828382695564?s=20">In a letter sent</a>&nbsp;to more than 350 Division I schools Tuesday, Baker said he wants the association to create a new tier of NCAA Division I sports where schools would be required to offer at least half their athletes a payment of at least $30,000 per year through a trust fund.Baker also proposed allowing all Division I schools to offer unlimited educational benefits and enter into name, image and likeness licensing deals with athletes.He said the disparity in resources between the wealthiest schools in the top tier of Division I called the Football Bowl Subdivision and other D-I members — along with the hundreds of Division II and III schools — is creating “a new series of challenges.”“The challenges are competitive as well as financial and are complicated further by the intersection of name, image and likeness opportunities for student-athletes and the arrival of the Transfer Portal,” wrote Baker, the former Massachusetts governor who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-president-championships-transgender-60ce6172d9fb317a02b3a7e93db457da">took over at the NCAA in March.</a>Division I is currently divided for football into the FBS, which has 133 schools, and FCS (Football Championship Subdivision).Baker's proposal is aimed at creating a new subdivision, covering all sports, where the richest athletic departments in the so-called Power Five conferences — the Big Ten, Southeastern Conference, Big 12, Atlantic Coast Conference and Pac-12 — can operate differently than the rest.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/acc-conference-realignment-expansion-stanford-cal-smu-95e7d6f990dd35a638f9bef72fe96ee7">Conference realignment starting in 2024</a>&nbsp;will move the Pac-12 out of that group.The proposed shift would not require all members of a conference to be part of the new subdivision. Schools would be allowed to make that determination individually.Baker noted athletic budgets in Division I range from $5 million and $250 million annually, with 59 schools spending over $100 million annually and another 32 spending over $50 million. He said 259 Division I schools, however, spend less than $50 million on their athletic programs.Baker said the difference in the way schools that participate in revenue-generating college sports such as major college football and basketball operate and the vast majority of college sports is complicating attempts to modernize the entire enterprise.“The contextual environment is equally challenging, as the courts and other public entities continue to debate reform measures that in many cases would seriously damage parts or all of college athletics,” he wrote.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">Baker and college sports leaders have been pleading with Congress</a>&nbsp;to help the NCAA with a federal law to regulate the way athletes can be paid for NIL deals.“I am 100% supportive of your efforts. Intercollegiate Athletics needs the proactive and forward thinking you are providing,” Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said in a post on social media platform X.Smith oversees one of the largest athletic departments in the country with operating expenses of above $225 million annually.The NCAA is also facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">a new round of legal threats</a>&nbsp;that could force its members to share some of the billions in revenue generated by major college football and basketball, along with giving athletes employees status.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-lawsuit-house-3c6b373a3c18cd02be0f2f9abcfcfdbf">One antitrust</a>&nbsp;case working its way through federal court could cost the NCAA billions in damages.Baker called on NCAA member schools to create a new framework to make what he called “fundamental changes.”“First, we should make it possible for all Division I colleges and universities to offer student-athletes any level of enhanced educational benefits they deem appropriate. Second, rules should change for any Division I school, at their choice, to enter into name, image and likeness licensing opportunities with their student-athletes,” he wrote. “These two changes will enhance the financial opportunities available to all Division I student-athletes.”Currently, school are allowed — though not required — to provide athletes $5,980 per year in educational benefits under NCAA rules.Baker said the changes would help level the playing field between men's and women's athletics by forcing schools to abide by gender equity regulations as they invest.He said schools in a new tier of Division I should be allowed, while staying compliant with Title IX, to “invest at least $30,000 per year into an enhanced educational trust fund for at least half of the institution’s eligible student-athletes.”A new D-I subdivision should also allow members to create rules unique rules regarding “scholarship commitment and roster size, recruitment, transfers or NIL,” he said.

NCAA proposes new subdivision to allow schools to pay athletes directly

By Office of Senator Pete Ricketts

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his constituent casework team has held Mobile Office Hours in all 93 Nebraska counties. Ricketts is also launching a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/mobileofficehours/" target="_blank">new website feature</a>&nbsp;that allows Nebraskans to request a Mobile Office Hours event in their county, city, or town.

“I’m proud the Mobile Office Hours program has provided Nebraskans in all 93 counties a chance to meet with our team in locations where we don’t have a permanent office,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “When the federal government fails to fulfill essential services, our constituent casework staff is here to help. I promised to ensure taxpayers would receive the kind of effective and responsive service they deserve from my team. Mobile Office Hours is one way we are fulfilling that commitment, and we look forward to continuing the events next year.”

At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff are on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from the federal bureaucracy in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them contact the correct officials.

For example, a Nebraska veteran who attended our Adams County Mobile Office Hours needed assistance appealing his Department of Veterans Affairs disability rating. After meeting with our team, we were able to connect him with three different Service Officers who could help. Our office tracked the progress of his case and ensured he was able to successfully appeal his rating to get the benefits he needed.

Nebraskans interested in learning more about Mobile Office Hours or requesting an event in their community can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours" target="_blank">ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours</a>.

BACKGROUND ON RICKETTS’ CONSTITUENT SERVICES

In addition to meeting with Nebraskans on policy and legislative matters, Ricketts’ state offices also offer constituent services. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if they feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve a problem or get information Nebraskans need.

Ricketts has staff specially trained and located in offices throughout the state to assist any individual or group with a concern, complaint, or question of eligibility or benefit as it relates to a federal agency. Ricketts staff can act as a liaison for Nebraskans that have an issue pending before a federal agency. While the office cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, staff will do their best to help Nebraskans receive a fair and timely response to their problem. Common issues include, but are not limited to, passport and visa assistance, IRS and tax return issues, military assistance, FEMA disaster relief, and benefits from Veterans Affairs, Social Security, and Medicare.

Nebraskans can receive assistance via phone and email, or at any of the offices located throughout the state. Ricketts staff also hosts regular “Mobile Office Hours,” where staff will travel to assist Nebraskans in areas further away from the main offices. Nebraskans can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

By Office of Senator Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his constituent casework team has held Mobile Office Hours in all 93 Nebraska counties. Ricketts is also launching a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/mobileofficehours/" target="_blank">new website feature</a>&nbsp;that allows Nebraskans to request a Mobile Office Hours event in their county, city, or town.“I’m proud the Mobile Office Hours program has provided Nebraskans in all 93 counties a chance to meet with our team in locations where we don’t have a permanent office,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “When the federal government fails to fulfill essential services, our constituent casework staff is here to help. I promised to ensure taxpayers would receive the kind of effective and responsive service they deserve from my team. Mobile Office Hours is one way we are fulfilling that commitment, and we look forward to continuing the events next year.”At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff are on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from the federal bureaucracy in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them contact the correct officials.For example, a Nebraska veteran who attended our Adams County Mobile Office Hours needed assistance appealing his Department of Veterans Affairs disability rating. After meeting with our team, we were able to connect him with three different Service Officers who could help. Our office tracked the progress of his case and ensured he was able to successfully appeal his rating to get the benefits he needed.Nebraskans interested in learning more about Mobile Office Hours or requesting an event in their community can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours" target="_blank">ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours</a>.BACKGROUND ON RICKETTS’ CONSTITUENT SERVICESIn addition to meeting with Nebraskans on policy and legislative matters, Ricketts’ state offices also offer constituent services. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if they feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve a problem or get information Nebraskans need.Ricketts has staff specially trained and located in offices throughout the state to assist any individual or group with a concern, complaint, or question of eligibility or benefit as it relates to a federal agency. Ricketts staff can act as a liaison for Nebraskans that have an issue pending before a federal agency. While the office cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, staff will do their best to help Nebraskans receive a fair and timely response to their problem. Common issues include, but are not limited to, passport and visa assistance, IRS and tax return issues, military assistance, FEMA disaster relief, and benefits from Veterans Affairs, Social Security, and Medicare.Nebraskans can receive assistance via phone and email, or at any of the offices located throughout the state. Ricketts staff also hosts regular “Mobile Office Hours,” where staff will travel to assist Nebraskans in areas further away from the main offices. Nebraskans can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Ricketts Celebrates Outreach Events in all 93 Nebraska Counties

DAMASCUS —U.S. military officials on Monday reported another attack near a base with U.S. soldiers.

Just after 2 p.m. Sunday, fifteen 122mm rockets originating in Iraq were fired at the U.S. base Rumalyn Landing Zone in Syria, according to the U.S. Central Command.

Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve located the point of origin with uncrewed ISR assets and passed the location to Iraqi Security Forces who moved to and investigated the site.

A fuel truck modified to launch up to 20 rockets was located at the site.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701727733433.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —U.S. military officials on Monday reported another attack near a base with U.S. soldiers.Just after 2 p.m. Sunday, fifteen 122mm rockets originating in Iraq were fired at the U.S. base Rumalyn Landing Zone in Syria, according to the U.S. Central Command.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701743858137.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve located the point of origin with uncrewed ISR assets and passed the location to Iraqi Security Forces who moved to and investigated the site.A fuel truck modified to launch up to 20 rockets was located at the site.There were no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to equipment.

Modified enemy truck found after rockets hit U.S. base in Syria

WASHINGTON (AP)— The U.S. on Monday said it holds Iran responsible for attacks on civilian and military vessels by Yemen’s Houthis, with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan saying the U.S. was discussing establishing military escorts for ships in the Red Sea.

(Click below to watch the White House statement on the attacks)

“We are in talks with other countries about maritime task force of sorts involving the ships from partner nations alongside the United States in ensuring safe passage,” he told reporters.

The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed attacks on commercial ships and a U.S. warship on Sunday.

Speaking at the White House, Sullivan said the ultimate blame lies with Tehran.

“The weapons here are being supplied by Iran,” Sullivan said. “Iran, we believe, is the ultimate party responsible for this.”

Sullivan said the U.S. does not believe that all three ships struck by the Houthis had ties to Israel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701652753204.png" alt="USS Carney in the Suez Canal, Oct. 18, 2023. photo -US Navy&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>USS Carney in the Suez Canal, Oct. 18, 2023. photo -US Navy&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— The U.S. on Monday said it holds Iran responsible for attacks on civilian and military vessels by Yemen’s Houthis, with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan saying the U.S. was discussing establishing military escorts for ships in the Red Sea.(Click below to watch the White House statement on the attacks)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F923530422829255%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=473" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>“We are in talks with other countries about maritime task force of sorts involving the ships from partner nations alongside the United States in ensuring safe passage,” he told reporters.The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed attacks on commercial ships and a U.S. warship on Sunday.Speaking at the White House, Sullivan said the ultimate blame lies with Tehran.“The weapons here are being supplied by Iran,” Sullivan said. “Iran, we believe, is the ultimate party responsible for this.”Sullivan said the U.S. does not believe that all three ships struck by the Houthis had ties to Israel.

🎥:White House believes Iran behind attack in Red Sea

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Warren Buffett's company decided not to move forward with an expedited trial on its bribery allegations against the billionaire Haslam family in January under the strict conditions a judge set, but it will still be able to raise those concerns then as a judge considers the Haslams' rival claim that Berkshire Hathaway tried to depress the Pilot truck stop chain's earnings.

Both the Haslams and Berkshire have accused each other of trying to manipulate the profits at the nation's largest truck stop chain because those numbers will determine how much Berkshire has to pay if the family decides to sell its remaining 20% stake in the business next year as expected. The two sides agreed on a formula in 2017 when the family decided to sell the first chunk of the business that sets the price based on the earnings.

The Haslams&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-haslam-pilot-truck-stops-lawsuit-11f34a6f0494e53c80ea8b13635eb21e">argue</a>&nbsp;that Berkshire is trying to keep earnings down with an accounting change at Pilot while Berkshire says that Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffett-berkshire-hathaway-haslam-pilot-truck-stops-48d768eb679661ce806c52d81bf08140">tried to bribe</a>&nbsp;executives at the truck stop chain his family used to run to inflate earnings at the company. The Haslam family includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cleveland-browns-dee-jimmy-haslam-749e3407f99d76456034ce45de192be1">Jimmy Haslam</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/senate-elections-united-states-senate-general-news-7d9d2d2556d14f359240a943442734bf">former Tennessee governor Bill Haslam</a>&nbsp;and their father who founded the company.

A Delaware judge already scheduled a two-day January trial on the allegations the Haslams made about the accounting change in its initial lawsuit in October. But the judge said that if Berkshire wanted to get a decision on its bribery allegations at the same time it would have to forego requesting any additional evidence beforehand and limit the number of witnesses it would call.

It won't be clear until after that January trial when Berkshire's bribery allegations will be tried.

The Haslams received $2.758 billion in 2017 when Berkshire bought its initial 38.6% stake in Pilot and another $8.2 billion this year when it took control of 80% and became the majority owner. Buffett told&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-shareholders-meeting-munger-125f7fd2fc2830d74fb8f246727fedcd">Berkshire shareholders</a>&nbsp;this spring that he would have preferred to buy the whole company at once because the price was better in 2017, but the Haslams wouldn’t sell it all then.

It’s not clear exactly how much the remaining stake is worth. The Haslam family estimates that the stake was worth $3.2 billion before the accounting change. Berkshire disputes that figure.

The Haslams’ attorney called that accusation a “wild invention” but Berkshire said it believes Jimmy Haslam offered millions to at least 28 executives to make short-term moves that would boost profits.

Berkshire said it learned about the bribery scheme just a few weeks ago after an executive who had been offered one of the bonuses came forward to the new CEO Berkshire appointed after it became the majority owner.

Even though the bribery allegations won't be decided in January, Berkshire still plans to make them part of its defense against the Haslams' lawsuit.

Berkshire wanted the court to prevent the Haslams from exercising their option to sell the rest of the company to Berkshire next year because it says there are so many doubts about the accuracy of Pilot’s 2023 earnings. The Haslams have the option to decide to sell at the start of every year under the agreement they signed back in 2017.

The Knoxville, Tennessee-based Pilot has more than 850 locations and roughly 30,000 employees in the United States and Canada has already provided a significant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-earnings-second-quarter-9681b4761e8d81d7ca13c7d5507b1996">boost</a>&nbsp;to Berkshire’s revenue and profits this year.

In addition to the truck stops, Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire owns an eclectic assortment of other businesses including Geico insurance, BNSF railroad and several major utilities along with a number of smaller manufacturing and retail businesses. It also holds a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/berkshire-hathaway-warren-buffett-investments-stock-portfolio-b6a3c609918155507f18301b02c76786">sizeable stock portfolio</a>&nbsp;with big stakes in Apple, Coca-Cola, American Express and Bank of America among other holdings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701353337102.jpeg" alt="Trucks and cars drive by a Pilot Travel Center sign displaying fuel prices in Bath, New York, on Monday, June 20, 2022. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway says the billionaire Haslam family tried to bribe at least 15 executives at the Pilot truck stop chain with millions of dollars to inflate the company’s profits this year because that would force Berkshire to pay more for the Haslams’ remaining 20% stake in the company. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)" />
 <figcaption>Trucks and cars drive by a Pilot Travel Center sign displaying fuel prices in Bath, New York, on Monday, June 20, 2022. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway says the billionaire Haslam family tried to bribe at least 15 executives at the Pilot truck stop chain with millions of dollars to inflate the company’s profits this year because that would force Berkshire to pay more for the Haslams’ remaining 20% stake in the company. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Warren Buffett's company decided not to move forward with an expedited trial on its bribery allegations against the billionaire Haslam family in January under the strict conditions a judge set, but it will still be able to raise those concerns then as a judge considers the Haslams' rival claim that Berkshire Hathaway tried to depress the Pilot truck stop chain's earnings.Both the Haslams and Berkshire have accused each other of trying to manipulate the profits at the nation's largest truck stop chain because those numbers will determine how much Berkshire has to pay if the family decides to sell its remaining 20% stake in the business next year as expected. The two sides agreed on a formula in 2017 when the family decided to sell the first chunk of the business that sets the price based on the earnings.The Haslams&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-haslam-pilot-truck-stops-lawsuit-11f34a6f0494e53c80ea8b13635eb21e">argue</a>&nbsp;that Berkshire is trying to keep earnings down with an accounting change at Pilot while Berkshire says that Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffett-berkshire-hathaway-haslam-pilot-truck-stops-48d768eb679661ce806c52d81bf08140">tried to bribe</a>&nbsp;executives at the truck stop chain his family used to run to inflate earnings at the company. The Haslam family includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cleveland-browns-dee-jimmy-haslam-749e3407f99d76456034ce45de192be1">Jimmy Haslam</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/senate-elections-united-states-senate-general-news-7d9d2d2556d14f359240a943442734bf">former Tennessee governor Bill Haslam</a>&nbsp;and their father who founded the company.A Delaware judge already scheduled a two-day January trial on the allegations the Haslams made about the accounting change in its initial lawsuit in October. But the judge said that if Berkshire wanted to get a decision on its bribery allegations at the same time it would have to forego requesting any additional evidence beforehand and limit the number of witnesses it would call.It won't be clear until after that January trial when Berkshire's bribery allegations will be tried.The Haslams received $2.758 billion in 2017 when Berkshire bought its initial 38.6% stake in Pilot and another $8.2 billion this year when it took control of 80% and became the majority owner. Buffett told&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-shareholders-meeting-munger-125f7fd2fc2830d74fb8f246727fedcd">Berkshire shareholders</a>&nbsp;this spring that he would have preferred to buy the whole company at once because the price was better in 2017, but the Haslams wouldn’t sell it all then.It’s not clear exactly how much the remaining stake is worth. The Haslam family estimates that the stake was worth $3.2 billion before the accounting change. Berkshire disputes that figure.The Haslams’ attorney called that accusation a “wild invention” but Berkshire said it believes Jimmy Haslam offered millions to at least 28 executives to make short-term moves that would boost profits.Berkshire said it learned about the bribery scheme just a few weeks ago after an executive who had been offered one of the bonuses came forward to the new CEO Berkshire appointed after it became the majority owner.Even though the bribery allegations won't be decided in January, Berkshire still plans to make them part of its defense against the Haslams' lawsuit.Berkshire wanted the court to prevent the Haslams from exercising their option to sell the rest of the company to Berkshire next year because it says there are so many doubts about the accuracy of Pilot’s 2023 earnings. The Haslams have the option to decide to sell at the start of every year under the agreement they signed back in 2017.The Knoxville, Tennessee-based Pilot has more than 850 locations and roughly 30,000 employees in the United States and Canada has already provided a significant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-earnings-second-quarter-9681b4761e8d81d7ca13c7d5507b1996">boost</a>&nbsp;to Berkshire’s revenue and profits this year.In addition to the truck stops, Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire owns an eclectic assortment of other businesses including Geico insurance, BNSF railroad and several major utilities along with a number of smaller manufacturing and retail businesses. It also holds a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/berkshire-hathaway-warren-buffett-investments-stock-portfolio-b6a3c609918155507f18301b02c76786">sizeable stock portfolio</a>&nbsp;with big stakes in Apple, Coca-Cola, American Express and Bank of America among other holdings.

Warren Buffett's company's bribery allegations against the Haslam family won't be decided in January

LINCOLN – University of Nebraska senior vice president and chief financial officer Chris Kabourek will assume the role of interim president on Jan. 1 following a unanimous vote today by the NU Board of Regents.

Kabourek, a Nebraska native, first-generation college student, UNL alum and 26-year veteran of the university, will succeed current President Ted Carter. Carter is stepping down Dec. 31 to become president of Ohio State University.

“Chris loves Nebraska, he loves the University of Nebraska and he has told us he will do whatever he can to help the institution. That’s the kind of leadership and commitment we need as we move forward with our plans to take the University of Nebraska to a new level of excellence,” said Board of Regents Chairman Tim Clare of Lincoln. “Our university will be in good hands at this important juncture.”

Board Vice Chairman Rob Schafer of Beatrice added: “Chris has demonstrated a strong Nebraska work ethic, common sense and accountability throughout his time at the university, and he will bring those same qualities to the president’s role. As we execute our plan for greater growth and competitiveness, we need someone with deep institutional knowledge, trusted relationships and a willingness to make tough decisions for the betterment of our university and state.

“Chris is that leader, and we are lucky that he is willing to step up and seamlessly continue our work.”

Kabourek said: “I am humbled that the board has entrusted me with this opportunity. I know from my own experience as a first-generation student that higher education changes lives and I want to make sure that opportunity exists for all Nebraska students.

“We have an exciting plan in place, a talented team to get the job done, and in the months ahead we are going to work as hard as we can to deliver results that the board and all Nebraskans expect and deserve from their university.”

Kabourek, who grew up in David City, joined the university in 1997 after earning a bachelor’s degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and an MBA from UNL. He has served as CFO since 2018, overseeing all financial and administrative services that support NU’s $3.3 billion operating budget, including budgeting, facilities and capital planning, accounting, procurement and human resources. He works closely with the board, president, chancellors and campus chief business and academic officers, as well as the governor, elected officials and other leaders within and outside the university.

As CFO, Kabourek led the development of the university’s new deferred maintenance strategy and has helped the university achieve consistently high marks from credit ratings agencies, successes that save taxpayer dollars while meeting student, faculty and staff needs. He played a key role in the creation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/offices/financial_aid/nebraska-promise.php">Nebraska Promise financial aid program</a>&nbsp;and has provided leadership on strategic planning efforts and numerous legislative operating and capital budget requests.

Kabourek is also active in the community as a college basketball referee and youth sports coach. He and his wife, Jamie, have three sons, the oldest of whom is a freshman at UNO.

Carter said: “The Board of Regents has made an outstanding selection in Chris Kabourek. I’ve relied on Chris for candid advice and creative solutions time and again over the past four years. He cares deeply about students and understands the great responsibility and opportunity that come with stewarding precious Nebraska resources. I know Chris will keep this university moving in the right direction.”

The board is conducting a national search for the university system’s ninth president. Kabourek will hold the interim role in addition to his CFO title and duties until a permanent successor is named and takes office. In accepting the interim role, Kabourek has agreed to not be a candidate for the permanent position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701713579058.jpeg" alt="Chris Kabourek" />
 <figcaption>Chris Kabourek</figcaption>
 </figure>Tyler EllysonUNL CommunicationsLINCOLN – University of Nebraska senior vice president and chief financial officer Chris Kabourek will assume the role of interim president on Jan. 1 following a unanimous vote today by the NU Board of Regents.Kabourek, a Nebraska native, first-generation college student, UNL alum and 26-year veteran of the university, will succeed current President Ted Carter. Carter is stepping down Dec. 31 to become president of Ohio State University.“Chris loves Nebraska, he loves the University of Nebraska and he has told us he will do whatever he can to help the institution. That’s the kind of leadership and commitment we need as we move forward with our plans to take the University of Nebraska to a new level of excellence,” said Board of Regents Chairman Tim Clare of Lincoln. “Our university will be in good hands at this important juncture.”Board Vice Chairman Rob Schafer of Beatrice added: “Chris has demonstrated a strong Nebraska work ethic, common sense and accountability throughout his time at the university, and he will bring those same qualities to the president’s role. As we execute our plan for greater growth and competitiveness, we need someone with deep institutional knowledge, trusted relationships and a willingness to make tough decisions for the betterment of our university and state.“Chris is that leader, and we are lucky that he is willing to step up and seamlessly continue our work.”Kabourek said: “I am humbled that the board has entrusted me with this opportunity. I know from my own experience as a first-generation student that higher education changes lives and I want to make sure that opportunity exists for all Nebraska students.“We have an exciting plan in place, a talented team to get the job done, and in the months ahead we are going to work as hard as we can to deliver results that the board and all Nebraskans expect and deserve from their university.”Kabourek, who grew up in David City, joined the university in 1997 after earning a bachelor’s degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and an MBA from UNL. He has served as CFO since 2018, overseeing all financial and administrative services that support NU’s $3.3 billion operating budget, including budgeting, facilities and capital planning, accounting, procurement and human resources. He works closely with the board, president, chancellors and campus chief business and academic officers, as well as the governor, elected officials and other leaders within and outside the university.As CFO, Kabourek led the development of the university’s new deferred maintenance strategy and has helped the university achieve consistently high marks from credit ratings agencies, successes that save taxpayer dollars while meeting student, faculty and staff needs. He played a key role in the creation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/offices/financial_aid/nebraska-promise.php">Nebraska Promise financial aid program</a>&nbsp;and has provided leadership on strategic planning efforts and numerous legislative operating and capital budget requests.Kabourek is also active in the community as a college basketball referee and youth sports coach. He and his wife, Jamie, have three sons, the oldest of whom is a freshman at UNO.Carter said: “The Board of Regents has made an outstanding selection in Chris Kabourek. I’ve relied on Chris for candid advice and creative solutions time and again over the past four years. He cares deeply about students and understands the great responsibility and opportunity that come with stewarding precious Nebraska resources. I know Chris will keep this university moving in the right direction.”The board is conducting a national search for the university system’s ninth president. Kabourek will hold the interim role in addition to his CFO title and duties until a permanent successor is named and takes office. In accepting the interim role, Kabourek has agreed to not be a candidate for the permanent position.

Chris Kabourek named NU interim president

LINCOLN, NEB. – Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) understands that the business of food production has tight margins and farmers and ranchers need the best tools available to help them understand their costs, make sound financial decisions, and rise above their competition. This is why the Nebraska Farm Bureau is proud to&nbsp;announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at empowering its farmer and rancher members with cutting-edge tools for&nbsp;<a>comprehensive farm analysis</a>.

“This strategic move underscores Nebraska Farm Bureau's unwavering commitment to supporting agricultural farm and ranch families in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of modern farming,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue. “In recognition of the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, Farm Bureau has partnered with Nebraska Farm Business Inc. to provide a 10 percent discount on their farm analysis service, which would be a savings of around $200 per member. Indirectly, farm and ranch operations using this service could add on average $20,000 per year on their bottom line.”

The Nebraska Farm Business Inc. farm analysis tool offers an all-inclusive approach, providing valuable insights into crop and livestock management, resource utilization, and financial planning.

“We are excited to partner with Nebraska Farm Bureau in this venture. The Farm Financial Analysis reviews cash basis records and converts them to accrual basis to give true financial health for your farm operation. Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., can benchmark a farm/ranch operation to other producers of similar size, age, and type of production agriculture. The Farm Financial Analysis helps a farmer or rancher understand their costs and make sound financial decisions to make the operation better,” said Tina Barrett, director/farm financial consultant for Nebraska Farm Business Inc. “Most importantly, this program will help farmers and ranchers communicate their financial situation to family members, financial lenders, and other partners in their business.”

Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska Farm Business Inc. advocate for the use of a farm analysis tool to allow lenders to be more comfortable that the data provided for a farm/ranch is complete and accurate. The data is well organized and formatted for easy use and fast analysis. Best of all, it helps educate the farmer and rancher on his/her financial performance. Yielding success through financial management could easily yield $10,000 to $20,000 per year for the average farm operation.

"We understand the dynamic nature of agriculture and the vital role technology plays in modern farming. By providing our members with advanced farm analysis tools that include bench marketing your farm or ranch with others in the Midwest, members can build a strong family farm legacy and look to the future of their agriculture business," McHargue said.

This initiative aligns with Nebraska Farm Bureau's mission to advocate for and to offer new services for farmers and ranchers, to continue to build a bright future for Nebraska agriculture. . Nebraska Farm Bureau members are encouraged to explore and leverage this new member benefit to maximize productivity, mitigate risks, and achieve long-term success in their operations. Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>&nbsp;to learn more.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm BureauLINCOLN, NEB. – Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) understands that the business of food production has tight margins and farmers and ranchers need the best tools available to help them understand their costs, make sound financial decisions, and rise above their competition. This is why the Nebraska Farm Bureau is proud to&nbsp;announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at empowering its farmer and rancher members with cutting-edge tools for&nbsp;<a>comprehensive farm analysis</a>.“This strategic move underscores Nebraska Farm Bureau's unwavering commitment to supporting agricultural farm and ranch families in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of modern farming,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue. “In recognition of the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, Farm Bureau has partnered with Nebraska Farm Business Inc. to provide a 10 percent discount on their farm analysis service, which would be a savings of around $200 per member. Indirectly, farm and ranch operations using this service could add on average $20,000 per year on their bottom line.”The Nebraska Farm Business Inc. farm analysis tool offers an all-inclusive approach, providing valuable insights into crop and livestock management, resource utilization, and financial planning.“We are excited to partner with Nebraska Farm Bureau in this venture. The Farm Financial Analysis reviews cash basis records and converts them to accrual basis to give true financial health for your farm operation. Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., can benchmark a farm/ranch operation to other producers of similar size, age, and type of production agriculture. The Farm Financial Analysis helps a farmer or rancher understand their costs and make sound financial decisions to make the operation better,” said Tina Barrett, director/farm financial consultant for Nebraska Farm Business Inc. “Most importantly, this program will help farmers and ranchers communicate their financial situation to family members, financial lenders, and other partners in their business.”Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska Farm Business Inc. advocate for the use of a farm analysis tool to allow lenders to be more comfortable that the data provided for a farm/ranch is complete and accurate. The data is well organized and formatted for easy use and fast analysis. Best of all, it helps educate the farmer and rancher on his/her financial performance. Yielding success through financial management could easily yield $10,000 to $20,000 per year for the average farm operation."We understand the dynamic nature of agriculture and the vital role technology plays in modern farming. By providing our members with advanced farm analysis tools that include bench marketing your farm or ranch with others in the Midwest, members can build a strong family farm legacy and look to the future of their agriculture business," McHargue said.This initiative aligns with Nebraska Farm Bureau's mission to advocate for and to offer new services for farmers and ranchers, to continue to build a bright future for Nebraska agriculture. . Nebraska Farm Bureau members are encouraged to explore and leverage this new member benefit to maximize productivity, mitigate risks, and achieve long-term success in their operations. Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>&nbsp;to learn more.The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm Bureau Partners with Nebraska Farm Business Inc.  To Offer Comprehensive Farm Analysis

WASHINGTON —A mysterious respiratory&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-27/china-warns-of-coming-respiratory-surge-after-pneumonia-hit-kids" target="_blank">illness</a>&nbsp;is once again spreading in China.&nbsp; "Until we know more about what could be a new pathogen, the United States must do everything possible to prevent the illness from reaching our shores."

<a href="https://www.rubio.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/12.01.23-Rubio-et-al-Letter-to-POTUS-re-China-travel-pause.pdf">Click. here</a>&nbsp;to read the full text of the letter

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to restrict travel between the U.S. and China "until we know more about this disease."

Joining Rubio in his efforts were Senators J.D. Vance (R-OH), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Mike Braun (R-IN).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701640850820.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —A mysterious respiratory&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-27/china-warns-of-coming-respiratory-surge-after-pneumonia-hit-kids" target="_blank">illness</a>&nbsp;is once again spreading in China.&nbsp; "Until we know more about what could be a new pathogen, the United States must do everything possible to prevent the illness from reaching our shores."<a href="https://www.rubio.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/12.01.23-Rubio-et-al-Letter-to-POTUS-re-China-travel-pause.pdf">Click. here</a>&nbsp;to read the full text of the letterU.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to restrict travel between the U.S. and China "until we know more about this disease."<ul>
 <li>“[W]e should not wait for the WHO to take action given its track record of slavish deference to the [Chinese Communist Party]. We must take the necessary steps to protect the health of Americans, and our economy. That means we should immediately restrict travel between the United States and the [People’s Republic of China] until we know more about the dangers posed by this new illness. A ban on travel now could save our country from death, lockdowns, mandates, and further outbreaks later.</li><li>The World Health Organization has requested China share “detailed information” regarding the outbreak, which is largely attacking children and has caused&nbsp;overcrowding in some of the country’s hospitals.</li>
 </ul>Joining Rubio in his efforts were Senators J.D. Vance (R-OH), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Mike Braun (R-IN).

GOP senators call for travel ban from China to stop mystery illness spread

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Saturday issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/controlling-air-pollution-oil-and-natural-gas-industry/epas-final-rule-oil-and-natural-gas">final rule</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing methane emissions, targeting the U.S. oil and natural gas industry for its role in global warming as President Joe Biden seeks to advance his climate legacy.

<a href="https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-12/key-things-to-know-about-epas-final-rule-for-oil-and-natural-gas-operations.fact-sheet.pdf">The Environmental Protection Agency</a>&nbsp;said the rule will sharply reduce methane and other harmful air pollutants generated by the oil and gas industry, promote use of cutting-edge methane detection technologies and deliver significant public health benefits in the form of reduced hospital visits, lost school days and even deaths. Air pollution from oil and gas operations can cause cancer, harm the nervous and respiratory systems and contribute to birth defects.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan and White House climate adviser Ali Zaidi announced the final rule at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cop28-united-nations-climate-change-dubai-aljaber-543225dd77913eee8ca69bc53ea3da76">U.N. climate conference</a>&nbsp;in the United Arab Emirates. Separately, the president of the climate summit announced Saturday that 50 oil companies representing nearly half of global production have pledged to reach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-changemethanecop28-58c756d843fbc696b28a330295505be7">near-zero methane emissions</a>&nbsp;and end routine flaring in their operations by 2030.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-dubai-cop28-climate-change-faa8031d0e41b3b9458eecebf03e564b">Vice President Kamala Harris</a>, the top American representative at the summit, said the U.S. and other nations must act boldly to confront the fallout from climate change.

“The urgency of this moment is clear,” Harris said. “The clock is no longer just ticking. It is banging. And we must make up for lost time.”

The U.S. rule on methane emissions is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration that includes financial incentives to buy electric vehicles and upgrade infrastructure — spending that Harris said will total roughly $1 trillion over 10 years.

Oil and gas operations are the largest industrial source of methane, the main component in natural gas and far more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term. It is responsible for about one-third of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. Sharp cuts in methane emissions are a global priority to slow the rate of climate change and are a major topic at the conference, known as COP28.

Presidents, prime ministers and royals from nations rich and poor have vowed to reduce how much their countries spew heat-trapping gases and asked their colleagues to do better.

“On Day One, President Biden restored America’s critical role as the global leader in confronting climate change,'' Regan said, referring to Biden's actions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-executive-orders-b5b409da08e42414b9a12e2c67ee2df6">returning the U.S. to the Paris climate agreement</a>&nbsp;and ordering an immediate review of environmental regulations rolled back by the previous administration.

The methane rule finalizes a proposal Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-scotland-europe-aa0893a5aaa68f4ec3a431dc2712a587">made at a UN climate conference in Scotland in 2021</a>&nbsp;and expanded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-prices-oil-and-gas-industry-climate-environment-3a5b7049478ec7161fcbd18f1ebdb0ba">a year later at a climate conference in Egypt</a>. It targets emissions from existing oil and gas wells nationwide, rather than focusing only on new wells, as previous EPA regulations have done. It also regulates smaller wells that will be required to find and plug methane leaks. Such wells currently are subject to an initial inspection but are rarely checked again for leaks.

Studies have found that smaller wells produce just 6% of the nation’s oil and gas but account for up to half the methane emissions from well sites.

The plan also will phase in a requirement for energy companies to eliminate routine flaring of natural gas that is produced by new oil wells.

The new methane rule will help ensure that the United States meets a goal set by more than 100 nations to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 from 2020 levels, Regan said.

The EPA rule is just one of more than 100 actions the Biden administration has taken to reduce methane emissions, Zaidi added.

“From mobilizing billions in investment to plug orphaned wells, patch leaky pipes and reclaim abandoned mines, to setting strong standards that will cut pollution from the oil and gas sector, the Biden-Harris Administration is putting the full throw-weight of the federal government into slashing harmful methane pollution,'' he said.

The new rule will be coordinated with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-biden-health-seniors-medicare-9c2b70dc2f2d7291acc4292799ff342c">a methane fee</a>&nbsp;approved in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-congress-climate-and-environment-f084d23d61ebb068068d4aa92c82fdbb">2022 climate law.</a>&nbsp;The fee, set to take effect next year, will charge energy producers that exceed a certain level of methane emissions as much as $1,500 per metric ton of methane. The plan marks the first time the U.S. government has directly imposed a fee, or tax, on greenhouse gas emissions.

The law allows exemptions for companies that comply with the EPA’s standards or fall below a certain emissions threshold. It also includes $1.5 billon in grants and other spending to help companies and local communities improve monitoring and data collection, and find and repair natural gas leaks.

Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association, called the new rule a victory for public health.

“EPA heeded the urgent guidance of health experts across the country and finalized a strong methane rule that, when fully implemented, will significantly reduce hazardous air pollutants and climate-warming methane pollution from the oil and gas industry,'' he said in a statement.

Methane has been shown to leak into the atmosphere during every stage of oil and gas production, Wimmer said, and "people who live near oil and gas wells are especially vulnerable to these exposure risks. This rule (is) vital to advancing environmental justice commitments.''

David Doniger, a climate expert at the Natural Resources Defense Council, called methane a “super-polluter.” He said in an interview that the Biden plan "takes a very solid whack at climate pollution. I wish this had happened 10 years ago (under the Obama administration), but I'm really happy it's happening now.''

Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund, said the new rule ensures that “the U.S. now has the most protective methane pollution limits on the books. With other countries also zeroing in on methane as a key climate risk, it’s a signal to operators worldwide that clean-up time is here,'' he said.

The oil industry has generally welcomed direct federal regulation of methane emissions, preferring a single national standard to a hodgepodge of state rules. Even so, energy companies have asked EPA to exempt hundreds of thousands of the nation’s smallest wells from the pending methane rules.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701532302992.png" alt=""President Biden and I are demonstrating through action how the world can and must meet the climate crisis," said Vice President Kamala Harris." />
 <figcaption>"President Biden and I are demonstrating through action how the world can and must meet the climate crisis," said Vice President Kamala Harris.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Saturday issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/controlling-air-pollution-oil-and-natural-gas-industry/epas-final-rule-oil-and-natural-gas">final rule</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing methane emissions, targeting the U.S. oil and natural gas industry for its role in global warming as President Joe Biden seeks to advance his climate legacy.<a href="https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-12/key-things-to-know-about-epas-final-rule-for-oil-and-natural-gas-operations.fact-sheet.pdf">The Environmental Protection Agency</a>&nbsp;said the rule will sharply reduce methane and other harmful air pollutants generated by the oil and gas industry, promote use of cutting-edge methane detection technologies and deliver significant public health benefits in the form of reduced hospital visits, lost school days and even deaths. Air pollution from oil and gas operations can cause cancer, harm the nervous and respiratory systems and contribute to birth defects.EPA Administrator Michael Regan and White House climate adviser Ali Zaidi announced the final rule at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cop28-united-nations-climate-change-dubai-aljaber-543225dd77913eee8ca69bc53ea3da76">U.N. climate conference</a>&nbsp;in the United Arab Emirates. Separately, the president of the climate summit announced Saturday that 50 oil companies representing nearly half of global production have pledged to reach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-changemethanecop28-58c756d843fbc696b28a330295505be7">near-zero methane emissions</a>&nbsp;and end routine flaring in their operations by 2030.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tune in as I deliver the United States’ Statement at COP28. <a href="https://t.co/D3nVCkpKMW">https://t.co/D3nVCkpKMW</a>&mdash; Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1730893769031975383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-dubai-cop28-climate-change-faa8031d0e41b3b9458eecebf03e564b">Vice President Kamala Harris</a>, the top American representative at the summit, said the U.S. and other nations must act boldly to confront the fallout from climate change.“The urgency of this moment is clear,” Harris said. “The clock is no longer just ticking. It is banging. And we must make up for lost time.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The COP28 Presidency today launched the landmark Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), a global industry Charter dedicated to speeding up climate action and achieving high-scale impact across the oil and gas sectors.⁰⁰To date, 50 companies, representing more than 40… <a href="https://t.co/0ZV4qiye0y">pic.twitter.com/0ZV4qiye0y</a>&mdash; COP28 UAE (@COP28_UAE) <a href="https://twitter.com/COP28_UAE/status/1730930220931096849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The U.S. rule on methane emissions is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration that includes financial incentives to buy electric vehicles and upgrade infrastructure — spending that Harris said will total roughly $1 trillion over 10 years.Oil and gas operations are the largest industrial source of methane, the main component in natural gas and far more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term. It is responsible for about one-third of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. Sharp cuts in methane emissions are a global priority to slow the rate of climate change and are a major topic at the conference, known as COP28.Presidents, prime ministers and royals from nations rich and poor have vowed to reduce how much their countries spew heat-trapping gases and asked their colleagues to do better.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">118 countries have agreed to triple installed global renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 gigawatts and to double the annual global average rate of energy efficiency improvements from ~2 percent to more than 4 percent every year until 2030. ⁰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP28?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP28</a>… <a href="https://t.co/ctRoeci16M">pic.twitter.com/ctRoeci16M</a>&mdash; COP28 UAE (@COP28_UAE) <a href="https://twitter.com/COP28_UAE/status/1730934765748961440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“On Day One, President Biden restored America’s critical role as the global leader in confronting climate change,'' Regan said, referring to Biden's actions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-executive-orders-b5b409da08e42414b9a12e2c67ee2df6">returning the U.S. to the Paris climate agreement</a>&nbsp;and ordering an immediate review of environmental regulations rolled back by the previous administration.The methane rule finalizes a proposal Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-joe-biden-business-scotland-europe-aa0893a5aaa68f4ec3a431dc2712a587">made at a UN climate conference in Scotland in 2021</a>&nbsp;and expanded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-prices-oil-and-gas-industry-climate-environment-3a5b7049478ec7161fcbd18f1ebdb0ba">a year later at a climate conference in Egypt</a>. It targets emissions from existing oil and gas wells nationwide, rather than focusing only on new wells, as previous EPA regulations have done. It also regulates smaller wells that will be required to find and plug methane leaks. Such wells currently are subject to an initial inspection but are rarely checked again for leaks.Studies have found that smaller wells produce just 6% of the nation’s oil and gas but account for up to half the methane emissions from well sites.The plan also will phase in a requirement for energy companies to eliminate routine flaring of natural gas that is produced by new oil wells.The new methane rule will help ensure that the United States meets a goal set by more than 100 nations to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 from 2020 levels, Regan said.The EPA rule is just one of more than 100 actions the Biden administration has taken to reduce methane emissions, Zaidi added.“From mobilizing billions in investment to plug orphaned wells, patch leaky pipes and reclaim abandoned mines, to setting strong standards that will cut pollution from the oil and gas sector, the Biden-Harris Administration is putting the full throw-weight of the federal government into slashing harmful methane pollution,'' he said.The new rule will be coordinated with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-biden-health-seniors-medicare-9c2b70dc2f2d7291acc4292799ff342c">a methane fee</a>&nbsp;approved in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-congress-climate-and-environment-f084d23d61ebb068068d4aa92c82fdbb">2022 climate law.</a>&nbsp;The fee, set to take effect next year, will charge energy producers that exceed a certain level of methane emissions as much as $1,500 per metric ton of methane. The plan marks the first time the U.S. government has directly imposed a fee, or tax, on greenhouse gas emissions.The law allows exemptions for companies that comply with the EPA’s standards or fall below a certain emissions threshold. It also includes $1.5 billon in grants and other spending to help companies and local communities improve monitoring and data collection, and find and repair natural gas leaks.Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association, called the new rule a victory for public health.“EPA heeded the urgent guidance of health experts across the country and finalized a strong methane rule that, when fully implemented, will significantly reduce hazardous air pollutants and climate-warming methane pollution from the oil and gas industry,'' he said in a statement.Methane has been shown to leak into the atmosphere during every stage of oil and gas production, Wimmer said, and "people who live near oil and gas wells are especially vulnerable to these exposure risks. This rule (is) vital to advancing environmental justice commitments.''David Doniger, a climate expert at the Natural Resources Defense Council, called methane a “super-polluter.” He said in an interview that the Biden plan "takes a very solid whack at climate pollution. I wish this had happened 10 years ago (under the Obama administration), but I'm really happy it's happening now.''Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund, said the new rule ensures that “the U.S. now has the most protective methane pollution limits on the books. With other countries also zeroing in on methane as a key climate risk, it’s a signal to operators worldwide that clean-up time is here,'' he said.The oil industry has generally welcomed direct federal regulation of methane emissions, preferring a single national standard to a hodgepodge of state rules. Even so, energy companies have asked EPA to exempt hundreds of thousands of the nation’s smallest wells from the pending methane rules.

US targets oil, natural gas industry's role in global warming with new rule 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Ballistics missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck three commercial ships Sunday in the Red Sea, while a U.S. warship shot down three drones in self-defense during the hourslong assault, the U.S. military said. The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed two of the attacks.

The strikes marked an escalation in a series of maritime attacks in the Mideast linked to the Israel-Hamas war, as multiple vessels found themselves in the crosshairs of a single Houthi assault for the first time in the conflict. The U.S. vowed to “consider all appropriate responses” in the wake of the attack, specifically calling out Iran, after tensions have been high for years now over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-natanz-uranium-enrichment-underground-project-04dae673fc937af04e62b65dd78db2e0">Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701652753204.png" alt="USS Carney in the Suez Canal, Oct. 18, 2023. photo -US Navy&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>USS Carney in the Suez Canal, Oct. 18, 2023. photo -US Navy&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Ballistics missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck three commercial ships Sunday in the Red Sea, while a U.S. warship shot down three drones in self-defense during the hourslong assault, the U.S. military said. The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed two of the attacks.The strikes marked an escalation in a series of maritime attacks in the Mideast linked to the Israel-Hamas war, as multiple vessels found themselves in the crosshairs of a single Houthi assault for the first time in the conflict. The U.S. vowed to “consider all appropriate responses” in the wake of the attack, specifically calling out Iran, after tensions have been high for years now over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-natanz-uranium-enrichment-underground-project-04dae673fc937af04e62b65dd78db2e0">Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.“These attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security,” the U.S. military's Central Command said in a statement. “They have jeopardized the lives of international crews representing multiple countries around the world.”It added: “We also have every reason to believe that these attacks, while launched by the Houthis in Yemen, are fully enabled by Iran.”The attack began around 9:15 a.m. local time (0615 GMT) in Houthi-controlled Sanaa, Yemen's capital, Central Command said.The USS Carney, a Navy destroyer, detected a ballistic missile fired from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen at the Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier Unity Explorer. The missile hit near the ship, the U.S. said. Shortly afterward, the Carney shot down a drone headed its way, although it's not clear if the destroyer was the target, Central Command said.About 30 minutes later, the Unity Explorer was hit by a missile. While responding to its distress call, the Carney shot down another incoming drone. Central Command said the Unity Explorer sustained minor damage from the missile.Two other commercial ships, the Panamanian-flagged bulk carriers Number 9 and Sophie II, were both struck by missiles. The Number 9 reported some damage but no casualties, and the Sophie II reported no significant damage, Central Command said.While sailing to assist the Sophie II around 4:30 p.m. local time (1330 GMT), the Carney shot down another drone heading in its direction. The drones did no damage.The Carney, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, has shot down multiple rockets the Houthis have fired toward Israel during that nation's war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. It hasn't been damaged in any of the incidents and no injuries have been reported on board. The Defense Department initially described the assault as simply an attack on the Carney before providing more details.Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed two of Sunday's attacks, saying the first vessel was hit by a missile and the second by a drone while in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which links the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Saree did not mention any U.S. warship being involved.“The Yemeni armed forces continue to prevent Israeli ships from navigating the Red Sea (and Gulf of Aden) until the Israeli aggression against our steadfast brothers in the Gaza Strip stops,” Saree said. “The Yemeni armed forces renew their warning to all Israeli ships or those associated with Israelis that they will become a legitimate target if they violate what is stated in this statement.”Saree also identified the first vessel as the Unity Explorer, which is owned by a British firm that includes Dan David Ungar, who lives in Israel, as one of its officers. The Number 9 is linked to Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement, while the Sophie II is linked to Japan's Kyowa Kisen Co. Ltd. Managers for the three vessels could not be immediately reached for comment.Israeli media identified Ungar as being the son of Israeli shipping billionaire Abraham “Rami” Ungar.Iran has yet to directly address the attacks. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian threatened “that if the current situation continues, the region will enter a new phase” over the Israel-Hamas war.“All parties who are after igniting a war are warned, before it’s too late stop the killing of women and children, of which a new round has started," Amirabdollahian said.Iran's top diplomat described his comments as coming after conversations with “resistance forces” in the region — a description Tehran uses for the Shiite militia it backs, including groups in Iraq, the Houthis, Lebanon's Hezbollah and Hamas.The Houthis have launched a series of attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, as well as launching drones and missiles targeting Israel. Analysts suggest the Houthis hope to shore up waning popular support after years of civil war in Yemen between it and Saudi-backed forces.The U.S. has stopped short of saying its Navy ships were targeted, but has said Houthi drones have headed toward the ships and have been shot down in self-defense. Washington so far has declined to directly respond to the attacks, as has Israel, whose military continues to try to describe the ships as not having links to their country.Global shipping had increasingly been targeted as the Israel-Hamas war threatens to become a wider regional conflict — even as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-ceasefire-what-to-know-af1cfbc9dcaa1485ed7a9efaca7ec2b7">a truce briefly halted fighting</a>&nbsp;and Hamas exchanged hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, the collapse of the truce and the resumption of punishing Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and a ground offensive there had raised the risk of more seaborne attacks.In November, the Houthis&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-red-sea-ship-yemen-houthis-65b611ff878a411900037e7c9a8ee17b">seized a vehicle transport ship</a>&nbsp;also linked to Israel in the Red Sea off Yemen. The rebels still hold the vessel near the port city of Hodeida. Missiles also landed near another U.S. warship last week after it assisted a vessel linked to Israel that had briefly been seized by gunmen. Separately,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-ship-drone-attack-symi-39929cae42a191b2f242896a053123a7">a container ship owned by an Israeli billionaire recently came under attack</a>&nbsp;by a suspected Iranian drone in the Indian Ocean.The Houthis had not directly targeted the Americans for some time, further raising the stakes in the growing maritime conflict. In 2016, the U.S. launched Tomahawk cruise missiles that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/events-general-news-united-states-presidential-election-f03b50ff873a471c88ebb1538c1e3dc9">destroyed three coastal radar sites</a>&nbsp;in Houthi-controlled territory to retaliate for missiles being fired at U.S. Navy ships at the time.___