Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led her colleagues in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2707?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Nationwide+COnsumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act+of+2023%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">reintroducing</a>&nbsp;the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. Senator Fischer’s legislation is the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of year-round E15—fulfilling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/">President Trump’s mandate for energy independence.</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/"></a>By allowing the year-round, nationwide sale of E15, this legislation will finally end years of patchwork regulations and give both producers and consumers the certainty they deserve.&nbsp;Securing this permanent fix, coupled with Senator Fischer's work with the administration to ensure strong renewable volume obligations (RVOs), will enable biofuels to contribute to our nation's energy dominance.

Additional cosponsors of this bipartisan, bicameral bill include&nbsp;U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D. Ill.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.). U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (NE-03) and Angie Craig (MN-02) introduced identical companion legislation in the House.

“It’s time to once and for all solidify President Trump’s pledge to allow the sale of year-round E15—giving America’s producers and consumers the certainty they deserve. My bill will put an end to years of patchwork regulations and finally make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate, as well as with President Trump, to get this bill signed into law,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“For our country to remain a global energy leader, we must continue to invest in renewable and clean energy so we can decrease our emissions and dependence on foreign oil,”&nbsp;said Senator Duckworth.&nbsp;

“Producing less expensive fuel choices like E15 that can be sold year-round would help lower gas prices, protect the environment, support our farmers and drive economic opportunity throughout the Midwest. I’m proud to join Senator Fischer in reintroducing our bipartisan legislation that would do just that.”

“I have been fighting to eliminate unnecessary, unscientific, and misguided barriers to E15 access since 2010. It is time to enact year-round E15 nationwide to provide relief at the pump and certainty for producers. I thank my House colleagues and Senator Fischer for their partnership on our tenacious bipartisan efforts to honor congressional intent in the RFS. From ethanol to biomass-based diesel to sustainable aviation fuel, the world depends on liquid fuels to meet consumer demand and move us forward. We have just scratched the surface of our production capacity, which is why it is so important to codify year-round E15 and ensure robust RFS volumes,”&nbsp;said Congressman Smith.

“Homegrown biofuels are tools we have right now to address climate change, strengthen our nation’s energy infrastructure and lower costs for Americans at the gas pump,”&nbsp;said Congresswoman Craig.&nbsp;

“This bill is the kind of commonsense legislation we need more of in Washington, and I’m proud to be a part of the bipartisan coalition fighting for year-round E15 in the House.”

“We applaud Senator Fischer's leadership and continued passion in reintroducing the year-round E15 legislation, a critical step forward for America's corn farmers,"&nbsp;said Nebraska Corn Growers Association farmer and President Michael Dibbern.&nbsp;"Although we're disappointed that this common-sense legislation didn't pass during the lame duck session, we're grateful for Senator Fischer's perseverance. By securing year-round E15 approval, we can increase corn grind, drive economic growth and provide a vital market opportunity for farmers. This legislation would also bring much-needed consistency and stability to the marketplace, allowing American families to choose lower-cost, lower-emission E15 at the pump every day. We're appreciative of Senator Fischer's tireless advocacy and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance the interests of Nebraska's corn farmers.”

“The Nebraska Farm Bureau again thanks Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer for her continued leadership on trying to approve the sale of E-15 year-round. It is past time for the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to become law, and we look forward to working to get this important legislation to President Trump’s desk this year. For too long, outdated rules and regulations have prevented the year-round sale of E-15, and 2025 must be the year we finally rectify this issue,”&nbsp;said Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Mark McHargue.

"Thank you to Senator Fischer for leading the fight for year-round E-15, which is a huge opportunity for Nebraska’s ethanol industry, farmers, and drivers. This bill means stronger rural economies, lower prices at the pump, and a cleaner fuel option for drivers. On behalf of our members across the state, Renewable Fuels Nebraska applauds her leadership and calls on Congress to act now and pass this bipartisan policy,”&nbsp;said Renewable Fuels Nebraska Executive Director Dawn Caldwell.Full List of Nebraska Endorsements:

Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Renewable Fuels Nebraska.

"Year-round, nationwide E15 sales will prevent a confusing patchwork of state regulations and give consumers reliable access to the fuels they use every day. We thank Representatives Smith and Craig, as well as Senators Fischer and Duckworth, for championing this important bipartisan effort. Now, Congress must act to bring certainty and consistency to the fuel marketplace,”&nbsp;said American Petroleum Institute SVP Government Relations Kristin Whitman.“This bipartisan legislation would finally bring nationwide consistency and stability to the marketplace and eliminate the need for last-minute emergency waivers. With the summer driving season just around the corner, we urge lawmakers to swiftly adopt this bill and deliver a win for American families seeking cleaner, lower-cost fuel options. Time is of the essence,”&nbsp;said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;

“Ethanol producers, oil refiners, fuel retailers, equipment manufacturers, farmers, and consumers have all rallied behind this commonsense approach. We thank Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth for their continued leadership on this important issue. RFA commends them and their fellow renewable fuel supporters in the Senate for continuing to fight for fair market access for our nation’s farmers, ethanol producers, and consumers.”

"We applaud Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Representatives Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.) for leading the charge once again to unlock permanent, nationwide access to E15. Rural families and American consumers are lucky to have them in our corner, and we hope this is the bill that finally makes it over the finish line. The American people have waited for too long to get reliable access to a fuel that can lower costs while creating jobs in rural communities. We look forward to continuing our work with our champions in Congress and the White House to finally make year-round E15 the law of the land,”&nbsp;said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.“Nationwide consumer access to E15 will save drivers money at the pump while boosting the farm economy,”&nbsp;said Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr.&nbsp;

“We want to applaud the sponsors and co-sponsors of this bill for introducing legislation that promises to significantly benefit consumers and farmers alike.”“E-15 is a win for both farmers and consumers, offering a vital opportunity to lower fuel prices and provide more choices at the pump,”&nbsp;said National Farmer Union President Rob Larew.&nbsp;

“This legislation supports family farmers by creating stronger, more reliable markets while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With this bill, we’re taking critical steps toward a more sustainable future, and we urge lawmakers to act quickly to ensure farmers and consumers benefit from these opportunities.”

“To effectively serve their customers, convenience retailers need a stable and predictable year-round market for fuels like E15,"&nbsp;said National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) General Counsel Doug Kantor.&nbsp;

"We are grateful to Senator Fischer and Senator Duckworth for their continued leadership on this issue, with legislation that will improve the environmental attributes of summer gasoline while lowering costs for families and small businesses across the country."

Full List of National Endorsements:

American Petroleum Institute, Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmer Union, and National Association of Convenience Stores.

Senator Fischer has been a steadfast champion for year-round E15 since 2015, when she first co-led a bill&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1239/cosponsors?s=8&amp;r=6&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22deb+fischer+ethanol%22%7D">to allow year-round E15 during the 114th&nbsp;Congress</a>.

In 2017, during the 115th Congress, she introduced the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/517?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22deb+fischer+ethanol%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act</a>&nbsp;to amend the Clear Air Act and help make year-round E15 a reality. Later that year, she testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/6/video-senate-epw-committee-holds-hearing-on-fischer-e15-legislation">support of her bipartisan legislation</a>.

In 2019, Senator Fischer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/6/fischer-travels-with-president-trump-to-nebraska-iowa-for-year-round-e-15-sale-announcement">traveled with President Trump</a>&nbsp;to Nebraska and Iowa when&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-delivers-president-trumps-promise-allow-year-round-sale-e15-gasoline-and-improve-0">he announced</a>&nbsp;regulatory efforts to allow the sale of E15. When President Trump’s efforts were&nbsp;struck&nbsp;down by courts, Senator Fischer continued to lead by reintroducing this legislation in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2339?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Consumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act%22%7D&amp;s=2&amp;r=2">2021, during the&nbsp;117th Congress</a>.&nbsp;Senator Fischer&nbsp;released an updated&nbsp;bill in 2022&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2022/11/fischer-introduces-year-round-e15-legislation-with-landmark-support">that included unprecedented support.</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2022/11/fischer-introduces-year-round-e15-legislation-with-landmark-support"></a>In&nbsp;2023, Senator Fischer introduced&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2707?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Nationwide+COnsumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act+of+2023%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023</a>&nbsp;to break down remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of&nbsp;nationwide, year-round E15, advancing America’s energy independence. In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-craig-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-codify-year-round-e15">introduced companion legislation.</a>Last month, on the first day of his term, President Trump took steps to make E15 available year-round through his&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/">Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency</a>.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/986fe4f8-7cee-4c88-9c22-6db4727597c6/fischer-s-nationwide-consumer-and-fuel-retailer-choice-act-of-2025.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the bill.

Office of U.S. Senator Deb FischerWASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led her colleagues in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2707?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Nationwide+COnsumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act+of+2023%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">reintroducing</a>&nbsp;the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. Senator Fischer’s legislation is the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of year-round E15—fulfilling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/">President Trump’s mandate for energy independence.</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/"></a>By allowing the year-round, nationwide sale of E15, this legislation will finally end years of patchwork regulations and give both producers and consumers the certainty they deserve.&nbsp;Securing this permanent fix, coupled with Senator Fischer's work with the administration to ensure strong renewable volume obligations (RVOs), will enable biofuels to contribute to our nation's energy dominance.Additional cosponsors of this bipartisan, bicameral bill include&nbsp;U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D. Ill.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.). U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (NE-03) and Angie Craig (MN-02) introduced identical companion legislation in the House.“It’s time to once and for all solidify President Trump’s pledge to allow the sale of year-round E15—giving America’s producers and consumers the certainty they deserve. My bill will put an end to years of patchwork regulations and finally make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate, as well as with President Trump, to get this bill signed into law,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“For our country to remain a global energy leader, we must continue to invest in renewable and clean energy so we can decrease our emissions and dependence on foreign oil,”&nbsp;said Senator Duckworth.&nbsp;“Producing less expensive fuel choices like E15 that can be sold year-round would help lower gas prices, protect the environment, support our farmers and drive economic opportunity throughout the Midwest. I’m proud to join Senator Fischer in reintroducing our bipartisan legislation that would do just that.”“I have been fighting to eliminate unnecessary, unscientific, and misguided barriers to E15 access since 2010. It is time to enact year-round E15 nationwide to provide relief at the pump and certainty for producers. I thank my House colleagues and Senator Fischer for their partnership on our tenacious bipartisan efforts to honor congressional intent in the RFS. From ethanol to biomass-based diesel to sustainable aviation fuel, the world depends on liquid fuels to meet consumer demand and move us forward. We have just scratched the surface of our production capacity, which is why it is so important to codify year-round E15 and ensure robust RFS volumes,”&nbsp;said Congressman Smith.“Homegrown biofuels are tools we have right now to address climate change, strengthen our nation’s energy infrastructure and lower costs for Americans at the gas pump,”&nbsp;said Congresswoman Craig.&nbsp;“This bill is the kind of commonsense legislation we need more of in Washington, and I’m proud to be a part of the bipartisan coalition fighting for year-round E15 in the House.”Nebraska Stakeholder Support:“We applaud Senator Fischer's leadership and continued passion in reintroducing the year-round E15 legislation, a critical step forward for America's corn farmers,"&nbsp;said Nebraska Corn Growers Association farmer and President Michael Dibbern.&nbsp;"Although we're disappointed that this common-sense legislation didn't pass during the lame duck session, we're grateful for Senator Fischer's perseverance. By securing year-round E15 approval, we can increase corn grind, drive economic growth and provide a vital market opportunity for farmers. This legislation would also bring much-needed consistency and stability to the marketplace, allowing American families to choose lower-cost, lower-emission E15 at the pump every day. We're appreciative of Senator Fischer's tireless advocacy and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance the interests of Nebraska's corn farmers.”“The Nebraska Farm Bureau again thanks Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer for her continued leadership on trying to approve the sale of E-15 year-round. It is past time for the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to become law, and we look forward to working to get this important legislation to President Trump’s desk this year. For too long, outdated rules and regulations have prevented the year-round sale of E-15, and 2025 must be the year we finally rectify this issue,”&nbsp;said Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Mark McHargue."Thank you to Senator Fischer for leading the fight for year-round E-15, which is a huge opportunity for Nebraska’s ethanol industry, farmers, and drivers. This bill means stronger rural economies, lower prices at the pump, and a cleaner fuel option for drivers. On behalf of our members across the state, Renewable Fuels Nebraska applauds her leadership and calls on Congress to act now and pass this bipartisan policy,”&nbsp;said Renewable Fuels Nebraska Executive Director Dawn Caldwell.Full List of Nebraska Endorsements:Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Renewable Fuels Nebraska.National Stakeholder Support:"Year-round, nationwide E15 sales will prevent a confusing patchwork of state regulations and give consumers reliable access to the fuels they use every day. We thank Representatives Smith and Craig, as well as Senators Fischer and Duckworth, for championing this important bipartisan effort. Now, Congress must act to bring certainty and consistency to the fuel marketplace,”&nbsp;said American Petroleum Institute SVP Government Relations Kristin Whitman.“This bipartisan legislation would finally bring nationwide consistency and stability to the marketplace and eliminate the need for last-minute emergency waivers. With the summer driving season just around the corner, we urge lawmakers to swiftly adopt this bill and deliver a win for American families seeking cleaner, lower-cost fuel options. Time is of the essence,”&nbsp;said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;“Ethanol producers, oil refiners, fuel retailers, equipment manufacturers, farmers, and consumers have all rallied behind this commonsense approach. We thank Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth for their continued leadership on this important issue. RFA commends them and their fellow renewable fuel supporters in the Senate for continuing to fight for fair market access for our nation’s farmers, ethanol producers, and consumers.”"We applaud Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Representatives Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.) for leading the charge once again to unlock permanent, nationwide access to E15. Rural families and American consumers are lucky to have them in our corner, and we hope this is the bill that finally makes it over the finish line. The American people have waited for too long to get reliable access to a fuel that can lower costs while creating jobs in rural communities. We look forward to continuing our work with our champions in Congress and the White House to finally make year-round E15 the law of the land,”&nbsp;said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.“Nationwide consumer access to E15 will save drivers money at the pump while boosting the farm economy,”&nbsp;said Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr.&nbsp;“We want to applaud the sponsors and co-sponsors of this bill for introducing legislation that promises to significantly benefit consumers and farmers alike.”“E-15 is a win for both farmers and consumers, offering a vital opportunity to lower fuel prices and provide more choices at the pump,”&nbsp;said National Farmer Union President Rob Larew.&nbsp;“This legislation supports family farmers by creating stronger, more reliable markets while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With this bill, we’re taking critical steps toward a more sustainable future, and we urge lawmakers to act quickly to ensure farmers and consumers benefit from these opportunities.”“To effectively serve their customers, convenience retailers need a stable and predictable year-round market for fuels like E15,"&nbsp;said National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) General Counsel Doug Kantor.&nbsp;"We are grateful to Senator Fischer and Senator Duckworth for their continued leadership on this issue, with legislation that will improve the environmental attributes of summer gasoline while lowering costs for families and small businesses across the country."Full List of National Endorsements:American Petroleum Institute, Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmer Union, and National Association of Convenience Stores.Background:Senator Fischer has been a steadfast champion for year-round E15 since 2015, when she first co-led a bill&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1239/cosponsors?s=8&amp;r=6&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22deb+fischer+ethanol%22%7D">to allow year-round E15 during the 114th&nbsp;Congress</a>.In 2017, during the 115th Congress, she introduced the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/517?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22deb+fischer+ethanol%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act</a>&nbsp;to amend the Clear Air Act and help make year-round E15 a reality. Later that year, she testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/6/video-senate-epw-committee-holds-hearing-on-fischer-e15-legislation">support of her bipartisan legislation</a>.In 2019, Senator Fischer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/6/fischer-travels-with-president-trump-to-nebraska-iowa-for-year-round-e-15-sale-announcement">traveled with President Trump</a>&nbsp;to Nebraska and Iowa when&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-delivers-president-trumps-promise-allow-year-round-sale-e15-gasoline-and-improve-0">he announced</a>&nbsp;regulatory efforts to allow the sale of E15. When President Trump’s efforts were&nbsp;struck&nbsp;down by courts, Senator Fischer continued to lead by reintroducing this legislation in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2339?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Consumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act%22%7D&amp;s=2&amp;r=2">2021, during the&nbsp;117th Congress</a>.&nbsp;Senator Fischer&nbsp;released an updated&nbsp;bill in 2022&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2022/11/fischer-introduces-year-round-e15-legislation-with-landmark-support">that included unprecedented support.</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2022/11/fischer-introduces-year-round-e15-legislation-with-landmark-support"></a>In&nbsp;2023, Senator Fischer introduced&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2707?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22Nationwide+COnsumer+and+Fuel+Retailer+Choice+Act+of+2023%22%7D&amp;s=8&amp;r=1">Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023</a>&nbsp;to break down remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of&nbsp;nationwide, year-round E15, advancing America’s energy independence. In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-craig-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-codify-year-round-e15">introduced companion legislation.</a>Last month, on the first day of his term, President Trump took steps to make E15 available year-round through his&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency/">Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency</a>.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/986fe4f8-7cee-4c88-9c22-6db4727597c6/fischer-s-nationwide-consumer-and-fuel-retailer-choice-act-of-2025.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the bill.

Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Support America’s Energy Independence

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen extended his congratulations to Brooke Rollins on her overwhelming confirmation as the new secretary of agriculture. &nbsp;The U.S. Senate confirmed President Donald J. Trump’s selection to head the USDA on a vote of 72-28. Gov. Pillen issued the following statement:

“I've had the opportunity to meet with Sec. Rollins. I know that she will be a strong representative at the federal level&nbsp; on issues related to ensuring our nation’s food supply, creating new export markets, and meeting the needs of our nation’s farmers and ranchers. &nbsp;I’ve extended an invitation to Sec. Rollins so she can see first-hand how we utilize our natural resources, innovative technologies and strong work ethic to propel Nebraska to be a top ag producer. I look forward to the time when we can make that visit happen.”

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen extended his congratulations to Brooke Rollins on her overwhelming confirmation as the new secretary of agriculture. &nbsp;The U.S. Senate confirmed President Donald J. Trump’s selection to head the USDA on a vote of 72-28. Gov. Pillen issued the following statement:“I've had the opportunity to meet with Sec. Rollins. I know that she will be a strong representative at the federal level&nbsp; on issues related to ensuring our nation’s food supply, creating new export markets, and meeting the needs of our nation’s farmers and ranchers. &nbsp;I’ve extended an invitation to Sec. Rollins so she can see first-hand how we utilize our natural resources, innovative technologies and strong work ethic to propel Nebraska to be a top ag producer. I look forward to the time when we can make that visit happen.”

Gov. Pillen Congratulates Brooke Rollins on Confirmation as U.S. Ag Secretary

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Today, Governor Jim Pillen testified before the Nebraska Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee in favor of LB317 to merge the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE). Senator Tom Brandt introduced LB317 at the Governor’s request.&nbsp;

“Nebraska is at the center of an economic boom with announcements of new hydrogen, advanced biofuels and bio-based products, animal processing plants and data centers looking to locate here. All these industries will require water,” said Gov. Pillen. “Moving forward, we need to double-down on our efforts to protect and enhance this valuable resource. Combining DEE and DNR sets the foundation for water quantity and quality under the same leadership.”

During his bill introduction, Sen. Brandt also touched on the collaboration between the agencies for water planning, state investments in water infrastructure projects and continued leadership by the state in resource management innovation.&nbsp;

“This merger will also reduce costs by eliminating overlapping administrative functions while improving outcomes in personnel management, financial oversight, and IT,” said Sen. Brandt. “Streamlining state permitting for water-related projects will cut red tape and enable quicker, more efficient progress on projects that matter to our communities.”&nbsp;

Yesterday, Gov. Pillen announced his appointment of Jesse Bradley to serve as interim director of DEE. Bradley is also the interim director of DNR.&nbsp; He addressed the overarching benefit of housing DEE and DNR under what would be known as the&nbsp;Department of Water, Energy and Environment.&nbsp;

“By combining the agencies’ efforts, the state will improve its focus on challenging long-term water and natural resource management issues such as nitrogen management, water utilization and soil health. The merging of the two departments is expected to allow customers, who currently work with both DNR and DEE separately, the ability to streamline their planning and permitting efforts by working with a single department.”

Also testifying in favor of LB317 was Tim McCoy, director of the Game &amp; Parks Commission.&nbsp;

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Today, Governor Jim Pillen testified before the Nebraska Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee in favor of LB317 to merge the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE). Senator Tom Brandt introduced LB317 at the Governor’s request.&nbsp;“Nebraska is at the center of an economic boom with announcements of new hydrogen, advanced biofuels and bio-based products, animal processing plants and data centers looking to locate here. All these industries will require water,” said Gov. Pillen. “Moving forward, we need to double-down on our efforts to protect and enhance this valuable resource. Combining DEE and DNR sets the foundation for water quantity and quality under the same leadership.”During his bill introduction, Sen. Brandt also touched on the collaboration between the agencies for water planning, state investments in water infrastructure projects and continued leadership by the state in resource management innovation.&nbsp;“This merger will also reduce costs by eliminating overlapping administrative functions while improving outcomes in personnel management, financial oversight, and IT,” said Sen. Brandt. “Streamlining state permitting for water-related projects will cut red tape and enable quicker, more efficient progress on projects that matter to our communities.”&nbsp;Yesterday, Gov. Pillen announced his appointment of Jesse Bradley to serve as interim director of DEE. Bradley is also the interim director of DNR.&nbsp; He addressed the overarching benefit of housing DEE and DNR under what would be known as the&nbsp;Department of Water, Energy and Environment.&nbsp;“By combining the agencies’ efforts, the state will improve its focus on challenging long-term water and natural resource management issues such as nitrogen management, water utilization and soil health. The merging of the two departments is expected to allow customers, who currently work with both DNR and DEE separately, the ability to streamline their planning and permitting efforts by working with a single department.”Also testifying in favor of LB317 was Tim McCoy, director of the Game &amp; Parks Commission.&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Advocates for Merging Agencies, Improving State’s Water Quantity & Quality

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/9/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-support-rural-hospitals">reintroduced</a>&nbsp;legislation to support rural hospitals. The Supporting Access to Rural Community Hospitals Act of 2025 grants rural hospitals flexibility when choosing reimbursement&nbsp;models so that they can have&nbsp;greater financial sustainability.

Currently, hospitals designated as Critical Access Hospitals (CAH) receive cost-based reimbursement for all services to address the needs of their rural communities. Hospitals in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program only receive cost-based reimbursement for some services, while maintaining a higher number of beds.S

enator Fischer’s legislation grants RCHD hospitals an optional, one-time election period to designate themselves as a CAH and meet the necessary eligibility&nbsp;requirements. The bill gives these essential hospitals the opportunity to choose between these two beneficial federal programs and enables them to continue serving their communities. U.S. Representatives&nbsp;Mike Flood (NE-01) and Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced identical companion legislation&nbsp;in the House.

“Rural community hospitals ensure that every Nebraskan can access the health services they rely on, regardless of their zip code. Our legislation will help rural hospitals remain sustainable by giving them the option to choose the program that best suits their current needs. I look forward to working with my Nebraska delegation colleagues as we champion this legislation in both the Senate and the House,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.&nbsp;

“Rural community hospitals are the backbone of healthcare across vast areas of Nebraska and the country. By giving these hospitals the ability to determine their future in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration program, these facilities will be able to better meet their needs and the needs of the communities they serve, while also still delivering quality care to patients. Providing this option to hospitals currently in the RCHD program has the potential to unlock additional funding, empowering hospitals to expand and improve the services they provide. I am grateful to my fellow Nebraska colleagues, Congressman Smith and Senator Fischer, for their willingness to help lead this effort,”&nbsp;said Congressman Flood.“Hospitals serving rural populations in Nebraska and across the country should operate under the Medicare reimbursement designations which best fit their needs and circumstances. This bill provides for commonsense regulatory flexibility ensuring such rural hospitals can best serve Nebraskans. I thank Rep. Flood and Sen. Fischer for working with me to advance this legislative solution,”&nbsp;said Congressman Smith.

The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/3d6004ae-27a7-41ee-9ee7-4a55ec83ccbe/supporting-access-to-rural-community-hospitals-act-2025-signed-.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/9/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-support-rural-hospitals">reintroduced</a>&nbsp;legislation to support rural hospitals. The Supporting Access to Rural Community Hospitals Act of 2025 grants rural hospitals flexibility when choosing reimbursement&nbsp;models so that they can have&nbsp;greater financial sustainability.Currently, hospitals designated as Critical Access Hospitals (CAH) receive cost-based reimbursement for all services to address the needs of their rural communities. Hospitals in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program only receive cost-based reimbursement for some services, while maintaining a higher number of beds.Senator Fischer’s legislation grants RCHD hospitals an optional, one-time election period to designate themselves as a CAH and meet the necessary eligibility&nbsp;requirements. The bill gives these essential hospitals the opportunity to choose between these two beneficial federal programs and enables them to continue serving their communities. U.S. Representatives&nbsp;Mike Flood (NE-01) and Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced identical companion legislation&nbsp;in the House.“Rural community hospitals ensure that every Nebraskan can access the health services they rely on, regardless of their zip code. Our legislation will help rural hospitals remain sustainable by giving them the option to choose the program that best suits their current needs. I look forward to working with my Nebraska delegation colleagues as we champion this legislation in both the Senate and the House,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.&nbsp;“Rural community hospitals are the backbone of healthcare across vast areas of Nebraska and the country. By giving these hospitals the ability to determine their future in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration program, these facilities will be able to better meet their needs and the needs of the communities they serve, while also still delivering quality care to patients. Providing this option to hospitals currently in the RCHD program has the potential to unlock additional funding, empowering hospitals to expand and improve the services they provide. I am grateful to my fellow Nebraska colleagues, Congressman Smith and Senator Fischer, for their willingness to help lead this effort,”&nbsp;said Congressman Flood.“Hospitals serving rural populations in Nebraska and across the country should operate under the Medicare reimbursement designations which best fit their needs and circumstances. This bill provides for commonsense regulatory flexibility ensuring such rural hospitals can best serve Nebraskans. I thank Rep. Flood and Sen. Fischer for working with me to advance this legislative solution,”&nbsp;said Congressman Smith.The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/3d6004ae-27a7-41ee-9ee7-4a55ec83ccbe/supporting-access-to-rural-community-hospitals-act-2025-signed-.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Support Rural Hospitals

This recall involves Igloo 90 Qt. Flip &amp; Tow Rolling Coolers manufactured prior to January 2024. The date of manufacture is imprinted on the bottom of the cooler in a circular pattern with an arrow pointing to the month of manufacture and the last two digits of the year of manufacture inside the circle, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The recalled coolers have a tow handle. “IGLOO” is printed on the side of the coolers. The coolers were sold in multiple body and lid color combinations, some of which are pictured above. The following cooler models with tow handles are included in the recall. The model number is located on labels affixed to the bottom of the cooler.

<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Igloo-Recalls-More-Than-One-Million-90-Quart-Rolling-Coolers-Due-to-Fingertip-Amputation-and-Crushing-Hazards">Click here </a>for more details.

Igloo toll-free at 888-943-5182 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:igloo90qt@sedgwick.com">igloo90qt@sedgwick.com</a>, or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igloo90qtrecall.expertinquiry.com/">www.igloo90qtrecall.expertinquiry.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igloocoolers.com/">http://www.igloocoolers.com</a>&nbsp;and click on “Recall Information” at the top of the page for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739468534690.png" alt="Image igloo" />
 <figcaption>Image igloo</figcaption>
 </figure>This recall involves Igloo 90 Qt. Flip &amp; Tow Rolling Coolers manufactured prior to January 2024. The date of manufacture is imprinted on the bottom of the cooler in a circular pattern with an arrow pointing to the month of manufacture and the last two digits of the year of manufacture inside the circle, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.The recalled coolers have a tow handle. “IGLOO” is printed on the side of the coolers. The coolers were sold in multiple body and lid color combinations, some of which are pictured above. The following cooler models with tow handles are included in the recall. The model number is located on labels affixed to the bottom of the cooler.<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Igloo-Recalls-More-Than-One-Million-90-Quart-Rolling-Coolers-Due-to-Fingertip-Amputation-and-Crushing-Hazards">Click here </a>for more details.Igloo toll-free at 888-943-5182 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:igloo90qt@sedgwick.com">igloo90qt@sedgwick.com</a>, or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igloo90qtrecall.expertinquiry.com/">www.igloo90qtrecall.expertinquiry.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.igloocoolers.com/">http://www.igloocoolers.com</a>&nbsp;and click on “Recall Information” at the top of the page for more information.

Igloo recall: Cooler handle hazard causes fingertip amputation injuries

JOANN Inc., the nation’s category leader in sewing and fabrics with one of the largest arts and crafts offerings announced on Wednesday they will be closing hundreds of locations across 40 states, according to a statement on the company web site.

The stores that will close include the locations at&nbsp;10521 S. 15th Street, Bellevue, Nebraska and three locations in Kansas: 2259 S 9th Street Ste 38, Salina; 2108 W 27Th Street, Lawrence and 3665 North Rock Road in Wichita. The store at 6930 West Kellogg in Wichita will remain open for now.

"This was a very difficult decision to make, given the major impact we know it will have on our Team Members, our customers and all of the communities we serve. A careful analysis of store performance and future strategic fit for the Company determined which stores should remain operating as usual at this time. Right-sizing our store footprint is a critical part of our efforts to ensure the best path forward for JOANN."

In January the company commenced voluntary Chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to facilitate a sale process to maximize the value of its business, according to a statement on the company web site.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.joannrestructuring.com/">Click here for more information&nbsp;</a>on the restructuring.

"JOANN stores are open, joann.com is shipping orders, and Team Members are receiving pay and benefits as we evaluate our best path forward."

<a href="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/67817680c8de2134544a40b6/67acb1fd7e85b6e6bb57cfe4_Store%20Closure%20List.pdf">Click here to see&nbsp;</a>the full list of stores set to close. The company did not release official date when stores will close.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739470367752.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>JOANN Inc., the nation’s category leader in sewing and fabrics with one of the largest arts and crafts offerings announced on Wednesday they will be closing hundreds of locations across 40 states, according to a statement on the company web site.The stores that will close include the locations at&nbsp;10521 S. 15th Street, Bellevue, Nebraska and three locations in Kansas: 2259 S 9th Street Ste 38, Salina; 2108 W 27Th Street, Lawrence and 3665 North Rock Road in Wichita. The store at 6930 West Kellogg in Wichita will remain open for now."This was a very difficult decision to make, given the major impact we know it will have on our Team Members, our customers and all of the communities we serve. A careful analysis of store performance and future strategic fit for the Company determined which stores should remain operating as usual at this time. Right-sizing our store footprint is a critical part of our efforts to ensure the best path forward for JOANN."In January the company commenced voluntary Chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to facilitate a sale process to maximize the value of its business, according to a statement on the company web site.&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.joannrestructuring.com/">Click here for more information&nbsp;</a>on the restructuring."JOANN stores are open, joann.com is shipping orders, and Team Members are receiving pay and benefits as we evaluate our best path forward."<a href="https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/67817680c8de2134544a40b6/67acb1fd7e85b6e6bb57cfe4_Store%20Closure%20List.pdf">Click here to see&nbsp;</a>the full list of stores set to close. The company did not release official date when stores will close.

Fabric stores in Neb., Kan. among 100s to close nationwide

Lincoln, Ne -&nbsp;

Members of the&nbsp;<a href="http://news.legislature.ne.gov/bui" target="_blank">Business and Labor Committee</a>&nbsp;considered a bill Feb. 10 that seeks to provide public benefits to work-authorized immigrants in Nebraska.

<a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB299&amp;Legislature=109th" target="_blank">LB299</a>, introduced by Sumner Sen. Teresa Ibach, would grant access to public employment and retirement benefits — including unemployment insurance benefits, deferred compensation and educational financial aid — to all work-eligible Nebraskans regardless of immigration status. The bill also would extend eligible benefits to a qualified employee’s family members and dependents.

Ibach said Nebraska is the only state in which work-authorized immigrants, such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protected Status recipients, cannot access the unemployment benefits they have earned and that their employers have paid for.

The individuals the bills seek to benefit are not criminals or undocumented immigrants, Ibach said, they are “good people” who work hard, pay taxes and contribute to society.

“We, as a state, financially benefit from them being here,” she said. “I fully believe the least we can do is treat them equally.”

Speaking in support of the bill on behalf of the Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities, Matt Williams said the biggest challenge Nebraska businesses face is workforce. It’s a problem throughout the state, he said, and one that LB299 could help resolve.

“Over the last decade, 100% of our state’s population increase has come from immigration,” Williams said. “Positive immigration solutions will create strong Nebraska communities, families and workforce all across our state.”

Several DACA recipients also testified in support of the proposal, including Zayra Navarrete. She said work authorization has allowed her to contribute to a pension and life insurance, but without unemployment benefits she would be forced to take out a loan or sell her assets if faced with an unexpected job loss.

“The contribution of DACA recipients in many work fields is substantial, but the care and respect [we receive] is minimal,” Navarrete said.

Tom Venzor of the Nebraska Catholic Conference also testified in support of the proposal. He said the current prohibition on unemployment benefits for work-authorized immigrants is an injustice for Nebraskans who have worked hard to support their families, contribute to local communities and grow the state economy.

“We have an opportunity through LB299 to adjust our state’s public policy and provide work-authorized migrants the same benefits their coworkers receive,” Venzor said. “This legislation makes not only economic sense … but it also makes moral sense as the just thing to do.”

Speaking on behalf of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Greater Omaha Chamber and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Hunter Traynor also testified in favor, calling the proposal a “no nonsense” way to ensure a strong labor force.

Opposing the bill was interim Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber. LB299 essentially creates a new definition of “eligible alien,” she said, which is broad enough to potentially provide benefits even if an immigrant lost their work authorization.

Thurber said the department has been advised by the federal government that the bill could jeopardize federal funds if the language causes the state to be out of conformity with federal regulations. The result could be the loss of nearly $400 million in federal unemployment tax credits, she said.

Thurber also noted that maintaining conformity becomes “particularly concerning” given current uncertainties surrounding the future of the DACA program.

Lincoln, Ne -&nbsp;

Members of the&nbsp;<a href="http://news.legislature.ne.gov/bui" target="_blank">Business and Labor Committee</a>&nbsp;considered a bill Feb. 10 that seeks to provide public benefits to work-authorized immigrants in Nebraska.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739452306972.jpeg" alt="Sumner Senator Teresa Ibach" />
 <figcaption>Sumner Senator Teresa Ibach</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/search_by_number.php?DocumentNumber=LB299&amp;Legislature=109th" target="_blank">LB299</a>, introduced by Sumner Sen. Teresa Ibach, would grant access to public employment and retirement benefits — including unemployment insurance benefits, deferred compensation and educational financial aid — to all work-eligible Nebraskans regardless of immigration status. The bill also would extend eligible benefits to a qualified employee’s family members and dependents.Ibach said Nebraska is the only state in which work-authorized immigrants, such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protected Status recipients, cannot access the unemployment benefits they have earned and that their employers have paid for.The individuals the bills seek to benefit are not criminals or undocumented immigrants, Ibach said, they are “good people” who work hard, pay taxes and contribute to society.“We, as a state, financially benefit from them being here,” she said. “I fully believe the least we can do is treat them equally.”Speaking in support of the bill on behalf of the Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities, Matt Williams said the biggest challenge Nebraska businesses face is workforce. It’s a problem throughout the state, he said, and one that LB299 could help resolve.“Over the last decade, 100% of our state’s population increase has come from immigration,” Williams said. “Positive immigration solutions will create strong Nebraska communities, families and workforce all across our state.”Several DACA recipients also testified in support of the proposal, including Zayra Navarrete. She said work authorization has allowed her to contribute to a pension and life insurance, but without unemployment benefits she would be forced to take out a loan or sell her assets if faced with an unexpected job loss.“The contribution of DACA recipients in many work fields is substantial, but the care and respect [we receive] is minimal,” Navarrete said.Tom Venzor of the Nebraska Catholic Conference also testified in support of the proposal. He said the current prohibition on unemployment benefits for work-authorized immigrants is an injustice for Nebraskans who have worked hard to support their families, contribute to local communities and grow the state economy.“We have an opportunity through LB299 to adjust our state’s public policy and provide work-authorized migrants the same benefits their coworkers receive,” Venzor said. “This legislation makes not only economic sense … but it also makes moral sense as the just thing to do.”Speaking on behalf of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Greater Omaha Chamber and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Hunter Traynor also testified in favor, calling the proposal a “no nonsense” way to ensure a strong labor force.Opposing the bill was interim Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber. LB299 essentially creates a new definition of “eligible alien,” she said, which is broad enough to potentially provide benefits even if an immigrant lost their work authorization.Thurber said the department has been advised by the federal government that the bill could jeopardize federal funds if the language causes the state to be out of conformity with federal regulations. The result could be the loss of nearly $400 million in federal unemployment tax credits, she said.Thurber also noted that maintaining conformity becomes “particularly concerning” given current uncertainties surrounding the future of the DACA program.

Legislative Bill would extend unemployment, other benefits to DACA recipients

IRAQ—&nbsp;Iraqi Security Forces enabled by U.S. forces, conducted precision airstrikes in the vicinity of Kirkuk, Iraq, killing two ISIS operatives on Monday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

An initial post-strike clearance found the dead ISIS operatives, an explosive suicide belt, explosive material, and components of weapons destroyed in the strike.

"The Iraqi Security Forces-led operation is part of the ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to disrupt and degrade ISIS' capabilities, dismantle their attack networks, and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS. Coalition Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR) enabled ISF during the operation by providing technical support and intelligence."

IRAQ—&nbsp;Iraqi Security Forces enabled by U.S. forces, conducted precision airstrikes in the vicinity of Kirkuk, Iraq, killing two ISIS operatives on Monday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.An initial post-strike clearance found the dead ISIS operatives, an explosive suicide belt, explosive material, and components of weapons destroyed in the strike."The Iraqi Security Forces-led operation is part of the ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to disrupt and degrade ISIS' capabilities, dismantle their attack networks, and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS. Coalition Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR) enabled ISF during the operation by providing technical support and intelligence."

U.S. forces help with deadly attack on ISIS operatives

Lincoln, Ne - Lawmakers gave first-round approval Feb. 11 to a bill intended to increase Medicaid provider reimbursement rates without the use of general fund dollars. Modeled on a proposal approved by lawmakers last year to levy an assessment on all Nebraska hospitals, LB527, introduced by North Platte Sen. Mike Jacobson, would use a similar mechanism to levy an assessment on the state’s health maintenance organizations.

Under the bill, the state Department of Health and Human Services would be required to submit a state plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by Aug. 1, 2025.

If approved, the state plan amendment would authorize collection of a 6% tax on all non-Medicare premiums written in Nebraska under an HMO certificate of authority, to be collected by the state Department of Insurance.

Revenue generated by the tax would be remitted to a newly created Medicaid Access and Quality Fund. DHHS would use the fund to leverage federal matching dollars to enhance Medicaid reimbursement rates paid to nonhospital providers of physical health services, with an emphasis on evaluation and management, labor and delivery and rural health services.

The fund also would be used to pay a monthly per-member fee of at least $75 to qualified primary care providers who meet criteria to serve as a primary care medical home for target populations. Any remaining funds would be used within the state’s Medicaid and CHIP programs.

Jacobson said the bill, when combined with federal matching funds, would generate approximately $115 million to enhance rates for providers. Those enhanced rates would help increase access to health care services, he said, noting that more than half of Nebraska counties currently are defined as maternity care deserts.

“This bill is incredibly important to the future of health care in our state, especially in rural areas and especially for pregnant women and Nebraska children,” Jacobson said.

Following adoption of a technical amendment from the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee, senators voted 39-0 to advance LB527 from general file.

Lincoln, Ne - Lawmakers gave first-round approval Feb. 11 to a bill intended to increase Medicaid provider reimbursement rates without the use of general fund dollars. Modeled on a proposal approved by lawmakers last year to levy an assessment on all Nebraska hospitals, LB527, introduced by North Platte Sen. Mike Jacobson, would use a similar mechanism to levy an assessment on the state’s health maintenance organizations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739378841299.jpeg" alt="Mike Jacobsen - Nebraska Senator-District 42" />
 <figcaption>Mike Jacobsen - Nebraska Senator-District 42</figcaption>
 </figure>Under the bill, the state Department of Health and Human Services would be required to submit a state plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by Aug. 1, 2025.If approved, the state plan amendment would authorize collection of a 6% tax on all non-Medicare premiums written in Nebraska under an HMO certificate of authority, to be collected by the state Department of Insurance.Revenue generated by the tax would be remitted to a newly created Medicaid Access and Quality Fund. DHHS would use the fund to leverage federal matching dollars to enhance Medicaid reimbursement rates paid to nonhospital providers of physical health services, with an emphasis on evaluation and management, labor and delivery and rural health services.The fund also would be used to pay a monthly per-member fee of at least $75 to qualified primary care providers who meet criteria to serve as a primary care medical home for target populations. Any remaining funds would be used within the state’s Medicaid and CHIP programs.Jacobson said the bill, when combined with federal matching funds, would generate approximately $115 million to enhance rates for providers. Those enhanced rates would help increase access to health care services, he said, noting that more than half of Nebraska counties currently are defined as maternity care deserts.“This bill is incredibly important to the future of health care in our state, especially in rural areas and especially for pregnant women and Nebraska children,” Jacobson said.Following adoption of a technical amendment from the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee, senators voted 39-0 to advance LB527 from general file.

NE Lawmakers give First-Round Yes to Bill to Increase Medicaid Reimbursement Rates without General Fund Dollars

WASHINGTON —On Tuesday, President Donald Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that Witkoff left Russian airspace with Marc Fogel, an American who was detained by Russia since 2021, according to a statement from the White House.

President Trump, Witkoff and the President's advisors negotiated an exchange that serves as a show of good faith from Russia and a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the burtal and terrible war in Ukraine.

"Since President Trump's swearing-in, he has successfully secured the released of Americans around the world and he will continue until all Americans being held are returned to the United States."

Marc Fogel is expected to be back on American soil and reunited with family and loved ones tonight, according to the release.

WASHINGTON —On Tuesday, President Donald Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that Witkoff left Russian airspace with Marc Fogel, an American who was detained by Russia since 2021, according to a statement from the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WELCOME HOME, MARC!🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/0b2Igcqudp">pic.twitter.com/0b2Igcqudp</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1889529852757201368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WELCOME HOME, MARC!🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/0b2Igcqudp">pic.twitter.com/0b2Igcqudp</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1889529852757201368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MARC FOGEL IS BACK!!! 🇺🇸 PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!!! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ZMceoU0OfA">pic.twitter.com/ZMceoU0OfA</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1889505612792258637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739304767115.png" alt="Marc Fogel on the flight home from Russia on Tuesday-photo by Adam Boehler, United States Envoy for Hostages. " />
 <figcaption>Marc Fogel on the flight home from Russia on Tuesday-photo by Adam Boehler, United States Envoy for Hostages. </figcaption>
 </figure>President Trump, Witkoff and the President's advisors negotiated an exchange that serves as a show of good faith from Russia and a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the burtal and terrible war in Ukraine."Since President Trump's swearing-in, he has successfully secured the released of Americans around the world and he will continue until all Americans being held are returned to the United States."Marc Fogel is expected to be back on American soil and reunited with family and loved ones tonight, according to the release.

White House: American teacher freed from Russian prison is home

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/02/10/nebraska-lawmakers-hear-support-for-opening-unemployment-insurance-to-immigrant-dreamers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers are considering a legislative proposal that would put the state in sync with nearly all, if not all, other states in allowing access to unemployment insurance benefits to immigrants who have permission to work in the U.S. but who lack permanent residency.

The state’s current prohibition on the benefits applies to certain authorized immigrant workers despite the fact their employers pay unemployment insurance taxes on their behalf.

So-called “Dreamers,” who grew up in the U.S. after being brought here illegally as minors by their parents, are a primary population excluded from such benefits.

Nebraska Dreamers, legally in the U.S. as recipients of the Obama administration’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, were among the 10 people in the majority that testified Monday in support of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/109/PDF/Intro/LB299.pdf" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 299</a>&nbsp;at the Nebraska Capitol.

LB 299, the topic of a public hearing before the Legislature’s Business and Labor Committee, has bipartisan sponsorship. It was introduced by State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner, a Republican, and by State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, a Democrat.

We’re talking about Nebraska’s workforce shortage, and these individuals have been essential to filling in that workforce shortage and are in compliance with the federal laws.

– State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln

Zayra Navarrete, who has had DACA status since 2013 and works as a financial advisor in Hastings, told the committee she contributes to a pension, life insurance and unemployment benefits. She said she lives in fear that if unforeseen circumstances led to a job loss, she would not have the same lifeline as co-workers.

“I am constantly preparing alternatives for an emergency crisis,” Navarrete said, figuring out backup strategies that include taking out loans or selling personal assets.

She said the question of unemployment benefits for workers in her situation came to the forefront during COVID-19 — when some workers who were laid-off were not provided the same help to get by during the crescendo of the pandemic.

Said Navarrete: “Why is a state that is benefiting over $14 million in state and local taxes from DACA recipients not allowing us to access those funds?”

The National Immigration Law Center did not have a current comprehensive inventory of states with policies akin to LB 299. But Tanya Broder, senior counsel, said that most, if not all states, offer unemployment insurance benefits to immigrants in similar situations.

Nick Grandgenett, an attorney with Nebraska Appleseed, said the proposed legislation would benefit DACA recipients as well as asylum-seekers who have been granted work authorization while their requests are reviewed and others with Temporary Protected Status that is granted when returning to a person’s home country is unsafe due to natural disaster, extraordinary conditions or war.

The only person to testify in opposition to LB 299 on Monday was interim Labor Commissioner Katie Thurber, who noted that the measure essentially creates a new state definition for “eligible alien.”

She said that more than $400 million in tax credits is at stake.

For Nebraska to receive federal funds to help administer its unemployment program, the state must meet certain federal conformity requirements, Thurber said.

She said Nebraska has been given an advanced warning by the U.S. Department of Labor that, as drafted, LB 299 likely creates a conformity issue. She said her understanding is that the language is too broad, allowing benefits even if the immigrant lost legal authorization to work in the U.S.

Maintaining conformity under LB 299, she said, “becomes particularly concerning” given the uncertain future of DACA, depending on the results of an ongoing court battle.

Thurber’s objections prompted a firm challenge from committee member State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln.

“You know, Nebraska does have a conformity issue — a nonconformity issue,” Raybould said. “We were the very last state in the entire United States to allow our DACA qualified people to have a driver’s license. … We were the last state in the entire union to recognize the degrees they have achieved through their hard work at our own universities.”

Raybould said it is her understanding that Nebraska is the only state that does not allow DACA and certain other authorized immigrant workers access to unemployment benefits that their employers contribute to.

Thurber said she was not saying there aren’t “ways around” the nonconformity language, and noted that the Labor Department worked with State Sen. Mike McDonnell of Omaha on similar 2021 legislation that was never enacted.

She said, however, that as currently drafted, LB 299 could cost Nebraska employers more than $400 million in federal tax credits unless conformity questions are resolved.

Backing the proposed legislation Monday were groups such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/18/more-than-60-ne-entities-show-unified-front-to-update-laws-state-policies-that-help-immigrants/">Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities</a>&nbsp;and business organizations including the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Omaha and Lincoln Chambers of Commerce.

“We’re talking about Nebraska’s workforce shortage, and these individuals have been essential to filling in that workforce shortage and are in compliance with the federal laws,” said Raybould. “I find it really hard to believe that we in the state of Nebraska can not get it right like all the other 49 states have done to make sure we are in conformity … What are we doing wrong?”

Thurber, at the end of the back-and-forth, said she has offered assistance to Ibach to address the conformity issue.

State Sen. Kathleen Kauth, chair of the Business and Labor Committee, said 46 people wrote in support of the proposed legislation and eight were opposed.

The committee took no action on whether to advance the bill to debate by the full Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739297179070.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities, a coalition of labor unions, hospitals, banks, cattlemen and pork producers gather in September at the Capitol to proclaim that certain immigration policies and laws should be updated, partly to help address Nebraska’s workforce shortage. The alliance supported Legislative Bill 299, which was the topic of a public hearing Monday. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities, a coalition of labor unions, hospitals, banks, cattlemen and pork producers gather in September at the Capitol to proclaim that certain immigration policies and laws should be updated, partly to help address Nebraska’s workforce shortage. The alliance supported Legislative Bill 299, which was the topic of a public hearing Monday. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/02/10/nebraska-lawmakers-hear-support-for-opening-unemployment-insurance-to-immigrant-dreamers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers are considering a legislative proposal that would put the state in sync with nearly all, if not all, other states in allowing access to unemployment insurance benefits to immigrants who have permission to work in the U.S. but who lack permanent residency.The state’s current prohibition on the benefits applies to certain authorized immigrant workers despite the fact their employers pay unemployment insurance taxes on their behalf.So-called “Dreamers,” who grew up in the U.S. after being brought here illegally as minors by their parents, are a primary population excluded from such benefits.Nebraska Dreamers, legally in the U.S. as recipients of the Obama administration’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, were among the 10 people in the majority that testified Monday in support of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/109/PDF/Intro/LB299.pdf" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 299</a>&nbsp;at the Nebraska Capitol.<h2>Bipartisan support</h2>LB 299, the topic of a public hearing before the Legislature’s Business and Labor Committee, has bipartisan sponsorship. It was introduced by State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner, a Republican, and by State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, a Democrat.We’re talking about Nebraska’s workforce shortage, and these individuals have been essential to filling in that workforce shortage and are in compliance with the federal laws.– State Sen. Jane Raybould of LincolnZayra Navarrete, who has had DACA status since 2013 and works as a financial advisor in Hastings, told the committee she contributes to a pension, life insurance and unemployment benefits. She said she lives in fear that if unforeseen circumstances led to a job loss, she would not have the same lifeline as co-workers.“I am constantly preparing alternatives for an emergency crisis,” Navarrete said, figuring out backup strategies that include taking out loans or selling personal assets.She said the question of unemployment benefits for workers in her situation came to the forefront during COVID-19 — when some workers who were laid-off were not provided the same help to get by during the crescendo of the pandemic.Said Navarrete: “Why is a state that is benefiting over $14 million in state and local taxes from DACA recipients not allowing us to access those funds?”The National Immigration Law Center did not have a current comprehensive inventory of states with policies akin to LB 299. But Tanya Broder, senior counsel, said that most, if not all states, offer unemployment insurance benefits to immigrants in similar situations.Nick Grandgenett, an attorney with Nebraska Appleseed, said the proposed legislation would benefit DACA recipients as well as asylum-seekers who have been granted work authorization while their requests are reviewed and others with Temporary Protected Status that is granted when returning to a person’s home country is unsafe due to natural disaster, extraordinary conditions or war.<h2>Labor Department objects</h2>The only person to testify in opposition to LB 299 on Monday was interim Labor Commissioner Katie Thurber, who noted that the measure essentially creates a new state definition for “eligible alien.”She said that more than $400 million in tax credits is at stake.For Nebraska to receive federal funds to help administer its unemployment program, the state must meet certain federal conformity requirements, Thurber said.She said Nebraska has been given an advanced warning by the U.S. Department of Labor that, as drafted, LB 299 likely creates a conformity issue. She said her understanding is that the language is too broad, allowing benefits even if the immigrant lost legal authorization to work in the U.S.Maintaining conformity under LB 299, she said, “becomes particularly concerning” given the uncertain future of DACA, depending on the results of an ongoing court battle.Thurber’s objections prompted a firm challenge from committee member State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln.“You know, Nebraska does have a conformity issue — a nonconformity issue,” Raybould said. “We were the very last state in the entire United States to allow our DACA qualified people to have a driver’s license. … We were the last state in the entire union to recognize the degrees they have achieved through their hard work at our own universities.”Raybould said it is her understanding that Nebraska is the only state that does not allow DACA and certain other authorized immigrant workers access to unemployment benefits that their employers contribute to.Thurber said she was not saying there aren’t “ways around” the nonconformity language, and noted that the Labor Department worked with State Sen. Mike McDonnell of Omaha on similar 2021 legislation that was never enacted.She said, however, that as currently drafted, LB 299 could cost Nebraska employers more than $400 million in federal tax credits unless conformity questions are resolved.<h2>Business support</h2>Backing the proposed legislation Monday were groups such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/18/more-than-60-ne-entities-show-unified-front-to-update-laws-state-policies-that-help-immigrants/">Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities</a>&nbsp;and business organizations including the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Omaha and Lincoln Chambers of Commerce.“We’re talking about Nebraska’s workforce shortage, and these individuals have been essential to filling in that workforce shortage and are in compliance with the federal laws,” said Raybould. “I find it really hard to believe that we in the state of Nebraska can not get it right like all the other 49 states have done to make sure we are in conformity … What are we doing wrong?”Thurber, at the end of the back-and-forth, said she has offered assistance to Ibach to address the conformity issue.State Sen. Kathleen Kauth, chair of the Business and Labor Committee, said 46 people wrote in support of the proposed legislation and eight were opposed.The committee took no action on whether to advance the bill to debate by the full Legislature.

Nebraska Lawmakers Hear Support for Opening Unemployment Insurance to Immigrant ‘Dreamers’

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/02/11/face-to-face-nsea-president-school-choice-laws-author-debate-future-of-nebraska-education/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Months after a tense election cycle to repeal the state’s two latest school choice laws, the former state senator who wrote those bills and the current president of the state teacher’s union spent Saturday debating the future of education policy, with a focus on Nebraska students in need.

Lou Ann Linehan, the former state senator for the Elkhorn area, and Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, sat side by side for the&nbsp;<a href="https://nelegisbrief.org/" target="_blank">50th annual Nebraska Ecumenical Legislative Briefing Day</a>&nbsp;at Christ United Methodist Church in Lincoln.

They debated school choice and more for about an hour, offering competing visions for what the next steps should be to change the “status quo.”

The pair have crossed paths in and out of the Legislature, often clashing in recent years in Linehan’s two committees: Revenue and Education. Royers was past president of the Millard Education Association, and Linehan chaired the Revenue Committee for six years.

Beyond policy disagreements, the two have found common ground in Linehan-led and teacher-backed efforts to increase support for students struggling with reading, including dyslexia, which Linehan has, and to increase state funding for schools, largely to offset the amount of school spending relying on property taxes.

Linehan also assisted Royers, a civics and government teacher for Millard before ascending to the top NSEA post last fall, by personally replying in writing to students or otherwise engaging with them on assignments and presentations that Royers devised.

Most recently, Linehan and Royers were among the public faces of Nebraska’s school choice “battle,” as Linehan described it Saturday, hosting&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/29/not-in-nebraska-public-school-advocates-rally-against-opportunity-scholarship-bill/">dueling</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/10/29/lawmakers-public-school-advocates-spar-over-ads-against-using-state-funds-for-ne-private-schools/">rallies</a>&nbsp;for and against Linehan’s past laws.

It was a fight that sometimes got personal, including Linehan questioning whether the union had the best interests of children or families at heart and the union pointing out Linehan’s familial connection to the American Federation for Children. Her daughter works for the group.

Linehan, who was term-limited last month after eight years, led the passage of two laws in her final two years to help Nebraska families cover the costs of attending a private K-12 school, after multiple earlier attempts.

“I’ve always been able to choose and pick [what was best for my children] because I had the financial ability and the knowledge to do so, and I don’t think that choice should be limited to just those with means,” Linehan said Saturday.

NSEA-backed Support Our Schools and Linehan-backed Keep Kids First raised and spent more than $9 million combined, for and against the referendum measures in 2023 and 2024. Support Our Schools accounted for 83% of that total fundraising and spending. A key reason for the imbalance: Linehan and her supporters largely declined to fight the 2024 referendum.

Royers said&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/07/lawmakers-probe-special-education-option-enrollment-among-nebraska-school-districts/">option enrollment</a>, which allows parents to apply and possibly move their child to a different district or school than the one they live closest to, gives parents a choice in public schools, which Linehan supports.&nbsp;

However, she has criticized option enrollment for leaving some students behind, particularly those receiving special education or those who can’t afford transportation to a different school or district.

If there’s an issue with a neighborhood school, those should be resolved first, Royers said. He said he and Linehan have a “philosophical disagreement” on how best to meet the needs of Nebraska students.

“All of those kids deserve to have the education they should need,” Royers said. “It shouldn’t just be that we provide a lifeboat to a handful of kids to go somewhere else.”

The annual Ecumenical Briefing Day focuses on the assumption that part of living under God’s grace means “fighting for justice for those oppressed or in need whose voices go unheard.”

Linehan and Royers also weighed in on how to best support underperforming schools, what possible ramifications could come of federal calls to abolish the U.S. Department of Education and whether chaplains should be allowed to serve as school counselors.

Among NSEA’s main concerns that Royers voiced Saturday:

“Does that mean if we removed ‘approved’ and it was just ‘accredited,’ that you would support it?” Linehan asked Royers.

“I would be more comfortable with it, how about that,” he said.

Royers said the laws also come as some attempt to privatize the education system and profit off of it. However, he said, he doesn’t think that is Linehan’s goal.

“Even though I fundamentally disagree with the solution she’s advocating for, I fundamentally do believe that she believes this is in the best interest of kids,” Royers said.

About 57% of voters rejected Linehan’s latest school choice law in November, Legislative Bill 1402, an annual $10 million appropriation to the State Treasurer’s office to distribute funds to families to offset private school attendance costs. It was the fourth time Nebraska voters have rejected school choice proposals at the ballot box.

Her successor, State Sen. Tony Sorrentino, has introduced a bill to revive the 2023 version of Linehan’s school choice law, LB 753, which set aside $25 million in dollar-for-dollar income tax credits to offset private donations to organizations funding scholarships for students seeking to attend private K-12 schools. Linehan repealed the 2023 version in favor of the direct scholarship or voucher program last year.

Sorrentino’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59783" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 509</a>&nbsp;is joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59768" target="_blank">LB 624</a>&nbsp;from State Sen. Rob Dover of Norfolk, which would&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/hope-omaha-mother-daughters-call-to-revive-nebraska-school-choice-law/">revive the new scholarship or voucher program</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/12/medical-cannabis-paid-sick-leave-abortion-restrictions-and-school-choice-repeal-take-effect/">voters repealed in November</a>. Both are among&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/nebraska-school-choice-supporters-opponents-ready-for-another-rematch/">at least seven school choice bills</a>&nbsp;in the 2025 legislative session.

Much of the union’s hesitation and pushback has less to do with what the proposal is now, Royers said, and more to do with what it could become and “the door that could open.” He said that concern grows with Linehan no longer in the Legislature because he understands Linehan’s intent with her legislation. Similar laws in other states have started at a similar scale, scope and focus and have grown, he explained.&nbsp;

I’ve always been able to choose and pick (what was best for my children) because I had the financial ability and the knowledge to do so, and I don’t think that choice should be limited to just those with means.

– Former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan

Linehan said that if students are leaving any school in droves, it should raise questions.&nbsp;<a href="http://v/" target="_blank">Some families can’t afford to leave</a>&nbsp;and might not feel like they have the power to demand change, she said, pointing to parts of the Omaha Public Schools, where she said some schools have underperformed “for two or three generations.”

“If you are poor and you are afraid somebody might come and take your kids away from you, you don’t go to school and demand answers,” Linehan said.

Asked by an audience member about the next steps for underperforming schools, Royers agreed with Linehan that many decisions reside in the Nebraska Department of Education.

Linehan said it is up to the department and the State Board of Education to accredit schools, but she said it’s right to question why schools that are failing are still being accredited or receiving more state aid per-student aid than others that are performing better.

“It’s not always just money,” Linehan said of solutions.

Royers said he needs to do better in voicing alternatives to Linehan’s approach, which he said Saturday is the “<a href="https://www.nea.org/student-success/great-public-schools/community-schools/what-are-they" target="_blank">community school model</a>.” It seeks to tailor services and supports specifically for each neighborhood, decentralizing decision-making and bringing in parents with a voting voice to “help steer the school in the right direction to meet the needs of their kids.”

“It’s not a cookie cutter answer, because the fundamental principle is it should be tailored to whatever the needs of the community are,” Royers said.

All of those kids deserve to have the education they should need. It shouldn’t just be that we provide a lifeboat to a handful of kids to go somewhere else.

– Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association

Linehan said she is “so proud” of Sorrentino, who she said “just ran in there” and said, “I’m going to do this.” She said it takes a lot of nerve and is very hard to take on the teacher’s union.

“The Education Committee in the Legislature is one of the most important committees there is. And if you’re a Republican, a conservative, and you’re for choice, and you put yourself on that committee, you’re putting a bull’s-eye on your back, and it’s not right,” Linehan said. “We can help all kids, and I’ve always wanted to help all kids.”

Royers said that while the two disagree on how, he and Linehan are united in wanting to help students.

“Where I think we do have common ground is both of us are unhappy with the status quo,” Royers said. “We just fundamentally disagree on what the solution is to the status quo.”

Both Royers and Linehan bristled at the suggestion of having chaplains serve as school counselors, a proposal advanced by State Sen. Loren Lippincott of Central City in 2024 and proposed again in LB 549 in 2025. The new bill would allow a clergy member to serve at a school in a volunteer capacity, such as providing academic, career, emotional or behavioral health support.

Royers said that while he’s had important pastors in his life, they’re not trained to be counselors.&nbsp;

“To imply that those two are the same, candidly, in my mind is insulting to both counselors and religious leaders,” Royers said.

Counselors also take up coordination of federal Section 504 support plans for students, Royers said. It is a second tier of special education services with a lower qualifying threshold than individualized education plans (IEPs).

Linehan said she hasn’t read the new bill, but she remembers part of the 2024 push was for schools without counselors or other needed teachers in rural Nebraska, which could be helpful. She said she didn’t disagree with Royers’ concerns.

“If you’re going to be a counselor, you need education that says you’re a counselor,” Linehan said.

Some of the biggest cheers for both debaters came from an audience question on the possible ramifications to Nebraska schools of President Donald Trump, tech billionaire Elon Musk “and their kind” who have pushed ideas including the abolishment of the U.S. Department of Education.

Royers said if anybody tried to give a definitive answer right now “they’re wrong,” because while there is a lot of rhetoric that sounds alarming, it “really doesn’t have a lot of teeth behind it.” For example, he said, eliminating the federal department would require an act of Congress.&nbsp;

He predicted that once people realize the department’s role as a distributor of resources with little influence on curriculum, abolishing it will face bipartisan opposition, as it did last year. Royers said eliminating the department would diminish certain financial accountability measures in place for federal dollars, such as requiring compliance with federal special education laws.

“Right now, it just feels overwhelming and you have to play almost a sense of policy triage, otherwise you mentally won’t get through these next four years, just to be candid with you,” Royers said. “You have to prioritize what’s the most immediate concern.”

Linehan said she had breakfast Thursday with a very conservative friend who similarly questioned federal actions in recent weeks and called it “crazy.”

“It is crazy, and I agree with Tim,” Linehan said. “The president of the United States can’t just do things. He can’t just fire people. He can’t just do away with departments. He’s got to deal with Congress.”

Linehan worked in Washington, D.C., for 12 years, including as campaign manager and later chief of staff for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/05/24/nebraska-leads-with-new-veteran-justice-program-aiming-to-steer-veterans-back-to-hero-status/">former U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel</a>, R-Neb. She later worked in the U.S. Department of State in various roles, including deputy assistant secretary. She said it’s hard to get anything done in Washington.&nbsp;

Linehan said Trump is “showboating a bit” to let people feel like he’ll get something done.&nbsp;

With a flood of information, she also offered her personal solution: “I do not listen to the blah, blah, blah on TV … It’s not healthy.”

Linehan also earned a laugh when she said at one point, “I am never running again, you can tell by some of my answers.”

Royers similarly suggested self-reflection on reactions to political developments, noting that negativity draws more attention. He said more people engaged with the NSEA on social media posts regarding school choice than when the union discussed the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/nsea-lawmakers-outline-2025-priorities-after-survey-of-nearly-10000-nebraska-teachers/">priorities of its teachers</a>. He said getting engagement on those other issues is “like pulling teeth.”

“We’ve gotten very good at getting fired up about something we don’t like,” Royers said.&nbsp;

He continued: “It’s a choice to always focus on things that get you fired up in the wrong way, and we still need to be vigilant about these things, don’t get me wrong, but at a certain point, we’re just eating ourselves up.”

Most recent ‘school choice’ laws and latest proposals

LB 753 (2023)&nbsp;—&nbsp;The “Opportunity Scholarships Act” from State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan. It created dollar-for-dollar income tax credits for individuals who donated to newly established scholarship granting organizations. The annual cap was $25 million in credits, which could grow to $100 million each year over time, if there was high demand. Passed 33-11 in May 2023. The Support Our Schools campaign gathered enough signatures to place a repeal of the law on the November 2024 ballot, raising and spending more than $1.8 million to do so. The Keep Kids First campaign, backed by Linehan, raised and spent more than $1.4 million against the signature-gathering effort.

LB 1402 (2024)&nbsp;—&nbsp;The second similar school choice law from Linehan. It created an annual $10 million program in the State Treasurer’s Office for $10 million in education scholarships or vouchers. The bill repealed LB 753, ending the active repeal efforts. Passed 32-15 in April 2024. The Support Our Schools campaign gathered enough signatures to place a repeal of the law on the November 2024 ballot, raising and spending more than $5.6 million to do so. The Linehan-backed Keep Kids First campaign raised about $86,000 and spent $127,000 opposing the referendum effort. The repeal passed at the ballot box with about 57% support, receiving majority support in 45 of the state’s 49 legislative districts.

LB 509 (2025) and LB 624 (2025)&nbsp;—&nbsp;LB 509, from State Sen. Tony Sorrentino, Linehan’s successor, would nearly word-for-word revive the Opportunity Scholarships Act. LB 624, from State Sen. Rob Dover, would revive LB 1402 in the State Treasurer’s Office. Other bills in 2025 seek to enact school choice policies, such as through option enrollment (LB 557, State Sen. Christy Armendariz of Omaha; LB 633, State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair), educational savings accounts (LB 131, Sorrentino; LB 427, State Sen. Bob Andersen of Omaha) or limiting such state support for foster care youths (LB 481, State Sen. Beau Ballard of Lincoln).