<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/20/nu-regents-approve-inflationary-tuition-increases-millions-in-cuts-for-2024-25-budget/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted 5-2 Thursday to approve next year’s budget with inflationary tuition increases meant to help wipe out a lingering budget deficit.

The approved&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraska.edu/docs/board/agendas/Agenda%206-20-24%20with%20Materials.pdf">$1.1 billion state-aided budget</a>, made up of taxpayer dollars and tuition, will raise the cost of attendance between 3.2% and 3.4% across NU’s campuses. Campus leaders will need to find an additional $11.8 million to cut from their budgets in the next year, too, after cutting about $30 million in the past two fiscal years. Cuts haven’t been identified yet.

An additional $3.1 million that has bubbled up because of inflation will not be reallocated to the campuses and must be absorbed by next summer as well.

Interim NU President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as NU’s chief financial officer, said the “reasonable” steps are expected to end an approximate $50 million budget deficit that NU has been looking to close for about 18 months.

“We could have stuck our head in the sand, but instead we dealt with it,” said Regent Tim Clare of Lincoln, who was board chair in 2023 when the most recent cuts began.

Tuition ‘somewhat of a double hit’&nbsp;

Campus chancellors, student regents and many elected regents joined Kabourek to defend&nbsp; the tuition increases, arguing they still kept rates affordable compared to other Big Ten universities.&nbsp;

Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City said she could have supported smaller tuition increases, but not when families are already paying more on everything, including in state dollars to NU.&nbsp;

“To me, the families have already chipped in because they’re paying the taxes and things that we turn to the Legislature and everybody for,” Wilmot said. “Then, when we ask those students from those families to chip in again, I feel that’s somewhat of a double hit.”

Regents voted to increase tuition across the board 3.5% in 2023 for the first time in multiple years, after they had voted to keep rates flat for three years during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regent Jim Scheer of Norfolk, a former speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, said tuition is a small part of the total NU budget (about 34%). He said the increases “may not be fair, Kathy, but that’s life.”

“I do think it’s only equitable that the students and their families participate in those additional funds because they’re going to receive the direct benefit,” Scheer said.

Scheer added that Nebraskans would benefit generally from the increased investments, such as through improved medical, legal or accounting services.

The other “no” vote came from Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, the board chair, who said the university shouldn’t fund any diversity, equity or inclusion initiatives or programs, especially as other degree opportunities and employment positions are eliminated.

Schafer said he’d like all DEI-related funding to be invested in teaching or research.

“We need to recruit and have folks — diversity — here, but we shouldn’t be using tax dollars to fund and promote certain races or genders above others,” Schafer said. “It ought to be a fair and level and equal playing field for all.”

Asked whether he’s seen the promotion of one race or gender at NU campuses, Schafer said: “Just the fact that we have funding and we’re promoting different things, I think there’s some things that we could just do better.”

Roughly $1 million of the $1.1 billion state-aided budget is annually spent on such programs, or about 0.1%, according to an NU spokesperson. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln cut $800,000 from its Office of Diversity and Inclusion last year, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney similarly cut $90,000 from its budget.

Campus chancellors said the funding is used for diversity offices but also to support students or staff who might be first generation, veterans, active military or have disabilities, as examples.

UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett told regents that “as we think about our future in light of the environment that we’re in,” his campus is in ongoing talks about how to reimagine DEI-related work.

Bennett told the Examiner this is about how UNL can approach modifications or additions that might help the campus better serve its community. It’s too early to know what that will look like, he said, adding that “everything is sort of up for consideration,” including reductions or reprioritizing funds.

“I’d like for us to be positioned in an offensive mode as opposed to playing defense,” Bennett said.

State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, sought to prohibit DEI-related funding at Nebraska colleges this year. Kabourek, on behalf of NU, testified against the bill. It never advanced from committee.

Bennett said the programs will continue to belong at UNL as students must be prepared to understand different multicultural, socioeconomic, geographic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.

“I think for our students to really be competitive and be job ready on Day One, having some appreciation in being able to embrace the workforce is really going to be important,” Bennett said.

Several regents and Kabourek said the budget could mean a renewed focus on investments rather than the cuts and tuition increases that have defined past budget cycles.&nbsp;

One such investment, through taxpayer dollars, will be $15 million for recruiting and operating costs for the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex at UNK.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/more-of-nebraskas-top-test-scorers-choose-nu-for-new-presidential-scholars-program/">Presidential Scholars Program</a>&nbsp;is also slated to expand through a $1.5 million investment to support 50 students each year. The program, launched in February, covers the cost of attendance for Nebraska resident students who ace the 36-point ACT or score similarly on the SAT. These students also receive an annual $5,000 stipend and campus-led programming.

Seventeen students will be part of the first class this fall, and NU expects to launch an application process for students who score a 32-35 on the ACT to apply beginning next year.

“We want every young person who has a dream to think about how the University of Nebraska can help them pursue that,” Kabourek said.

The balanced budget, a top goal for the interim president, should give President-elect Jeffrey Gold a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/13/nu-proposes-inflationary-tuition-increases-to-help-close-budget-deficit/#:~:text=Proposed%20tuition%20increases%20would%20gather,for%20average%2015%2Dcredit%20semesters.">clean slate</a>” to focus on his own priorities when he takes office July 1. The current UNMC chancellor and NU chief academic officer will take the helm with $1.5 million under his belt for priorities of his choosing.

Gold said new donors want a structurally balanced budget to invest in excellence and not help NU dig out of difficult recurring financial challenges, and he said the new budget “sets that stage.”

He signaled that competing for readmittance into the Association of American Universities will remain a top goal that NU will win in the end.

“Indeed, coming at this with a structurally sound budget, coming at it with an opportunity to invest in excellence, is relatively precedent-setting among the 70-some odd institutions that are currently members of the AAU,” Gold said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718976956548.jpeg" alt=" Interim University of Nebraska President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as the university’s chief financial officer, leads his final regents meeting that includes approval of NU’s 2024-25 operating budget. June 20, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Interim University of Nebraska President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as the university’s chief financial officer, leads his final regents meeting that includes approval of NU’s 2024-25 operating budget. June 20, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/20/nu-regents-approve-inflationary-tuition-increases-millions-in-cuts-for-2024-25-budget/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted 5-2 Thursday to approve next year’s budget with inflationary tuition increases meant to help wipe out a lingering budget deficit.The approved&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraska.edu/docs/board/agendas/Agenda%206-20-24%20with%20Materials.pdf">$1.1 billion state-aided budget</a>, made up of taxpayer dollars and tuition, will raise the cost of attendance between 3.2% and 3.4% across NU’s campuses. Campus leaders will need to find an additional $11.8 million to cut from their budgets in the next year, too, after cutting about $30 million in the past two fiscal years. Cuts haven’t been identified yet.An additional $3.1 million that has bubbled up because of inflation will not be reallocated to the campuses and must be absorbed by next summer as well.Interim NU President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as NU’s chief financial officer, said the “reasonable” steps are expected to end an approximate $50 million budget deficit that NU has been looking to close for about 18 months.“We could have stuck our head in the sand, but instead we dealt with it,” said Regent Tim Clare of Lincoln, who was board chair in 2023 when the most recent cuts began.<h2>Tuition ‘somewhat of a double hit’&nbsp;</h2>Campus chancellors, student regents and many elected regents joined Kabourek to defend&nbsp; the tuition increases, arguing they still kept rates affordable compared to other Big Ten universities.&nbsp;Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City said she could have supported smaller tuition increases, but not when families are already paying more on everything, including in state dollars to NU.&nbsp;“To me, the families have already chipped in because they’re paying the taxes and things that we turn to the Legislature and everybody for,” Wilmot said. “Then, when we ask those students from those families to chip in again, I feel that’s somewhat of a double hit.”Regents voted to increase tuition across the board 3.5% in 2023 for the first time in multiple years, after they had voted to keep rates flat for three years during the COVID-19 pandemic.Regent Jim Scheer of Norfolk, a former speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, said tuition is a small part of the total NU budget (about 34%). He said the increases “may not be fair, Kathy, but that’s life.”“I do think it’s only equitable that the students and their families participate in those additional funds because they’re going to receive the direct benefit,” Scheer said.Scheer added that Nebraskans would benefit generally from the increased investments, such as through improved medical, legal or accounting services.<h2>Opposition to DEI initiatives, programs</h2>The other “no” vote came from Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, the board chair, who said the university shouldn’t fund any diversity, equity or inclusion initiatives or programs, especially as other degree opportunities and employment positions are eliminated.Schafer said he’d like all DEI-related funding to be invested in teaching or research.“We need to recruit and have folks — diversity — here, but we shouldn’t be using tax dollars to fund and promote certain races or genders above others,” Schafer said. “It ought to be a fair and level and equal playing field for all.”Asked whether he’s seen the promotion of one race or gender at NU campuses, Schafer said: “Just the fact that we have funding and we’re promoting different things, I think there’s some things that we could just do better.”Roughly $1 million of the $1.1 billion state-aided budget is annually spent on such programs, or about 0.1%, according to an NU spokesperson. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln cut $800,000 from its Office of Diversity and Inclusion last year, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney similarly cut $90,000 from its budget.Campus chancellors said the funding is used for diversity offices but also to support students or staff who might be first generation, veterans, active military or have disabilities, as examples.<h2>‘Offensive mode’ to prepare students</h2>UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett told regents that “as we think about our future in light of the environment that we’re in,” his campus is in ongoing talks about how to reimagine DEI-related work.Bennett told the Examiner this is about how UNL can approach modifications or additions that might help the campus better serve its community. It’s too early to know what that will look like, he said, adding that “everything is sort of up for consideration,” including reductions or reprioritizing funds.“I’d like for us to be positioned in an offensive mode as opposed to playing defense,” Bennett said.State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, sought to prohibit DEI-related funding at Nebraska colleges this year. Kabourek, on behalf of NU, testified against the bill. It never advanced from committee.Bennett said the programs will continue to belong at UNL as students must be prepared to understand different multicultural, socioeconomic, geographic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.“I think for our students to really be competitive and be job ready on Day One, having some appreciation in being able to embrace the workforce is really going to be important,” Bennett said.<h2>Budget investments</h2>Several regents and Kabourek said the budget could mean a renewed focus on investments rather than the cuts and tuition increases that have defined past budget cycles.&nbsp;One such investment, through taxpayer dollars, will be $15 million for recruiting and operating costs for the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex at UNK.The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/more-of-nebraskas-top-test-scorers-choose-nu-for-new-presidential-scholars-program/">Presidential Scholars Program</a>&nbsp;is also slated to expand through a $1.5 million investment to support 50 students each year. The program, launched in February, covers the cost of attendance for Nebraska resident students who ace the 36-point ACT or score similarly on the SAT. These students also receive an annual $5,000 stipend and campus-led programming.Seventeen students will be part of the first class this fall, and NU expects to launch an application process for students who score a 32-35 on the ACT to apply beginning next year.“We want every young person who has a dream to think about how the University of Nebraska can help them pursue that,” Kabourek said.<h2>Next NU president starts July 1</h2>The balanced budget, a top goal for the interim president, should give President-elect Jeffrey Gold a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/13/nu-proposes-inflationary-tuition-increases-to-help-close-budget-deficit/#:~:text=Proposed%20tuition%20increases%20would%20gather,for%20average%2015%2Dcredit%20semesters.">clean slate</a>” to focus on his own priorities when he takes office July 1. The current UNMC chancellor and NU chief academic officer will take the helm with $1.5 million under his belt for priorities of his choosing.Gold said new donors want a structurally balanced budget to invest in excellence and not help NU dig out of difficult recurring financial challenges, and he said the new budget “sets that stage.”He signaled that competing for readmittance into the Association of American Universities will remain a top goal that NU will win in the end.“Indeed, coming at this with a structurally sound budget, coming at it with an opportunity to invest in excellence, is relatively precedent-setting among the 70-some odd institutions that are currently members of the AAU,” Gold said.

NU Regents approve inflationary tuition increases, millions in cuts for 2024-25 budget

HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.

James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.

Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp;

First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old Gary Weaver and a 71-year-old Mary Weaver both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; Gary Weaver died of his injuries and Mary Weaver was reported in critical condition..

Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and arrested Thompson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718978922466.png" alt="Thompson photo Hall Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Thompson photo Hall Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp;First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old Gary Weaver and a 71-year-old Mary Weaver both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; Gary Weaver died of his injuries and Mary Weaver was reported in critical condition..Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and arrested Thompson.

Sheriff IDs Mo. couple in deadly knife attack at Nebraska highway rest area

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.

On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.

CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.

There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.

In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

U.S. Airstrike in Syria kills senior ISIS official

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is announcing the appointments made to boards and commissions from January 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024.

A list of current board and commission openings can be found on the Governor’s website (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>), along with instructions for completing an application.

Advisory Committee on Developmental Disabilities

Cathy Clark-Martinez, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mark Shriver, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bradley Lubben, Eagle&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Daniel Thiele, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virlyn Bolte, Henderson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards

Roger Figard, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell Kreachbaum Jr., Central City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Quentin Brown, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barbara Pretends Eagle, Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Susan Baker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

County Attorney Standards Advisory Council

Breanna Flaherty, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robert Bowen, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brian Kruse, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lynn Mayhew, Grand Island&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

James Theiler, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brad Bird, Blair&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kurt Bogner, Norfolk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seth Harder, Plainview&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judicial Nominating Commission for the County and District Courts - 6th Judicial District

Scott Olson, Tekamah&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Les Shallberg, Fremont&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judicial Nominating Commission for the District Court – 10th&nbsp;Judicial District

Judicial Nominating Commission for the Worker's Compensation Court

Joesph Wilcox, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Michael Selk, Oakland&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Shadle, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scott Smathers, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kennon Meyer, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ryan Morgan, Chadron&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is announcing the appointments made to boards and commissions from January 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024.A list of current board and commission openings can be found on the Governor’s website (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>), along with instructions for completing an application.Advisory Committee on Developmental DisabilitiesCathy Clark-Martinez, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Shriver, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kristen Larsen, LincolnBrent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashley Hansen, Bertrand&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning Farmer BoardWade Thornburg, Pickrell&nbsp;&nbsp;Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bradley Lubben, Eagle&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brit Anderson, GothenburgJohn Walvoord, Waterloo&nbsp;&nbsp;Board of Barber ExaminersTara Sterns, LincolnBoard of Engineers and ArchitectsBrett Foley, DentonDaniel Thiele, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brian Kelly, OmahaBoard of Examiners for Land SurveyorsVirlyn Bolte, Henderson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mary Pro, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeremy Feusner, HoldregeBoard of Public Roads Classifications and StandardsBrandon Varilek, RaymondRoger Figard, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell Kreachbaum Jr., Central City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Steven Rames, WayneBoiler Safety Code Advisory BoardSteven Bley, NehawkaCoalition for Juvenile JusticeNandi Kumondan, Lincoln&nbsp;Commission on African American AffairsQuentin Brown, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Malinda Williams, Omaha&nbsp;Dorothy Johnson, Omaha&nbsp;Commission on Indian AffairsKyle Taylor, NorfolkSidney Tuttle Sr., NiobraraBarbara Pretends Eagle, Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Susan Baker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;William Johnson Jr., ElkhornCounty Attorney Standards Advisory CouncilBreanna Flaherty, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Robert Bowen, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marvin Kohout, DorchesterElizabeth Waterman, LexingtonDouglas County Election CommissionerBrian Kruse, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Education Commission of the StatesJohn Spatz, LincolnMichael Baumgartner, LincolnEnhanced Wireless 911 Advisory BoardJames Davidsaver, LincolnBenjamin Backus, Gering&nbsp;Neil Miller, KearneyWilliam Muldoon, OmahaEnvironmental Quality CouncilJill Becker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Lynn Mayhew, Grand Island&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;James Theiler, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Bird, Blair&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allison Willis, OmahaMarty Stange, JuniataKurt Bogner, Norfolk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seth Harder, Plainview&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Game and Parks CommissionDonna Kush, OmahaInvestment CouncilGail Werner-Robertson, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;Judicial Nominating Commission for the County and District Courts - 6th Judicial DistrictScott Olson, Tekamah&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Les Shallberg, Fremont&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Judicial Nominating Commission for the District Court – 10th&nbsp;Judicial DistrictKathy Tessman, HastingsJena Cerveny, HastingsRobert Butz, HoldregeJudicial Nominating Commission for the Worker's Compensation CourtJoesph Wilcox, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeanette Jackson, ColumbusMichael Selk, Oakland&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kathryn Eidenmiller, LincolnNatural Resources CommissionJohn Shadle, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rick Kubat, OmahaBradley Dunbar, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scott Smathers, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stanley Clouse, Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;Kennon Meyer, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry Mohrman, ColumbusNebraska Aeronautics CommissionThomas Trumble, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Jon Large, Bennet&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Arts CouncilJeanne Salerno, OmahaNebraska Board of GeologistsRyan Morgan, Chadron&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Caroline Burberry, LincolnNebraska Brand CommitteeBrenda Masek, PurdumChristopher Gentry, HyannisNebraska Capitol CommissionKatherine Spohn, Friend&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually ImpairedPatricia Schonlau, Bellevue&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Miguel Rocha, Scottsbluff&nbsp;Brent Heyen, LincolnNebraska Commission on Problem GamblingKelly Lambert, Trumbull&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cameron Arch, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Claudia Moore, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Todd Zohner, StantonDan Volnek, LincolnPaul Leckband, NorfolkNebraska Council on Developmental DisabilitiesJoe Valenti, OmahaBrent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashley Hansen, Bertrand&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Commission of Industrial RelationsSpencer Hartman, Lincoln&nbsp;Nebraska Commission on Latino-AmericansAida Evans, Hastings&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaime Suarez, OmahaNebraska Crime CommissionSteven Russell, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryan Waugh, Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Todd Schmaderer, OmahaKevin Spencer, Gering&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn Eatherton, KearneyJeffrey Davis, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thomas McBride, LincolnNebraska Nuclear and Hydrogen Industry Work Group – Hydrogen IndustryJennifer Kroger, LincolnNebraska Real Property Appraiser BoardDerek Minshull, North PlatteNebraska State Board of Public AccountancyDonald Neal Jr., Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Melissa Ruff, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Council for the Interstate Compact for Adult Offender SupervisionSally Reinhardt-Stewart, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Electrical BoardMichael Hunsberger, Broken BowDon Gerjevic, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stephen Farrington, ElkhornNebraska State Historical SocietyJack Berg, BridgeportPolice Standards Advisory CouncilSteven Reeves, North Platte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jason Stille, LincolnPostsecondary EducationDeborah Frison, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Timothy Daniels, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;Dennis Headrick, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;LeDonna Griffin, OmahaPublic Employees Retirement BoardJanis Elliott, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Riparian Vegetation Management Task ForceMichael Reed, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry Heyen, Ceresco&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Kanger, LincolnLance Philben, Long Pine&nbsp;Andrew Tonnies, North Bend&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Edgerton, CambridgeKatheryn Hickle, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Athletic CommissionAaron Hendry, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Board of HealthJ Paul Cook, OmahaBrett Lindau, Broken Bow&nbsp;Connie Lynn Peterson, Hastings&nbsp;Jeffery Wienke, Raymond&nbsp;State College System Board of TrusteesChristopher Jennings, O'NeillState Racing and Gaming CommissionHelen Abbott Feller, WisnerState Records BoardSean Blocher, Elkhorn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Maloley, OmahaStudent Trustee – State College SystemBraxton Dalton, Raymond&nbsp;Cayla Schuster, Peru&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alec Langan, ChadronTax Equalization and Review CommissionSteven Keetle, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacqueline Russell, HastingsVeterans Advisory CommissionJohn Liebsack, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Gov. Pillen Announces Appointments to Boards & Commissions

&nbsp;HALL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly stabbing of a Missouri man during an attempted robbery at a rest area on Interstate 80 in Nebraska.

Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp; 

First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman, both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; The man died of his injuries and the woman was reported in critical condition..

Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and were able to make an arrest of a 22-year-old man from Elyria, Ohio.&nbsp;

Police have not released the names of the victims.

&nbsp;HALL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly stabbing of a Missouri man during an attempted robbery at a rest area on Interstate 80 in Nebraska.Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp; First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman, both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; The man died of his injuries and the woman was reported in critical condition..Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and were able to make an arrest of a 22-year-old man from Elyria, Ohio.&nbsp;Police have not released the names of the victims.

Mo. man dies after knife attack at Nebraska highway rest area

Over the past few weeks, Nebraskans across the state have begun receiving their property valuation notices. The common reaction to those statements can be summed up in one word -- outrage. One Nebraskan recently interviewed for a news story had the perfect reaction to the question “what goes through your head when viewing your property tax valuations?” Her response: “I can’t say that on TV.” She is not alone. Countless Nebraskans are in disbelief when they see the recent increases in their home values.

Double digit increases in valuations year over year is not something we should accept. However, special interest groups have intimidated and paralyzed our Legislature.

In the 2024 Preliminary Property Tax Valuation estimates, 57 out of 93 counties had double digit valuation increases. The largest increase was 28% in Boone County. Out of our three largest counties, Douglas saw an 8% increase, Sarpy 11%, and Lancaster had a 5% increase.

Unfortunately, when valuations increase, you inevitably pay more in property taxes. Period. That’s because we have a spending problem here in Nebraska.

It’s time we have transformational change in our tax code. It’s time that we stop taxing Nebraskans out of their homes. We can solve this problem with a broad tax base and low tax rate. This will reduce the burden on homeowners, ranchers, and farmers and put more of a tax burden on the special interests that have received a free ride for the past 60 years.

I vow to do everything in my power as your Governor to cut your property taxes. To any state senator reading this -- clear your schedule from July 26 to August 15. We have the people’s work to do.

By Governor Jim PillenOver the past few weeks, Nebraskans across the state have begun receiving their property valuation notices. The common reaction to those statements can be summed up in one word -- outrage. One Nebraskan recently interviewed for a news story had the perfect reaction to the question “what goes through your head when viewing your property tax valuations?” Her response: “I can’t say that on TV.” She is not alone. Countless Nebraskans are in disbelief when they see the recent increases in their home values.Double digit increases in valuations year over year is not something we should accept. However, special interest groups have intimidated and paralyzed our Legislature.In the 2024 Preliminary Property Tax Valuation estimates, 57 out of 93 counties had double digit valuation increases. The largest increase was 28% in Boone County. Out of our three largest counties, Douglas saw an 8% increase, Sarpy 11%, and Lancaster had a 5% increase.Unfortunately, when valuations increase, you inevitably pay more in property taxes. Period. That’s because we have a spending problem here in Nebraska.It’s time we have transformational change in our tax code. It’s time that we stop taxing Nebraskans out of their homes. We can solve this problem with a broad tax base and low tax rate. This will reduce the burden on homeowners, ranchers, and farmers and put more of a tax burden on the special interests that have received a free ride for the past 60 years.I vow to do everything in my power as your Governor to cut your property taxes. To any state senator reading this -- clear your schedule from July 26 to August 15. We have the people’s work to do.

Doing the People’s Work: Property Tax Reform

The stocker/yearling sector of the cattle industry offers flexibility and an opportunity for new producers to get started in the business. Nebraska Extension beef systems team is offering a chance to learn from producers with established stocker/yearling operations July 11 during the fifth annual Summer Stocker/Yearling Tour near Bassett, Nebraska. &nbsp;

"A stocker/yearling component in a cattle production system can improve profitability and give some options that allow for quick adjustment in drought situations," said Hannah Smith, Nebraska Extension beef educator and one of the organizers of the event. &nbsp;

The annual Stocker/Yearling Tour has been popular with both beginning and established producers as it gives them an opportunity to see how other producers have incorporated the stocker/yearling component into their systems, and they can learn from their peers. &nbsp;

"We build in time for attendees to ask questions and discuss the practical elements of stocker/yearling management," said Erin Laborie, Nebraska Extension Beef educator and event organizer. "We want to hear from producers about what they need to know from a research standpoint, so we can shape UNL’s priorities around that, but this kind of discussion where they learn from each other has been valuable to both attendees and tour hosts." &nbsp;

This year’s tour and program are focused on the marketing aspect of yearling cattle, which was a topic that many previous attendees asked to address more in-depth.&nbsp;

Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. CDT outside of the Bassett Livestock Auction, 105 W. 4th Street, Bassett, Nebraska. Two local cattle operations are opening their pastures to the group to visit. Lunch will be served at Bassett Livestock Auction, followed by a producer panel to discuss the intricacies of marketing in the stocker/yearling space and how value can be captured through the various scenarios.&nbsp;

"We planned this to coincide with the annual Barbecue Yearling and Fall Calf sale at Bassett Livestock Auction, which is always a popular event that brings people to the area," Smith said. "People who come to town for the sale can stay one more day and learn about options that could have major implications for the way they do business."&nbsp;

The cost is $20 per person, which includes lunch. Please register by July 1 at <a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDHUqOgDH7Ay_9FhOaf2n6hudfvlexhYqI6UFihDXGs-ky.0.hs3I2pidA~ke5AXHfGJFO" target="_blank">go.unl.edu/stockertour24</a> or contact the BKR Extension Office at 402-387-2213. For more information, contact Hannah Smith (402-387-2213, <a href="mailto:hannah.greenwell@unl.edu" target="_blank">hannah.greenwell@unl.edu</a>) or Erin Laborie (308-268-3105, <a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu)" target="_blank">erin.laborie@unl.edu)</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718726413674.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Erin LaborieThe stocker/yearling sector of the cattle industry offers flexibility and an opportunity for new producers to get started in the business. Nebraska Extension beef systems team is offering a chance to learn from producers with established stocker/yearling operations July 11 during the fifth annual Summer Stocker/Yearling Tour near Bassett, Nebraska. &nbsp;"A stocker/yearling component in a cattle production system can improve profitability and give some options that allow for quick adjustment in drought situations," said Hannah Smith, Nebraska Extension beef educator and one of the organizers of the event. &nbsp;The annual Stocker/Yearling Tour has been popular with both beginning and established producers as it gives them an opportunity to see how other producers have incorporated the stocker/yearling component into their systems, and they can learn from their peers. &nbsp;"We build in time for attendees to ask questions and discuss the practical elements of stocker/yearling management," said Erin Laborie, Nebraska Extension Beef educator and event organizer. "We want to hear from producers about what they need to know from a research standpoint, so we can shape UNL’s priorities around that, but this kind of discussion where they learn from each other has been valuable to both attendees and tour hosts." &nbsp;This year’s tour and program are focused on the marketing aspect of yearling cattle, which was a topic that many previous attendees asked to address more in-depth.&nbsp;Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. CDT outside of the Bassett Livestock Auction, 105 W. 4th Street, Bassett, Nebraska. Two local cattle operations are opening their pastures to the group to visit. Lunch will be served at Bassett Livestock Auction, followed by a producer panel to discuss the intricacies of marketing in the stocker/yearling space and how value can be captured through the various scenarios.&nbsp;"We planned this to coincide with the annual Barbecue Yearling and Fall Calf sale at Bassett Livestock Auction, which is always a popular event that brings people to the area," Smith said. "People who come to town for the sale can stay one more day and learn about options that could have major implications for the way they do business."&nbsp;The cost is $20 per person, which includes lunch. Please register by July 1 at <a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDHUqOgDH7Ay_9FhOaf2n6hudfvlexhYqI6UFihDXGs-ky.0.hs3I2pidA~ke5AXHfGJFO" target="_blank">go.unl.edu/stockertour24</a> or contact the BKR Extension Office at 402-387-2213. For more information, contact Hannah Smith (402-387-2213, <a href="mailto:hannah.greenwell@unl.edu" target="_blank">hannah.greenwell@unl.edu</a>) or Erin Laborie (308-268-3105, <a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu)" target="_blank">erin.laborie@unl.edu)</a>.&nbsp;

Annual Summer Stocker/Yearling Tour focuses on marketing yearling cattle

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/17/nebraska-gov-pillen-issues-save-the-date-for-special-session-on-property-taxes/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen offered one of the clearest timelines yet Monday for when he might call a special session on property tax relief this summer.

“To any state senator reading this — clear your schedule from July 26 to August 15,” Pillen wrote in his latest column. “We have the people’s work to do.”

In his “save-the-date” announcement, Pillen made clear he will follow through with a stated goal to reduce property tax obligations for Nebraskans in 2024, after a previous plan failed to pass in this spring’s regular legislative session. At a dozen town halls across Nebraska, he has offered ideas that he says could help shave off another $1 billion for property tax relief, adding on to 2023 efforts.

The governor’s goal is that by the end of his second year in office, he will have shifted or eliminated 40%, or about $2 billion, from the state’s annual pool for local property taxes.

Speaker John Arch of La Vista, who sets the Legislature’s daily agenda, said in a statement that the “save-the-date” announcement came as no surprise because property taxes are important to Nebraskans, and they need to be addressed.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/05/30/property-tax-special-session-could-be-among-costliest-in-nebraska-history/">special session would cost thousands,</a>&nbsp;nearly $16,000 per day for a five-day session and more for lengthier sessions, according to initial estimates. Pillen has said that is “pennies compared to our property tax increases.”

Arch said he has discussed possible dates with the governor should he choose to call a special session. Pillen committed to doing so in April, telling senators they should “enjoy halftime.”

“Regardless, his recent remarks are not an official call for a special session, and I fully expect he will let members of the Legislature know of his intentions prior to making an official proclamation,” Arch said.

That proclamation would also need to stipulate the scope of legislation that can be considered.

Senators have already vowed to stretch the limits of what legislation they can introduce, such as to expand gambling or&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/24/pillen-vetoes-nebraska-child-sexual-assault-and-abuse-proposal/">revive a proposal vetoed in April</a>&nbsp;to allow lawsuits against political subdivisions in certain cases of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/25/we-were-so-close-nebraska-mother-responds-to-veto-of-child-sexual-assault-and-abuse-bill/">child abuse and child sexual assault</a>.

“So we’re legalizing marijuana, decreasing our prison population, scrapping the plan to build a $350m prison and equitably taxing people?” State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha said on X, formerly Twitter.

Multiple senators reached Monday afternoon said they&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/senatorblood/status/1802834316780605601">hadn’t received notice</a>&nbsp;of the special session time frame prior to the governor’s column being released.

‘Outrage’ in property valuation increases

In his short column, Pillen focused on property valuation increases in the wake of valuation notices that have gone out recently, stating that a “common reaction … can be summed up in one word —&nbsp;outrage.”

“Countless Nebraskans are in disbelief when they see the recent increases in their home values,” Pillen said.

“Double digit increases in valuations year over year is not something we should accept,” he continued. “However, special interest groups have intimidated and paralyzed our Legislature.”

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/statewide_equalization/RealPropVal%25Chg2023-2024.pdf">preliminary report on real property tax valuation estimates</a>&nbsp;for 2024 shows double-digit valuation increases in 50 of the state’s 93 counties. Boone County increased the most, at 27.93%. The three counties with the most people —&nbsp;Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy — increased by 7.85%, 5.49% and 10.72% in valuations, respectively. The report does not include personal or state assessed property values.

Valuations statewide are preliminarily reported to increase 9.57%. Across the 93 counties, valuations have increased 10.55%. Cheyenne County is the only county where valuations decreased.

Rising valuations doesn’t mean the amount of property taxes collected will increase the same.

For example, in 2023,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%208.pdf">valuations increased 11.44%</a>, up $32.7 billion at year’s end. Property taxes collected increased 5.7%, to $5.3 billion at year’s end.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2010.pdf">Taxing subdivisions</a>, of which there are hundreds in Nebraska, then decide how much they’ll collect in taxes when deciding levies.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who chairs the Legislature’s Revenue Committee, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

Pillen said it is “time we have transformational change” in the state’s tax code, which he said will be solved “with a broad tax base and low tax rate.” At his town halls, he has proposed:

The governor has hinted at tackling valuations in a special session but has not yet offered a definitive answer of how he might address them. At his town hall in&nbsp; Fremont, after a woman told him&nbsp; her valuation went up 113%, he said to expect legislation to be considered that would make it so taxpayers don’t need to be concerned what their valuation or tax rate is.

Pillen said property tax obligations would be reduced by 40% and kept flat. He did not specify how that goal would be accomplished.

State Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, who has regularly clashed with the governor,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/senatormachaela/status/1802793305517736092">criticized Monday’s announcement on X</a>, stating there is no agreement and no new plan.

“The only thing that’s happened since adjournment is the Gov has traveled NE holding town halls where he insulted [Nebraskans] and [the Nebraska Legislature] for not supporting a massive tax shift that DIRECTLY benefits him personally,” Cavanaugh said.

State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward said she is a little nervous about the timing suggested for a special session without hearing a formal plan. However, she said, she is “all in on figuring out something to fund our schools and get it off the property tax.”

“We are working on some bills whether they be dropped in special session or potentially next year in regards to this,” Hughes said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718721300015.jpeg" alt=" Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen greets attendees at one of his property tax town halls Friday, May 24, 2024, in Beatrice. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen greets attendees at one of his property tax town halls Friday, May 24, 2024, in Beatrice. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/17/nebraska-gov-pillen-issues-save-the-date-for-special-session-on-property-taxes/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen offered one of the clearest timelines yet Monday for when he might call a special session on property tax relief this summer.“To any state senator reading this — clear your schedule from July 26 to August 15,” Pillen wrote in his latest column. “We have the people’s work to do.”In his “save-the-date” announcement, Pillen made clear he will follow through with a stated goal to reduce property tax obligations for Nebraskans in 2024, after a previous plan failed to pass in this spring’s regular legislative session. At a dozen town halls across Nebraska, he has offered ideas that he says could help shave off another $1 billion for property tax relief, adding on to 2023 efforts.The governor’s goal is that by the end of his second year in office, he will have shifted or eliminated 40%, or about $2 billion, from the state’s annual pool for local property taxes.<h2>Official call still pending</h2>Speaker John Arch of La Vista, who sets the Legislature’s daily agenda, said in a statement that the “save-the-date” announcement came as no surprise because property taxes are important to Nebraskans, and they need to be addressed.&nbsp;<h2>Special session costs</h2>A&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/05/30/property-tax-special-session-could-be-among-costliest-in-nebraska-history/">special session would cost thousands,</a>&nbsp;nearly $16,000 per day for a five-day session and more for lengthier sessions, according to initial estimates. Pillen has said that is “pennies compared to our property tax increases.”Arch said he has discussed possible dates with the governor should he choose to call a special session. Pillen committed to doing so in April, telling senators they should “enjoy halftime.”“Regardless, his recent remarks are not an official call for a special session, and I fully expect he will let members of the Legislature know of his intentions prior to making an official proclamation,” Arch said.That proclamation would also need to stipulate the scope of legislation that can be considered.Senators have already vowed to stretch the limits of what legislation they can introduce, such as to expand gambling or&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/24/pillen-vetoes-nebraska-child-sexual-assault-and-abuse-proposal/">revive a proposal vetoed in April</a>&nbsp;to allow lawsuits against political subdivisions in certain cases of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/25/we-were-so-close-nebraska-mother-responds-to-veto-of-child-sexual-assault-and-abuse-bill/">child abuse and child sexual assault</a>.“So we’re legalizing marijuana, decreasing our prison population, scrapping the plan to build a $350m prison and equitably taxing people?” State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha said on X, formerly Twitter.Multiple senators reached Monday afternoon said they&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/senatorblood/status/1802834316780605601">hadn’t received notice</a>&nbsp;of the special session time frame prior to the governor’s column being released.<h2>‘Outrage’ in property valuation increases</h2>In his short column, Pillen focused on property valuation increases in the wake of valuation notices that have gone out recently, stating that a “common reaction … can be summed up in one word —&nbsp;outrage.”“Countless Nebraskans are in disbelief when they see the recent increases in their home values,” Pillen said.“Double digit increases in valuations year over year is not something we should accept,” he continued. “However, special interest groups have intimidated and paralyzed our Legislature.”A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/statewide_equalization/RealPropVal%25Chg2023-2024.pdf">preliminary report on real property tax valuation estimates</a>&nbsp;for 2024 shows double-digit valuation increases in 50 of the state’s 93 counties. Boone County increased the most, at 27.93%. The three counties with the most people —&nbsp;Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy — increased by 7.85%, 5.49% and 10.72% in valuations, respectively. The report does not include personal or state assessed property values.Valuations statewide are preliminarily reported to increase 9.57%. Across the 93 counties, valuations have increased 10.55%. Cheyenne County is the only county where valuations decreased.Rising valuations doesn’t mean the amount of property taxes collected will increase the same.For example, in 2023,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%208.pdf">valuations increased 11.44%</a>, up $32.7 billion at year’s end. Property taxes collected increased 5.7%, to $5.3 billion at year’s end.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2010.pdf">Taxing subdivisions</a>, of which there are hundreds in Nebraska, then decide how much they’ll collect in taxes when deciding levies.State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who chairs the Legislature’s Revenue Committee, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.<h2>What’s on the table?</h2>Pillen said it is “time we have transformational change” in the state’s tax code, which he said will be solved “with a broad tax base and low tax rate.” At his town halls, he has proposed:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/10/everybodys-got-to-play-breaking-down-nebraskas-more-than-100-sales-tax-exemptions/">Eliminating some sales tax exemptions</a>, but not on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/15/nebraska-gov-pillen-taking-potshots-at-state-senators-while-seeking-tax-relief-support/">groceries, medicine, transactions in churches</a>&nbsp;or on items that are later taxed as personal property.</li><li><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/04/gov-pillen-explains-willingness-to-accept-more-than-nebraskas-fair-share-in-federal-funds/">Accepting more federal dollars</a>, such as more than $1 billion for hospitals in 2024.</li><li>Front-loading property tax credits based on income taxes paid so taxpayers get the credit before paying taxes, instead of after.</li><li>Addressing school funding, such as having the state pick up more of the tab in financing local schools instead of leaving it up to individual school districts.</li>
 </ul>The governor has hinted at tackling valuations in a special session but has not yet offered a definitive answer of how he might address them. At his town hall in&nbsp; Fremont, after a woman told him&nbsp; her valuation went up 113%, he said to expect legislation to be considered that would make it so taxpayers don’t need to be concerned what their valuation or tax rate is.Pillen said property tax obligations would be reduced by 40% and kept flat. He did not specify how that goal would be accomplished.<h2>Senators awaiting formal plan</h2>State Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, who has regularly clashed with the governor,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/senatormachaela/status/1802793305517736092">criticized Monday’s announcement on X</a>, stating there is no agreement and no new plan.“The only thing that’s happened since adjournment is the Gov has traveled NE holding town halls where he insulted [Nebraskans] and [the Nebraska Legislature] for not supporting a massive tax shift that DIRECTLY benefits him personally,” Cavanaugh said.State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward said she is a little nervous about the timing suggested for a special session without hearing a formal plan. However, she said, she is “all in on figuring out something to fund our schools and get it off the property tax.”“We are working on some bills whether they be dropped in special session or potentially next year in regards to this,” Hughes said.

Nebraska Gov. Pillen issues ‘save-the-date’ for special session on property taxes

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer,&nbsp;a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, secured key provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act in the Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. Last week, she voted to advance the package, in which she secured several Nebraska military construction (MILCON) priorities as well.

Senator Fischer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/4/fischer-king-wicker-introduce-bill-to-overhaul-american-nuclear-preparedness-address-future-threats-from-china-and-russia#:~:text=The%20Restoring%20American%20Deterrence%20Act%20contains%20multiple%20provisions%20aimed%20at,Posture%20of%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the Restoring American Deterrence Act in April to overhaul American nuclear preparedness and buttress our deterrence against adversaries like China and Russia.

In the NDAA, Senator Fischer secured provisions to:

“A dangerous world demands a strong investment in our military, and that's what our defense bill delivers, both for Nebraska and the country as a whole. I fought for several sorely-needed changes that will fortify America’s nuclear defenses, which risk falling behind adversaries like China,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“The bill also includes my provisions for essential weapon systems, like the submarine-launched cruise missile. Finally, this year’s defense bill authorizes my requests for Offutt Air Force Base, including updates to the Weather Wing and STRATCOM,”&nbsp;she continued.

Senator Fischer supported a provision providing military members with a 4.5 percent pay raise.

Military Construction Projects for Nebraska

Senator Fischer secured full authorization for her two Nebraska MILCON requests:

Senator Fischer also secured authorization for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:

Finally, Senator Fischer secured provisions that:

Restoring American Deterrence

Senator Fischer secured provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act that:

Senator Fischer established a program of record for SLCM-N in the FY24 NDAA requiring the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore different types of missiles and warheads. In the FY25 NDAA, Senator Fischer secured the following adjustments to the program of record:

Senator Fischer supported a provision ensuring that the DOD notifies Congress when the Secretary of Defense is unable to perform the functions of the office. Earlier this year, Senator Fischer spoke out against DOD chain of command problems when Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin failed to notify Congress of a medical absence.

The provision requires the Deputy Secretary of Defense to notify Congress 24 hours in advance of any planned transfer of authorities and not later than 24 hours after any unplanned transfer of authorities.

Senator Fischer also supported provisions addressing issues within the munitions industrial base, including provisions that:

Office of U.S. Senator Deb FischerWASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer,&nbsp;a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, secured key provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act in the Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. Last week, she voted to advance the package, in which she secured several Nebraska military construction (MILCON) priorities as well.Senator Fischer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/4/fischer-king-wicker-introduce-bill-to-overhaul-american-nuclear-preparedness-address-future-threats-from-china-and-russia#:~:text=The%20Restoring%20American%20Deterrence%20Act%20contains%20multiple%20provisions%20aimed%20at,Posture%20of%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the Restoring American Deterrence Act in April to overhaul American nuclear preparedness and buttress our deterrence against adversaries like China and Russia.In the NDAA, Senator Fischer secured provisions to:<ul>
 <li>Codify provisions of the Restoring American Deterrence Act</li><li>Fund military construction projects in Nebraska</li><li>Continue development of the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile (SLCM-N)</li>
 </ul>“A dangerous world demands a strong investment in our military, and that's what our defense bill delivers, both for Nebraska and the country as a whole. I fought for several sorely-needed changes that will fortify America’s nuclear defenses, which risk falling behind adversaries like China,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“The bill also includes my provisions for essential weapon systems, like the submarine-launched cruise missile. Finally, this year’s defense bill authorizes my requests for Offutt Air Force Base, including updates to the Weather Wing and STRATCOM,”&nbsp;she continued.Military Pay RaiseSenator Fischer supported a provision providing military members with a 4.5 percent pay raise.Military Construction Projects for NebraskaSenator Fischer secured full authorization for her two Nebraska MILCON requests:<ul>
 <li>Additional $158 million for the planning and design of the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) facilities at Offutt Air Force Base</li><li>Additional $6 million for the planning and design of a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt</li>
 </ul>Senator Fischer also secured authorization for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:<ul>
 <li>$5 million for STRATCOM’s NC3 Nuclear Enterprise Center (NEC)’s network sensor demonstration</li><li>$3 million for the NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) program</li><li>$5 million for Weather Wing research and development projects</li>
 </ul>Finally, Senator Fischer secured provisions that:<ul>
 <li>Clarify the Offutt-based Weather Wing’s authorities to provide weather data to the U.S. Air Force and Army</li><li>Support the Air Force’s Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills program, which works closely with the University of Nebraska Medical Center</li><li>Require the Department of Defense to review increasing the number of available aeromedical squadrons within the National Guard</li>
 </ul>Restoring American DeterrenceSenator Fischer secured provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act that:<ul>
 <li>Require the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop strategies responding to possible threats from our adversaries, including an assessment of the nuclear weapons necessary to implement that strategy</li><li>Require the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy to promote a skilled nuclear manufacturing and vocational trade workforce</li><li>Require the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to develop a comprehensive missile defense architecture</li><li>Require the Secretary of the Air Force to develop a plan to procure and deploy an additional 50 Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missiles above the current plan of 400</li><li>Clarify the National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) primary responsibility to produce nuclear weapons</li><li>Require the Secretary of Energy to conduct an assessment evaluation two to four locations in the United States best suited to host movable, scalable uranium enrichment facilities</li><li>Establish an Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence Policy and Programs to&nbsp;advise on nuclear deterrence policies, operations, and programs</li>
 </ul>SLCM-NSenator Fischer established a program of record for SLCM-N in the FY24 NDAA requiring the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore different types of missiles and warheads. In the FY25 NDAA, Senator Fischer secured the following adjustments to the program of record:<ul>
 <li>Additional $70 million for NNSA to research and develop the SLCM-N warhead</li><li>Additional $252 million for the Navy to research and develop the SLCM-N missile</li><li>Fencing of 50 percent of the Secretary of the Navy’s travel budget until the Secretary certifies to Congress that the Navy has established a program office for SLCM-N and is taking the required steps to comply with the Under Secretary of Defense’s SLCM-N decision acquisition memorandum</li><li>Fencing of 50 percent of the NNSA Administrator’s travel budget until NNSA submits a report and spend plan for the development of the SLCM-N warhead</li>
 </ul>Chain of CommandSenator Fischer supported a provision ensuring that the DOD notifies Congress when the Secretary of Defense is unable to perform the functions of the office. Earlier this year, Senator Fischer spoke out against DOD chain of command problems when Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin failed to notify Congress of a medical absence.The provision requires the Deputy Secretary of Defense to notify Congress 24 hours in advance of any planned transfer of authorities and not later than 24 hours after any unplanned transfer of authorities.MunitionsSenator Fischer also supported provisions addressing issues within the munitions industrial base, including provisions that:<ul>
 <li>Require the Secretary of the Army to develop a plan providing secondary production sources at existing arsenals, depots, and ammunition plants</li><li>Create a program to expedite the qualification of alternative sources of known supply chain chokepoints</li><li>Require the Department to create a roadmap for the solid rocket motor industrial base</li>
 </ul>

Fischer Leads on Nuclear Preparedness in Senate NDAA

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations after a standoff at a Kansas home.

Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to the 700 Block of East 13th Avenue in Winfield after a report of a gunshot, according to Winfield Police.

While in route to the above location officers were notified that an individual had fired one round and possibly shot a dog in the residence.

During the initial investigation officers were told by witnesses that a woman&nbsp; had threatened to shoot them if they didn’t leave her residence. 

Three individuals left the residence and reported hearing what they described as a gunshot from inside the residence.&nbsp; Officers attempted to make contact with the woman by phone but were unable to get her to comply and exit the residence.

The Southern Kansas Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT) responded to assist in this incident. Officers from the Winfield Police Department obtained a search warrant for the residence, and members of the SWAT team tried for several hours to get the woman to surrender peacefully.

Just before 7:30a.m. members of the SWAT team made entry into the residence and took the woman identified as 45-year-old Jessee S. Simmons into custody unharmed. 

She was evaluated at the scene by Winfield Fire/EMS and transported to the Cowley County Jail.&nbsp; She is being held in the Cowley County Jail on the requested&nbsp; charges of Criminal Threat, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

At the conclusion of the initial report it was determined that no animals had been harmed.

The Winfield Police Department was assisted by the Cowley County Sheriff's Office, Winfield Fire/EMS and the Southern Kansas Special Weapons and Tactics Team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718646960605.png" alt="Simmons-photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Simmons-photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations after a standoff at a Kansas home.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to the 700 Block of East 13th Avenue in Winfield after a report of a gunshot, according to Winfield Police.While in route to the above location officers were notified that an individual had fired one round and possibly shot a dog in the residence.During the initial investigation officers were told by witnesses that a woman&nbsp; had threatened to shoot them if they didn’t leave her residence. Three individuals left the residence and reported hearing what they described as a gunshot from inside the residence.&nbsp; Officers attempted to make contact with the woman by phone but were unable to get her to comply and exit the residence.The Southern Kansas Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT) responded to assist in this incident. Officers from the Winfield Police Department obtained a search warrant for the residence, and members of the SWAT team tried for several hours to get the woman to surrender peacefully.Just before 7:30a.m. members of the SWAT team made entry into the residence and took the woman identified as 45-year-old Jessee S. Simmons into custody unharmed. She was evaluated at the scene by Winfield Fire/EMS and transported to the Cowley County Jail.&nbsp; She is being held in the Cowley County Jail on the requested&nbsp; charges of Criminal Threat, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.At the conclusion of the initial report it was determined that no animals had been harmed.The Winfield Police Department was assisted by the Cowley County Sheriff's Office, Winfield Fire/EMS and the Southern Kansas Special Weapons and Tactics Team.

Report of dog shot led to standoff at Kansas home

TOPEKA –&nbsp; Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach is suing Pfizer for misleading claims it made related to the COVID vaccine.

Kobach announced the lawsuit at&nbsp;a press conference in Topeka.“Pfizer made multiple misleading statements to deceive the public about its vaccine at a time when Americans needed the truth,” Kobach said.

<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/2024-06-15-pfizer-complaint-(002).pdf">Click here to read</a> the complaint

According to the complaint, filed Monday in Thomas County District Court, Pfizer misled&nbsp;Kansans about the vaccines’ risks, including to pregnant women and for myocarditis.&nbsp;

Additionally, Pfizer claimed its vaccine protected against COVID variants, despite data showing otherwise. The pharmaceutical giant also suggested its vaccine prevented COVID transmission, but later admitted it had never studied whether its vaccine stopped transmission.

The complaint also alleges that Pfizer coordinated with social media officials to censor speech critical of COVID-19 vaccines&nbsp;and declined to participate in the federal government’s vaccine development program, Operation Warp Speed, to avoid government oversight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718647861474.png" alt="Image from the complaint" />
 <figcaption>Image from the complaint</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp; Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach is suing Pfizer for misleading claims it made related to the COVID vaccine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718661741339.png" alt="Photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Kobach announced the lawsuit at&nbsp;a press conference in Topeka.“Pfizer made multiple misleading statements to deceive the public about its vaccine at a time when Americans needed the truth,” Kobach said.<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/2024-06-15-pfizer-complaint-(002).pdf">Click here to read</a> the complaintAccording to the complaint, filed Monday in Thomas County District Court, Pfizer misled&nbsp;Kansans about the vaccines’ risks, including to pregnant women and for myocarditis.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635537216378.png" alt="Photo courtesy Pfizer" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pfizer</figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, Pfizer claimed its vaccine protected against COVID variants, despite data showing otherwise. The pharmaceutical giant also suggested its vaccine prevented COVID transmission, but later admitted it had never studied whether its vaccine stopped transmission.The complaint also alleges that Pfizer coordinated with social media officials to censor speech critical of COVID-19 vaccines&nbsp;and declined to participate in the federal government’s vaccine development program, Operation Warp Speed, to avoid government oversight.

Read the complaint: Kansas sues Pfizer over COVID vaccine marketing

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced 13 appointments to the newly created Commission on Asian-American Affairs.

The commission was created through passage of LB1300, which included legislation introduced by Senator Rita Sanders. Members serve four-year terms.

The Commission will coordinate programs related to Nebraska’s Asian-American community for housing, education, welfare, employment, and other issues and will be overseen by a chairperson and four other executive board members. A list of the members follows. One final appointment is still to be made to the Commission, which has a total of 14 members.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced 13 appointments to the newly created Commission on Asian-American Affairs.The commission was created through passage of LB1300, which included legislation introduced by Senator Rita Sanders. Members serve four-year terms.The Commission will coordinate programs related to Nebraska’s Asian-American community for housing, education, welfare, employment, and other issues and will be overseen by a chairperson and four other executive board members. A list of the members follows. One final appointment is still to be made to the Commission, which has a total of 14 members.Current members include:Maureen Brase, RaymondWeysan Dun, OmahaDeepak M. Gangahar, MD, ElkhornMaorong Jiang, PhD, OmahaTram Kieu, LincolnJoanne Li, PhD, OmahaYunwoo Nam, PhD, LincolnArunkumar Pondicherry, LincolnRebecca (Jueyezi) Reinhardt, LincolnVickie Sakurada Schaepler, KearneyRyo Suzuki, KearneyHiep Vu, PhD, LincolnCarol Wang, Omaha

Gov. Pillen Announces Appointments to New Commission on Asian-American Affairs  

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colorado—Two people were injured in a small plane crash Sunday south of Denver as the pilot attempted to land on the Interstate.

Just after 8 am, multiple agencies respond to the crash in a creek just east of Interstate 25 near the exit for Larkspur, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's office.

Emergency personnel had to wade through waist-deep water to bring two individuals out.  They were out of the plane when deputies got them.&nbsp;

The two individuals were turned over to medical personnel. Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries. Authorities did not release an update on the extent of their injuries. First responders also took care of a small fuel leak.

At around 9 am, there was a temporary flight restriction issued for this crash.

Preliminary investigation shows that the plane hit a sign on the Interstate, causing the plane to veer off to the east and crash.&nbsp; Officials have not indicated what caused the pilot to attempt to land on the Interstate.&nbsp; The official cause of the crash will come from the FAA and NTSB.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718570478124.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the crash-photos Douglas County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the crash-photos Douglas County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colorado—Two people were injured in a small plane crash Sunday south of Denver as the pilot attempted to land on the Interstate.Just after 8 am, multiple agencies respond to the crash in a creek just east of Interstate 25 near the exit for Larkspur, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718570452117.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Emergency personnel had to wade through waist-deep water to bring two individuals out. They were out of the plane when deputies got them.&nbsp;The two individuals were turned over to medical personnel. Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries. Authorities did not release an update on the extent of their injuries. First responders also took care of a small fuel leak.At around 9 am, there was a temporary flight restriction issued for this crash.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718570563081.png" alt="The twin-engine Tecnam P2006T " />
 <figcaption>The twin-engine Tecnam P2006T </figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary investigation shows that the plane hit a sign on the Interstate, causing the plane to veer off to the east and crash.&nbsp; Officials have not indicated what caused the pilot to attempt to land on the Interstate.&nbsp; The official cause of the crash will come from the FAA and NTSB.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

Small plane struck Interstate sign before crash into creek

&nbsp; WASHINGTON –&nbsp;This week, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent a letter to Amtrak Chairman and Director Anthony Coscia questioning the company’s exorbitant bonuses for top-level executives. Amtrak receives significant federal subsidies, so these bonuses are awarded at taxpayers’ expense. In addition to the letter, Senator Fischer introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8CD5603F-A7FA-4995-879D-66F39BE2CFAA" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;that will increase accountability and transparency within Amtrak.

Amtrak&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/12/us/politics/amtrak-executive-bonuses.html#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20Amtrak%20paid%20out,from%20Senator%20Ted%20Cruz's%20office." target="_blank">paid out</a>&nbsp;nearly $75 million in bonuses during fiscal year (FY) 2023, comprising four percent of the company’s $1.75 billion net loss that year. The company awarded annual bonuses larger than $200,000 to 14 executives.

“C-suite executives of any other corporation that suffered over $1&nbsp;billion in annual losses would be fired. Amtrak, however, is rewarding them. These bonuses are particularly galling because they come at taxpayers’ expense without Amtrak having achieved even satisfactory performance,”&nbsp;the Senators wrote.

“Neither financial performance, customer satisfaction, operational excellence, nor capital project success explains the bonuses the Board has awarded,”&nbsp;the Senators continued.

Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON –&nbsp;This week, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent a letter to Amtrak Chairman and Director Anthony Coscia questioning the company’s exorbitant bonuses for top-level executives. Amtrak receives significant federal subsidies, so these bonuses are awarded at taxpayers’ expense. In addition to the letter, Senator Fischer introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8CD5603F-A7FA-4995-879D-66F39BE2CFAA" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;that will increase accountability and transparency within Amtrak.Amtrak&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/12/us/politics/amtrak-executive-bonuses.html#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20Amtrak%20paid%20out,from%20Senator%20Ted%20Cruz's%20office." target="_blank">paid out</a>&nbsp;nearly $75 million in bonuses during fiscal year (FY) 2023, comprising four percent of the company’s $1.75 billion net loss that year. The company awarded annual bonuses larger than $200,000 to 14 executives.“C-suite executives of any other corporation that suffered over $1&nbsp;billion in annual losses would be fired. Amtrak, however, is rewarding them. These bonuses are particularly galling because they come at taxpayers’ expense without Amtrak having achieved even satisfactory performance,”&nbsp;the Senators wrote.“Neither financial performance, customer satisfaction, operational excellence, nor capital project success explains the bonuses the Board has awarded,”&nbsp;the Senators continued.In the letter, Sens. Fischer and Cruz requested a briefing from Amtrak on how its board sets metrics for bonus awards, especially on the proportionality of these awards when they are necessarily funded by federal taxpayers. They also inquired into the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) oversight of Amtrak’s bonus awards. Finally, they asked how the Amtrak Board and FRA are working to reduce operating losses and net losses.Read the full text of this letter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commerce.senate.gov/index.cfm?a=files.serve&amp;File_id=75CBFE30-675F-42F3-89EA-227609226396" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;