DAMASCUS —On Thursday,&nbsp;U.S. Forces conducted a precision  airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr  Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu  Yusif, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

"This  airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners  in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan,  organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel  from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and  beyond."

This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.

“As  stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in  the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current  situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of  detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in  facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and  operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to  Syria," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734705079925.png" alt="A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle patrols the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle patrols the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —On Thursday,&nbsp;U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu Yusif, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command."This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond."This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.“As stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to Syria," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

U.S. airstrike kills ISIS terror leader

As the year ends, families and friends will reunite across our state to celebrate the holiday season. One of my favorite things about Christmas is that each person, family, and community has its own special traditions. No matter where you find yourself in Nebraska this season, I encourage you to share in one of our many unique celebrations.

Under the bright stars over North Platte rests a grand white house, trimmed in green and dressed in shining Christmas lights. While carolers sing, guests are free to tour the grounds in horse-drawn wagons.

The mansion, once home to the famed “Buffalo Bill” Cody—renowned for his legendary Wild West shows—and his wife Louisa, has long been the setting for “Christmas at the Cody’s.” The annual celebration carries on the festivities hosted by the Cody family every Christmas season.

Each year, nonprofits, local businesses, and Nebraska Game and Parks staff decorate the property, drawing families from across the state to enjoy the holidays and reflect on Christmases past.

These festive displays serve as a reminder of what Christmas in Nebraska truly represents—a time for unity among families, friends, and communities.

Further east, in Minden, residents proudly celebrate another local Christmas tradition.

Minden boasts over 12,000 lights, which decorate the courthouse dome and town square. These dazzling displays are visible for miles, giving Minden its well-earned title as Nebraska’s Christmas City.

This tradition began in 1915, when City Light Commissioner J.C. Haws strung lights from the railroad depot to the town square. Although bad weather disrupted his plan, Haws repurposed the lights to adorn the courthouse dome, a tradition that continues today.

But Minden’s Christmas charm goes beyond its lights. Each year, the community performs The Light of the World Christmas pageant, a labor of love involving months of preparation.

North of Nebraska’s Christmas City sits another classic Christmas destination, the village of Comstock.

While Comstock’s population is less than 100 people, they’re famous for one of our state’s most spectacular Christmas celebrations.

Eight years ago, Henry Nuxoll strung lights on his roof in memory of his twin brother. Soon after, he began receiving anonymous Christmas decorations in the mail from Nebraskans eager to help.

Over the years, that Christmas spirit spread across the whole town, and today, Comstock is completely transformed every holiday season. It features 20 blocks of displays with over 400 inflatables, including special neighborhoods like Grinchville and Snowman’s Land.

Comstock’s story reminds us how a single act of love can inspire an entire community.

During this Christmas season, I hope we reflect on how much we have to be grateful for in Nebraska and cherish these very special traditions. And no matter how you celebrate the Christmas season, I hope you spend it surrounded by loved ones.

To all my fellow Nebraskans: Merry Christmas. May this December be joyful and filled with blessings.Thank you for participating in the democratic process, and I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

U.S. Senator Deb FischerAs the year ends, families and friends will reunite across our state to celebrate the holiday season. One of my favorite things about Christmas is that each person, family, and community has its own special traditions. No matter where you find yourself in Nebraska this season, I encourage you to share in one of our many unique celebrations.Under the bright stars over North Platte rests a grand white house, trimmed in green and dressed in shining Christmas lights. While carolers sing, guests are free to tour the grounds in horse-drawn wagons.The mansion, once home to the famed “Buffalo Bill” Cody—renowned for his legendary Wild West shows—and his wife Louisa, has long been the setting for “Christmas at the Cody’s.” The annual celebration carries on the festivities hosted by the Cody family every Christmas season.Each year, nonprofits, local businesses, and Nebraska Game and Parks staff decorate the property, drawing families from across the state to enjoy the holidays and reflect on Christmases past.These festive displays serve as a reminder of what Christmas in Nebraska truly represents—a time for unity among families, friends, and communities.Further east, in Minden, residents proudly celebrate another local Christmas tradition.Minden boasts over 12,000 lights, which decorate the courthouse dome and town square. These dazzling displays are visible for miles, giving Minden its well-earned title as Nebraska’s Christmas City.This tradition began in 1915, when City Light Commissioner J.C. Haws strung lights from the railroad depot to the town square. Although bad weather disrupted his plan, Haws repurposed the lights to adorn the courthouse dome, a tradition that continues today.But Minden’s Christmas charm goes beyond its lights. Each year, the community performs The Light of the World Christmas pageant, a labor of love involving months of preparation.North of Nebraska’s Christmas City sits another classic Christmas destination, the village of Comstock.While Comstock’s population is less than 100 people, they’re famous for one of our state’s most spectacular Christmas celebrations.Eight years ago, Henry Nuxoll strung lights on his roof in memory of his twin brother. Soon after, he began receiving anonymous Christmas decorations in the mail from Nebraskans eager to help.Over the years, that Christmas spirit spread across the whole town, and today, Comstock is completely transformed every holiday season. It features 20 blocks of displays with over 400 inflatables, including special neighborhoods like Grinchville and Snowman’s Land.Comstock’s story reminds us how a single act of love can inspire an entire community.During this Christmas season, I hope we reflect on how much we have to be grateful for in Nebraska and cherish these very special traditions. And no matter how you celebrate the Christmas season, I hope you spend it surrounded by loved ones.To all my fellow Nebraskans: Merry Christmas. May this December be joyful and filled with blessings.Thank you for participating in the democratic process, and I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

Fischer Column: Nebraska Christmas Traditions

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

WASHINGTON — The U.S. House failed to pass a Republican stopgap spending package Thursday, sharply increasing the odds a partial government shutdown will begin after the current funding bill expires Friday at midnight.&nbsp;

<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024516" target="_blank">The 174-235 House vote</a>&nbsp;came less than three hours after GOP leaders released a second stopgap spending bill this week. The first version, released just two days ago, was widely rejected by President-elect Donald Trump as well as his allies on and off Capitol Hill.

A total of 38 GOP lawmakers and 197 Democrats voted against passage. Only two Democrats voted in support of the measure. One Democrat voted “present.”

House Republicans tried to approve the new measure under a process called suspension of the rules, which required at least two-thirds of lawmakers to support the legislation for passage, including Democrats. Trump endorsed this new version, which included a two-year suspension of the debt limit.

GOP leaders could next try to put the failed bill up for a vote under a rule, which requires a simple majority vote to approve, but that path takes a few more steps and isn’t a guarantee this legislation could pass.

House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., said during floor debate the bill was necessary to avoid a shutdown and provide disaster aid to states throughout the country.

“We need to provide the necessary disaster recovery aid for states and communities as our fellow citizens rebuild and restore. The relief efforts are ongoing — it will be months, if not years, before life returns to normal,” Cole said.

Connecticut Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, rebuked GOP lawmakers for walking away from the deal both parties reached on the first stopgap package.

“There were things in it that Democrats liked and Republicans did not, and there were things in it that Republicans liked and Democrats would have preferred to leave out. But that is the nature of government funding bills,” DeLauro said. “They require compromise and the support of Democrats and Republicans.”

The legislation House lawmakers were about to vote on had no input from Democrats, she said.

While Republicans have a narrow majority in the House, Democrats control the Senate and the White House, making bipartisan agreement on legislation essential to it becoming law.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre wrote in a statement released Thursday just before the vote that the GOP was “doing the bidding of their billionaire benefactors at the expense of hardworking Americans.”

“Republicans are breaking their word to support a bipartisan agreement that would lower prescription drug costs and make it harder to offshore jobs to China — and instead putting forward a bill that paves the way for tax breaks for billionaires while cutting critical programs working families count on, from Social Security to Head Start,” she wrote. “President Biden supports the bipartisan agreement to keep the government open, help communities recovering from disasters, and lower costs — not this giveaway for billionaires that Republicans are proposing at the 11th hour.”

Trump calls new bill ‘a very good deal’

The stopgap spending package that failed Thursday night would have kept the government funded through mid-March while boosting disaster aid by about $100 billion.

The legislation would have suspended the nation’s debt limit for an additional two years through January 2027 and given Congress until September to finish the much overdue farm bill.

Trump cheered the new version of the stopgap spending bill before the vote after rejecting the first version released just two days ago.

“Speaker Mike Johnson and the House have come to a very good Deal for the American People,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113681499338715649" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on social media. “The newly agreed to American Relief Act of 2024 will keep the Government open, fund our Great Farmers and others, and provide relief for those severely impacted by the devastating hurricanes.”

“A VERY important piece, VITAL to the America First Agenda, was added as well – The date of the very unnecessary Debt Ceiling will be pushed out two years, to January 30, 2027,” Trump added. “Now we can Make America Great Again, very quickly, which is what the People gave us a mandate to accomplish.”

The second stopgap bill came after a dramatic 48 hours that began with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/huge-spending-bill-unveiled-congress-provides-more-100-billion-disaster-aid" target="_blank">the Tuesday night release of a different stopgap spending package&nbsp;</a>before Trump’s ally Elon Musk called on GOP lawmakers to reject the bill their leadership team on Capitol Hill had negotiated over weeks.

Trump then told Republicans to address the debt limit in the package or get rid of it entirely, throwing another complex issue into the mix at the last minute.

The core elements of the stopgap spending package House Republicans released Thursday afternoon were similar to the Tuesday night package, though it dropped dozens of measures, including a provision allowing the nationwide sale of 15% ethanol blended gasoline year round.

The new package, same as the old package, doesn’t include a long-standing provision that prevents members of Congress from receiving a cost of living adjustment. Unless that’s changed, lawmakers would receive a 3.8% raise next year increasing their annual salary from $174,000 to $180,600.

“It removed key provisions to limit the power of pharmaceutical companies, and abandons our bipartisan efforts to ensure American dollars and intellectual property are reinvested in American businesses and workers; instead of fueling the Chinese Communist Party’s technology and capabilities,” DeLauro said during debate.

The new&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20241216/American%20Relief%20Act%202025.pdf" target="_blank">116-page stopgap spending bill</a>&nbsp;was considerably shorter than the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20241216/CR.pdf" target="_blank">1,547-page version</a>&nbsp;released Tuesday.

The spending package would have given Congress until March 14 to complete work on the dozen annual government funding bills that were supposed to become law by the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1.

It would have given the House and Senate until Sept. 30, 2025, to reach agreement on the five-year farm bill, which lawmakers were supposed to negotiate a new version of more than a year ago.

The legislation would suspend the debt limit through Jan. 30, 2027.

The bill includes tens of billions in emergency spending to help communities throughout the country recover from various natural disasters, including wildfires, tornadoes and hurricanes.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-appropriations.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/democrats-appropriations.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/CR2%20Summary.pdf" target="_blank">summary of the bill</a>, released by House Democrats on Tuesday, showed the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Agriculture would receive the bulk of the natural disaster recovery funding. House Republicans didn’t appear to have altered any of the original funding levels for disaster aid in the updated Thursday version.

The USDA would get $33.5 billion in funding, with $21 billion of that designated for disaster assistance and another $10 billion for economic assistance to farmers and producers.

Other agriculture assistance funding would go toward the Agriculture Research Service, Emergency Watershed Protection Program, Emergency Forest Restoration Program and Rural Development Disaster Assistance Fund, among several others.

The Department of Homeland Security would receive $30.8 billion in funding, with $29 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s disaster relief fund.

An additional $1.5 billion would go to the Hermit’s Peak and Calf Canyon Fire fund “to continue efforts to support families who suffered damages due to the April 2022 wildfire,” according to the summary.&nbsp;

The wildfire was the largest in New Mexico’s history and caused about $5.14 billion in damages,&nbsp;<a href="https://sourcenm.com/2024/12/17/new-report-totals-hermits-peak-calf-canyon-fire-losses-at-5-14b-as-extra-funds-hang-in-balance/" target="_blank">according to a report released</a>&nbsp;this week.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program for disaster recovery would receive $12 billion in additional funding.

Another $8 billion would go to the Transportation Department to “reimburse states and territories for damage from natural disasters to roads and bridges in the National Highway System, including 100 percent of costs associated with rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore,” according to Democrats’ summary.

The Forest Service would get $6.4 billion for ongoing recovery efforts from natural disasters that took place in 2022, 2023 and this year. The National Park Service would receive $2.3 billion as part of the Department of the Interior’s $3 billion total.

The Defense Department would get $3.4 billion to repair damages related to natural disasters. The Army Corps of Engineers would receive $1.5 billion for repairs and to increase resiliency.

The Small Business Administration would receive $2.25 billion for disaster loans.

Shortly before House GOP leaders announced their second stopgap package, North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham committed to holding a talking filibuster to delay passage of any stopgap funding measures if that bill doesn’t include substantial disaster aid.

The two, along with North Carolina Sen. Ted Budd, all of whom are Republicans, held a press conference Thursday afternoon to urge GOP leaders in the House to keep the roughly $100 billion in emergency disaster aid in any short-term spending package.

They also rejected calls from some members of their own party to find ways to pay for the new emergency spending, saying that’s not how disaster aid packages have traditionally been handled.

“When you’re in the middle of a crisis, I don’t think anybody’s going to want to hear somebody come to the floor and talk about the fiscal responsibility of giving these people a home again, or giving them an opportunity to open up a business again and employ people,” Tillis said. “So, no I don’t think $10 billion or $20 billion, and ‘I promise we’ll do something more in March’ is an acceptable solution. We know what the need is today. It was negotiated in a package and it needs to be in a package to get my support to get out of here.”&nbsp;

Graham sought to explain the realities of divided government and pointed out that even when Republicans control the House and Senate next year, they’ll still need Democratic support on spending bills.

“We need 60 votes to get it done in the Senate,” Graham said, referring to the chamber’s legislative filibuster, which requires at least 60 lawmakers vote to advance bills toward final passage.

“Mike Johnson is going to have to pick up a handful, at least, of Democrats, because there’s some Republicans who will never vote for anything,” Graham added.

Tillis was unable to answer a question about whether a partial government shutdown beginning Saturday at 12:01 a.m. would affect the federal government’s ongoing natural disaster response in his home state.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation and numerous federal departments would be required to follow their shutdown guidance if Congress doesn’t fund the government on time.

Those departments and agencies divide up their staffs into excepted employees, whose jobs address the protection of life or property, and non-excepted employees, who don’t.

Neither category of federal employee gets paid until after the shutdown ends.

American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley released a written statement Thursday that a shutdown would harm federal workers who “inspect our food, protect our borders, ensure safe travel during the holidays, and provide relief to disaster victims.”

“Over 642,000 of them are veterans of our armed services,” Kelley wrote. “Allowing them to go without a paycheck over the holidays is unacceptable.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734648697605.png" alt="The new bill is just 116 pages, compared to the previous 1,547 pages." />
 <figcaption>The new bill is just 116 pages, compared to the previous 1,547 pages.</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. House failed to pass a Republican stopgap spending package Thursday, sharply increasing the odds a partial government shutdown will begin after the current funding bill expires Friday at midnight.&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024516" target="_blank">The 174-235 House vote</a>&nbsp;came less than three hours after GOP leaders released a second stopgap spending bill this week. The first version, released just two days ago, was widely rejected by President-elect Donald Trump as well as his allies on and off Capitol Hill.A total of 38 GOP lawmakers and 197 Democrats voted against passage. Only two Democrats voted in support of the measure. One Democrat voted “present.”House Republicans tried to approve the new measure under a process called suspension of the rules, which required at least two-thirds of lawmakers to support the legislation for passage, including Democrats. Trump endorsed this new version, which included a two-year suspension of the debt limit.GOP leaders could next try to put the failed bill up for a vote under a rule, which requires a simple majority vote to approve, but that path takes a few more steps and isn’t a guarantee this legislation could pass.House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., said during floor debate the bill was necessary to avoid a shutdown and provide disaster aid to states throughout the country.“We need to provide the necessary disaster recovery aid for states and communities as our fellow citizens rebuild and restore. The relief efforts are ongoing — it will be months, if not years, before life returns to normal,” Cole said.<h2>No input from Democrats</h2>Connecticut Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, rebuked GOP lawmakers for walking away from the deal both parties reached on the first stopgap package.“There were things in it that Democrats liked and Republicans did not, and there were things in it that Republicans liked and Democrats would have preferred to leave out. But that is the nature of government funding bills,” DeLauro said. “They require compromise and the support of Democrats and Republicans.”The legislation House lawmakers were about to vote on had no input from Democrats, she said.While Republicans have a narrow majority in the House, Democrats control the Senate and the White House, making bipartisan agreement on legislation essential to it becoming law.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre wrote in a statement released Thursday just before the vote that the GOP was “doing the bidding of their billionaire benefactors at the expense of hardworking Americans.”“Republicans are breaking their word to support a bipartisan agreement that would lower prescription drug costs and make it harder to offshore jobs to China — and instead putting forward a bill that paves the way for tax breaks for billionaires while cutting critical programs working families count on, from Social Security to Head Start,” she wrote. “President Biden supports the bipartisan agreement to keep the government open, help communities recovering from disasters, and lower costs — not this giveaway for billionaires that Republicans are proposing at the 11th hour.”<h2>Trump calls new bill ‘a very good deal’</h2>The stopgap spending package that failed Thursday night would have kept the government funded through mid-March while boosting disaster aid by about $100 billion.The legislation would have suspended the nation’s debt limit for an additional two years through January 2027 and given Congress until September to finish the much overdue farm bill.Trump cheered the new version of the stopgap spending bill before the vote after rejecting the first version released just two days ago.“Speaker Mike Johnson and the House have come to a very good Deal for the American People,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113681499338715649" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on social media. “The newly agreed to American Relief Act of 2024 will keep the Government open, fund our Great Farmers and others, and provide relief for those severely impacted by the devastating hurricanes.”“A VERY important piece, VITAL to the America First Agenda, was added as well – The date of the very unnecessary Debt Ceiling will be pushed out two years, to January 30, 2027,” Trump added. “Now we can Make America Great Again, very quickly, which is what the People gave us a mandate to accomplish.”<h2>Two days of tension</h2>The second stopgap bill came after a dramatic 48 hours that began with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/huge-spending-bill-unveiled-congress-provides-more-100-billion-disaster-aid" target="_blank">the Tuesday night release of a different stopgap spending package&nbsp;</a>before Trump’s ally Elon Musk called on GOP lawmakers to reject the bill their leadership team on Capitol Hill had negotiated over weeks.Trump then told Republicans to address the debt limit in the package or get rid of it entirely, throwing another complex issue into the mix at the last minute.The core elements of the stopgap spending package House Republicans released Thursday afternoon were similar to the Tuesday night package, though it dropped dozens of measures, including a provision allowing the nationwide sale of 15% ethanol blended gasoline year round.The new package, same as the old package, doesn’t include a long-standing provision that prevents members of Congress from receiving a cost of living adjustment. Unless that’s changed, lawmakers would receive a 3.8% raise next year increasing their annual salary from $174,000 to $180,600.“It removed key provisions to limit the power of pharmaceutical companies, and abandons our bipartisan efforts to ensure American dollars and intellectual property are reinvested in American businesses and workers; instead of fueling the Chinese Communist Party’s technology and capabilities,” DeLauro said during debate.The new&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20241216/American%20Relief%20Act%202025.pdf" target="_blank">116-page stopgap spending bill</a>&nbsp;was considerably shorter than the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20241216/CR.pdf" target="_blank">1,547-page version</a>&nbsp;released Tuesday.<h2>Several new deadlines</h2>The spending package would have given Congress until March 14 to complete work on the dozen annual government funding bills that were supposed to become law by the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1.It would have given the House and Senate until Sept. 30, 2025, to reach agreement on the five-year farm bill, which lawmakers were supposed to negotiate a new version of more than a year ago.The legislation would suspend the debt limit through Jan. 30, 2027.The bill includes tens of billions in emergency spending to help communities throughout the country recover from various natural disasters, including wildfires, tornadoes and hurricanes.A&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-appropriations.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/democrats-appropriations.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/CR2%20Summary.pdf" target="_blank">summary of the bill</a>, released by House Democrats on Tuesday, showed the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Agriculture would receive the bulk of the natural disaster recovery funding. House Republicans didn’t appear to have altered any of the original funding levels for disaster aid in the updated Thursday version.The USDA would get $33.5 billion in funding, with $21 billion of that designated for disaster assistance and another $10 billion for economic assistance to farmers and producers.Other agriculture assistance funding would go toward the Agriculture Research Service, Emergency Watershed Protection Program, Emergency Forest Restoration Program and Rural Development Disaster Assistance Fund, among several others.The Department of Homeland Security would receive $30.8 billion in funding, with $29 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s disaster relief fund.An additional $1.5 billion would go to the Hermit’s Peak and Calf Canyon Fire fund “to continue efforts to support families who suffered damages due to the April 2022 wildfire,” according to the summary.&nbsp;The wildfire was the largest in New Mexico’s history and caused about $5.14 billion in damages,&nbsp;<a href="https://sourcenm.com/2024/12/17/new-report-totals-hermits-peak-calf-canyon-fire-losses-at-5-14b-as-extra-funds-hang-in-balance/" target="_blank">according to a report released</a>&nbsp;this week.The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program for disaster recovery would receive $12 billion in additional funding.Another $8 billion would go to the Transportation Department to “reimburse states and territories for damage from natural disasters to roads and bridges in the National Highway System, including 100 percent of costs associated with rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore,” according to Democrats’ summary.The Forest Service would get $6.4 billion for ongoing recovery efforts from natural disasters that took place in 2022, 2023 and this year. The National Park Service would receive $2.3 billion as part of the Department of the Interior’s $3 billion total.The Defense Department would get $3.4 billion to repair damages related to natural disasters. The Army Corps of Engineers would receive $1.5 billion for repairs and to increase resiliency.The Small Business Administration would receive $2.25 billion for disaster loans.<h2>Filibuster threat</h2>Shortly before House GOP leaders announced their second stopgap package, North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham committed to holding a talking filibuster to delay passage of any stopgap funding measures if that bill doesn’t include substantial disaster aid.The two, along with North Carolina Sen. Ted Budd, all of whom are Republicans, held a press conference Thursday afternoon to urge GOP leaders in the House to keep the roughly $100 billion in emergency disaster aid in any short-term spending package.They also rejected calls from some members of their own party to find ways to pay for the new emergency spending, saying that’s not how disaster aid packages have traditionally been handled.“When you’re in the middle of a crisis, I don’t think anybody’s going to want to hear somebody come to the floor and talk about the fiscal responsibility of giving these people a home again, or giving them an opportunity to open up a business again and employ people,” Tillis said. “So, no I don’t think $10 billion or $20 billion, and ‘I promise we’ll do something more in March’ is an acceptable solution. We know what the need is today. It was negotiated in a package and it needs to be in a package to get my support to get out of here.”&nbsp;Graham sought to explain the realities of divided government and pointed out that even when Republicans control the House and Senate next year, they’ll still need Democratic support on spending bills.“We need 60 votes to get it done in the Senate,” Graham said, referring to the chamber’s legislative filibuster, which requires at least 60 lawmakers vote to advance bills toward final passage.“Mike Johnson is going to have to pick up a handful, at least, of Democrats, because there’s some Republicans who will never vote for anything,” Graham added.Tillis was unable to answer a question about whether a partial government shutdown beginning Saturday at 12:01 a.m. would affect the federal government’s ongoing natural disaster response in his home state.The Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation and numerous federal departments would be required to follow their shutdown guidance if Congress doesn’t fund the government on time.Those departments and agencies divide up their staffs into excepted employees, whose jobs address the protection of life or property, and non-excepted employees, who don’t.Neither category of federal employee gets paid until after the shutdown ends.American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley released a written statement Thursday that a shutdown would harm federal workers who “inspect our food, protect our borders, ensure safe travel during the holidays, and provide relief to disaster victims.”“Over 642,000 of them are veterans of our armed services,” Kelley wrote. “Allowing them to go without a paycheck over the holidays is unacceptable.”

Trump endorses new spending plan in Congress that suspends debt limit for two years

Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation&nbsp;

Omaha, NE: The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) has awarded $24,500.00 in scholarships to eight students who are currently attending Nebraska universities with aspirations to work in broadcasting upon their graduation.&nbsp; The following students have been awarded a NBAF scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Camille Andelt, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting Production and Advertising &amp; Public Relations; 

Hayden Hauge, a junior at University of Nebraska – Lincoln pursuing a quadruple major in Broadcasting, Journalism, English &amp; Film Studies; 

Sean Keating; a junior at University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; 

Dylan McCain, a junior at University of Nebraska – Omaha pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; 

Mary Mitzlaff, a senior at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism and media Communications;

 Lexi Montoya, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; 

Ellen Pham, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, pursuing a major in Broadcasting

Jacqueline Ruiz-Rodriguez, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting &amp; Journalism.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Current NBA Board Chairperson Jessie Johnson, vice president/general manager of Flood Communications in Kearney, said: “The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation is so proud to have these students aspire to be broadcasters. We strive to inspire future generations to pursue broadcasting, knowing their passion will empower their careers in this great industry and the dreamers who follow them”.&nbsp;

The NBAF offers scholarships to assist students enrolled in radio and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism educational programs at designated higher education institutions in Nebraska.&nbsp; Qualified applications are reviewed by a panel of NBA board members.&nbsp; 

Scholarship levels are $5,000.00 (Marty Riemenschneider Scholarship), $3,500 (Dick Palmquist Scholarship) and $2,500.00 (NBA Foundation Scholarship).&nbsp; The number of scholarships and total dollar amount awarded each year is at the discretion of the NBA board of directors based on application quality and quantity.&nbsp; More than $350,000 in college scholarships have been awarded by the NBA and NBAF since 1977.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation&nbsp;Omaha, NE: The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) has awarded $24,500.00 in scholarships to eight students who are currently attending Nebraska universities with aspirations to work in broadcasting upon their graduation.&nbsp; The following students have been awarded a NBAF scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year:&nbsp;&nbsp;Camille Andelt, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting Production and Advertising &amp; Public Relations; Hayden Hauge, a junior at University of Nebraska – Lincoln pursuing a quadruple major in Broadcasting, Journalism, English &amp; Film Studies; Sean Keating; a junior at University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; Dylan McCain, a junior at University of Nebraska – Omaha pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; Mary Mitzlaff, a senior at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism and media Communications; Lexi Montoya, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Omaha, pursuing a major in Journalism &amp; Media Communications; Ellen Pham, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, pursuing a major in BroadcastingJacqueline Ruiz-Rodriguez, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting &amp; Journalism.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Current NBA Board Chairperson Jessie Johnson, vice president/general manager of Flood Communications in Kearney, said: “The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation is so proud to have these students aspire to be broadcasters. We strive to inspire future generations to pursue broadcasting, knowing their passion will empower their careers in this great industry and the dreamers who follow them”.&nbsp;The NBAF offers scholarships to assist students enrolled in radio and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism educational programs at designated higher education institutions in Nebraska.&nbsp; Qualified applications are reviewed by a panel of NBA board members.&nbsp; Scholarship levels are $5,000.00 (Marty Riemenschneider Scholarship), $3,500 (Dick Palmquist Scholarship) and $2,500.00 (NBA Foundation Scholarship).&nbsp; The number of scholarships and total dollar amount awarded each year is at the discretion of the NBA board of directors based on application quality and quantity.&nbsp; More than $350,000 in college scholarships have been awarded by the NBA and NBAF since 1977.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation Awards $24,500 in Scholarships to Eight Nebraska College Students

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting achievements of Summer EBT (S-EBT) and has introduced additions to the program, as the state begins enrollment for 2025. These accomplishments and enhancements reflect Nebraska’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of families and promoting long-term well-being for children across the state. During the news conference, Gov. 

Pillen was joined by CEO Steve Corsi of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Dr. Brian Maher, and Director Shannon Grotrian of the DHHS Office of Economic Assistance (OEA) who each spoke to the benefits of the S-EBT program and its next steps.

“Nebraska demonstrated leadership in Summer EBT last year, in creating touchpoints designed to more robustly support children and their families, as well as being one of the first participant states to issue benefits in 2024,” said Gov. Pillen.

The state distributed nearly $24 million in benefits to just under 200,000 children in 122,000 families.

Termed by Gov. Pillen, the&nbsp;Nebraska Way, the 2024 S-EBT program provided unique, direct outreach connecting families to additional resources and referrals within the state’s human services systems, NDE programs and community agencies. Nebraska was the first state to implement such a component, which has gained interest from other states looking to adopt similar models.

This innovative approach has transformed the traditional S-EBT program to one that offers broader support to Nebraskans in need of services. Through that outreach, DHHS staff members helped provide over 12,000 additional resources to over 7,000 Nebraska families in need. These resources helped with utility payments, healthcare, childcare assistance, behavioral health resources, and more.

DHHS CEO Corsi emphasized the critical role of nutrition in supporting children’s mental and physical health. He highlighted research suggesting links between a good nutritional diet and better mental health and well-being.

“We’re excited about the program and building on our success from 2024,” said CEO Corsi. “I deeply appreciate Governor Pillen’s leadership and direction to DHHS to implement S-EBT the Nebraska Way. Thanks to his leadership and concern for Nebraska children and youth, we’re leading the nation and will continue to do so in 2025.”

CEO Corsi also shared his appreciation for the assistance and collaboration with NDE. Dr. Maher said the partnership was a valuable one.

“The work of our dedicated NDE staff, in cooperation with DHHS and the Governor’s Office, demonstrates our collective commitment to the Nebraska Way to make sure we have a positive impact for students statewide. We will continue to partner with DHHS to provide the necessary information so that Nebraska children are identified, and families are made aware of the resources available to them.”

In 2025, DHHS will continue the Nebraska Way with some additional touchpoints, including:

“As we look to 2025, we’re excited to see this program evolve and grow to meet the needs of our families,” said OEA Dir. Grotrian. “With these enhancements, we’re ensuring that Summer EBT is not just a seasonal benefit, but a resource that empowers families and strengthens communities.”

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting achievements of Summer EBT (S-EBT) and has introduced additions to the program, as the state begins enrollment for 2025. These accomplishments and enhancements reflect Nebraska’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of families and promoting long-term well-being for children across the state. During the news conference, Gov. Pillen was joined by CEO Steve Corsi of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Dr. Brian Maher, and Director Shannon Grotrian of the DHHS Office of Economic Assistance (OEA) who each spoke to the benefits of the S-EBT program and its next steps.“Nebraska demonstrated leadership in Summer EBT last year, in creating touchpoints designed to more robustly support children and their families, as well as being one of the first participant states to issue benefits in 2024,” said Gov. Pillen.The state distributed nearly $24 million in benefits to just under 200,000 children in 122,000 families.Termed by Gov. Pillen, the&nbsp;Nebraska Way, the 2024 S-EBT program provided unique, direct outreach connecting families to additional resources and referrals within the state’s human services systems, NDE programs and community agencies. Nebraska was the first state to implement such a component, which has gained interest from other states looking to adopt similar models.This innovative approach has transformed the traditional S-EBT program to one that offers broader support to Nebraskans in need of services. Through that outreach, DHHS staff members helped provide over 12,000 additional resources to over 7,000 Nebraska families in need. These resources helped with utility payments, healthcare, childcare assistance, behavioral health resources, and more.DHHS CEO Corsi emphasized the critical role of nutrition in supporting children’s mental and physical health. He highlighted research suggesting links between a good nutritional diet and better mental health and well-being.“We’re excited about the program and building on our success from 2024,” said CEO Corsi. “I deeply appreciate Governor Pillen’s leadership and direction to DHHS to implement S-EBT the Nebraska Way. Thanks to his leadership and concern for Nebraska children and youth, we’re leading the nation and will continue to do so in 2025.”CEO Corsi also shared his appreciation for the assistance and collaboration with NDE. Dr. Maher said the partnership was a valuable one.“The work of our dedicated NDE staff, in cooperation with DHHS and the Governor’s Office, demonstrates our collective commitment to the Nebraska Way to make sure we have a positive impact for students statewide. We will continue to partner with DHHS to provide the necessary information so that Nebraska children are identified, and families are made aware of the resources available to them.”In 2025, DHHS will continue the Nebraska Way with some additional touchpoints, including:<ul>
 <li>Program Timeline:&nbsp;DHHS will begin issuing benefits in late April to better align with school schedules and the summer period, ensuring timely access to resources.</li><li>Enhanced Direct Outreach:&nbsp;Nebraska will continue its Nebraska Way initiative to reach families directly via text messages, providing resources and referrals to ensure families in need receive the support they require.</li><li>Expanded Nutritional Education:&nbsp;A major expansion of the program will incorporate more nutritional education to help families purchase healthy food items and budget effectively.</li><li>Partnerships and Collaboration:&nbsp;DHHS plans to partner with the SNAP Nutrition Education Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Summer Food Service Program, the Grocer’s Association, and other community-based organizations to share information about S-EBT and provide additional nutrition education tools.</li><li>Ongoing Communication:&nbsp;Newsletters and flyers will be distributed throughout the summer months to keep families informed about updates, resources, and opportunities.</li>
 </ul>“As we look to 2025, we’re excited to see this program evolve and grow to meet the needs of our families,” said OEA Dir. Grotrian. “With these enhancements, we’re ensuring that Summer EBT is not just a seasonal benefit, but a resource that empowers families and strengthens communities.”

Gov. Pillen Talks About Success of Implementing S-EBT and Continued Improvements for 2025

Alliance, NE- The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce that Rebecca Ashing (F/W DOB 3/18/1994) of Alliance, Nebraska, was found guilty on four felony charges related to a premeditated attempt to murder her husband with a knife. 

The victim sustained life-threatening injuries but, thanks to the exceptional efforts of the Alliance Fire Department and medical staff at Box Butte General Hospital and other facilities, survived the attack.

On December 18, 2024, Ashing was sentenced as follows:

20-25 years in prison for the first charge of attempted murder.

5-10 years in prison for the second charge involving use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

These two sentences will be served consecutively, meaning the total duration of imprisonment for the first two charges is 25-35 years.

2-4 years in prison for the third charge of first-degree domestic assault.

1 year in prison for the fourth charge of second-degree domestic assault. The third and fourth sentences will run concurrently with the first two charges.

Chief David Leavitt of the Alliance Police Department would like to recognize the officers involved for their hard work and dedication in this case, which resulted in a successful conviction, as well as the hard work and dedication brought forth from the Box Butte County Attorney's office.

The Alliance Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the community, ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734631648473.png" alt="Rebbeca Ashing" />
 <figcaption>Rebbeca Ashing</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance, NE- The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce that Rebecca Ashing (F/W DOB 3/18/1994) of Alliance, Nebraska, was found guilty on four felony charges related to a premeditated attempt to murder her husband with a knife. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries but, thanks to the exceptional efforts of the Alliance Fire Department and medical staff at Box Butte General Hospital and other facilities, survived the attack.On December 18, 2024, Ashing was sentenced as follows:20-25 years in prison for the first charge of attempted murder.5-10 years in prison for the second charge involving use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.These two sentences will be served consecutively, meaning the total duration of imprisonment for the first two charges is 25-35 years.2-4 years in prison for the third charge of first-degree domestic assault.1 year in prison for the fourth charge of second-degree domestic assault. The third and fourth sentences will run concurrently with the first two charges.Chief David Leavitt of the Alliance Police Department would like to recognize the officers involved for their hard work and dedication in this case, which resulted in a successful conviction, as well as the hard work and dedication brought forth from the Box Butte County Attorney's office.The Alliance Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the community, ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable.

Western Nebraska Woman Sentenced for Attempted Murder

WASHINGTON — A Louisiana resident has contracted the country’s first severe case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a human, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Wednesday.

The unidentified person is believed to have been infected with the virus through sick or dead birds on their property that were not part of a commercial poultry flock, though federal public health officials declined to provide more details on a call with reporters, citing patient confidentiality. The virus is also called bird flu, or H5N1.

“Previously, the majority of cases of H5N1 in the United States presented with mild illness, such as conjunctivitis and mild respiratory symptoms, and fully recovered,” Demetre Daskalakis, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the CDC, said during the call.

“Over the 20-plus years of global experience with this virus, H5 infection has previously been associated with severe illness in other countries, including illnesses that resulted in death in up to 50% of cases,” Daskalakis said. “The demonstrated potential for this virus to cause severe illness in people continues to highlight the importance of the joint, coordinated U.S. federal response, the One Health response, to address the current animal outbreaks in dairy cows and poultry and limit the potential of transmission of this virus to humans through animal contact.”

Despite the Louisiana case, Daskalakis said on the call, the CDC believes the threat to the general public remains low.

The Louisiana Department of Health wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://ldh.la.gov/news/H5N1-2024" target="_blank">press release&nbsp;</a>posted Friday that the person lives in the southwestern region of the state and was hospitalized, but didn’t provide additional information.

Emma Herrock, communications director for the Louisiana Department of Health, told States Newsroom in an email Wednesday the “patient is experiencing severe respiratory illness related to H5N1 infection and is currently hospitalized in critical condition.”

The patient, she said, “is reported to have underlying medical conditions and is over the age of 65.”

The CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.html" target="_blank">has confirmed</a>&nbsp;61 human cases of H5N1 throughout nine states this year, but the Louisiana patient is the first severe case of bird flu in someone within the United States.&nbsp;

Daskalakis declined to say during the call why the Louisiana case is considered severe when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-officials-say-no-sign-bird-flu-spreading-among-humans-despite-missouri-case" target="_blank">a Missouri resident who was hospitalized due to bird flu&nbsp;</a>was not classified the same way.

The Missouri patient, who was admitted to a hospital in August, had significant underlying medical conditions, according to public health officials. That person experienced “acute symptoms of chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and weakness,” according to the CDC.

The CDC declined to say Wednesday what symptoms the Louisiana patient was experiencing, citing privacy concerns.

Bird flu has affected wild birds and poultry flocks throughout the United States for years, but it wasn’t until March that dairy cattle began becoming infected with the virus.

The dairy outbreak has affected 865 herds through 16 states this year, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/hpai-confirmed-cases-livestock" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. There have been 315 new cases in dairy cattle during the last month, with the vast majority of those diagnoses in California, while one herd each tested positive in Nevada and Texas.

Bird flu has affected nearly 124 million poultry throughout 49 states,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/data-map-commercial.html" target="_blank">according to</a>&nbsp;USDA.

Eric Deeble, deputy under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs at USDA, said on the call the nationwide milk testing strategy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/usda-launches-national-testing-milk-dairy-farms-track-bird-flu-outbreak" target="_blank">launched earlier this month</a>&nbsp;has expanded to several states.

The program requires anyone responsible for a dairy farm — such as a bulk milk transporter, bulk milk transfer station, or dairy processing facility — to share unpasteurized or raw milk samples when requested.

California, Colorado, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Washington are the 13 states currently enrolled in the program, he said.

In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday proclaimed a state of emergency “to further enhance the state’s preparedness &amp; accelerate the ongoing cross-agency response efforts,” the governor’s press office&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/18/governor-newsom-takes-proactive-action-to-strengthen-robust-state-response-to-bird-flu/" target="_blank">said.&nbsp;</a>

“These states represent a geographically conversant list of states, some of which have been affected by H5N1 in dairy cows, and some of which have never detected the disease,” Deeble said. “Additionally, these first two groups of states represent eight of the top 15 dairy-producing states in the country, accounting for nearly 50% of U.S. dairy production. We anticipate continuing to enroll additional states in the coming weeks.”

The USDA also continues to have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/four-states-begin-voluntary-testing-bird-flu-dairy-farm-milk-tanks" target="_blank">a voluntary bulk milk testing program</a>&nbsp;for any farms planning to ship dairy cattle across state lines to provide an easier pathway to establishing the herd is negative for H5N1, instead of having to test each cow individually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725718440042.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>WASHINGTON — A Louisiana resident has contracted the country’s first severe case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a human, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Wednesday.The unidentified person is believed to have been infected with the virus through sick or dead birds on their property that were not part of a commercial poultry flock, though federal public health officials declined to provide more details on a call with reporters, citing patient confidentiality. The virus is also called bird flu, or H5N1.“Previously, the majority of cases of H5N1 in the United States presented with mild illness, such as conjunctivitis and mild respiratory symptoms, and fully recovered,” Demetre Daskalakis, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the CDC, said during the call.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733747978622.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Over the 20-plus years of global experience with this virus, H5 infection has previously been associated with severe illness in other countries, including illnesses that resulted in death in up to 50% of cases,” Daskalakis said. “The demonstrated potential for this virus to cause severe illness in people continues to highlight the importance of the joint, coordinated U.S. federal response, the One Health response, to address the current animal outbreaks in dairy cows and poultry and limit the potential of transmission of this virus to humans through animal contact.”Despite the Louisiana case, Daskalakis said on the call, the CDC believes the threat to the general public remains low.The Louisiana Department of Health wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://ldh.la.gov/news/H5N1-2024" target="_blank">press release&nbsp;</a>posted Friday that the person lives in the southwestern region of the state and was hospitalized, but didn’t provide additional information.Emma Herrock, communications director for the Louisiana Department of Health, told States Newsroom in an email Wednesday the “patient is experiencing severe respiratory illness related to H5N1 infection and is currently hospitalized in critical condition.”The patient, she said, “is reported to have underlying medical conditions and is over the age of 65.”<h2>61 confirmed cases in humans</h2>The CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.html" target="_blank">has confirmed</a>&nbsp;61 human cases of H5N1 throughout nine states this year, but the Louisiana patient is the first severe case of bird flu in someone within the United States.&nbsp;Daskalakis declined to say during the call why the Louisiana case is considered severe when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-officials-say-no-sign-bird-flu-spreading-among-humans-despite-missouri-case" target="_blank">a Missouri resident who was hospitalized due to bird flu&nbsp;</a>was not classified the same way.The Missouri patient, who was admitted to a hospital in August, had significant underlying medical conditions, according to public health officials. That person experienced “acute symptoms of chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and weakness,” according to the CDC.The CDC declined to say Wednesday what symptoms the Louisiana patient was experiencing, citing privacy concerns.Bird flu has affected wild birds and poultry flocks throughout the United States for years, but it wasn’t until March that dairy cattle began becoming infected with the virus.The dairy outbreak has affected 865 herds through 16 states this year, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/hpai-confirmed-cases-livestock" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. There have been 315 new cases in dairy cattle during the last month, with the vast majority of those diagnoses in California, while one herd each tested positive in Nevada and Texas.Bird flu has affected nearly 124 million poultry throughout 49 states,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/data-map-commercial.html" target="_blank">according to</a>&nbsp;USDA.<h2>Milk testing</h2>Eric Deeble, deputy under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs at USDA, said on the call the nationwide milk testing strategy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/usda-launches-national-testing-milk-dairy-farms-track-bird-flu-outbreak" target="_blank">launched earlier this month</a>&nbsp;has expanded to several states.The program requires anyone responsible for a dairy farm — such as a bulk milk transporter, bulk milk transfer station, or dairy processing facility — to share unpasteurized or raw milk samples when requested.California, Colorado, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Washington are the 13 states currently enrolled in the program, he said.In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday proclaimed a state of emergency “to further enhance the state’s preparedness &amp; accelerate the ongoing cross-agency response efforts,” the governor’s press office&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/18/governor-newsom-takes-proactive-action-to-strengthen-robust-state-response-to-bird-flu/" target="_blank">said.&nbsp;</a>“These states represent a geographically conversant list of states, some of which have been affected by H5N1 in dairy cows, and some of which have never detected the disease,” Deeble said. “Additionally, these first two groups of states represent eight of the top 15 dairy-producing states in the country, accounting for nearly 50% of U.S. dairy production. We anticipate continuing to enroll additional states in the coming weeks.”The USDA also continues to have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/four-states-begin-voluntary-testing-bird-flu-dairy-farm-milk-tanks" target="_blank">a voluntary bulk milk testing program</a>&nbsp;for any farms planning to ship dairy cattle across state lines to provide an easier pathway to establishing the herd is negative for H5N1, instead of having to test each cow individually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

First severe case of bird flu in a human in the U.S. reported 

Lincoln, NE – December 19, 2024 – The Mega Millions jackpot has been growing for over three months. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to set spending and time limits.

A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since September. There have been 28 consecutive drawings since September 13 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Friday, December 20 drawing to $825 million or $382.2 million with the cash option selected. This is the 7th largest jackpot in the history of the game.

The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in August 2023 when one ticket was sold in Florida for a $1.602 billion jackpot.

Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to set limits and play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the Mega Millions jackpot is, the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 302 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVCGW7ZFoOjGhEOuDYk17Wg-2BgeY7UPBPUQdMljN8fRzJJp30s_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnWDViGze3zbxOgjzqd0EgP0VeK42Z4W5yHS0zvOm3FktlY3d87wSKSDOa8LG7wIlWK8ketJKAP8F6Nk2bhz5c1mcNJRd-2BuVjlvyNVsu2DlheVH9gjkBp6jQfP2IEp9fiwTZYuVCwT7WbiqNW70i7smJijKIbcNMyHMvkaoQ2RqKFfeDDaIyDjl8Ahk6xsVXVQMufBTMVFz-2Br5bgEhcTVXnGcN31V1SExsedJryb-2B8Nwd2WzBZcc9SYsFQsRfj-2FfOtl16v711tO-2FAKGRRMpPpkpQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">nelottery.com/knowyourlimit</a>&nbsp;for more information on setting limits on your lottery play.

If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVNHPTLOEvuBuA89teB3GDv5klcXlRRej62RghdJLZz1rUSTc_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnWDViGze3zbxOgjzqd0EgP0VeK42Z4W5yHS0zvOm3FktlY3d87wSKSDOa8LG7wIlWK8ketJKAP8F6Nk2bhz5c1mcNJRd-2BuVjlvyNVsu2DlhdBoIFdp-2B5wq8nw123CoxY8tDbK0C7VWNxTwgEWj1RscPOKhF3CPAOLuzY8fvaZNrRGxAmkmWPuWRxvp4GsTkrpvQ-2BYGfaQw6HiHOd1djG-2F512jmHj25YUQ-2FcS-2BppmBJ-2BLYjoe8Zav0QQsEHlMXgKBemk-2BEcvTLalfNtZ0ZQORCgw-3D-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. $1.003 billion has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Nebraska LotteryLincoln, NE – December 19, 2024 – The Mega Millions jackpot has been growing for over three months. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to set spending and time limits.A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since September. There have been 28 consecutive drawings since September 13 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Friday, December 20 drawing to $825 million or $382.2 million with the cash option selected. This is the 7th largest jackpot in the history of the game.The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in August 2023 when one ticket was sold in Florida for a $1.602 billion jackpot.Know Your LimitBecause of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to set limits and play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the Mega Millions jackpot is, the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 302 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVCGW7ZFoOjGhEOuDYk17Wg-2BgeY7UPBPUQdMljN8fRzJJp30s_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnWDViGze3zbxOgjzqd0EgP0VeK42Z4W5yHS0zvOm3FktlY3d87wSKSDOa8LG7wIlWK8ketJKAP8F6Nk2bhz5c1mcNJRd-2BuVjlvyNVsu2DlheVH9gjkBp6jQfP2IEp9fiwTZYuVCwT7WbiqNW70i7smJijKIbcNMyHMvkaoQ2RqKFfeDDaIyDjl8Ahk6xsVXVQMufBTMVFz-2Br5bgEhcTVXnGcN31V1SExsedJryb-2B8Nwd2WzBZcc9SYsFQsRfj-2FfOtl16v711tO-2FAKGRRMpPpkpQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">nelottery.com/knowyourlimit</a>&nbsp;for more information on setting limits on your lottery play.If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVNHPTLOEvuBuA89teB3GDv5klcXlRRej62RghdJLZz1rUSTc_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnWDViGze3zbxOgjzqd0EgP0VeK42Z4W5yHS0zvOm3FktlY3d87wSKSDOa8LG7wIlWK8ketJKAP8F6Nk2bhz5c1mcNJRd-2BuVjlvyNVsu2DlhdBoIFdp-2B5wq8nw123CoxY8tDbK0C7VWNxTwgEWj1RscPOKhF3CPAOLuzY8fvaZNrRGxAmkmWPuWRxvp4GsTkrpvQ-2BYGfaQw6HiHOd1djG-2F512jmHj25YUQ-2FcS-2BppmBJ-2BLYjoe8Zav0QQsEHlMXgKBemk-2BEcvTLalfNtZ0ZQORCgw-3D-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. $1.003 billion has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Mega Millions® Jackpot 7th Largest in History; Know Your Limit

The Teamsters launched the largest strike against Amazon in U.S. history Thursday morning.

 The nationwide action follows Amazon’s repeated refusal to follow the law and bargain with the thousands of Amazon workers who organized with the Teamsters, according to a social media statement from the union.

“If your package is delayed during the holidays, you can blame Amazon’s insatiable greed. We gave Amazon a clear deadline to come to the table and do right by our members. They ignored it,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. 

“These greedy executives had every chance to show decency and respect for the people who make their obscene profits possible. Instead, they’ve pushed workers to the limit and now they’re paying the price. This strike is on them.” 

Workers joined the picket line from DBK4 in New York City; DGT8 in Atlanta; DFX4, DAX5, and DAX8 in Southern California; DCK6 in San Francisco; and DIL7 in Skokie, Ill. Amazon Teamsters at other facilities are prepared to join them.

Teamsters local unions are also putting up primary picket lines at hundreds of Amazon Fulfillment Centers nationwide. Amazon warehouse workers and drivers without collective bargaining agreements have the legal right to honor these picket lines by withholding their labor.

“What we’re doing is historic,” said Leah Pensler, a warehouse worker at DCK6 in San Francisco. “We are fighting against a vicious union-busting campaign, and we are going to win.”

Amazon is the second-largest corporation on the Fortune 500 list. Despite being worth more than $2 trillion, the company fails to pay its workers enough to make ends meet.“Amazon is one of the biggest, richest corporations in the world,” said Gabriel Irizarry, a driver at DIL7 in Skokie, Ill. “They talk a big game about taking care of their workers, but when it comes down to it, Amazon does not respect us and our right to negotiate for better working conditions and wages."

"We can’t even afford to pay our bills.” Nearly 10,000 Amazon workers have mobilized a movement and joined the Teamsters. They are fighting for higher wages, better benefits, and safer conditions at work. “I’ve seen the Teamsters win big battles,” said Dia Ortiz, a worker at DBK4 in New York. “We’re ready to do what it takes to win this one.”

The Teamsters launched the largest strike against Amazon in U.S. history Thursday morning. The nationwide action follows Amazon’s repeated refusal to follow the law and bargain with the thousands of Amazon workers who organized with the Teamsters, according to a social media statement from the union.“If your package is delayed during the holidays, you can blame Amazon’s insatiable greed. We gave Amazon a clear deadline to come to the table and do right by our members. They ignored it,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “These greedy executives had every chance to show decency and respect for the people who make their obscene profits possible. Instead, they’ve pushed workers to the limit and now they’re paying the price. This strike is on them.” Workers joined the picket line from DBK4 in New York City; DGT8 in Atlanta; DFX4, DAX5, and DAX8 in Southern California; DCK6 in San Francisco; and DIL7 in Skokie, Ill. Amazon Teamsters at other facilities are prepared to join them.Teamsters local unions are also putting up primary picket lines at hundreds of Amazon Fulfillment Centers nationwide. Amazon warehouse workers and drivers without collective bargaining agreements have the legal right to honor these picket lines by withholding their labor.“What we’re doing is historic,” said Leah Pensler, a warehouse worker at DCK6 in San Francisco. “We are fighting against a vicious union-busting campaign, and we are going to win.”Amazon is the second-largest corporation on the Fortune 500 list. Despite being worth more than $2 trillion, the company fails to pay its workers enough to make ends meet.“Amazon is one of the biggest, richest corporations in the world,” said Gabriel Irizarry, a driver at DIL7 in Skokie, Ill. “They talk a big game about taking care of their workers, but when it comes down to it, Amazon does not respect us and our right to negotiate for better working conditions and wages.""We can’t even afford to pay our bills.” Nearly 10,000 Amazon workers have mobilized a movement and joined the Teamsters. They are fighting for higher wages, better benefits, and safer conditions at work. “I’ve seen the Teamsters win big battles,” said Dia Ortiz, a worker at DBK4 in New York. “We’re ready to do what it takes to win this one.”

Amazon Workers Strike in the Middle of Christmas Rush

Nebraska Department of Transportation

Dec. 18, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA), in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), has been awarded a $2 million Prioritization Process Pilot Program Grant from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to launch the Transformative Regional Investment Prioritization System (TRIPS). This innovative program will change how transportation projects that modernize the network are selected and prioritized in the region. 

TRIPS will implement a four-tiered assessment process to ensure transportation projects align with regional priorities and address the needs of the community for generations to come. By leveraging data analysis and engaging with the public, the program will identify the most impactful projects that can bring long-term benefits to the region. 

Key benefits of TRIPS include improved collaboration between NDOT and MAPA, the regional planning agency for the greater Omaha metro area. The prioritization system will create a transparent and equitable decision-making framework. TRIPS will also emphasize enhanced public engagement, empowering local communities to have direct influence on the region’s transportation future. 

NDOT plays a critical role in TRIPS, offering technical expertise and resources to ensure its success. 

“We are excited to collaborate with MAPA on this important project. TRIPS will help NDOT make informed decisions that improve Nebraska’s transportation system and enhance residents’ quality of life,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer.

Nebraska Department of TransportationDec. 18, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA), in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), has been awarded a $2 million Prioritization Process Pilot Program Grant from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to launch the Transformative Regional Investment Prioritization System (TRIPS). This innovative program will change how transportation projects that modernize the network are selected and prioritized in the region. TRIPS will implement a four-tiered assessment process to ensure transportation projects align with regional priorities and address the needs of the community for generations to come. By leveraging data analysis and engaging with the public, the program will identify the most impactful projects that can bring long-term benefits to the region. Key benefits of TRIPS include improved collaboration between NDOT and MAPA, the regional planning agency for the greater Omaha metro area. The prioritization system will create a transparent and equitable decision-making framework. TRIPS will also emphasize enhanced public engagement, empowering local communities to have direct influence on the region’s transportation future. NDOT plays a critical role in TRIPS, offering technical expertise and resources to ensure its success. “We are excited to collaborate with MAPA on this important project. TRIPS will help NDOT make informed decisions that improve Nebraska’s transportation system and enhance residents’ quality of life,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer.

MAPA Awarded $2 Million Grant to Implement Transformative  Regional Investment Prioritization System (TRIPS) 

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Today, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/4/fischer-leads-introduction-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-end-cuts-to-railroad-unemployment-and-sickness-benefits">Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act.</a>&nbsp;The legislation&nbsp;will protect railroad employees by ending government mandated cuts to their unemployment and sickness benefits once and for all.&nbsp;The bill now heads to the President’s desk.

“Today marks a victory for our nation’s railroad workers.&nbsp;My REEF Act will right the wrong of unfair cuts and ensure that the people who keep our trains moving receive the benefits they’ve earned. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“For too long, budget sequestration of Railroad Retirement Board benefits has unjustly harmed thousands of Teamsters railroaders who find themselves in the difficult position of trying to support their families following layoffs, illnesses, and injuries. Today’s victory ensures that not one more rail worker will be subjected to these cuts. The Teamsters thank Senator Fischer for her tireless effort over the years to ensure that the REEF Act becomes law,”&nbsp;said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien.Without the hard work of Senator Fischer and her staff, the REEF Act would not be headed to the President’s desk. This important legislation provides all railroaders and their families with the certainty that they will have access to the full benefits they have earned.”&nbsp;said Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies.

“As America’s largest transportation labor federation, we've seen firsthand how unemployment and sickness benefits are a lifeline for workers in times of need. After more than a decade of waiting, passenger and freight rail workers will finally receive the full value of the benefits they have earned. We thank Senator Fischer, Representative Schakowsky, and our congressional partners who got this bill across the finish line,"&nbsp;said AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Greg Regan.“The REEF Act is a win for the railroad industry’s workforce, and we were happy to work with both industry and labor partners on it under the leadership of Senator Fischer. The law will ensure that the unemployment and sickness safety nets in the railroad industry will be maintained fairly, while having no negative effect at all on federal finances,”&nbsp;said American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) President Chuck Baker,&nbsp;representing the nation’s 603 short line railroads and their suppliers.

Railroad unemployment and sickness benefits are funded solely by railroads’ and railroad workers’ contributions. The Budget Control Act of 2011 and subsequent implementation mandates require railroad unemployment and sickness benefits to be reduced by a certain percentage each year.

All other regular unemployment benefits are exempt from sequestration. Without the REEF Act, sequestration will likely result in a 5.7 percent reduction in railroad unemployment and sickness benefits through&nbsp;Fiscal Year (FY)&nbsp;2030.While a temporary version of the REEF Act was included in the COVID-19 relief bill passed in December 2020, that measure&nbsp;expired&nbsp;on May 10, 2023, 30 days after the expiration of COVID-19 national emergency declaration. Without this legislation, these benefits would be subject to sequestration through FY 2030.

In the Senate, the REEF Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) and is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), Jesús García (D-Ill.), and Pete Stauber (R-Minn.).

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/a27b5552-01c7-4961-bf48-57cc881462ff/reef-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to view text of the legislation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Today, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/4/fischer-leads-introduction-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-end-cuts-to-railroad-unemployment-and-sickness-benefits">Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act.</a>&nbsp;The legislation&nbsp;will protect railroad employees by ending government mandated cuts to their unemployment and sickness benefits once and for all.&nbsp;The bill now heads to the President’s desk.“Today marks a victory for our nation’s railroad workers.&nbsp;My REEF Act will right the wrong of unfair cuts and ensure that the people who keep our trains moving receive the benefits they’ve earned. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“For too long, budget sequestration of Railroad Retirement Board benefits has unjustly harmed thousands of Teamsters railroaders who find themselves in the difficult position of trying to support their families following layoffs, illnesses, and injuries. Today’s victory ensures that not one more rail worker will be subjected to these cuts. The Teamsters thank Senator Fischer for her tireless effort over the years to ensure that the REEF Act becomes law,”&nbsp;said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien.Without the hard work of Senator Fischer and her staff, the REEF Act would not be headed to the President’s desk. This important legislation provides all railroaders and their families with the certainty that they will have access to the full benefits they have earned.”&nbsp;said Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies.“As America’s largest transportation labor federation, we've seen firsthand how unemployment and sickness benefits are a lifeline for workers in times of need. After more than a decade of waiting, passenger and freight rail workers will finally receive the full value of the benefits they have earned. We thank Senator Fischer, Representative Schakowsky, and our congressional partners who got this bill across the finish line,"&nbsp;said AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Greg Regan.“The REEF Act is a win for the railroad industry’s workforce, and we were happy to work with both industry and labor partners on it under the leadership of Senator Fischer. The law will ensure that the unemployment and sickness safety nets in the railroad industry will be maintained fairly, while having no negative effect at all on federal finances,”&nbsp;said American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) President Chuck Baker,&nbsp;representing the nation’s 603 short line railroads and their suppliers.Background:Railroad unemployment and sickness benefits are funded solely by railroads’ and railroad workers’ contributions. The Budget Control Act of 2011 and subsequent implementation mandates require railroad unemployment and sickness benefits to be reduced by a certain percentage each year. All other regular unemployment benefits are exempt from sequestration. Without the REEF Act, sequestration will likely result in a 5.7 percent reduction in railroad unemployment and sickness benefits through&nbsp;Fiscal Year (FY)&nbsp;2030.While a temporary version of the REEF Act was included in the COVID-19 relief bill passed in December 2020, that measure&nbsp;expired&nbsp;on May 10, 2023, 30 days after the expiration of COVID-19 national emergency declaration. Without this legislation, these benefits would be subject to sequestration through FY 2030.In the Senate, the REEF Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) and is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), Jesús García (D-Ill.), and Pete Stauber (R-Minn.).Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/a27b5552-01c7-4961-bf48-57cc881462ff/reef-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to view text of the legislation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fischer Bill Ending Cuts to Railroad Benefits Heads to President

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, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act:

“This bill is the cornerstone of our defense policy. I’m glad my colleagues finally came together to reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to a strong national defense and give our military service members a pay raise. Our bill includes key elements of my Restoring American Deterrence Act that will overhaul America’s nuclear preparedness by rebuilding our aging nuclear deterrent.”

Senator Fischer secured dozens of defense provisions in the bill, outlined below.

Senator Fischer supported a provision authorizing a 4.5 percent pay raise for military members.

Military Construction Projects for Nebraska

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

Senator Fischer secured authorization of funds above the President’s budget request for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:

Senator Fischer also secured a provision that:

Restoring American Deterrence

Senator Fischer secured several provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act, which she&nbsp;<a target="_blank" 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">introduced</a>&nbsp;in April to overhaul America’s nuclear preparedness. These provisions:

Senator Fischer established a program of record for SLCM-N in the FY24 NDAA. The FY25 NDAA authorizes the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore options that would allow SLCM-N to be fielded on a faster timeline. Senator Fischer also secured the following:

Senator Fischer secured a provision mandating that the DOD notify 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 secured 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, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act:“This bill is the cornerstone of our defense policy. I’m glad my colleagues finally came together to reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to a strong national defense and give our military service members a pay raise. Our bill includes key elements of my Restoring American Deterrence Act that will overhaul America’s nuclear preparedness by rebuilding our aging nuclear deterrent.”Senator Fischer secured dozens of defense provisions in the bill, outlined below.Military Pay RaiseSenator Fischer supported a provision authorizing a 4.5 percent pay raise for military members.Military Construction Projects for NebraskaSenator Fischer secured full authorization of funds 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>Key Nebraska PrioritiesSenator Fischer secured authorization of funds above the President’s budget request for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:<ul>
 <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>Senator Fischer also secured a provision that:<ul>
 <li>Clarifies the Offutt-based Weather Wing’s authorities to provide weather data to the U.S. Air Force and Army</li>
 </ul>Restoring American DeterrenceSenator Fischer secured several provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act, which she&nbsp;<a target="_blank" 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">introduced</a>&nbsp;in April to overhaul America’s nuclear preparedness. These provisions:<ul>
 <li>Require the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop strategies to respond to growing threats from our adversaries, including an assessment of U.S. nuclear forces 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 integrated air and missile defense architecture for the United States</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>Make significant management and process improvements to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and clarifies that NNSA’s primary responsibility is to maintain and enhance the performance, reliability, security, and safety of nuclear weapons</li><li>Require the Secretary of Energy to conduct an assessment evaluating 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, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs to 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. The FY25 NDAA authorizes the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore options that would allow SLCM-N to be fielded on a faster timeline. Senator Fischer also secured the following:<ul>
 <li>Authorization of an additional $70 million for NNSA to research and develop the SLCM-N warhead</li><li>Authorization of an additional $252 million for the Navy to research and develop the SLCM-N missile</li><li>Fencing of 10 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 DOD’s SLCM-N decision acquisition memorandum</li>
 </ul>Chain of CommandSenator Fischer secured a provision mandating that the DOD notify 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 secured 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>Create a program requiring the Secretary of Defense to designate between 2-4 munitions with inventory levels below the Total Munitions Requirement to be produced by commercial companies not currently producing those munitions, as a way to expand production capacity</li><li>Require the Department to create a roadmap for the solid rocket motor industrial base</li>
 </ul>

Bill Includes Fischer’s Restoring American Deterrence Act, Nebraska Military Funding

The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce the conviction and sentencing of Gary Shott, who was involved in a violent assault in May 2024. During the incident, Shott attacked a victim with a katana sword, causing serious bodily injury.

Following the assault, the Alliance Police Department launched an extensive investigation, dedicating countless hours to ensure justice was served. As part of the investigation, asearch warrant was executed at the residence where the assault occurred. Officers recovered a significant amount of DNA evidence, which was sent to the Nebraska State Crime Lab for analysis.

The evidence gathered through this meticulous process led to the arrest of Shott, who faced multiple felony charges related to the assault. In the legal proceedings that followed, Shott was convicted and sentenced to 6 to 8 years in prison for his actions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734366680659.png" alt="Gary Shott" />
 <figcaption>Gary Shott</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce the conviction and sentencing of Gary Shott, who was involved in a violent assault in May 2024. During the incident, Shott attacked a victim with a katana sword, causing serious bodily injury.Following the assault, the Alliance Police Department launched an extensive investigation, dedicating countless hours to ensure justice was served. As part of the investigation, asearch warrant was executed at the residence where the assault occurred. Officers recovered a significant amount of DNA evidence, which was sent to the Nebraska State Crime Lab for analysis.The evidence gathered through this meticulous process led to the arrest of Shott, who faced multiple felony charges related to the assault. In the legal proceedings that followed, Shott was convicted and sentenced to 6 to 8 years in prison for his actions.Chief David Leavitt of the Alliance Police Department commended the efforts of the men and women in blue who played a vital role in this case. “Cases like these showcase the dedication and professionalism of our officers. Their unwavering commitment to justice ensures that Alliance remains a safe community for our residents,” Chief Leavitt stated.The Alliance Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the community, ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable.