At approximately 11:10 am on 9/15/24, officers were dispatched to 416 Errebo Place on a disturbance call. Upon arrival, Gregory L. Buethe M/W DOB 06/23/87 was cursing, screaming, and refused to talk to officers. The suspect's mother told police that Mr. Buethe is off his meds and has a history of mental illness. Today, he broke a window in the home and assaulted his mother by throwing a table at her, causing a knee injury.

Officers attempted to interview Mr. Buethe, however despite efforts to deescalate the situation, he became more agitated and violent toward officers. Mr. Buethe picked up a large piece of wood and threw it at Sergeant David LaDuke, causing a fracture to his leg.

At that time, officers deployed a Taser to attempt to gain control of the suspect. The Taser had minimal effect, and the suspect retreated into the home. Additional officers were summoned to the scene and surrounded the house.

After interviewing the suspect’s mother and brother, it was determined that there were no guns in the home and no reason to believe the suspect was armed. Once sufficient manpower was on the scene, officers made entry into the home and took the suspect into custody.

Although no additional force was used to take the suspect into custody, Sergeant Tim Peterson was assaulted during the arrest when the suspect struck him in the groin.

The suspect was transported to the Box Butte County Jail and will face multiple charges including assault on his mother as well as the officers and resisting arrest.

Sergeant LaDuke was transported to Box Butte General Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. The suspect’s mother was also transported to Box Butte County General for her injury.

Special thanks to the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alliance Fire Department for their assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726444578088.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Alliance Police DepartmentAt approximately 11:10 am on 9/15/24, officers were dispatched to 416 Errebo Place on a disturbance call. Upon arrival, Gregory L. Buethe M/W DOB 06/23/87 was cursing, screaming, and refused to talk to officers. The suspect's mother told police that Mr. Buethe is off his meds and has a history of mental illness. Today, he broke a window in the home and assaulted his mother by throwing a table at her, causing a knee injury.Officers attempted to interview Mr. Buethe, however despite efforts to deescalate the situation, he became more agitated and violent toward officers. Mr. Buethe picked up a large piece of wood and threw it at Sergeant David LaDuke, causing a fracture to his leg.At that time, officers deployed a Taser to attempt to gain control of the suspect. The Taser had minimal effect, and the suspect retreated into the home. Additional officers were summoned to the scene and surrounded the house.After interviewing the suspect’s mother and brother, it was determined that there were no guns in the home and no reason to believe the suspect was armed. Once sufficient manpower was on the scene, officers made entry into the home and took the suspect into custody.Although no additional force was used to take the suspect into custody, Sergeant Tim Peterson was assaulted during the arrest when the suspect struck him in the groin.The suspect was transported to the Box Butte County Jail and will face multiple charges including assault on his mother as well as the officers and resisting arrest.Sergeant LaDuke was transported to Box Butte General Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. The suspect’s mother was also transported to Box Butte County General for her injury.Special thanks to the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alliance Fire Department for their assistance.

Alliance Police Sergeant Injured During Barricaded Suspect Incident

Alliance, Neb. - At approximately 10:00 pm on September 14th , officers were dispatched to 2652 Marvin Circle for a reported assault. On arrival, George Coulton King was found with multiple stab wounds to his arms and neck. After interviewing the victim, police learned that the assault had occurred at 113 Yellowstone&nbsp;during an argument with his child’s mother, Valerie Cerny F/W DOB 5/26/00.

Upon being interviewed by officers, Ms. Cerny admitted that she had stabbed Mr. King repeatedly during an argument which became heated and that her intent was to kill him.

Ms. Cerny is currently housed in the Box Butte County Jail pending a hearing on domestic related attempted 1st Degree Homicide.

By Alliance Police DepartmentAlliance, Neb. - At approximately 10:00 pm on September 14th , officers were dispatched to 2652 Marvin Circle for a reported assault. On arrival, George Coulton King was found with multiple stab wounds to his arms and neck. After interviewing the victim, police learned that the assault had occurred at 113 Yellowstone&nbsp;during an argument with his child’s mother, Valerie Cerny F/W DOB 5/26/00.Upon being interviewed by officers, Ms. Cerny admitted that she had stabbed Mr. King repeatedly during an argument which became heated and that her intent was to kill him.Ms. Cerny is currently housed in the Box Butte County Jail pending a hearing on domestic related attempted 1st Degree Homicide.

Alliance Woman Charged With Attempted Homicide

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen offered the following statement regarding the status of consideration for a special session on restoring winner-take-all (WTA) to Nebraska’s allocation of electoral college votes:

“As Governor of Nebraska, I will never waver&nbsp;in my commitment to do what is right for our state. As I have consistently made clear, I strongly support statewide unity and joining 48 other states by awarding all five of our electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who wins the majority of Nebraskans’ votes. As I have also made clear, I am willing to convene the Legislature for a special session to fix this 30-year-old problem before the 2024 election. However, I must receive clear and public indication that 33 senators are willing to vote in such a session to restore winner-take-all. I have been consistent and clear on this issue, and likewise expect members of the Legislature to do the same so that we as leaders are transparent and accountable to Nebraskans.

Consistent with those principles, I and other conservatives have worked diligently to assess legislative support for WTA in a pre-election special session. At this time, I have not yet received the concrete and public indication that 33 senators would vote for WTA. If that changes, I will enthusiastically call a special session.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen offered the following statement regarding the status of consideration for a special session on restoring winner-take-all (WTA) to Nebraska’s allocation of electoral college votes:“As Governor of Nebraska, I will never waver&nbsp;in my commitment to do what is right for our state. As I have consistently made clear, I strongly support statewide unity and joining 48 other states by awarding all five of our electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who wins the majority of Nebraskans’ votes. As I have also made clear, I am willing to convene the Legislature for a special session to fix this 30-year-old problem before the 2024 election. However, I must receive clear and public indication that 33 senators are willing to vote in such a session to restore winner-take-all. I have been consistent and clear on this issue, and likewise expect members of the Legislature to do the same so that we as leaders are transparent and accountable to Nebraskans.Consistent with those principles, I and other conservatives have worked diligently to assess legislative support for WTA in a pre-election special session. At this time, I have not yet received the concrete and public indication that 33 senators would vote for WTA. If that changes, I will enthusiastically call a special session.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Offers Statement on Status of Special Session for Winner Take All

Linda Sobeski, PharmD, has been named the inaugural associate dean for the UNMC College of Pharmacy’s regional pharmacy school at the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus.

The first pharmacy class at Kearney – projected to be 12-16 in number – is set to enroll August 2025 and graduate May 2029.

Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna who has been with the UNMC College of Pharmacy since 2005, is a clinician-educator and board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist with a clinical practice.

“The college is excited to have Dr. Sobeski as our associate dean,” said Keith Olsen, PharmD, Joseph D. Williams Endowed Dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy. “Her great depth in understanding all aspects of pharmacy education will be invaluable to guide, lead and mentor our students and faculty on the Kearney campus.”

“We are delighted to have Dr. Sobeski lead our program in Kearney,” said Don Klepser, PhD, senior associate dean for academic affairs at the college. “She understands our curriculum and our culture, which will allow her to&nbsp;mentor new faculty and assure that students in Kearney are getting the same high-quality experience as those in Omaha.&nbsp;She will serve as an incredible ambassador for the college in Kearney and the surrounding areas.”

UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said Dr. Sobeski’s hiring is part of the university’s greater commitment to the state and its people.

“The expansion of our pharmacy program to Kearney, along with medicine, nursing, public health, the allied health professions and more, is the latest in our effort to serve all Nebraskans,” Dr. Davies said. “This will increase access to&nbsp;much needed pharmacy services&nbsp;for students&nbsp;closer to home for many of&nbsp;our rural communities.

“I am pleased that Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna with a strong background of excellence in clinical education, has agreed to help lead the college of pharmacy students in this mission. I am confident the students will be well served by her experiences.”

Dr. Sobeski’s educational awards include an Outstanding Faculty Award from the UNMC College of Pharmacy class of 2022 and being honored as the college’s Preceptor of the Year in 2020.

Dr. Sobeski, who began her new role on Sept. 1, will be based in Kearney, Dr. Klepser said.

Prior to joining UNMC, Dr. Sobeski held an appointment as assistant clinical professor at Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Des Moines.

Dr. Sobeski’s primary research interests are management of cognitive disorders, inappropriate medication use in the elderly and clinical geriatric education. She currently is collaborating with the UNMC Geriatrics Division on a Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726495845703.jpeg" alt="Linda Sobeski, PharmD (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Linda Sobeski, PharmD (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNMCLinda Sobeski, PharmD, has been named the inaugural associate dean for the UNMC College of Pharmacy’s regional pharmacy school at the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus.The first pharmacy class at Kearney – projected to be 12-16 in number – is set to enroll August 2025 and graduate May 2029.Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna who has been with the UNMC College of Pharmacy since 2005, is a clinician-educator and board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist with a clinical practice.“The college is excited to have Dr. Sobeski as our associate dean,” said Keith Olsen, PharmD, Joseph D. Williams Endowed Dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy. “Her great depth in understanding all aspects of pharmacy education will be invaluable to guide, lead and mentor our students and faculty on the Kearney campus.”“We are delighted to have Dr. Sobeski lead our program in Kearney,” said Don Klepser, PhD, senior associate dean for academic affairs at the college. “She understands our curriculum and our culture, which will allow her to&nbsp;mentor new faculty and assure that students in Kearney are getting the same high-quality experience as those in Omaha.&nbsp;She will serve as an incredible ambassador for the college in Kearney and the surrounding areas.”UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said Dr. Sobeski’s hiring is part of the university’s greater commitment to the state and its people.“The expansion of our pharmacy program to Kearney, along with medicine, nursing, public health, the allied health professions and more, is the latest in our effort to serve all Nebraskans,” Dr. Davies said. “This will increase access to&nbsp;much needed pharmacy services&nbsp;for students&nbsp;closer to home for many of&nbsp;our rural communities.“I am pleased that Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna with a strong background of excellence in clinical education, has agreed to help lead the college of pharmacy students in this mission. I am confident the students will be well served by her experiences.”Dr. Sobeski’s educational awards include an Outstanding Faculty Award from the UNMC College of Pharmacy class of 2022 and being honored as the college’s Preceptor of the Year in 2020.Dr. Sobeski, who began her new role on Sept. 1, will be based in Kearney, Dr. Klepser said.Prior to joining UNMC, Dr. Sobeski held an appointment as assistant clinical professor at Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Des Moines.Dr. Sobeski’s primary research interests are management of cognitive disorders, inappropriate medication use in the elderly and clinical geriatric education. She currently is collaborating with the UNMC Geriatrics Division on a Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant.

Inaugural associate pharmacy dean named for Kearney campus

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

WASHINGTON — The FBI is investigating a possible assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired Sunday near Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where the GOP presidential nominee was playing golf.

The FBI said in a statement to States Newsroom the incident “appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump.”

A male suspect is in custody, law enforcement officials said.

“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign’s communications director, said in a statement about 20 minutes after the incident occurred just before 2 p.m. Eastern.

The FBI is taking a lead on investigating, said Jeffrey Veltri, the special agent in charge of the bureau’s Miami field office during a late afternoon press conference by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw told reporters that a Secret Service agent with Trump spotted a rifle coming out of bushes next to the golf course.

“The Secret Service agent that was on the course did a fantastic job,” he said. “What they do is, they have an agent that jumps one hole ahead of time to where the president was at, and he was able to spot this rifle barrel, stickin’ out of the fence, and immediately engage that individual, at which time the individual took off.”

The suspect in the bushes had an AK-47 style rifle with a scope, two backpacks filled with ceramic tile and a GoPro camera, Bradshaw said.

Bradshaw said a witness saw the suspect come out of the bushes and take off in a black Nissan. The witness took a picture of the license plate and local law enforcement officers were able to stop the vehicle in Martin County, which borders Palm Beach County.

“They spotted the vehicle and pulled it over and detained the guy,” Bradshaw said.

Once the driver was detained, Bradshaw said the witness was able to identify the driver as “the person that he saw running out of the bushes that jumped into the car.”

Bradshaw said the suspect was about 300 to 500 yards away from Trump.

“With a rifle and a scope like that, that’s not a long distance,” he said.

Bradshaw did not provide more details about the suspect’s identity.

U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1835390587673153888" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;prior to the press conference that “a protective incident” involving Trump occurred and that the Secret Service was investigating the incident with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He also confirmed that Trump was safe.

The private golf club is about 4 miles from Trump’s primary residence at Mar-a-Lago.

The Republican vice presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/1835428708464873580" target="_blank">wrote on social media</a>&nbsp;that he has spoken to Trump, who is “in good spirits.”

“Still much we don’t know, but I’ll be hugging my kids extra tight tonight and saying a prayer of gratitude,” Vance wrote.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VP/status/1835403813475570113" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;that she had been briefed and she is glad Trump is safe.

“Violence has no place in America,” she said.

The White House said that President Joe Biden had also been briefed.

“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the White House said of Biden and Harris. “They will be kept regularly updated by their team.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that he applauded “the Secret Service for their quick response to ensure former President Trump’s safety.”

“There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind,” he said. “The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The incident follows a&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">July 13 assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;of Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Congress set up a bipartisan task force to investigate that attempted assassination. The chair of the task force, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Pennsylvania and the top Democrat, U.S. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado released a joint statement, requesting a briefing from the Secret Service on the shooting in West Palm Beach “and how security responded.”

“We are thankful that the former President was not harmed, but remain deeply concerned about political violence and condemn it in all of its forms,” they wrote. “The Task Force will share updates as we learn more.”

U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, an Ohio Republican and a member of the task force investigating that incident, said on social media “with continued threats against Trump, it is critical to remain dedicated to our work on the Task Force to Investigate the Attempted Assassination of President Trump.”

This is a developing story and will be updated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726432346578.png" alt="&nbsp;Based on BOLO information released by Palm Beach County, the Martin County Sheriff's Office stopped a vehicle and took a suspect into custody believed to be connected to a shooting incident at Trump International in Palm Beach County. -photos Martin County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Based on BOLO information released by Palm Beach County, the Martin County Sheriff's Office stopped a vehicle and took a suspect into custody believed to be connected to a shooting incident at Trump International in Palm Beach County. -photos Martin County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> WASHINGTON — The FBI is investigating a possible assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired Sunday near Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where the GOP presidential nominee was playing golf.The FBI said in a statement to States Newsroom the incident “appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump.”A male suspect is in custody, law enforcement officials said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726442796445.png" alt="Photos of the AK-47 rifle, a backpack and a Go-Pro camera on a fence outside Trump International Golf Club taken after an apparent assassination attempt on the former President Donald Trump, are displayed by West Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw during a news conference at the Palm Beach County Main Library.-image West Palm Beach Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos of the AK-47 rifle, a backpack and a Go-Pro camera on a fence outside Trump International Golf Club taken after an apparent assassination attempt on the former President Donald Trump, are displayed by West Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw during a news conference at the Palm Beach County Main Library.-image West Palm Beach Police</figcaption>
 </figure>“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign’s communications director, said in a statement about 20 minutes after the incident occurred just before 2 p.m. Eastern.The FBI is taking a lead on investigating, said Jeffrey Veltri, the special agent in charge of the bureau’s Miami field office during a late afternoon press conference by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw told reporters that a Secret Service agent with Trump spotted a rifle coming out of bushes next to the golf course.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726432191597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“The Secret Service agent that was on the course did a fantastic job,” he said. “What they do is, they have an agent that jumps one hole ahead of time to where the president was at, and he was able to spot this rifle barrel, stickin’ out of the fence, and immediately engage that individual, at which time the individual took off.”The suspect in the bushes had an AK-47 style rifle with a scope, two backpacks filled with ceramic tile and a GoPro camera, Bradshaw said.Bradshaw said a witness saw the suspect come out of the bushes and take off in a black Nissan. The witness took a picture of the license plate and local law enforcement officers were able to stop the vehicle in Martin County, which borders Palm Beach County.“They spotted the vehicle and pulled it over and detained the guy,” Bradshaw said.Once the driver was detained, Bradshaw said the witness was able to identify the driver as “the person that he saw running out of the bushes that jumped into the car.”Bradshaw said the suspect was about 300 to 500 yards away from Trump.“With a rifle and a scope like that, that’s not a long distance,” he said.Bradshaw did not provide more details about the suspect’s identity.U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1835390587673153888" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;prior to the press conference that “a protective incident” involving Trump occurred and that the Secret Service was investigating the incident with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He also confirmed that Trump was safe.The private golf club is about 4 miles from Trump’s primary residence at Mar-a-Lago.<h2>Reaction from Vance, Harris, Biden</h2>The Republican vice presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/1835428708464873580" target="_blank">wrote on social media</a>&nbsp;that he has spoken to Trump, who is “in good spirits.”“Still much we don’t know, but I’ll be hugging my kids extra tight tonight and saying a prayer of gratitude,” Vance wrote.Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VP/status/1835403813475570113" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;that she had been briefed and she is glad Trump is safe.“Violence has no place in America,” she said.The White House said that President Joe Biden had also been briefed.“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the White House said of Biden and Harris. “They will be kept regularly updated by their team.”Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that he applauded “the Secret Service for their quick response to ensure former President Trump’s safety.”“There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind,” he said. “The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”The incident follows a&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">July 13 assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;of Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.Congress set up a bipartisan task force to investigate that attempted assassination. The chair of the task force, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Pennsylvania and the top Democrat, U.S. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado released a joint statement, requesting a briefing from the Secret Service on the shooting in West Palm Beach “and how security responded.”“We are thankful that the former President was not harmed, but remain deeply concerned about political violence and condemn it in all of its forms,” they wrote. “The Task Force will share updates as we learn more.”U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, an Ohio Republican and a member of the task force investigating that incident, said on social media “with continued threats against Trump, it is critical to remain dedicated to our work on the Task Force to Investigate the Attempted Assassination of President Trump.”This is a developing story and will be updated.

FBI investigating shots fired near Trump as apparent assassination attempt

Arizona and Nevada had the biggest spikes in renters paying 30% or more of their income on housing from 2019 to 2023.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">TIM HENDERSON</a>

There were 21 states where a majority of tenant households spent 30% or more of their incomes on rent and utilities last year, compared with just seven states in 2019.

Nationwide, about 22 million&nbsp;renters are shouldering that percentage.&nbsp;Anyone paying more than 30% is considered “cost burdened,” according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and may struggle to pay for other necessities, such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care.

Three presidential swing states had among the biggest increases in the share of renters who spent that much on housing: Arizona (to 54% from 46.5%), Nevada (to 57.4% from 51.1%) and Georgia (to 53.7% from 48.4%). The numbers are based on a Stateline analysis of American Community Survey data to be released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Florida and Maine also saw large jumps.

In Arizona, low wages, a housing shortage, and short-term rental and vacation homes are eating away at the stock of affordable housing for renters,&nbsp;according to Alison Cook-Davis, associate director for research at Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy.

“You’ve got people across the state kind of pulling their hair out, saying ‘I thought Arizona was supposed to be the affordable state,’” Cook-Davis said.

Rents in Arizona have shot up 40% to 60% in the last two years, she said. And the state’s eviction filings spiked 43% to 97,000 between 2022 and 2023, she said.

In places such as Arizona and Nevada where the housing bubble of the late 2000s left vacant houses, the construction of apartments and other homes has not caught up with population increases, Cook-Davis added.

A University of Nevada, Las Vegas,&nbsp;<a href="https://liedcenter.unlv.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lied-Research-Report-Volume-1-Issue-1.pdf" target="_blank">data brief</a>&nbsp;reported in May&nbsp;that the Las Vegas area had the highest percentage of cost-burdened renters in the state, at 58.3%, more even than the New York City metro area (52.6%) or San Francisco metro area (48.9%).

Today’s newly released census figures showed that in addition to Arizona, Nevada and Georgia, the states with the highest jumps in the share of cost-burdened renters were Florida, which increased to 61.7% from 55.9%, and Maine, at 49.1% from 44%.

That jump left Florida as the state with the highest rate of cost-burdened renters. It was followed by Nevada (57.4%), Hawaii (56.7%), Louisiana (56.2%) and California (56.1%).

“Florida isn't the deal it used to be,” said Christopher McCarty, director of the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Florida still has disproportionately lower-paying jobs compared to other states, and rents are increasing compared to other states as well.”

The states with the lowest rates of cost-burdened renters as of 2023 were North Dakota (37%), Wyoming (41.2%), South Dakota (41.3%), Kansas (43.5%) and Nebraska (44%).

The share of cost-burdened renters increased since 2019 in every state except Vermont (down to 47.8% from 54%), Wyoming (down to 41.2% from 44%), North Dakota (down to 37% from 38%) and Rhode Island (down to 48.1% from 49%).

There's hope for the future in Arizona and other states with increased home construction, Cook-Davis said.

“If you keep building, eventually this will sort itself out. But that could take years. It's a slow process," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625411208272.png" alt="Apartment complex in Johnson County Kansas -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Apartment complex in Johnson County Kansas -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Arizona and Nevada had the biggest spikes in renters paying 30% or more of their income on housing from 2019 to 2023.</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">TIM HENDERSON</a>There were 21 states where a majority of tenant households spent 30% or more of their incomes on rent and utilities last year, compared with just seven states in 2019.Nationwide, about 22 million&nbsp;renters are shouldering that percentage.&nbsp;Anyone paying more than 30% is considered “cost burdened,” according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and may struggle to pay for other necessities, such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care.Three presidential swing states had among the biggest increases in the share of renters who spent that much on housing: Arizona (to 54% from 46.5%), Nevada (to 57.4% from 51.1%) and Georgia (to 53.7% from 48.4%). The numbers are based on a Stateline analysis of American Community Survey data to be released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Florida and Maine also saw large jumps.In Arizona, low wages, a housing shortage, and short-term rental and vacation homes are eating away at the stock of affordable housing for renters,&nbsp;according to Alison Cook-Davis, associate director for research at Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy.“You’ve got people across the state kind of pulling their hair out, saying ‘I thought Arizona was supposed to be the affordable state,’” Cook-Davis said.Rents in Arizona have shot up 40% to 60% in the last two years, she said. And the state’s eviction filings spiked 43% to 97,000 between 2022 and 2023, she said.In places such as Arizona and Nevada where the housing bubble of the late 2000s left vacant houses, the construction of apartments and other homes has not caught up with population increases, Cook-Davis added.A University of Nevada, Las Vegas,&nbsp;<a href="https://liedcenter.unlv.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lied-Research-Report-Volume-1-Issue-1.pdf" target="_blank">data brief</a>&nbsp;reported in May&nbsp;that the Las Vegas area had the highest percentage of cost-burdened renters in the state, at 58.3%, more even than the New York City metro area (52.6%) or San Francisco metro area (48.9%).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726157150534.png" alt="Map: Tim Henderson/StatelineSource: American Community Survey, Stateline analysis" />
 <figcaption>Map: Tim Henderson/StatelineSource: American Community Survey, Stateline analysis</figcaption>
 </figure>Today’s newly released census figures showed that in addition to Arizona, Nevada and Georgia, the states with the highest jumps in the share of cost-burdened renters were Florida, which increased to 61.7% from 55.9%, and Maine, at 49.1% from 44%.That jump left Florida as the state with the highest rate of cost-burdened renters. It was followed by Nevada (57.4%), Hawaii (56.7%), Louisiana (56.2%) and California (56.1%).“Florida isn't the deal it used to be,” said Christopher McCarty, director of the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Florida still has disproportionately lower-paying jobs compared to other states, and rents are increasing compared to other states as well.”The states with the lowest rates of cost-burdened renters as of 2023 were North Dakota (37%), Wyoming (41.2%), South Dakota (41.3%), Kansas (43.5%) and Nebraska (44%).The share of cost-burdened renters increased since 2019 in every state except Vermont (down to 47.8% from 54%), Wyoming (down to 41.2% from 44%), North Dakota (down to 37% from 38%) and Rhode Island (down to 48.1% from 49%).There's hope for the future in Arizona and other states with increased home construction, Cook-Davis said.“If you keep building, eventually this will sort itself out. But that could take years. It's a slow process," she said.

Rent is eating up a greater share of tenants’ income in almost every state

JERUSALEM —U.S. forces continue to face threats across the Middle East almost daily and are taking action.

This week U.S. forces killed an ISIS attack cell member in a strike in Eastern Syria, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The individual was in the midst of planting an IED for a planned attack against Coalition and Partner Forces.

In addition, over the past week, U.S. forces have successfully destroyed 13 Iranian-back Houthi drones, 7 Houthi missile systems and 3 support vehicles in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen or on the Red Sea, according to the Central Command.

On Friday,&nbsp; the U.S. Army announced the upcoming deployment of the 101st Airborne Division, Combat Aviation Brigade, 'Wings of Destiny,' will deploy to replace the 10th Mountain Division Combat Aviation Brigade.

JERUSALEM —U.S. forces continue to face threats across the Middle East almost daily and are taking action.This week U.S. forces killed an ISIS attack cell member in a strike in Eastern Syria, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The individual was in the midst of planting an IED for a planned attack against Coalition and Partner Forces.In addition, over the past week, U.S. forces have successfully destroyed 13 Iranian-back Houthi drones, 7 Houthi missile systems and 3 support vehicles in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen or on the Red Sea, according to the Central Command.On Friday,&nbsp; the U.S. Army announced the upcoming deployment of the 101st Airborne Division, Combat Aviation Brigade, 'Wings of Destiny,' will deploy to replace the 10th Mountain Division Combat Aviation Brigade.

U.S. forces kill ISIS attack cell member during a strike in Syria

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Awards Program dollars are having a real impact in Nebraska, according to meetings that the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska held with funding recipients this summer. &nbsp;

BHECN hosted workshops in Kearney, Chadron, Scottsbluff, Wayne and Omaha with organizations that received portions of the $25.5 million in ARPA funds that the Nebraska Legislature allocated to BHECN in 2022.

The organizations described how the funding support helped them address key behavioral health workforce challenges.

Many of the projects directly align with BHECN’s efforts to address the state’s shortage of behavioral health workers, said BHECN Director Marley Doyle, MD.

“It was very gratifying to hear that the ARPA dollars are working how they are intended to work,” Dr. Doyle said. “Although we’re only a year into the program, the impact our awardees are having on the behavioral health workforce in this state is truly remarkable.”

Some examples of the ARPA success included:

Hearing so many stories about ARPA awards improving behavioral health in Nebraska is an affirming experience for the BHECN team, said Jessie Buche, director of the BHECN-ARPA Awards Program.

“We truly believe the ARPA program is a transformational development for behavioral health in Nebraska, and hearing about the work of our awardees only strengthens that belief,” Buche said. “We are incredibly excited to see what continues to come from this amazing project.”&nbsp;

ARPAMeetings1: BHECN Central Director Krista Fritson, PsyD, center, talks at a gathering of ARPA awardees at the University of Nebraska Kearney in June.

ARPAMeetings2: ARPA awardees and BHECN staff members discuss the ARPA Awards Program at UNK in June.

UNMCAmerican Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Awards Program dollars are having a real impact in Nebraska, according to meetings that the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska held with funding recipients this summer. &nbsp;BHECN hosted workshops in Kearney, Chadron, Scottsbluff, Wayne and Omaha with organizations that received portions of the $25.5 million in ARPA funds that the Nebraska Legislature allocated to BHECN in 2022.The organizations described how the funding support helped them address key behavioral health workforce challenges.Many of the projects directly align with BHECN’s efforts to address the state’s shortage of behavioral health workers, said BHECN Director Marley Doyle, MD.“It was very gratifying to hear that the ARPA dollars are working how they are intended to work,” Dr. Doyle said. “Although we’re only a year into the program, the impact our awardees are having on the behavioral health workforce in this state is truly remarkable.”Some examples of the ARPA success included:<ul>
 <li><a>At Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Gina Krysl added a second counselor to the NCC student counseling team and a student intern to meet the growing behavioral health needs of students. The NCC counseling office doubled the number of students served and offered prevention programming and outreach to the campus community.</a></li><li>Options in Psychology, which has several offices in western Nebraska, recruited multiple psychology doctoral interns – most of whom plan to stay in the area once their training is complete. The staff help address a key workforce shortage area for the Panhandle.</li><li>Quality Healthcare Clinic, an integrated care clinic in Sutton, Nebraska, hired one full-time and two part-time behavioral health providers, established telebehavioral health capacity and marketed its new offerings to the communities served by the clinic.</li><li>At Chadron State College, Brittany Helmbrecht, DHEd, instituted a campus wellness program to reduce stigma around mental health treatment, which included hosting a behavioral health presentation for Chadron State athletes on performance anxiety, which drew more than 300 students and others.</li>
 </ul>Hearing so many stories about ARPA awards improving behavioral health in Nebraska is an affirming experience for the BHECN team, said Jessie Buche, director of the BHECN-ARPA Awards Program.“We truly believe the ARPA program is a transformational development for behavioral health in Nebraska, and hearing about the work of our awardees only strengthens that belief,” Buche said. “We are incredibly excited to see what continues to come from this amazing project.”&nbsp;Captions:ARPAMeetings1: BHECN Central Director Krista Fritson, PsyD, center, talks at a gathering of ARPA awardees at the University of Nebraska Kearney in June.ARPAMeetings2: ARPA awardees and BHECN staff members discuss the ARPA Awards Program at UNK in June.

Statewide meetings show BHECN-ARPA support benefits Nebraska

Lincoln -- The Nebraska Supreme Court today ordered the Secretary of State to end his shenanigans, respect the will of the people, and put the Repeal of LB1402’s voucher scheme on the ballot.

“We thank the state Supreme Court for protecting one of the most important rights we have as Nebraska citizens – the right to petition our government for the redress of grievances,” said&nbsp;Jenni Benson, Support Our Schools Nebraska.

“At every turn, those wanting to use public funds to pay for their private schools have fought against the right of Nebraskans to vote on this issue,” said&nbsp;Benson. “These voucher proponents want to impose their costly private school voucher scheme on Nebraska taxpayers. But public school supporters from all across our state joined together to protect our public schools with two successful petition drives and a winning defense of the petition process in the Nebraska Supreme Court.”

“We join Nebraska’s public school educators in celebrating the Supreme Court’s decision to preserve the right of Nebraskans to vote on whether to direct their taxpayer dollars to private institutions. We applaud their decision to maintain the long-held, intentional and careful process of appropriating funds by the Legislature, an important tenet of effective fiscal management by the state of Nebraska,” said&nbsp;Dr. Rebecca Firestone, executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute.&nbsp;“We are confident our neighbors will research this issue carefully before November and vote to repeal Section 1 of LB 1402, as they have in state after state.”

“It has been a hard-fought battle to ensure Nebraskans get to vote on the Repeal of LB1402 –&nbsp; and it’s going to get worse when Senator Linehan, Betsy DeVos and their billionaire buddies pour MILLIONS into ads in their attempts to mislead voters about LB1402, our public schools, students and educators,” said&nbsp;Tim Royers, Support Our Schools Nebraska and president of the Nebraska State Education Association.

“These voucher proponents have made it clear they will stop at nothing in their effort to take public funds away from our public schools,” said&nbsp;Benson. “But Nebraskans support public education&nbsp; – they know their local public schools are the heart of their communities. Our coalition of Nebraska organizations will continue to push back and tell the truth about the damage LB1402 will do to our local public schools, communities, and students.”

“The stakes are far too high to give anything less than we can – for this fight is about the legacy of public education and future generations of Nebraskans,” said&nbsp;Royers. “We are asking Nebraskans to vote to REPEAL LB1402 to keep public funds for public education. Our public schools serve 90% of all children in Nebraska. They accept all students and our public school teachers work daily to provide every one of their students with a quality education that will help them succeed.”

Since last summer, the Support Our Schools Nebraska coalition has collected more than 200,000 signatures from Nebraskans who believe voters should decide whether public funds should be used to pay for private schools.

Several Nebraska organizations are advocating for the Repeal of LB1402, including the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the Nebraska PTA, Nebraska Farmers Union, OpenSky Policy Institute, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, the Nebraska State Education Association and more.

Support Our SchoolsLincoln -- The Nebraska Supreme Court today ordered the Secretary of State to end his shenanigans, respect the will of the people, and put the Repeal of LB1402’s voucher scheme on the ballot.“We thank the state Supreme Court for protecting one of the most important rights we have as Nebraska citizens – the right to petition our government for the redress of grievances,” said&nbsp;Jenni Benson, Support Our Schools Nebraska.“At every turn, those wanting to use public funds to pay for their private schools have fought against the right of Nebraskans to vote on this issue,” said&nbsp;Benson. “These voucher proponents want to impose their costly private school voucher scheme on Nebraska taxpayers. But public school supporters from all across our state joined together to protect our public schools with two successful petition drives and a winning defense of the petition process in the Nebraska Supreme Court.”“We join Nebraska’s public school educators in celebrating the Supreme Court’s decision to preserve the right of Nebraskans to vote on whether to direct their taxpayer dollars to private institutions. We applaud their decision to maintain the long-held, intentional and careful process of appropriating funds by the Legislature, an important tenet of effective fiscal management by the state of Nebraska,” said&nbsp;Dr. Rebecca Firestone, executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute.&nbsp;“We are confident our neighbors will research this issue carefully before November and vote to repeal Section 1 of LB 1402, as they have in state after state.”“It has been a hard-fought battle to ensure Nebraskans get to vote on the Repeal of LB1402 –&nbsp; and it’s going to get worse when Senator Linehan, Betsy DeVos and their billionaire buddies pour MILLIONS into ads in their attempts to mislead voters about LB1402, our public schools, students and educators,” said&nbsp;Tim Royers, Support Our Schools Nebraska and president of the Nebraska State Education Association.“These voucher proponents have made it clear they will stop at nothing in their effort to take public funds away from our public schools,” said&nbsp;Benson. “But Nebraskans support public education&nbsp; – they know their local public schools are the heart of their communities. Our coalition of Nebraska organizations will continue to push back and tell the truth about the damage LB1402 will do to our local public schools, communities, and students.”“The stakes are far too high to give anything less than we can – for this fight is about the legacy of public education and future generations of Nebraskans,” said&nbsp;Royers. “We are asking Nebraskans to vote to REPEAL LB1402 to keep public funds for public education. Our public schools serve 90% of all children in Nebraska. They accept all students and our public school teachers work daily to provide every one of their students with a quality education that will help them succeed.”Since last summer, the Support Our Schools Nebraska coalition has collected more than 200,000 signatures from Nebraskans who believe voters should decide whether public funds should be used to pay for private schools.Several Nebraska organizations are advocating for the Repeal of LB1402, including the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the Nebraska PTA, Nebraska Farmers Union, OpenSky Policy Institute, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, the Nebraska State Education Association and more.

Supreme Court Orders Secretary of State to put the Repeal of LB1402 on the November Ballot

SEPTEMBER 12, 2024&nbsp;— The American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to take critical actions during&nbsp;National Preparedness Month this September to be ready for worsening disasters. Deadly storms and floods, raging fires and extreme heat are becoming more frequent and intense and families are experiencing the effects.

“Disasters can happen at any time, often without warning, changing lives forever in just minutes,” said Josh Murray,&nbsp;spokesperson for the American Red Cross Serving Nebraska.&nbsp;“We continue to see increased extreme weather making it critical to help protect our loved ones. National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to get your household ready for emergencies.”

Get ready for disasters by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected.&nbsp;Follow these steps to prepare for emergencies:

Extreme weather is increasing in frequency and intensity. Already this year, Nebraska has experienced multiple tornado outbreaks, severe flooding, wildfires and power outages.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record&nbsp;according to experts. With the changing seasons comes cooler temperatures, but that brings increased home fires.

When disasters happen—whether it is here in Nebraska or around the country—the Red Cross is there providing food, shelter and comfort to ensure no one faces such a difficult time alone. To help families better cope with this worsening climate crisis, the Red Cross is also enhancing our support for those who need it most and increasing our capacity to respond to non-stop disasters.

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdigFtSziZ-2BgUz3C5pEyl-2BQkm0RjOzwQt1D2QHXResPx-2B3rTzJNWa4X09WrE3kcnBK4F07K4DL0kAGRxkoe8ftYfeYSvokJshRqPxmvucF8fWFQ-3D-3Dji0d_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0KVmE7MCmr14fsEm0YTne4W5tXnsec8W2AlXCM853tBVHThKQh2MT2mlBQI307aiNF7MXXidiUxyWX3gkxbUPxIK2I7ln-2FI1hSswoEfynlQ0pNitOrbp8vgc6qkZKLIflXdUCdLKsi93kit9Jaw7ULk-3D">redcross.org</a><a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUx5H0UHE0CbYNbh-2FCnwgI2LStal_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0AcISUpIsF5xchp1XNFMlHq4QnKdn45Yxv4-2BzV-2B9X3CLej1qOdQXIpbykLZxT0neayteI0stUD8pGqVE4NU0a2Cl8fGoMV-2BLONxqEsIF5H9Ap3H9rNbOzN4xusxosgX8XAHY4U4uo7J2Y3OdketLkdo-3D">&nbsp;or call&nbsp;</a>800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

American Red CrossSEPTEMBER 12, 2024&nbsp;— The American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to take critical actions during&nbsp;National Preparedness Month this September to be ready for worsening disasters. Deadly storms and floods, raging fires and extreme heat are becoming more frequent and intense and families are experiencing the effects.“Disasters can happen at any time, often without warning, changing lives forever in just minutes,” said Josh Murray,&nbsp;spokesperson for the American Red Cross Serving Nebraska.&nbsp;“We continue to see increased extreme weather making it critical to help protect our loved ones. National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to get your household ready for emergencies.”HOW TO PREPAREGet ready for disasters by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected.&nbsp;Follow these steps to prepare for emergencies:<ol>
 <li>Depending on the emergency, you may need to stay where you are or go somewhere else to stay safe.&nbsp;If you may need to leave, think about where you will go, how you will get there, where you will stay and what you’ll take with you. Plan well in advance if you’ll need help leaving or use public transportation.</li><li>Next, gather and organize critical supplies — like food, water and medicine — into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water, and a one-month supply of medications, if possible.</li><li>Customize your kit to meet your household’s specific needs. If you have young children, don’t forget formula and diapers. If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter and a litterbox.</li><li>Make a plan to reconnect with loved ones if you are separated or if the phone or internet is down. Write down important phone numbers on a contact card and carry it with you.</li><li>Finally,&nbsp;download the free Red Cross Emergency app&nbsp;for real-time weather alerts and expert advice in both English and Spanish.&nbsp;And don’t forget to&nbsp;sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government to get critical information during local emergencies.</li>
 </ol>EXTREME WEATHERExtreme weather is increasing in frequency and intensity. Already this year, Nebraska has experienced multiple tornado outbreaks, severe flooding, wildfires and power outages.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record&nbsp;according to experts. With the changing seasons comes cooler temperatures, but that brings increased home fires.When disasters happen—whether it is here in Nebraska or around the country—the Red Cross is there providing food, shelter and comfort to ensure no one faces such a difficult time alone. To help families better cope with this worsening climate crisis, the Red Cross is also enhancing our support for those who need it most and increasing our capacity to respond to non-stop disasters.Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdigFtSziZ-2BgUz3C5pEyl-2BQkm0RjOzwQt1D2QHXResPx-2B3rTzJNWa4X09WrE3kcnBK4F07K4DL0kAGRxkoe8ftYfeYSvokJshRqPxmvucF8fWFQ-3D-3Dji0d_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0KVmE7MCmr14fsEm0YTne4W5tXnsec8W2AlXCM853tBVHThKQh2MT2mlBQI307aiNF7MXXidiUxyWX3gkxbUPxIK2I7ln-2FI1hSswoEfynlQ0pNitOrbp8vgc6qkZKLIflXdUCdLKsi93kit9Jaw7ULk-3D">redcross.org</a><a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUx5H0UHE0CbYNbh-2FCnwgI2LStal_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0AcISUpIsF5xchp1XNFMlHq4QnKdn45Yxv4-2BzV-2B9X3CLej1qOdQXIpbykLZxT0neayteI0stUD8pGqVE4NU0a2Cl8fGoMV-2BLONxqEsIF5H9Ap3H9rNbOzN4xusxosgX8XAHY4U4uo7J2Y3OdketLkdo-3D">&nbsp;or call&nbsp;</a>800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

Prepare your household now for more frequent extreme weather

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, cosponsored the Senate version of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday by a bipartisan vote of 219-199.

The bill would protect American sovereignty against the World Health Organization’s (WHO) intergovernmental negotiating body. It would require that any convention or agreement by the negotiating body related to pandemic prevention or response is deemed a treaty. A treaty requires the advice and consent of a supermajority of the Senate.

“The American people never agreed to be governed by an intergovernmental body headquartered an ocean away—so we must protect America’s sovereignty against overreach by the World Health Organization. Our legislation will prevent future attempts by WHO to unilaterally determine what our country can and cannot do during a pandemic,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) led the introduction of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act in the Senate, and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) led its introduction in the House of Representatives. In addition to Senators Fischer and Johnson, the legislation is cosponsored by all 47 of their Republican colleagues.

The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/1b87fafb-36be-4c58-b552-0ddbaef50be7/118th-congress---no-who-pandemic-preparedness-treaty-without-senate-approval-act.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, cosponsored the Senate version of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday by a bipartisan vote of 219-199.The bill would protect American sovereignty against the World Health Organization’s (WHO) intergovernmental negotiating body. It would require that any convention or agreement by the negotiating body related to pandemic prevention or response is deemed a treaty. A treaty requires the advice and consent of a supermajority of the Senate.“The American people never agreed to be governed by an intergovernmental body headquartered an ocean away—so we must protect America’s sovereignty against overreach by the World Health Organization. Our legislation will prevent future attempts by WHO to unilaterally determine what our country can and cannot do during a pandemic,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) led the introduction of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act in the Senate, and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) led its introduction in the House of Representatives. In addition to Senators Fischer and Johnson, the legislation is cosponsored by all 47 of their Republican colleagues.The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/1b87fafb-36be-4c58-b552-0ddbaef50be7/118th-congress---no-who-pandemic-preparedness-treaty-without-senate-approval-act.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

House Passes Fischer-Backed Bill Protecting American Sovereignty Against World Health Organization

Nebraska Department of Transportation

&nbsp;(Lincoln, Neb.) — With the second of three consecutive night games for Nebraska football this Saturday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds drivers to expect to see an increase in traffic, especially late at night. 

When traveling to Lincoln, fans need to continue to plan for heavier traffic and road construction along the way. Drivers should allow more time to get to their destination and prepare for more than normal traffic on the roadways during evening hours. NDOT reminds travelers that construction is active for the following areas:

• I-80 from the Elm Creek interchange (MM 252) to the Odessa interchange (MM 264). This is a one lane, head-to-head traffic pattern with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.

• I-80 from the Lexington interchange (MM 237) to the Overton interchange (MM 248). This is reduced to one lane, each direction, with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.

• Hwy 77 and Hwy 109 Junction near Wahoo. This is a one lane, head-to-head traffic pattern with a reduced speed limit.

• I-80 from the Pleasant Dale interchange (MM 388) to NW 48th Street interchange (MM 395) in Lincoln 

The speed limit is 65 miles per hour in this construction zone. Additionally, use caution when coming into Lincoln on Interstate 180 (I-180). Due to hotel construction near Memorial Stadium, I-180 will have lane restrictions to accommodate pedestrian traffic as you arrive in downtown Lincoln. Watch for pedestrians throughout the evening and expect traffic to travel slower in this area as game time approaches. 

With another kickoff slated for evening hours, NDOT encourages people to designate a sober driver or ride if their gameday activities include drinking. Just as importantly, remember to buckle up before you leave and put the phone down. Before setting out for your destination, set your favorite navigation app with your destination, this is a great resource for traffic updates. 

For more information about construction projects and lane closures, check 511 Nebraska and the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities website, Facebook or X. For gameday information, visit the Husker’s website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726085172585.jpeg" alt="Construction zone outside of Lincoln (NE 511)" />
 <figcaption>Construction zone outside of Lincoln (NE 511)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Department of Transportation&nbsp;(Lincoln, Neb.) — With the second of three consecutive night games for Nebraska football this Saturday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds drivers to expect to see an increase in traffic, especially late at night. When traveling to Lincoln, fans need to continue to plan for heavier traffic and road construction along the way. Drivers should allow more time to get to their destination and prepare for more than normal traffic on the roadways during evening hours. NDOT reminds travelers that construction is active for the following areas:• I-80 from the Elm Creek interchange (MM 252) to the Odessa interchange (MM 264). This is a one lane, head-to-head traffic pattern with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.• I-80 from the Lexington interchange (MM 237) to the Overton interchange (MM 248). This is reduced to one lane, each direction, with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.• Hwy 77 and Hwy 109 Junction near Wahoo. This is a one lane, head-to-head traffic pattern with a reduced speed limit.• I-80 from the Pleasant Dale interchange (MM 388) to NW 48th Street interchange (MM 395) in Lincoln The speed limit is 65 miles per hour in this construction zone. Additionally, use caution when coming into Lincoln on Interstate 180 (I-180). Due to hotel construction near Memorial Stadium, I-180 will have lane restrictions to accommodate pedestrian traffic as you arrive in downtown Lincoln. Watch for pedestrians throughout the evening and expect traffic to travel slower in this area as game time approaches. With another kickoff slated for evening hours, NDOT encourages people to designate a sober driver or ride if their gameday activities include drinking. Just as importantly, remember to buckle up before you leave and put the phone down. Before setting out for your destination, set your favorite navigation app with your destination, this is a great resource for traffic updates. For more information about construction projects and lane closures, check 511 Nebraska and the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities website, Facebook or X. For gameday information, visit the Husker’s website.

Another night game brings heavy nighttime traffic

September 11, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— A Nebraska State Trooper and K9 have received a national honor for their work with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team.

Trooper Austin Donner and K9 Tilt were awarded the K9 SWAT Deployment Award by the National Tactical Officers Association. The NTOA made the presentation Monday at their annual conference, held this year in Kansas City.

“Our Police Service Dog handlers and K9s provide tremendous value for our SWAT Team,” said Captain Dain Hicks, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “The skill these teams demonstrate on a regular basis is outstanding, no matter the situation. Trooper Donner and Tilt are well deserving of this recognition.”

Trooper Donner has been a K9 handler for six years and has been a member of the NSP SWAT Team for seven years. Tilt has been assigned to Trooper Donner for three years. Tilt is a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, named in honor of decorated U.S. Army Special Forces MACV-SOG veteran John Stryker “Tilt” Meyer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726084752883.jpeg" alt="9-9-Trooper Donner Award (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>9-9-Trooper Donner Award (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolSeptember 11, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— A Nebraska State Trooper and K9 have received a national honor for their work with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team.Trooper Austin Donner and K9 Tilt were awarded the K9 SWAT Deployment Award by the National Tactical Officers Association. The NTOA made the presentation Monday at their annual conference, held this year in Kansas City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726084786014.jpeg" alt="9-9-Tilt (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>9-9-Tilt (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Our Police Service Dog handlers and K9s provide tremendous value for our SWAT Team,” said Captain Dain Hicks, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “The skill these teams demonstrate on a regular basis is outstanding, no matter the situation. Trooper Donner and Tilt are well deserving of this recognition.”Trooper Donner has been a K9 handler for six years and has been a member of the NSP SWAT Team for seven years. Tilt has been assigned to Trooper Donner for three years. Tilt is a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, named in honor of decorated U.S. Army Special Forces MACV-SOG veteran John Stryker “Tilt” Meyer.

Trooper and K9 Receive National Recognition

LINCOLN, NEB. – Lower health insurance cost to Nebraska individuals and families is a high priority to Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB). As a result, NEFB has introduced a new product, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans, that could be a game changer in lowering health insurance costs for all Nebraskans.

“The current health care insurance market discriminates against self-employed individuals and small business owners because they are not eligible for the discounted rates available under employer-sponsored plans. This includes farmers, ranchers, and nearly all small business owners in the state,” said Mark McHargue NEFB president. “Beginning, Oct. 1, 2024, Nebraska Farm Bureau will launch the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans, a new and exclusive health plan option providing significantly lower health costs than the federal marketplace,” McHargue said.

Nebraska Farm Bureau worked to pass LB 1313 in the last legislative session. The bill allows health benefit plans to be sponsored by certain nonprofit agricultural organizations, such as Nebraska Farm Bureau. These plans are not considered insurance, but are medically underwritten and are individually rated, allowing them to be offered at significant savings when compared to ACA marketplace plans.

“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans provide coverages and services typically offered under traditional health insurance plans, including office visits, hospitalization, preventive care, emergency room services and maternity care. Mental health and substance abuse care will also be covered,” said Kelsey Scheer, assistant director of NEFB Health Plans. “These plans are high-quality, dependable, and affordable health coverage plans for individuals and families, featuring a nationwide PPO network of providers, United HealthCare Choice Plus, which offers services across the state, and has various levels of deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums,” Scheer said.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans offer comprehensive, benefit-rich options at rates that can be 30% to 50% less than unsubsidized plans offered under the ACA.

“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans will provide these benefits under a self-funded arrangement administered by a licensed third-party administrator, which is Farm Bureau Health Plans of Tennessee. The organization administers these types of health plans to six state Farm Bureaus across the U.S.,” said Billy Fields director of state alliance operations for Farm Bureau Health Plans of Tennessee.

While individuals who are self-employed or own a small business could benefit from these plans, anyone can apply. In addition, a Nebraska Farm Bureau membership is required to apply for the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans. If approved for the health coverage, you must maintain your NEFB membership to keep your NEFB Health Plan active. Nebraska&nbsp;<a>Farm Bureau members can apply for the NEFB Health Plans anytime of the year, and there is no re-enrollment period like other programs.&nbsp;</a>Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS) agents in Nebraska will exclusively sell these plans to NEFB members. For more information go to our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbhp.com/" target="_blank">www.nefbhp.com</a>.

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

Nebraska Farm BureauLINCOLN, NEB. – Lower health insurance cost to Nebraska individuals and families is a high priority to Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB). As a result, NEFB has introduced a new product, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans, that could be a game changer in lowering health insurance costs for all Nebraskans.“The current health care insurance market discriminates against self-employed individuals and small business owners because they are not eligible for the discounted rates available under employer-sponsored plans. This includes farmers, ranchers, and nearly all small business owners in the state,” said Mark McHargue NEFB president. “Beginning, Oct. 1, 2024, Nebraska Farm Bureau will launch the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans, a new and exclusive health plan option providing significantly lower health costs than the federal marketplace,” McHargue said.Nebraska Farm Bureau worked to pass LB 1313 in the last legislative session. The bill allows health benefit plans to be sponsored by certain nonprofit agricultural organizations, such as Nebraska Farm Bureau. These plans are not considered insurance, but are medically underwritten and are individually rated, allowing them to be offered at significant savings when compared to ACA marketplace plans.“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans provide coverages and services typically offered under traditional health insurance plans, including office visits, hospitalization, preventive care, emergency room services and maternity care. Mental health and substance abuse care will also be covered,” said Kelsey Scheer, assistant director of NEFB Health Plans. “These plans are high-quality, dependable, and affordable health coverage plans for individuals and families, featuring a nationwide PPO network of providers, United HealthCare Choice Plus, which offers services across the state, and has various levels of deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums,” Scheer said.The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans offer comprehensive, benefit-rich options at rates that can be 30% to 50% less than unsubsidized plans offered under the ACA.“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans will provide these benefits under a self-funded arrangement administered by a licensed third-party administrator, which is Farm Bureau Health Plans of Tennessee. The organization administers these types of health plans to six state Farm Bureaus across the U.S.,” said Billy Fields director of state alliance operations for Farm Bureau Health Plans of Tennessee.While individuals who are self-employed or own a small business could benefit from these plans, anyone can apply. In addition, a Nebraska Farm Bureau membership is required to apply for the Nebraska Farm Bureau Health Plans. If approved for the health coverage, you must maintain your NEFB membership to keep your NEFB Health Plan active. Nebraska&nbsp;<a>Farm Bureau members can apply for the NEFB Health Plans anytime of the year, and there is no re-enrollment period like other programs.&nbsp;</a>Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS) agents in Nebraska will exclusively sell these plans to NEFB members. For more information go to our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbhp.com/" target="_blank">www.nefbhp.com</a>.The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm Bureau Launches New Health Plans to Lower Costs of Healthcare for Individuals and Families

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/10/nebraska-supreme-court-probes-whether-school-choice-law-is-subject-to-repeal-by-ballot-initiative/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The Nebraska Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a lawsuit seeking to protect a new school voucher program for private K-12 education from repeal by ballot measure.

The court must decide by the Friday deadline for Secretary of State Bob Evnen to finalize the Nov. 5 ballot. Evnen’s brief asked justices to decide the constitutional question, not punt.

The question is whether Article III, Section 3 of the Nebraska Constitution applies to a possible repeal of Legislative Bill 1402, the latest version of the state’s school choice law.&nbsp;

That provision of the constitution prohibits referendums from repealing “appropriations for the expense of the state government” or an existing state institution.

Several justices questioned whether LB 1402, which created the voucher program, counts as an appropriation without its related-but-separate appropriations bill, LB 1402A.

One reason: The referendum pushed by Support Our Schools and those opposing spending public money on private schools purposefully avoided repealing the separate appropriations bill.

“If the A bill didn’t exist, would any money be forthcoming?” Justice Stephanie Stacy asked, repeating a question asked by Justice Lindsey Miller-Lerman.

Chief Justice Mike Heavican and Justice Jonathan Papik pressed the attorneys seeking to toss the measure on whether the appropriations bill would lack purpose without LB 1402.

“Are they the same act?” Papik asked.

Attorney Tom Venzor argued the two bills are tied together. He spoke for representatives of Latasha Collar, the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/05/lawsuit-filed-seeks-to-stop-vote-on-future-of-nebraskas-school-voucher-program/">mother of a Douglas County student</a>&nbsp;who received an “Opportunity Scholarship” for private education, which was granted under the predecessor of the school choice law currently being challenged.

Venzor argued that because LB 1402 changed the funding for the scholarship program from a tax credit to a direct state appropriation, it can’t be repealed by ballot measure.&nbsp;

Venzor, who is known for his work as executive director of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, argued that funding education is a core function of state government and should be treated as such, leaving any potential repeal to the people’s elected representatives.

He later admitted under judicial questioning that the measure did not directly target LB 1402’s separate appropriations bill, but argued that the referendum was at minimum an indirect attack on the separate appropriation, which he said also would be constitutionally questionable.&nbsp;

“LB 1402 is an appropriation for the expense of state government, and … those are the types of legislative bills that don’t belong on the ballot,” he said in an interview after the hearing.

On the other side was Daniel Gutman, one of the attorneys defending the referendum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gutman, representing Support Our Schools, the group that wants to reserve public school funding for public K-12 schools, argued LB 1402 was not an appropriation. He said LB 1402A, which contained a $10 million appropriation, was voted on separately from LB 1402 and would still exist if voters rejected LB 1402.

Gutman said the restriction on what could be voted on had never been so narrowly applied to the people’s right to petition as Venzor sought for the court to rule.

Gutman raised constitutional questions of his own about the school choice law, arguing that it might direct state funds to private institutions. That’s prohibited by Article VII, Section 11.

He argued that LB 1402 ultimately benefits private schools.

Venzor said the state already funds scholarships for private college and technical education and has a history of funding projects for private colleges and universities.

He criticized Gutman for “framing shifts.” Venzor said LB 1402 does not represent state funding of private schools. He said it is funding for individuals to use for K-12 education.

His case received support from a brief filed by LB 1402’s sponsor, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, along with State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and State Treasurer Tom Briese.

The brief argued that the Legislature’s majority viewed LB 1402 as an appropriation and that even legislative critics such as State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln had acknowledged as much.

The Nebraska Supreme Court has been buried in lawsuits this month contesting high-profile measure that Evnen has certified for the November ballot.

Evnen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers complicated the lawsuit involving LB 1402 by filing a pledge to force another lawsuit if the court sidesteps the key legal question and instead rules on a technicality.

Nebraska Solicitor General Eric Hamilton confirmed Tuesday that Evnen plans to decertify the voucher-related ballot measure if the court allows it to move forward because of a technical issue.

If the ballot measure was decertified, Support Our Schools and other backers of the petition would sue, with an extremely tight deadline, and might risk the measure being removed from the ballot, supporters said.

Among the technicalities Evnen’s office hoped to avoid was that the Collar lawsuit was filed before Evnen formally certified the measure for the ballot.

Another was an issue Gutman raised, that a notary for at least one filing in the lawsuit came from Texas, not Nebraska. Justices’ questions on Tuesday seemed to leave room for overlooking that.

Hamilton said Evnen’s office and the Attorney General’s Office would follow the court’s decision if&nbsp; rules that the referendum qualifies for the ballot under the Nebraska Constitution.&nbsp;

Evnen argued in the brief that he might no longer believe the measure qualifies for the ballot. His position largely echoed Venzor’s argument that LB 1402 is an appropriation and therefore not subject to a ballot measure.&nbsp;

Gutman argued Evnen might lack the authority to decertify a ballot issue once he has certified it. Gutman asked for “a decision on the merits,” saying he feared his clients might otherwise run out of time to sue.

“I don’t see how the government will be crippled by a repeal of this enactment,” Gutman said.

After the hearing, Tim Royers, the new president of the Nebraska State Education Association, criticized Evnen and Hilgers for their latest pushes to avoid letting citizens vote on the school choice law.

“They’re doing everything they can to make it as difficult as possible for us to get on the ballot,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726066339761.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska Supreme Court bench. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska Supreme Court bench. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/10/nebraska-supreme-court-probes-whether-school-choice-law-is-subject-to-repeal-by-ballot-initiative/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The Nebraska Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a lawsuit seeking to protect a new school voucher program for private K-12 education from repeal by ballot measure.The court must decide by the Friday deadline for Secretary of State Bob Evnen to finalize the Nov. 5 ballot. Evnen’s brief asked justices to decide the constitutional question, not punt.The question is whether Article III, Section 3 of the Nebraska Constitution applies to a possible repeal of Legislative Bill 1402, the latest version of the state’s school choice law.&nbsp;That provision of the constitution prohibits referendums from repealing “appropriations for the expense of the state government” or an existing state institution.Several justices questioned whether LB 1402, which created the voucher program, counts as an appropriation without its related-but-separate appropriations bill, LB 1402A.One reason: The referendum pushed by Support Our Schools and those opposing spending public money on private schools purposefully avoided repealing the separate appropriations bill.“If the A bill didn’t exist, would any money be forthcoming?” Justice Stephanie Stacy asked, repeating a question asked by Justice Lindsey Miller-Lerman.Chief Justice Mike Heavican and Justice Jonathan Papik pressed the attorneys seeking to toss the measure on whether the appropriations bill would lack purpose without LB 1402.“Are they the same act?” Papik asked.<h2>Venzor argues bills tied together</h2>Attorney Tom Venzor argued the two bills are tied together. He spoke for representatives of Latasha Collar, the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/05/lawsuit-filed-seeks-to-stop-vote-on-future-of-nebraskas-school-voucher-program/">mother of a Douglas County student</a>&nbsp;who received an “Opportunity Scholarship” for private education, which was granted under the predecessor of the school choice law currently being challenged.Venzor argued that because LB 1402 changed the funding for the scholarship program from a tax credit to a direct state appropriation, it can’t be repealed by ballot measure.&nbsp;Venzor, who is known for his work as executive director of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, argued that funding education is a core function of state government and should be treated as such, leaving any potential repeal to the people’s elected representatives.He later admitted under judicial questioning that the measure did not directly target LB 1402’s separate appropriations bill, but argued that the referendum was at minimum an indirect attack on the separate appropriation, which he said also would be constitutionally questionable.&nbsp;“LB 1402 is an appropriation for the expense of state government, and … those are the types of legislative bills that don’t belong on the ballot,” he said in an interview after the hearing.<h2>Gutman argues the bills are separate</h2>On the other side was Daniel Gutman, one of the attorneys defending the referendum.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gutman, representing Support Our Schools, the group that wants to reserve public school funding for public K-12 schools, argued LB 1402 was not an appropriation. He said LB 1402A, which contained a $10 million appropriation, was voted on separately from LB 1402 and would still exist if voters rejected LB 1402.Gutman said the restriction on what could be voted on had never been so narrowly applied to the people’s right to petition as Venzor sought for the court to rule.“It shouldn’t start now,” he said.Gutman raised constitutional questions of his own about the school choice law, arguing that it might direct state funds to private institutions. That’s prohibited by Article VII, Section 11.He argued that LB 1402 ultimately benefits private schools.Venzor said the state already funds scholarships for private college and technical education and has a history of funding projects for private colleges and universities.He criticized Gutman for “framing shifts.” Venzor said LB 1402 does not represent state funding of private schools. He said it is funding for individuals to use for K-12 education.His case received support from a brief filed by LB 1402’s sponsor, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, along with State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and State Treasurer Tom Briese.The brief argued that the Legislature’s majority viewed LB 1402 as an appropriation and that even legislative critics such as State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln had acknowledged as much.The Nebraska Supreme Court has been buried in lawsuits this month contesting high-profile measure that Evnen has certified for the November ballot.<h2>Evnen pushes to avoid technicalities</h2>Evnen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers complicated the lawsuit involving LB 1402 by filing a pledge to force another lawsuit if the court sidesteps the key legal question and instead rules on a technicality.Nebraska Solicitor General Eric Hamilton confirmed Tuesday that Evnen plans to decertify the voucher-related ballot measure if the court allows it to move forward because of a technical issue.If the ballot measure was decertified, Support Our Schools and other backers of the petition would sue, with an extremely tight deadline, and might risk the measure being removed from the ballot, supporters said.Among the technicalities Evnen’s office hoped to avoid was that the Collar lawsuit was filed before Evnen formally certified the measure for the ballot.Another was an issue Gutman raised, that a notary for at least one filing in the lawsuit came from Texas, not Nebraska. Justices’ questions on Tuesday seemed to leave room for overlooking that.Hamilton said Evnen’s office and the Attorney General’s Office would follow the court’s decision if&nbsp; rules that the referendum qualifies for the ballot under the Nebraska Constitution.&nbsp;Evnen argued in the brief that he might no longer believe the measure qualifies for the ballot. His position largely echoed Venzor’s argument that LB 1402 is an appropriation and therefore not subject to a ballot measure.&nbsp;Gutman argued Evnen might lack the authority to decertify a ballot issue once he has certified it. Gutman asked for “a decision on the merits,” saying he feared his clients might otherwise run out of time to sue.“I don’t see how the government will be crippled by a repeal of this enactment,” Gutman said.After the hearing, Tim Royers, the new president of the Nebraska State Education Association, criticized Evnen and Hilgers for their latest pushes to avoid letting citizens vote on the school choice law.“They’re doing everything they can to make it as difficult as possible for us to get on the ballot,” he said.

Nebraska Supreme Court probes whether school choice law can be repealed by ballot measure

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen continues to monitor developments in the aftermath of an altercation between two students that led to a shooting inside Northwest High School in Omaha. Based on the latest police reports, the incident was isolated to the two students, one of whom was critically injured.

Governor Pillen and his wife Suzanne shared their prayers for everyone impacted by today’s incident.

“Based on initial information, everyone at the school responded in an appropriate way. We are especially grateful for the swift action by local and state law enforcement to get to the scene and also secure a suspect,” said Gov. Pillen. “We know this was traumatic for everyone at the school and the parents of students at Northwest.”

The Nebraska State Patrol is supporting the ongoing investigation and will ensure that all responders have the requisite assistance they need.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen continues to monitor developments in the aftermath of an altercation between two students that led to a shooting inside Northwest High School in Omaha. Based on the latest police reports, the incident was isolated to the two students, one of whom was critically injured.Governor Pillen and his wife Suzanne shared their prayers for everyone impacted by today’s incident.“Based on initial information, everyone at the school responded in an appropriate way. We are especially grateful for the swift action by local and state law enforcement to get to the scene and also secure a suspect,” said Gov. Pillen. “We know this was traumatic for everyone at the school and the parents of students at Northwest.”The Nebraska State Patrol is supporting the ongoing investigation and will ensure that all responders have the requisite assistance they need.