<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/02/14/pillen-plan-to-merge-two-agencies-hits-rough-waters-at-legislative-hearing/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts and key ag leaders were among those who threw cold water this week, at least for now, on an idea from Gov. Jim Pillen to merge two state agencies.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59431&amp;docnum=LB317&amp;leg=109" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 317</a>, by State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth and introduced at the request of Gov. Jim Pillen, would fold the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Natural Resources</a>&nbsp;into the&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy</a>. Pillen has said his goal is to enhance the state’s focus on water.

The combined agency would be the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment, effective July 1, if adopted by the Legislature this spring.

Pillen has also set his sights on creating a Water Quality and Quantity Task Force, eyeing 15-18 members likely to be appointed by the governor, which he said would seek proactive solutions and possible policy help to proactively protect the state’s water resources.

Jasper Fanning, general manager of the Upper Republican Natural Resources District, testifying on behalf of the association for the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/water-planning/interactive-maps" target="_blank">state’s 23 NRDs</a>, argued against the merger for now.

Fanning described the Department of Natural Resources as very collaborative and problem-solving, urging a more surgical and refined approach to merger conversations. He said carving out only&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/organigram/organization_chart" target="_blank">water-related structures</a>, if that’s the goal, could be a focus.&nbsp;

The task force could help frame those conversations, Fanning said.

“This is probably a terrible analogy, but you don’t arrange for and conduct a shotgun wedding and then make the first step after that wedding looking at what the [pregnancy] test result is,” Fanning said.

He continued: “We need to take a scalpel and a very refined approach as opposed to just kind of a broad, sweeping approach to [the] discussion.”

The merger would replace the director of the Natural Resources Department with a “chief water officer” as a division leader below the new merged agency’s director.&nbsp;

The water position would require legislative approval and, at a minimum, require at least five years’ experience in a position of responsibility in irrigation work. Multiple testifiers said the chief water officer should be required to be a licensed professional engineer, as currently required.&nbsp;

Brandt and others said that requirement would return in a future amendment.

Fanning said Jesse Bradley, interim director of both of the agencies proposed to merge, needs to continue to be focused on the “most important water issue and project governance in the history of the State of Nebraska.”

For the NRD general manager, that is the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/perkins-county-canal" target="_blank">Perkins County Canal</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/appendix.php?section=1-105" target="_blank">100-year interstate compact</a>&nbsp;that former Gov. Pete Ricketts, now U.S. senator, unearthed and passed on to Pillen.

The canal would capture water in Keith County in western Nebraska from Colorado. Lawmakers have already appropriated funds for such construction, which Colorado officials have criticized as a “canal to nowhere.”

“Some might disagree with that, but I think the Perkins County Canal, and the South Platte [River] Compact, is the most important thing in Nebraska’s water future,” Fanning said.

Fanning said Environment and Energy focuses on federal mandates, pass-through funding and “a lot of check-the-box things, not really asking the question every day, ‘How do we best serve Nebraskans and what can we do to help Nebraska grow?’” He said that would take up necessary staff time.

“Anything that takes Mr. Bradley’s efforts and his staff’s efforts away from focusing on ensuring Nebraska’s water future, which has significant impacts on Lincoln and Omaha’s water supply, it’s a big deal,” Fanning said.

Bradley has been interim director of Natural Resources since August 2024, and he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-eyeing-merger-appoints-interim-natural-resources-director-to-lead-environment-and-energy/">assumed the top role at Environment and Energy on Wednesday</a>, as Pillen eyed the merger.

The interim director said the merger would improve focus on long-term issues, such as nitrogen management, water utilization and soil health. He said it would also help streamline the process for planning and permitting.

He said he supports the merger and told the committee he believes staff are excited to work together and break through existing silos. Both agencies are already co-located at the same office building in northwest Lincoln.

Natural Resources has a budget of more than $104 million, largely in cash funds, and has about 112 employees. Environment and Energy has a budget of nearly $99 million, split in half roughly between cash and federal funds, and has 252 employees.

Pillen told the Natural Resources Committee, which Brandt chairs, that water is the “lifeblood” of Nebraska and that future innovations will lead to an “economic boom” in the state.&nbsp;

He noted new hydrogen plants, companies based around biofuels and biobased products, animal processing plants and data centers are looking to locate in the state and will need water.

“Moving forward, we need to double down on our efforts to protect and enhance this valuable resource,” Pillen testified. “Combining DEE and DNR sets the foundation for water quantity and quality under the same leadership.”

Pillen, who is 69 years old, grew up on a farm in Platte County where he raised pigs with his father. In 1993, he started Pillen Family Farms and later added DNA genetics, which has grown into a massive hog operation.

Much of the state has&nbsp;<a href="https://flatwaterfreepress.org/many-nebraskans-still-under-threat-of-high-nitrate-in-drinking-water-report-finds/" target="_blank">high nitrate levels</a>, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://flatwaterfreepress.org/our-dirty-water-nebraska-water-nitrates/" target="_blank">landed criticism at Pillen</a>&nbsp;and his family operation in recent years as he ascended to the governor’s office.

Pillen and lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/water/nitrate-drinking-water-study" target="_blank">commissioned a study in 2023</a>&nbsp;to recommend viable solutions for nitrate-affected drinking water. They also allocated $500,000 annually for one-time income tax credits, up to $1,000, for&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/tax-credits/reverse-osmosis-system-tax-credit-act" target="_blank">reverse osmosis systems</a>&nbsp;to help filter out&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/09/16/environmental-group-continues-fight-against-contaminants-nitrates-in-nebraskas-water/">nitrates</a>&nbsp;and other chemicals from drinking water.

The governor testified that it is “no secret” that the state has faced elevated nitrate levels for 60 years, which he said the merger and his task force would help combat.

“This has to stop. It cannot continue,” Pillen said of nitrate contamination. “We need to get aggressive and address these issues.”

He described the merger as “simply good governance” that would lead to cost savings over time.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/109/PDF/FN/LB317_20250212-120433.pdf" target="_blank">Fiscal estimates</a>&nbsp;provided by the Natural Resources and Environment and Energy Departments showed no immediate savings but projected $100,000 in rebranding costs in the next fiscal year.

Jacob Leaver, deputy state budget administrator, said the merger wouldn’t impact any current obligations or projects for either agency. He said, if merged, that cost savings might come in the 2027-2029 fiscal years.

State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln said she was surprised there were no specific savings identified. Pillen and Leaver said that was intentional.

“To be able to go out and say exactly what that is,” Pillen told the committee of potential savings, “I just don’t think it’s fair to the public servants who are part of those agencies to do that today.”

Timothy McCoy, director of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, also supported the proposal, limiting his comments to a small section in the 446-page bill that would return authority for determining the boundaries of state game refuges to his commission from Environment and Energy. McCoy, like Fanning, said he anticipated coordination with the sister agencies would continue either way.

Much of the bill is limited to correcting references if the agencies are merged, with roughly only 30 of the 393 sections in the bill offering substantive new or modified legal changes.

Many are limited to eliminating “obsolete” provisions that haven’t been used in years, Bradley explained, such as a specific soil survey fund and repealing the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Act. Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=71-3522" target="_blank">withdrew from a related waste disposal interstate compact in 1999</a>.

LeRoy Sievers, who serves on the board of directors of the Nebraska State Irrigation Association, which has been around since 1893, argued that based on his experience, mergers don’t save money.

“Prior mergers did not save money and only created additional bureaucratic barriers,” he said. “This proposed merger will do the same.”

Sievers said he is a former assistant attorney general and legal counsel for what was previously the Nebraska Department of Water Resources and became Natural Resources in the 2000s.

He said that having a dedicated agency for water is critical in interstate litigation, which could include the Perkins County Canal, for example. Sievers said large bureaucracies hurt other states in those lawsuits while Nebraska had a leg up.

Al Davis, on behalf of the Nebraska chapter of the Sierra Club, opposed the merger, pointing to the environmental disaster in Mead, Nebraska, which he said was exacerbated by a slow response at Environment and Energy.

Davis, a former state senator from the Sandhills, said that the merger of the state’s energy functions atrophied&nbsp;potential energy innovations&nbsp;at a time when the state could be strengthening and diversifying its energy grid.

Kurt Bogner, vice chair of the Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/resources-services/laws-regulations/environmental-quality-council/environmental-quality-council-members" target="_blank">Environmental Quality Council</a>, which adopts rules and regulations for Environment and Energy and also vets candidates for the agency director, also opposed the move.

Bogner, testifying in his individual capacity, said the council has received no information or updates on selecting a director since former director Jim Macy resigned in April 2024.

LB 317 would remove the Council’s advisory role to vet candidates for the governor, a responsibility that Bogner suggested should be carried over.

Bruce Rieker, for the Nebraska Farm Bureau, and John Hansen, for the Nebraska Farmers Union, also testified in opposition to the change.

Among Brandt’s committee members, many appeared open to the merger.

State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara, committee vice chair, noted it’s not as if Natural Resources and Environment and Energy are “oil and water,” because both already work together.&nbsp;

State Sen. Mike Moser of Columbus voiced what he described as the “elephant in the room” to Brandt: balancing the use of water for agriculture, cities and industry.

Moser told Fanning that, whatever moves forward, he hopes local NRDs will embrace the changes and make it work well.

“That’s our goal,” Fanning said. “We’re always working to improve collaboration with both agencies, and that’s what we want on a daily basis.”

Brandt said he’s open to taking more time to meet with stakeholders and specify how the merger would work. He said he remains committed to getting his bill over the finish line this year.

“Everybody wants better water issues tomorrow than we have today,” Brandt told his committee. “I think we all share that goal in this room.”

History of the Nebraska Departments of Natural Resources, Environment and Energy

Current:&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/about#:~:text=The%20agency%20was%20originally%20created,of%20Environmental%20Quality%20in%201992." target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy</a>

Current:&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Natural Resources</a>

Nebraska is the only state with separate natural resources districts, which were created in 1972 as multipurpose, locally elected management bodies. There are currently 23 NRDs statewide.

Water management in the state is largely shared by the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Environment and Energy and NRDs, with specific support from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739809669479.jpeg" alt="State Sens. Loren Lippincott, Steve Erdman, Brian Hardin, Teresa Ibach and Robert Dover joined Gov. Jim Pillen, at center right, and Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, at right, for a tour of water resources on April 29, 2023. (Photo courtesy of State Sen. Teresa Ibach)" />
 <figcaption>State Sens. Loren Lippincott, Steve Erdman, Brian Hardin, Teresa Ibach and Robert Dover joined Gov. Jim Pillen, at center right, and Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, at right, for a tour of water resources on April 29, 2023. (Photo courtesy of State Sen. Teresa Ibach)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wending<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/02/14/pillen-plan-to-merge-two-agencies-hits-rough-waters-at-legislative-hearing/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts and key ag leaders were among those who threw cold water this week, at least for now, on an idea from Gov. Jim Pillen to merge two state agencies.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59431&amp;docnum=LB317&amp;leg=109" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 317</a>, by State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth and introduced at the request of Gov. Jim Pillen, would fold the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Natural Resources</a>&nbsp;into the&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy</a>. Pillen has said his goal is to enhance the state’s focus on water.The combined agency would be the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment, effective July 1, if adopted by the Legislature this spring.Pillen has also set his sights on creating a Water Quality and Quantity Task Force, eyeing 15-18 members likely to be appointed by the governor, which he said would seek proactive solutions and possible policy help to proactively protect the state’s water resources.<h2>‘We need to take a scalpel’</h2>Jasper Fanning, general manager of the Upper Republican Natural Resources District, testifying on behalf of the association for the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/water-planning/interactive-maps" target="_blank">state’s 23 NRDs</a>, argued against the merger for now.Fanning described the Department of Natural Resources as very collaborative and problem-solving, urging a more surgical and refined approach to merger conversations. He said carving out only&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/organigram/organization_chart" target="_blank">water-related structures</a>, if that’s the goal, could be a focus.&nbsp;The task force could help frame those conversations, Fanning said.“This is probably a terrible analogy, but you don’t arrange for and conduct a shotgun wedding and then make the first step after that wedding looking at what the [pregnancy] test result is,” Fanning said.He continued: “We need to take a scalpel and a very refined approach as opposed to just kind of a broad, sweeping approach to [the] discussion.”The merger would replace the director of the Natural Resources Department with a “chief water officer” as a division leader below the new merged agency’s director.&nbsp;The water position would require legislative approval and, at a minimum, require at least five years’ experience in a position of responsibility in irrigation work. Multiple testifiers said the chief water officer should be required to be a licensed professional engineer, as currently required.&nbsp;Brandt and others said that requirement would return in a future amendment.<h2>The Perkins County Canal</h2>Fanning said Jesse Bradley, interim director of both of the agencies proposed to merge, needs to continue to be focused on the “most important water issue and project governance in the history of the State of Nebraska.”For the NRD general manager, that is the&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/perkins-county-canal" target="_blank">Perkins County Canal</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/appendix.php?section=1-105" target="_blank">100-year interstate compact</a>&nbsp;that former Gov. Pete Ricketts, now U.S. senator, unearthed and passed on to Pillen.The canal would capture water in Keith County in western Nebraska from Colorado. Lawmakers have already appropriated funds for such construction, which Colorado officials have criticized as a “canal to nowhere.”“Some might disagree with that, but I think the Perkins County Canal, and the South Platte [River] Compact, is the most important thing in Nebraska’s water future,” Fanning said.Fanning said Environment and Energy focuses on federal mandates, pass-through funding and “a lot of check-the-box things, not really asking the question every day, ‘How do we best serve Nebraskans and what can we do to help Nebraska grow?’” He said that would take up necessary staff time.“Anything that takes Mr. Bradley’s efforts and his staff’s efforts away from focusing on ensuring Nebraska’s water future, which has significant impacts on Lincoln and Omaha’s water supply, it’s a big deal,” Fanning said.Bradley has been interim director of Natural Resources since August 2024, and he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-eyeing-merger-appoints-interim-natural-resources-director-to-lead-environment-and-energy/">assumed the top role at Environment and Energy on Wednesday</a>, as Pillen eyed the merger.The interim director said the merger would improve focus on long-term issues, such as nitrogen management, water utilization and soil health. He said it would also help streamline the process for planning and permitting.He said he supports the merger and told the committee he believes staff are excited to work together and break through existing silos. Both agencies are already co-located at the same office building in northwest Lincoln.Natural Resources has a budget of more than $104 million, largely in cash funds, and has about 112 employees. Environment and Energy has a budget of nearly $99 million, split in half roughly between cash and federal funds, and has 252 employees.<h2>‘Double down’ on water enhancement</h2>Pillen told the Natural Resources Committee, which Brandt chairs, that water is the “lifeblood” of Nebraska and that future innovations will lead to an “economic boom” in the state.&nbsp;He noted new hydrogen plants, companies based around biofuels and biobased products, animal processing plants and data centers are looking to locate in the state and will need water.“Moving forward, we need to double down on our efforts to protect and enhance this valuable resource,” Pillen testified. “Combining DEE and DNR sets the foundation for water quantity and quality under the same leadership.”Pillen, who is 69 years old, grew up on a farm in Platte County where he raised pigs with his father. In 1993, he started Pillen Family Farms and later added DNA genetics, which has grown into a massive hog operation.Much of the state has&nbsp;<a href="https://flatwaterfreepress.org/many-nebraskans-still-under-threat-of-high-nitrate-in-drinking-water-report-finds/" target="_blank">high nitrate levels</a>, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://flatwaterfreepress.org/our-dirty-water-nebraska-water-nitrates/" target="_blank">landed criticism at Pillen</a>&nbsp;and his family operation in recent years as he ascended to the governor’s office.Pillen and lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/water/nitrate-drinking-water-study" target="_blank">commissioned a study in 2023</a>&nbsp;to recommend viable solutions for nitrate-affected drinking water. They also allocated $500,000 annually for one-time income tax credits, up to $1,000, for&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/tax-credits/reverse-osmosis-system-tax-credit-act" target="_blank">reverse osmosis systems</a>&nbsp;to help filter out&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/09/16/environmental-group-continues-fight-against-contaminants-nitrates-in-nebraskas-water/">nitrates</a>&nbsp;and other chemicals from drinking water.The governor testified that it is “no secret” that the state has faced elevated nitrate levels for 60 years, which he said the merger and his task force would help combat.“This has to stop. It cannot continue,” Pillen said of nitrate contamination. “We need to get aggressive and address these issues.”<h2>Uncertain cost savings</h2>He described the merger as “simply good governance” that would lead to cost savings over time.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/109/PDF/FN/LB317_20250212-120433.pdf" target="_blank">Fiscal estimates</a>&nbsp;provided by the Natural Resources and Environment and Energy Departments showed no immediate savings but projected $100,000 in rebranding costs in the next fiscal year.Jacob Leaver, deputy state budget administrator, said the merger wouldn’t impact any current obligations or projects for either agency. He said, if merged, that cost savings might come in the 2027-2029 fiscal years.State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln said she was surprised there were no specific savings identified. Pillen and Leaver said that was intentional.“To be able to go out and say exactly what that is,” Pillen told the committee of potential savings, “I just don’t think it’s fair to the public servants who are part of those agencies to do that today.”Timothy McCoy, director of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, also supported the proposal, limiting his comments to a small section in the 446-page bill that would return authority for determining the boundaries of state game refuges to his commission from Environment and Energy. McCoy, like Fanning, said he anticipated coordination with the sister agencies would continue either way.Much of the bill is limited to correcting references if the agencies are merged, with roughly only 30 of the 393 sections in the bill offering substantive new or modified legal changes.Many are limited to eliminating “obsolete” provisions that haven’t been used in years, Bradley explained, such as a specific soil survey fund and repealing the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Act. Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=71-3522" target="_blank">withdrew from a related waste disposal interstate compact in 1999</a>.<h2>Environmental leaders voice concerns</h2>LeRoy Sievers, who serves on the board of directors of the Nebraska State Irrigation Association, which has been around since 1893, argued that based on his experience, mergers don’t save money.“Prior mergers did not save money and only created additional bureaucratic barriers,” he said. “This proposed merger will do the same.”Sievers said he is a former assistant attorney general and legal counsel for what was previously the Nebraska Department of Water Resources and became Natural Resources in the 2000s.He said that having a dedicated agency for water is critical in interstate litigation, which could include the Perkins County Canal, for example. Sievers said large bureaucracies hurt other states in those lawsuits while Nebraska had a leg up.Al Davis, on behalf of the Nebraska chapter of the Sierra Club, opposed the merger, pointing to the environmental disaster in Mead, Nebraska, which he said was exacerbated by a slow response at Environment and Energy.Davis, a former state senator from the Sandhills, said that the merger of the state’s energy functions atrophied&nbsp;potential energy innovations&nbsp;at a time when the state could be strengthening and diversifying its energy grid.Kurt Bogner, vice chair of the Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/resources-services/laws-regulations/environmental-quality-council/environmental-quality-council-members" target="_blank">Environmental Quality Council</a>, which adopts rules and regulations for Environment and Energy and also vets candidates for the agency director, also opposed the move.Bogner, testifying in his individual capacity, said the council has received no information or updates on selecting a director since former director Jim Macy resigned in April 2024.LB 317 would remove the Council’s advisory role to vet candidates for the governor, a responsibility that Bogner suggested should be carried over.Bruce Rieker, for the Nebraska Farm Bureau, and John Hansen, for the Nebraska Farmers Union, also testified in opposition to the change.<h2>Merger wouldn’t be ‘oil and water’</h2>Among Brandt’s committee members, many appeared open to the merger.State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara, committee vice chair, noted it’s not as if Natural Resources and Environment and Energy are “oil and water,” because both already work together.&nbsp;State Sen. Mike Moser of Columbus voiced what he described as the “elephant in the room” to Brandt: balancing the use of water for agriculture, cities and industry.Moser told Fanning that, whatever moves forward, he hopes local NRDs will embrace the changes and make it work well.“That’s our goal,” Fanning said. “We’re always working to improve collaboration with both agencies, and that’s what we want on a daily basis.”Brandt said he’s open to taking more time to meet with stakeholders and specify how the merger would work. He said he remains committed to getting his bill over the finish line this year.“Everybody wants better water issues tomorrow than we have today,” Brandt told his committee. “I think we all share that goal in this room.”<h2>History of the Nebraska Departments of Natural Resources, Environment and Energy</h2>Current:&nbsp;<a href="https://dee.nebraska.gov/about#:~:text=The%20agency%20was%20originally%20created,of%20Environmental%20Quality%20in%201992." target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy</a><ul>
 <li>The Nebraska Department of Environmental Control is established (1971).</li><li>The department is renamed the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (1992).</li><li>Nebraska Energy Office is folded into the Environmental Quality Department, becoming DEE (2019).</li><li>State-delegated environmental health programs from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, housed in the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, are moved over to DEE (2021).</li>
 </ul>Current:&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/about" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Natural Resources</a><ul>
 <li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://dot.nebraska.gov/about/history/#:~:text=In%201933%2C%20the%20Legislature%20passed,Department%20of%20Roads%20and%20Irrigation.&amp;text=In%201957%2C%20the%20Legislature%20divided,become%20a%20division%20within%20NDOT." target="_blank">State Board of Irrigation</a>&nbsp;is established (1895).</li><li>The board is renamed the State Board of Irrigation, Highways and Drainage (1911).</li><li>The name changes again to the Department of Public Works, expanded to include the Bureau of Roads and Bridges; Bureau of Irrigation, Water Power and Drainage; and the Motor Vehicle Records Division (1919).</li><li>The department is renamed the Nebraska Department of Roads and Irrigation (1933).</li><li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/water-planning/history-water-management-nebraska" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Water Resources</a>&nbsp;is established as the prior department is divided into three separate state agencies, alongside the Department of Roads and the Department of Motor Vehicles (1957).</li><li>The Natural Resources Commission merges with the Nebraska Department of Water Resources to become the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (2000).</li>
 </ul>Nebraska is the only state with separate natural resources districts, which were created in 1972 as multipurpose, locally elected management bodies. There are currently 23 NRDs statewide.Water management in the state is largely shared by the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Environment and Energy and NRDs, with specific support from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Pillen Plan to Merge Two Agencies Hits Rough Waters at Legislative Hearing

Nebraska Broadcasters Association&nbsp;

The Nebraska Broadcasters Association will induct Dennis &amp; Kathi Brown, Dale Johnson, Mike McKnight and Dave Wingert into the NBA Hall of Fame on August 12h in La Vista during the NBA Annual Convention. Established in 1972, the NBA Hall of Fame will grow to 123 members with these pending inductees.

Our first husband &amp; wife owner/operator inductees, Dennis and Kathi Brown met while working at a Colorado radio station. Sharing a passion for radio and a dream of ownership, their 1991 purchase of KCSR AM in Chadron, Nebraska saved the station from going under. Strongly focused on community service, Dennis and Kathi grew KCSR through a dedicated team of local employees that paved the way for them to buy KBPY FM in 2011. Beyond their strong commitment to local news, weather, high school sports and more, Kathi has helped countless businesses grow through advertising solutions. Dennis has been a tireless advocate for radio broadcasting on Capitol Hill and is a three-time Chairman of the NBA Board of Directors. Dennis and Kathi remain actively involved in station operations every day, taking great pride in serving the Chadron area.

In a Nebraska radio career now spanning 51 years, Dale Johnson is a highly respected source of radio news in Lincoln. After his early years as an announcer in Holdrege, Kearney, Omaha and Grand Island, Dale spent 38 years as news director for Lincoln’s KFOR before joining Nebraska Public Media in 2023 where he currently serves as morning host and news reporter. Dale’s unique ability to build trust with interviewees has allowed him access to Nebraska’s biggest newsmakers, earning numerous industry awards from AP, RTDNA, the NBA and UPI. In 2005, Dale was the only Nebraska media member to accompany Governor Dave Heineman on a trade mission to Cuba. Dale enjoys giving back as a frequent guest speaker on writing and conducting interviews at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

When Mike McKnight joined Omaha’s WOWT TV in 1977, he never dreamed that 49 years later he’d still be holding people accountable as a one-man watchdog through his tireless investigative reporting. An advocate for the truth – despite threats often made against him – Mike has taken on big business, government agencies, sketchy contractors and others with a knack for gathering evidence and righting wrongs with professionalism and integrity. One of Nebraska’s most respected reporters, McKnight has earned regional Edward R. Murrow Awards and an Eric Sevareid Award along with numerous awards from AP, the NBA, Omaha Press Club and others. Mike was on the ground floor of establishing courtroom camera access in Nebraska, and to this day, enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists at UNL through tips and feedback on their weekly live newscasts.

With an on-air resume covering 60 years and still counting, Dave Wingert has touched numerous radio audiences with his energy, wit and infectious personality. While his career includes stops in Kansas City, Seattle and ten years in national syndication as “Dave ‘Til Dawn,” Wingert made Omaha radio his home through his presence on KQKQ, KGOR and KLTQ before becoming the morning show host in 2016 on “Boomer Radio” – KOBM FM – where he continues entertaining his loyal “Wingy” fans to this day. Beyond his on-air effervescence, Dave is known for giving his time and talents to support the community through fundraising efforts for the Durham Museum, Omaha Community Playhouse and The Salvation Army to name a few. Through vast changes in technology, formats and ownership, Wingert’s legendary career shines on.

Nebraska Broadcasters Association&nbsp;The Nebraska Broadcasters Association will induct Dennis &amp; Kathi Brown, Dale Johnson, Mike McKnight and Dave Wingert into the NBA Hall of Fame on August 12h in La Vista during the NBA Annual Convention. Established in 1972, the NBA Hall of Fame will grow to 123 members with these pending inductees.Our first husband &amp; wife owner/operator inductees, Dennis and Kathi Brown met while working at a Colorado radio station. Sharing a passion for radio and a dream of ownership, their 1991 purchase of KCSR AM in Chadron, Nebraska saved the station from going under. Strongly focused on community service, Dennis and Kathi grew KCSR through a dedicated team of local employees that paved the way for them to buy KBPY FM in 2011. Beyond their strong commitment to local news, weather, high school sports and more, Kathi has helped countless businesses grow through advertising solutions. Dennis has been a tireless advocate for radio broadcasting on Capitol Hill and is a three-time Chairman of the NBA Board of Directors. Dennis and Kathi remain actively involved in station operations every day, taking great pride in serving the Chadron area.In a Nebraska radio career now spanning 51 years, Dale Johnson is a highly respected source of radio news in Lincoln. After his early years as an announcer in Holdrege, Kearney, Omaha and Grand Island, Dale spent 38 years as news director for Lincoln’s KFOR before joining Nebraska Public Media in 2023 where he currently serves as morning host and news reporter. Dale’s unique ability to build trust with interviewees has allowed him access to Nebraska’s biggest newsmakers, earning numerous industry awards from AP, RTDNA, the NBA and UPI. In 2005, Dale was the only Nebraska media member to accompany Governor Dave Heineman on a trade mission to Cuba. Dale enjoys giving back as a frequent guest speaker on writing and conducting interviews at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) College of Journalism and Mass Communications.When Mike McKnight joined Omaha’s WOWT TV in 1977, he never dreamed that 49 years later he’d still be holding people accountable as a one-man watchdog through his tireless investigative reporting. An advocate for the truth – despite threats often made against him – Mike has taken on big business, government agencies, sketchy contractors and others with a knack for gathering evidence and righting wrongs with professionalism and integrity. One of Nebraska’s most respected reporters, McKnight has earned regional Edward R. Murrow Awards and an Eric Sevareid Award along with numerous awards from AP, the NBA, Omaha Press Club and others. Mike was on the ground floor of establishing courtroom camera access in Nebraska, and to this day, enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists at UNL through tips and feedback on their weekly live newscasts.With an on-air resume covering 60 years and still counting, Dave Wingert has touched numerous radio audiences with his energy, wit and infectious personality. While his career includes stops in Kansas City, Seattle and ten years in national syndication as “Dave ‘Til Dawn,” Wingert made Omaha radio his home through his presence on KQKQ, KGOR and KLTQ before becoming the morning show host in 2016 on “Boomer Radio” – KOBM FM – where he continues entertaining his loyal “Wingy” fans to this day. Beyond his on-air effervescence, Dave is known for giving his time and talents to support the community through fundraising efforts for the Durham Museum, Omaha Community Playhouse and The Salvation Army to name a few. Through vast changes in technology, formats and ownership, Wingert’s legendary career shines on.

Dennis & Kathi Brown, Dale Johnson,  Mike McKnight and Dave Wingert to join NBA Hall of Fame

Omaha, Neb.- Union Pacific and Texas Operation Lifesaver partnered today to train approximately 100 Houston Independent School District (HISD) police officers on critical rail safety measures — equipping them with the knowledge to prevent rail incidents and respond swiftly and safely in the event an emergency occurs.

Held at HISD's High School for Law and Justice, the Rail Investigation Safety Course is designed to prepare law enforcement officers for the real-world scenarios they may encounter when responding to railroad incidents. The specialized training provided hands-on education about railroad operations, legal considerations, and best practices for emergency response.

"Rail safety is a shared responsibility, and we're committed to working with local agencies to keep the entire Houston community safe around railroad tracks," said Clint Schelbitzki, Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs at Union Pacific. "This training goes beyond just checking a box—giving first responders the tools to prevent tragedies and effectively respond when seconds matter."

Participants learned how to assess railroad environments, interpret rail signage and signals, and navigate emergency response procedures involving trains and tracks. The course also included guidance on investigative protocols, legal considerations, and available resources for law enforcement.

Union Pacific and Texas Operation Lifesaver regularly collaborate with first responders, schools, and community groups to reinforce safe behaviors around railroads. Anyone interested in participating in this training can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oli.org/" target="_blank">www.oli.org</a>&nbsp; for more information.

Texas Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing collisions, injuries, and fatalities at highway-rail crossings and along railroad rights-of-way through public education, enforcement, and engineering initiatives.

Union PacificOmaha, Neb.- Union Pacific and Texas Operation Lifesaver partnered today to train approximately 100 Houston Independent School District (HISD) police officers on critical rail safety measures — equipping them with the knowledge to prevent rail incidents and respond swiftly and safely in the event an emergency occurs.Held at HISD's High School for Law and Justice, the Rail Investigation Safety Course is designed to prepare law enforcement officers for the real-world scenarios they may encounter when responding to railroad incidents. The specialized training provided hands-on education about railroad operations, legal considerations, and best practices for emergency response."Rail safety is a shared responsibility, and we're committed to working with local agencies to keep the entire Houston community safe around railroad tracks," said Clint Schelbitzki, Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs at Union Pacific. "This training goes beyond just checking a box—giving first responders the tools to prevent tragedies and effectively respond when seconds matter."Participants learned how to assess railroad environments, interpret rail signage and signals, and navigate emergency response procedures involving trains and tracks. The course also included guidance on investigative protocols, legal considerations, and available resources for law enforcement.Union Pacific and Texas Operation Lifesaver regularly collaborate with first responders, schools, and community groups to reinforce safe behaviors around railroads. Anyone interested in participating in this training can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.oli.org/" target="_blank">www.oli.org</a>&nbsp; for more information.Texas Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing collisions, injuries, and fatalities at highway-rail crossings and along railroad rights-of-way through public education, enforcement, and engineering initiatives.

Union Pacific, Operation Lifesaver Strengthen Rail Safety in Houston

DAMASCUS —On Saturday, U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria targeting and killing a senior finance and logistics official in the terrorist organization Hurras al-Din (HaD), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

"The 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.'

On Feb. 12, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by U.S. Central Command&nbsp; forces, conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of Rawa, Iraq, killing five ISIS operatives, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

An initial post-strike clearance confirmed the dead ISIS operatives, various medium and small caliber weapons, grenades, suicide explosive belts, and ammunition.

The ISF-led operation is part of the ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to disrupt and degrade ISIS' capabilities, dismantle their attack networks, and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS. Coalition Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR) enabled ISF during the operation by providing technical support and intelligence. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partner forces to secure the lasting defeat of ISIS and to enable the establishment of enduring security cooperation frameworks. 

"ISF continue to be a credible and capable fighting element leading the D-ISIS mission in Iraq and are a valuable partner in efforts to diminish ISIS’s presence and its radical ideologies.'

"ISIS remains a threat to the region and beyond, and CENTCOM, along with partners and allies, will continue to aggressively pursue these terrorists."

"We will continue to relentlessly pursue terrorists in order to defend our homeland, and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739746302792.png" alt="U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons patrol the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons patrol the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —On Saturday, U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria targeting and killing a senior finance and logistics official in the terrorist organization Hurras al-Din (HaD), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command."The 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.'On Feb. 12, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by U.S. Central Command&nbsp; forces, conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of Rawa, Iraq, killing five ISIS operatives, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.An initial post-strike clearance confirmed the dead ISIS operatives, various medium and small caliber weapons, grenades, suicide explosive belts, and ammunition.The ISF-led operation is part of the ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to disrupt and degrade ISIS' capabilities, dismantle their attack networks, and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS. Coalition Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR) enabled ISF during the operation by providing technical support and intelligence. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partner forces to secure the lasting defeat of ISIS and to enable the establishment of enduring security cooperation frameworks. "ISF continue to be a credible and capable fighting element leading the D-ISIS mission in Iraq and are a valuable partner in efforts to diminish ISIS’s presence and its radical ideologies.'"ISIS remains a threat to the region and beyond, and CENTCOM, along with partners and allies, will continue to aggressively pursue these terrorists.""We will continue to relentlessly pursue terrorists in order to defend our homeland, and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

U.S. forces kill senior operative of Al-Qaeda affiliate 

DAYTONA BEACH — President Donald Trump attended the Super Bowl last Sunday. This Sunday he attended the&nbsp;Daytona 500, for the second time as president.

DAYTONA BEACH — President Donald Trump attended the Super Bowl last Sunday. This Sunday he attended the&nbsp;Daytona 500, for the second time as president.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump lap at the Daytona 500. <a href="https://t.co/e7KEURXLHz">pic.twitter.com/e7KEURXLHz</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1891220003891872103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇺🇸President Donald J. Trump Has Arrived: Air Force One SOARS Over the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Daytona500?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Daytona500</a> 🏎️ <a href="https://twitter.com/NASCAR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASCAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/yAcAPgH8ip">pic.twitter.com/yAcAPgH8ip</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1891199529988280662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump, The Beast, and the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Daytona500?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Daytona500</a>—It doesn&#39;t get more American than that! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/NASCAR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASCAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/NbPubVuxAa">pic.twitter.com/NbPubVuxAa</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1891198367180407186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;This is your favorite President. I&#39;m a big fan. I am a really big fan of you people that you do this. I don&#39;t know, but I just want you to be safe. You&#39;re talented people, and you&#39;re great people, and great Americans. Have a good day. Have a lot of fun, and I&#39;ll see you later.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IAOiQJ5jvE">https://t.co/IAOiQJ5jvE</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1891206029771186501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">EPIC!!! Happening Now at the <a href="https://twitter.com/NASCAR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASCAR</a> 500…LET’S GO!!! <a href="https://t.co/GXg83oHLUC">pic.twitter.com/GXg83oHLUC</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1891201831637852484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥President Trump takes laps in The Beast ahead of Daytona 500

Republican state legislators are filing a flurry of bills addressing junk food, vaccines, fluoride.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/avollers/">ANNA CLAIRE VOLLERS</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

Republican state legislators across the country are filing a flurry of bills to advance the “Make America Healthy Again” agenda promoted by activist lawyer and former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who’s in line to be the next U.S. health secretary.

Under the MAHA banner, state lawmakers are working to regulate candy and soda purchases under social welfare programs, remove fluoride from public water systems, roll back state vaccination requirements, and remove ultra-processed food from schools.

They’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Leo4AzHouse/posts/pfbid02JfgSgCw6Q2cCBMg6wtZu6BaURnikQMoqnvzDvxEcawMRbGPybnEkQBewqNrXneNnl" target="_blank">enlisted celebrities</a>&nbsp;to help. They’re using&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Jacob4Wyoming/status/1886478813804048864" target="_blank">#RFK</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Leo4AzHouse/posts/pfbid02JfgSgCw6Q2cCBMg6wtZu6BaURnikQMoqnvzDvxEcawMRbGPybnEkQBewqNrXneNnl" target="_blank">#MAHA</a>&nbsp;hashtags on social media to share legislative wins. Lawmakers even&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=983860476948534&amp;set=pb.100059737712851.-2207520000" target="_blank">walked the red carpet</a>&nbsp;at a January gala celebrated as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/the-maha-gala#:~:text=more%20than%20800%20of%20US%20health%20secretary%20nominee%20Robert%20F.%20Kennedy%20Jr.%E2%80%99s%20most%20loyal%20followers%20have%20gathered%20to%20celebrate%20the%20official%20start%20of%20the%20Make%20America%20Healthy%20movement" target="_blank">official start</a>&nbsp;of the MAHA movement in the Trump era.

“It’s pretty exciting for me,” said Wyoming Republican state Rep. Jacob Wasserburger, who has sponsored a MAHA bill in his state.

“I was a pretty overweight kid when I was growing up. … When I was about 16, I started trying to get healthy, and it seemed to me like there were some badly flawed issues with our health care in this country that weren’t being addressed,” he said.

Kennedy is a vocal vaccine skeptic with controversial and sometimes misleading views on a number of public health policies, from fluoride in public water to the underlying causes of HIV and autism. He’s decried ultra-processed foods, government overreach and greedy corporations for harming human health and the environment.

His often unorthodox — and in some cases, false — views have inspired some conservative lawmakers and given political cover to others, spurring them to reshape public health policy in myriad ways.

One popular MAHA measure is to prevent families who qualify for food stamps from using their benefits to purchase candy or soda.

Republican legislators in states including&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/?nvep=&amp;hmac=&amp;emci=89624625-bae3-ef11-90cb-0022482a94f4&amp;emdi=ea000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&amp;ceid=53701" target="_blank">Arizona</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/h0109/" target="_blank">Idaho</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/" target="_blank">Kansas</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1821889" target="_blank">Tennessee</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0403.html" target="_blank">Utah</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://legiscan.com/WY/bill/HB0323/2025" target="_blank">Wyoming</a>&nbsp;have introduced bills directing their respective state agencies to ask the federal government to allow them to remove candy and soda from the list of eligible products that can be purchased with food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Arkansas Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.arkansas.gov/news_post/governor-sanders-calls-for-reforms-to-the-snap-program/" target="_blank">sent a letter</a>&nbsp;to the feds in December asking them to bar junk food items from SNAP, which is a federal program administered by the states.

In Wyoming, Wasserburger sponsored a bill that would prevent people in SNAP from using their benefits to purchase candy and soda.

“I’m all in favor of people having food choice and freedoms, but if taxpayers are going to be funding the cost of that food with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the funding should be going to what it says: nutrition,” Wasserburger told Stateline.

“Taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay for the soda and candy bars. Anybody can go buy that with their own money.”

The bill recently passed the Wyoming House and is headed to the Senate.

Proponents of the SNAP bills argue candy and sugary drinks harm the health of recipients, many of whom are children. And taxpayers, they say, shouldn’t have to pay for unhealthy foods that can lead to obesity and other issues.

Critics of the bills argue that the fundamental problem for SNAP recipients is that healthy food is&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20fundamental%20problem%20for%20SNAP%20recipients%20and%20for%20all%20of%20us%20is%20that%20healthy%20food%20is%20more%20expensive%2C%E2%80%9D%20said%20Karen%20Siebert%2C%20a%20lobbyist%20for%20a%20network%20of%20food%20banks%20that%20serve%20all%20105%20Kansas%20counties%20including%20Harvesters%2C%20Kansas%20Food%20Bank%20and%20Second%20Harvest%20Community%20Food%20Bank." target="_blank">more expensive</a>&nbsp;and can be harder to find in low-income neighborhoods. Lobbyists contend that identifying foods as “good” or “bad” amounts to government overreach.

And even some Republicans say the definitions in the bills are&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/#:~:text=Heap%20agreed%20with%20supporters%20of%20the%20bill%20that%20obesity%20is%20a%20major%20issue%20in%20Arizona%20and%20across%20the%20country%2C%20but%20sided%20with%20opponents%20that%20the%20definitions%20in%20it%20were%20too%20vague.%C2%A0" target="_blank">too vague</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/#:~:text=Those%20definitions%20would%20preclude%20SNAP%20participants%20from%20purchasing%20granola%20bars%2C%20sports%20energy%20bars%20and%20possibly%20many%20cereals%20like%20Honey%20Nut%20Cheerios%2C%20while%20allowing%20the%20purchase%20of%20things%20like%20potato%20chips.%C2%A0" target="_blank">Arizona’s bill</a>, for example, could have prevented SNAP participants from buying granola bars and some cereals, while allowing them to buy potato chips. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/#:~:text=Under%20those%20definitions%2C%20Kit%20Kat%20and%20Twix%2C%20which%20contain%20flour%2C%20wouldn%E2%80%99t%20be%20restricted.%20Certain%20juices%20that%20contain%20high%20amounts%20of%20sugar%20but%20are%20more%20than%20half%20fruit%20juice%20by%20volume%20also%20wouldn%E2%80%99t%20be%20banned." target="_blank">Kansas</a>&nbsp;bill defines prohibited candy in such a way that Kit Kat and Twix bars, which contain flour, wouldn’t be restricted.

Many of the state bills follow on the heels of a federal version, the&nbsp;<a href="https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1372" target="_blank">Healthy SNAP Act</a>, which Republicans reintroduced in Congress last month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739629912875.png" alt="RFK Jr. swearing in ceremony on Thursday- image Whit House" />
 <figcaption>RFK Jr. swearing in ceremony on Thursday- image Whit House</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Republican state legislators are filing a flurry of bills addressing junk food, vaccines, fluoride.</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/avollers/">ANNA CLAIRE VOLLERS</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a> Republican state legislators across the country are filing a flurry of bills to advance the “Make America Healthy Again” agenda promoted by activist lawyer and former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who’s in line to be the next U.S. health secretary.Under the MAHA banner, state lawmakers are working to regulate candy and soda purchases under social welfare programs, remove fluoride from public water systems, roll back state vaccination requirements, and remove ultra-processed food from schools.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN 🇺🇸 Based on all health indicators and global comparisons, Americans are becoming sicker, beset by illnesses that our medical system isn&#39;t addressing effectively. The Trump Administration IS CHANGING THAT! 1/4 <a href="https://t.co/oIeHWvqK4e">pic.twitter.com/oIeHWvqK4e</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1890190620641440243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>They’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Leo4AzHouse/posts/pfbid02JfgSgCw6Q2cCBMg6wtZu6BaURnikQMoqnvzDvxEcawMRbGPybnEkQBewqNrXneNnl" target="_blank">enlisted celebrities</a>&nbsp;to help. They’re using&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Jacob4Wyoming/status/1886478813804048864" target="_blank">#RFK</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Leo4AzHouse/posts/pfbid02JfgSgCw6Q2cCBMg6wtZu6BaURnikQMoqnvzDvxEcawMRbGPybnEkQBewqNrXneNnl" target="_blank">#MAHA</a>&nbsp;hashtags on social media to share legislative wins. Lawmakers even&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=983860476948534&amp;set=pb.100059737712851.-2207520000" target="_blank">walked the red carpet</a>&nbsp;at a January gala celebrated as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/the-maha-gala#:~:text=more%20than%20800%20of%20US%20health%20secretary%20nominee%20Robert%20F.%20Kennedy%20Jr.%E2%80%99s%20most%20loyal%20followers%20have%20gathered%20to%20celebrate%20the%20official%20start%20of%20the%20Make%20America%20Healthy%20movement" target="_blank">official start</a>&nbsp;of the MAHA movement in the Trump era.“It’s pretty exciting for me,” said Wyoming Republican state Rep. Jacob Wasserburger, who has sponsored a MAHA bill in his state.“I was a pretty overweight kid when I was growing up. … When I was about 16, I started trying to get healthy, and it seemed to me like there were some badly flawed issues with our health care in this country that weren’t being addressed,” he said.Kennedy is a vocal vaccine skeptic with controversial and sometimes misleading views on a number of public health policies, from fluoride in public water to the underlying causes of HIV and autism. He’s decried ultra-processed foods, government overreach and greedy corporations for harming human health and the environment.His often unorthodox — and in some cases, false — views have inspired some conservative lawmakers and given political cover to others, spurring them to reshape public health policy in myriad ways.<h2>Candy, soda and SNAP</h2>One popular MAHA measure is to prevent families who qualify for food stamps from using their benefits to purchase candy or soda.Republican legislators in states including&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/?nvep=&amp;hmac=&amp;emci=89624625-bae3-ef11-90cb-0022482a94f4&amp;emdi=ea000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&amp;ceid=53701" target="_blank">Arizona</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/h0109/" target="_blank">Idaho</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/" target="_blank">Kansas</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1821889" target="_blank">Tennessee</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0403.html" target="_blank">Utah</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://legiscan.com/WY/bill/HB0323/2025" target="_blank">Wyoming</a>&nbsp;have introduced bills directing their respective state agencies to ask the federal government to allow them to remove candy and soda from the list of eligible products that can be purchased with food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Arkansas Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.arkansas.gov/news_post/governor-sanders-calls-for-reforms-to-the-snap-program/" target="_blank">sent a letter</a>&nbsp;to the feds in December asking them to bar junk food items from SNAP, which is a federal program administered by the states.In Wyoming, Wasserburger sponsored a bill that would prevent people in SNAP from using their benefits to purchase candy and soda.“I’m all in favor of people having food choice and freedoms, but if taxpayers are going to be funding the cost of that food with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the funding should be going to what it says: nutrition,” Wasserburger told Stateline.“Taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay for the soda and candy bars. Anybody can go buy that with their own money.”The bill recently passed the Wyoming House and is headed to the Senate.Proponents of the SNAP bills argue candy and sugary drinks harm the health of recipients, many of whom are children. And taxpayers, they say, shouldn’t have to pay for unhealthy foods that can lead to obesity and other issues.Critics of the bills argue that the fundamental problem for SNAP recipients is that healthy food is&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20fundamental%20problem%20for%20SNAP%20recipients%20and%20for%20all%20of%20us%20is%20that%20healthy%20food%20is%20more%20expensive%2C%E2%80%9D%20said%20Karen%20Siebert%2C%20a%20lobbyist%20for%20a%20network%20of%20food%20banks%20that%20serve%20all%20105%20Kansas%20counties%20including%20Harvesters%2C%20Kansas%20Food%20Bank%20and%20Second%20Harvest%20Community%20Food%20Bank." target="_blank">more expensive</a>&nbsp;and can be harder to find in low-income neighborhoods. Lobbyists contend that identifying foods as “good” or “bad” amounts to government overreach.And even some Republicans say the definitions in the bills are&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/#:~:text=Heap%20agreed%20with%20supporters%20of%20the%20bill%20that%20obesity%20is%20a%20major%20issue%20in%20Arizona%20and%20across%20the%20country%2C%20but%20sided%20with%20opponents%20that%20the%20definitions%20in%20it%20were%20too%20vague.%C2%A0" target="_blank">too vague</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://azmirror.com/2025/02/04/republicans-follow-lead-of-rfk-jr-with-effort-to-ban-snap-users-from-buying-soda-candy/#:~:text=Those%20definitions%20would%20preclude%20SNAP%20participants%20from%20purchasing%20granola%20bars%2C%20sports%20energy%20bars%20and%20possibly%20many%20cereals%20like%20Honey%20Nut%20Cheerios%2C%20while%20allowing%20the%20purchase%20of%20things%20like%20potato%20chips.%C2%A0" target="_blank">Arizona’s bill</a>, for example, could have prevented SNAP participants from buying granola bars and some cereals, while allowing them to buy potato chips. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/05/buying-candy-soda-with-food-stamps-banned-under-proposed-kansas-bill/#:~:text=Under%20those%20definitions%2C%20Kit%20Kat%20and%20Twix%2C%20which%20contain%20flour%2C%20wouldn%E2%80%99t%20be%20restricted.%20Certain%20juices%20that%20contain%20high%20amounts%20of%20sugar%20but%20are%20more%20than%20half%20fruit%20juice%20by%20volume%20also%20wouldn%E2%80%99t%20be%20banned." target="_blank">Kansas</a>&nbsp;bill defines prohibited candy in such a way that Kit Kat and Twix bars, which contain flour, wouldn’t be restricted.Many of the state bills follow on the heels of a federal version, the&nbsp;<a href="https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1372" target="_blank">Healthy SNAP Act</a>, which Republicans reintroduced in Congress last month.

State lawmakers embrace RFK Jr.’s health policies

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Jesse Bradley as interim director for the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE). Bradley will continue in his current role as interim director for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). His duties overseeing DEE are effective immediately.

Gov. Pillen called out Bradley’s steady leadership of DNR since assuming the position of interim director in August 2024. This is the second time Bradley has been interim director of that agency. He was appointed in 2020 as well.

In his lead role at DNR, Bradley has worked with natural resources districts across the state to implement the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Act. He has been part of the agency’s push to leverage new technologies to improve system processes to utilize data-informed management decisions.

Bradley has been with DNR since 2006, when he started as an integrated water management analyst. In 2012, he became head of the Water Planning Division and two years later, was promoted to deputy director of DNR. He has degrees in environmental geology and hydrogeology and is a licensed professional geologist in Nebraska.

“Water management is critical to the state of Nebraska – and we need to continue to innovate and improve water quantity and quality for the next seven generations,” said Gov. Pillen. “Jesse’s vast experience in that area, coupled with his ability to bridge the gap between local needs, the state and federal regulators, make him strongly qualified to lead DNR and DEE when they are combined through passage of LB317.”

LB317, which has been introduced on behalf of the Governor by Senator Tom Brandt, proposes naming the newly formed agency the&nbsp;Department of Water, Energy and Environment. The bill will have a hearing before the Natural Resources Committee on Thursday, Feb. 13.

The Environment Quality Council (EQC) provides names to the Governor for consideration as director of DEE. Gov. Pillen said he will continue to consult with the group as the legislation moves ahead.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Jesse Bradley as interim director for the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE). Bradley will continue in his current role as interim director for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). His duties overseeing DEE are effective immediately.Gov. Pillen called out Bradley’s steady leadership of DNR since assuming the position of interim director in August 2024. This is the second time Bradley has been interim director of that agency. He was appointed in 2020 as well.In his lead role at DNR, Bradley has worked with natural resources districts across the state to implement the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Act. He has been part of the agency’s push to leverage new technologies to improve system processes to utilize data-informed management decisions.Bradley has been with DNR since 2006, when he started as an integrated water management analyst. In 2012, he became head of the Water Planning Division and two years later, was promoted to deputy director of DNR. He has degrees in environmental geology and hydrogeology and is a licensed professional geologist in Nebraska.“Water management is critical to the state of Nebraska – and we need to continue to innovate and improve water quantity and quality for the next seven generations,” said Gov. Pillen. “Jesse’s vast experience in that area, coupled with his ability to bridge the gap between local needs, the state and federal regulators, make him strongly qualified to lead DNR and DEE when they are combined through passage of LB317.”LB317, which has been introduced on behalf of the Governor by Senator Tom Brandt, proposes naming the newly formed agency the&nbsp;Department of Water, Energy and Environment. The bill will have a hearing before the Natural Resources Committee on Thursday, Feb. 13.The Environment Quality Council (EQC) provides names to the Governor for consideration as director of DEE. Gov. Pillen said he will continue to consult with the group as the legislation moves ahead.

Gov. Pillen Appoints Jesse Bradley to be Interim Director of DEE and DNR

OMAHA, NE –&nbsp;New research from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2fShN2Q-2FDbJuybXDjmDrKmHNpjwtxuPvz0D6i7m7M9jjDvUhR6mWZutsvoPtNFIV5ildOxS58D3C2AKYxMlQGw8ct3lsA4d-2Fgv6dbbwln3FMRTZtvqsjxaNH4GGs-2FY-2BpacRx-2BWJ-2FmJBxw-2Bfk9V6wnIk9TNZ8mc8Ylh-2BL29ndAt4GvPQ_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANX9Vrl-2FdaCFLa-2BK6Uk1rH-2FN2Aon3flmW57-2F6TmLQ4-2B8POxV7q3bKqkXiAVp0dvl9-2BtTGDaUy8mdhdLMT82U9IJ1syOqnGtNQ-2FIu2r-2Be-2FwIHmIaiOUxDrHd6nSHgAP-2Bzh-2FdnC4LOAgHFCibYDjt6lpaom1Y5csOCaNHAl9eZpfeiFmuP4y6LhYUhpeJgI1oNWOuKbSioEpJiDYdhnsB2fxgdzue1joLMaczU9cF6WeCLk-3D">AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety</a>&nbsp;reveals a concerning trend in pedestrian fatalities in the United States. After reaching a historic low in 2009, pedestrian deaths have risen by over 80% in the past 15 years. Interestingly, almost the entire increase in pedestrian deaths has occurred&nbsp;after dark on urban arterial roads.

Common characteristics of urban arterial roads:

“The problem is not easily solved by simply urging drivers and pedestrians to watch out for each other,” says Brian Ortner, AAA spokesperson for Nebraska and Iowa. “Reducing the spike in pedestrian deaths depends on state and local leaders working together to design and upgrade roads for vehicle and pedestrian safety.”

To enhance pedestrian safety and reduce fatalities, AAA suggests several key steps:

Established in 1947 by AAA, the Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users

AAA Press ReleaseOMAHA, NE –&nbsp;New research from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2fShN2Q-2FDbJuybXDjmDrKmHNpjwtxuPvz0D6i7m7M9jjDvUhR6mWZutsvoPtNFIV5ildOxS58D3C2AKYxMlQGw8ct3lsA4d-2Fgv6dbbwln3FMRTZtvqsjxaNH4GGs-2FY-2BpacRx-2BWJ-2FmJBxw-2Bfk9V6wnIk9TNZ8mc8Ylh-2BL29ndAt4GvPQ_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANX9Vrl-2FdaCFLa-2BK6Uk1rH-2FN2Aon3flmW57-2F6TmLQ4-2B8POxV7q3bKqkXiAVp0dvl9-2BtTGDaUy8mdhdLMT82U9IJ1syOqnGtNQ-2FIu2r-2Be-2FwIHmIaiOUxDrHd6nSHgAP-2Bzh-2FdnC4LOAgHFCibYDjt6lpaom1Y5csOCaNHAl9eZpfeiFmuP4y6LhYUhpeJgI1oNWOuKbSioEpJiDYdhnsB2fxgdzue1joLMaczU9cF6WeCLk-3D">AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety</a>&nbsp;reveals a concerning trend in pedestrian fatalities in the United States. After reaching a historic low in 2009, pedestrian deaths have risen by over 80% in the past 15 years. Interestingly, almost the entire increase in pedestrian deaths has occurred&nbsp;after dark on urban arterial roads.Common characteristics of urban arterial roads:<ul>
 <li>Lots of traffic&nbsp;– these roads handle more cars and buses than smaller neighborhood streets.&nbsp;</li><li>Fewer stops&nbsp;– they typically have traffic lights at widely-spaced intersections instead of stop signs to keep traffic flowing, limiting the availability of safe, accessible options for crossing safely as a pedestrian.&nbsp;</li><li>Multiple lanes&nbsp;– usually have more than one lane in each direction.&nbsp;</li><li>Access to key areas&nbsp;– they connect to highways, downtown areas, shopping centers, and other important spots.</li>
 </ul>Additional findings from the study:<ul>
 <li>Most pedestrian fatalities occurred well outside of downtown: more than half happened more than 4 miles from the city center.&nbsp;</li><li>Pedestrian crashes resulting in injuries and fatalities disproportionately occurred in socially and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. These are&nbsp;neighborhoods with older housing and greater diversity of land use.&nbsp;Many who live or work in these neighborhoods rely on walking for daily transportation or access to transit but are forced to walk in poorly lit areas with poor or no sidewalks and long distances between safe places to cross.</li>
 </ul>“The problem is not easily solved by simply urging drivers and pedestrians to watch out for each other,” says Brian Ortner, AAA spokesperson for Nebraska and Iowa. “Reducing the spike in pedestrian deaths depends on state and local leaders working together to design and upgrade roads for vehicle and pedestrian safety.”To enhance pedestrian safety and reduce fatalities, AAA suggests several key steps:<ul>
 <li>Follow the Data:&nbsp;Let the data be the guide — invest in the areas and solutions that will make the biggest impact. That means targeting unsafe locations outside downtown areas, often in socially and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.&nbsp;</li><li>Coordinate for Impact:&nbsp;State and local governments can work more closely to invest resources to save lives where needed most, regardless of who owns that roadway.&nbsp;</li><li>Demand a Safer System:&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2fShN2Q-2FDbJuybXDjmDrKluCOWWWfv5OBzcgY04zglSPxYSREgM0z8n-2F2AJ89GLjEhgkrqswhIaE3eWXidqdgsmHv7g8x93-2FRGoX3ZwcuuWPlW7LzHxZ3CGy4uQI7-2B4vSEi7QDOWhwj-2BcqYGhJQOss-3D483N_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANX9Vrl-2FdaCFLa-2BK6Uk1rH-2FN2Aon3flmW57-2F6TmLQ4-2B8POxV7q3bKqkXiAVp0dvl9-2BtTGDaUy8mdhdLMT82U9IJ-2FcL06QdMR4bWPSKa59r76iTbaiVkFdakP18Ft6HZl3u6tEggUuK-2FFIjirVRGsqL7hCJ4-2FnmkK4aKDdXZ7-2B0VW1G8w4A0v999TTnZG3mIZDTeWu-2BX14CrzRb-2B3T3ai4JH0YjWIO-2F8zHJ7Uh02Z3gbgo-3D">Safe System</a>&nbsp;approach anticipates human mistakes and reduces crash severity by addressing safety holistically through safer roads, vehicles, speeds, and road users.</li>
 </ul>Drivers can do their part by:<ul>
 <li>Minimize risky driving behaviors&nbsp;such as speeding, texting, driving while drowsy or distracted, or driving under the influence of cannabis or alcohol. This significantly increases the risk of a collision. Remember to stay alert! Follow speed limits, keep your smartphone out of reach, and only drive when sober.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Do not rely on pedestrian detection systems&nbsp;to prevent a crash. This technology should only serve as a backup, not a replacement for an engaged driver.&nbsp;</li><li>Drive with extra caution at night, as this is the riskiest time for pedestrians and when&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC95ai71ApsVIlsfIwofydTTDnXZHjmmQ6gDAJ74qgV5A5bTBDWnLPmszFvfyK52HydJZxenoMNuXUaSVZkklxXEeIM2I56ITPK0yyWhBjM3RE5UhhCXVbUranx9oiLX8Tw-3D-3DW9wu_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANX9Vrl-2FdaCFLa-2BK6Uk1rH-2FN2Aon3flmW57-2F6TmLQ4-2B8POxV7q3bKqkXiAVp0dvl9-2BtTGDaUy8mdhdLMT82U9IJ0gJZsh9Eq-2FD6wtP5inEVJkGBVi2Fc5hQqBhyiJB4NEcUS2-2BwJ5GODJ6x2vYQLXJV57sRS6mG-2Bq3jcAoAsaLDoGtkvQzF0zR6c8kq1gID5ONdUBvt0uy-2FOcCbqW9OpSXPiQ2-2F7uaTDqgekDSuKtJsFw-3D">vehicle safety systems struggle</a>&nbsp;the most.</li>
 </ul>Pedestrians should:<ul>
 <li>Be visible.&nbsp;Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing and stay in well-lit areas.&nbsp;</li><li>Use sidewalks and using crosswalks&nbsp;as often as possible. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.&nbsp;</li><li>Always obey traffic signals, look both ways before crossing the street, and do not walk and text.</li>
 </ul>About AAA Foundation for Traffic SafetyEstablished in 1947 by AAA, the Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users

Dark City Roads are Deadliest for Pedestrians at Night

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/9/fischer-introduces-stop-ev-freeloading-act-to-support-infrastructure-investments-promote-fairness">reintroduced legislation</a>&nbsp;to support nationwide infrastructure investments and promote fairness among drivers. The Fair Sharing of Highways and Roads for Electric Vehicles (Fair SHARE) Act would ensure that electric vehicles (EVs) pay into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) to support the construction and maintenance of U.S. roads and bridges.

Gasoline-powered cars pay into the HTF through the gas tax, but as of now, EVs do not contribute to the HTF at all. However, the average EV is significantly heavier than its gas-powered counterpart due to the weight of large EV batteries. The Fair SHARE Act would require additional investment in the HTF for EVs with heavier batteries to account for the road damage and increased maintenance costs they cause.

In addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.). U.S. Representative&nbsp;Dusty Johnson (S.D.–AL) introduced identical companion legislation in the House.

“EVs can weigh up to three times as much as gas-powered cars, creating more wear and tear on our roads and bridges. It’s only fair that they pay into the Highway Trust Fund just like other cars do. The Fair SHARE Act will require EVs to pay their fair share for the upkeep of America’s infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“EV drivers use our highways just as much as gas-powered vehicles,&nbsp; yet they are currently exempt from paying into the Highway Trust Fund because the Biden administration wanted to score points with its radical climate change base. The days of liberal elites in their expensive EV’s getting a free pass are over; they are contributing to wear and tear on our roads, and they should be forced to pay their fair share in repairs just like the rest of us,”&nbsp;said Senator Lummis.“EVs are heavier than other consumer vehicles, and increase the wear and tear on our roads. EV drivers also don’t pay a gas tax like other drivers do,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts.&nbsp;

“That’s wrong. This bill ensures Americans fueling their vehicles are not forced to pay for EV drivers.”

“The Highway Trust Fund is on the road to insolvency,”&nbsp;said Congressman Johnson.&nbsp;“It’s time to consider real changes and ensure EVs pay their fair share to maintain our roads and bridges. I’m grateful for Senator Fischer’s leadership on this bill that will undoubtedly create a more stable Highway Trust Fund, ensuring the government can continue to make meaningful investments in our road infrastructure needs.”

“All Americans benefit from a robust and safe transportation system. When it comes to paying for the maintenance and expansion of our road network, no one should get a free ride,”&nbsp;said American Trucking Associations Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs Henry Hanscom.&nbsp;

“The trucking industry makes up just four percent of the vehicles on our nation’s highways, yet we pay nearly half the tab into the federal Highway Trust Fund—all while moving over 70 percent of the domestic freight tonnage. Clearly trucks are doing their part to invest in the nation’s infrastructure, and it is reasonable to expect electric vehicles to do the same. As fuel efficiency rises and adoption rates for alternative fuels accelerate, we must find long-term, sustainable, and equitable sources of revenue for the HTF. We commend Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Dusty Johnson for leading this effort to ensure that electric vehicles are paying their fair share.”

“For nearly 70 years, purchasers of gasoline, diesel, gasohol, liquified natural gas and liquified petroleum gas have supported the maintenance and improvement of the nation's roads and bridges. The lone exception to this user-fairness principle remains vehicles powered by electricity.&nbsp; Thankfully, Senator Fischer and Representative Johnson have introduced the Fair SHARE Act to correct this oversight and improve mobility for all Americans,”&nbsp;said American Road &amp; Transportation Builders Association President and CEO Dave Bauer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“This measure will provide a sustainable, long-term revenue stream to the Highway Trust Fund, allowing the construction employers to maintain and rebuild our nation’s roads and bridges. The legislation will close a loophole for electric vehicles, which currently do not currently contribute to the Fund. Instead of giving them a free ride, this measure simply asked electric vehicle users to take part in the same user-pay approach that enabled the U.S. to build and maintain the highway network,”&nbsp;said Associated General Contractors of America CEO Jeff Shoaf.“It is imperative that all vehicles share the responsibility of maintaining our roadways.&nbsp; Senator Fischer’s Fair SHARE Act will ensure that by requiring EVs to contribute to the Highway Trust Fund, we can ensure that essential transportation infrastructure remains safe and accessible to everyone without any unfair burden placed upon any specific type of vehicle,”&nbsp;said National Association of County Engineers Executive Directors Kevan Stone.

Full List of Stakeholder Support:

American Trucking Associations, American Road and Transportation Builders Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, Associated General Contractors of America, National Association of Counties, National Association of County Engineers, and National League of Cities.

The HTF supports over 90 percent of federal highway aid to states. The HTF was meant to be&nbsp;funded primarily by the federal gas tax. However, since the gas tax was last raised in 1993, the HTF faces insolvency due to more fuel-efficient vehicles on the roads, leading to reduced fuel consumption.

EVs are not subject to the gas tax and&nbsp;do not contribute to the HTF. Furthermore, their heavy batteries (up to triple the weight of gas-powered cars) lead to more extensive road wear, causing more maintenance and greater costs.

Senator Fischer’s legislation would fix this discrepancy by implementing a fee at the manufacturer level at the point of sale of EVs. This ensures that every&nbsp;vehicle on the road is paying into the HTF and supporting critical repairs to America’s infrastructure.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/f5570e3b-5cfe-479d-a29a-33babdb9b7fc/fischer-fair-share-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;for a one-pager on the legislation.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/0d77eded-94c2-493f-ad9e-10081e727b1f/fair-share-act-text.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the&nbsp;bill.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/9/fischer-introduces-stop-ev-freeloading-act-to-support-infrastructure-investments-promote-fairness">reintroduced legislation</a>&nbsp;to support nationwide infrastructure investments and promote fairness among drivers. The Fair Sharing of Highways and Roads for Electric Vehicles (Fair SHARE) Act would ensure that electric vehicles (EVs) pay into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) to support the construction and maintenance of U.S. roads and bridges.Gasoline-powered cars pay into the HTF through the gas tax, but as of now, EVs do not contribute to the HTF at all. However, the average EV is significantly heavier than its gas-powered counterpart due to the weight of large EV batteries. The Fair SHARE Act would require additional investment in the HTF for EVs with heavier batteries to account for the road damage and increased maintenance costs they cause.In addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.). U.S. Representative&nbsp;Dusty Johnson (S.D.–AL) introduced identical companion legislation in the House.“EVs can weigh up to three times as much as gas-powered cars, creating more wear and tear on our roads and bridges. It’s only fair that they pay into the Highway Trust Fund just like other cars do. The Fair SHARE Act will require EVs to pay their fair share for the upkeep of America’s infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“EV drivers use our highways just as much as gas-powered vehicles,&nbsp; yet they are currently exempt from paying into the Highway Trust Fund because the Biden administration wanted to score points with its radical climate change base. The days of liberal elites in their expensive EV’s getting a free pass are over; they are contributing to wear and tear on our roads, and they should be forced to pay their fair share in repairs just like the rest of us,”&nbsp;said Senator Lummis.“EVs are heavier than other consumer vehicles, and increase the wear and tear on our roads. EV drivers also don’t pay a gas tax like other drivers do,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts.&nbsp;“That’s wrong. This bill ensures Americans fueling their vehicles are not forced to pay for EV drivers.”“The Highway Trust Fund is on the road to insolvency,”&nbsp;said Congressman Johnson.&nbsp;“It’s time to consider real changes and ensure EVs pay their fair share to maintain our roads and bridges. I’m grateful for Senator Fischer’s leadership on this bill that will undoubtedly create a more stable Highway Trust Fund, ensuring the government can continue to make meaningful investments in our road infrastructure needs.”“All Americans benefit from a robust and safe transportation system. When it comes to paying for the maintenance and expansion of our road network, no one should get a free ride,”&nbsp;said American Trucking Associations Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs Henry Hanscom.&nbsp; “The trucking industry makes up just four percent of the vehicles on our nation’s highways, yet we pay nearly half the tab into the federal Highway Trust Fund—all while moving over 70 percent of the domestic freight tonnage. Clearly trucks are doing their part to invest in the nation’s infrastructure, and it is reasonable to expect electric vehicles to do the same. As fuel efficiency rises and adoption rates for alternative fuels accelerate, we must find long-term, sustainable, and equitable sources of revenue for the HTF. We commend Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Dusty Johnson for leading this effort to ensure that electric vehicles are paying their fair share.”“For nearly 70 years, purchasers of gasoline, diesel, gasohol, liquified natural gas and liquified petroleum gas have supported the maintenance and improvement of the nation's roads and bridges. The lone exception to this user-fairness principle remains vehicles powered by electricity.&nbsp; Thankfully, Senator Fischer and Representative Johnson have introduced the Fair SHARE Act to correct this oversight and improve mobility for all Americans,”&nbsp;said American Road &amp; Transportation Builders Association President and CEO Dave Bauer. &nbsp;&nbsp;“This measure will provide a sustainable, long-term revenue stream to the Highway Trust Fund, allowing the construction employers to maintain and rebuild our nation’s roads and bridges. The legislation will close a loophole for electric vehicles, which currently do not currently contribute to the Fund. Instead of giving them a free ride, this measure simply asked electric vehicle users to take part in the same user-pay approach that enabled the U.S. to build and maintain the highway network,”&nbsp;said Associated General Contractors of America CEO Jeff Shoaf.“It is imperative that all vehicles share the responsibility of maintaining our roadways.&nbsp; Senator Fischer’s Fair SHARE Act will ensure that by requiring EVs to contribute to the Highway Trust Fund, we can ensure that essential transportation infrastructure remains safe and accessible to everyone without any unfair burden placed upon any specific type of vehicle,”&nbsp;said National Association of County Engineers Executive Directors Kevan Stone.Full List of Stakeholder Support:American Trucking Associations, American Road and Transportation Builders Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, Associated General Contractors of America, National Association of Counties, National Association of County Engineers, and National League of Cities.Background:The HTF supports over 90 percent of federal highway aid to states. The HTF was meant to be&nbsp;funded primarily by the federal gas tax. However, since the gas tax was last raised in 1993, the HTF faces insolvency due to more fuel-efficient vehicles on the roads, leading to reduced fuel consumption.EVs are not subject to the gas tax and&nbsp;do not contribute to the HTF. Furthermore, their heavy batteries (up to triple the weight of gas-powered cars) lead to more extensive road wear, causing more maintenance and greater costs.Senator Fischer’s legislation would fix this discrepancy by implementing a fee at the manufacturer level at the point of sale of EVs. This ensures that every&nbsp;vehicle on the road is paying into the HTF and supporting critical repairs to America’s infrastructure.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/f5570e3b-5cfe-479d-a29a-33babdb9b7fc/fischer-fair-share-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;for a one-pager on the legislation.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/0d77eded-94c2-493f-ad9e-10081e727b1f/fair-share-act-text.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the&nbsp;bill.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fischer Reintroduces EV Legislation to Ensure Fairness on the Roads

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full List of National Endorsements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Support America’s Energy Independence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Support Rural Hospitals

(Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to over 200 weather-related incidents during the most recent snowstorm.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to over 200 weather-related incidents during the most recent snowstorm.As the snow fell across Nebraska, troopers remained busy across the entire state. Troopers investigated 34 crashes, performed 161 motorist assists, and helped other agencies with 18 responses from the evening hours of Tuesday through the Thursday morning commute.After a bitterly cold start to Thursday, frigid temps are in the forecast for most of next week. NSP advises all motorists to be prepared during winter driving conditions and extreme cold.“Exposure in extremely cold temperatures can be dangerous after only a short amount of time,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Everyone on the road should have a plan in case they become stranded. Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle and have a full tank of gas before you hit the road.”Some items to keep in your winter survival kit are:First Aid Kit&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ice Scraper&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gloves/HatPhone Charger&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blankets&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tool KitExtra Clothing&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Extra Food&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Red Flag/BandanaShovel/Bag of Sand&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Water&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tow RopeMotorists should always check the Nebraska 511 system for updated travel conditions throughout the state before attempting to travel in winter weather. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 and speak directly with an NSP dispatcher.If you become stranded on the road, stay with your vehicle and call for help. The vehicle is the best shelter from the elements and is the easiest thing for emergency personnel to find while looking for a stranded motorist.