<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/26/whats-next-for-nebraska-medical-cannabis-paid-sick-leave-abortion-school-choice/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraskans made their voices heard this November on various ballot measures —&nbsp;medical cannabis, paid sick leave, abortion and school choice — and most of the measures are set to take effect in December.

Six ballot measures were on Nebraska’s Nov. 5 ballot and&nbsp;<a href="https://electionresults.nebraska.gov/resultsSW.aspx?text=Race&amp;type=PA&amp;map=CTY" target="_blank">five got majority support</a>&nbsp;across the state. The State Canvassing Board will meet&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2024/2024%20Election%20Calendar.pdf" target="_blank">Dec. 2 to certify the election results</a>. The canvassing board consists of Gov. Jim Pillen, Secretary of State Bob Evnen, Attorney General Mike Hilgers, State Auditor Mike Foley and State Treasurer Tom Briese.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=III-4" target="_blank">Within 10 days of certification</a>, or by Dec. 12, Pillen must formally&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=32-1414" target="_blank">proclaim</a>&nbsp;how many votes were cast to approve and reject each measure.

If there are any issues or changes resulting from recounts, which are planned for Dec. 4, the canvassing board could meet again Dec. 10, which would extend the proclamation deadline for Pillen until Dec. 20.

The day that Pillen issues his proclamation is the day all but one measure takes effect. It’s unlikely to be the same day as certification.

For example, former Gov. Pete Ricketts presided over eight successful ballot measures during his time in office, related to the death penalty, Medicaid expansion, payday lending, gambling, voter ID and minimum wage.

Ricketts signed the proclamations an average of five days after the initial certification meeting — four days in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2016/2016-election-year-calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2016</a>, eight days in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2018/2018-election-calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2018</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2020/2020%20Election%20Calendar%20-%204.8.20%20Update.pdf" target="_blank">2020</a>, and the day after in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2022/2022%20Election%20Calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2022</a>, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ricketts-ballot-measures-proclamations.pdf">records from the Nebraska State Historical Society</a>.

Gambling and voter ID went to the Legislature for further legislation. This year’s measures do not require legislative approval.&nbsp;

The measures may still go through the Legislature for tweaks, which would require&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=III-2" target="_blank">at least 33 votes</a>&nbsp;in the 49-member body because the measures were approved at the ballot box.

Here is a breakdown of what comes next for the&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2024/2024%20Ballot%20Measures%20Pamphlet.pdf" target="_blank">different measures</a>:

Initiative Measures 437 and 438, from the Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana campaign, to legalize and regulate medical cannabis, will take effect the same day as Pillen’s proclamations.

Measure 437, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act, will immediately allow Nebraskans to legally possess 5 ounces of medical cannabis with the written recommendation of their health care practitioner.

That recommendation, which is not a one-to-one “prescription” under federal law, is valid for two years, or for the period of time the health care practitioner specifies.

Measure 438, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act, will also take effect immediately but has more steps in 2025 with the creation of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission.

The new law specifically authorizes a “registered cannabis establishment” and its employees or agents to possess, manufacture, distribute, deliver or dispense cannabis for medical purposes. It will be up to the commission to set the rules and regulations for the regulatory&nbsp;law. It’s unclear how Nebraskans would legally obtain medical cannabis before those regulations are adopted.

The three commissioners of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lcc.nebraska.gov/background-history" target="_blank">Nebraska Liquor Control Commission</a>&nbsp;will comprise the commission, and the governor can appoint two more members with legislative confirmation.

By July 1, 2025, the new commission must establish criteria to accept or deny applications for registered establishments. By Oct. 1, it must begin granting those registrations.

The new commission will have the sole regulatory authority to oversee the new law, including issuing subpoenas, inspecting operations, imposing administrative fines and acquiring any necessary offices, facilities, counsel or staff to do so.

The legalization measure, 437, received 71.05% approval. The regulatory measure, 438, received 67.29% approval.

Whether the two measures formally take effect will depend on a pending court opinion in Lancaster County District Court. Evnen and Hilgers’ office have sought to invalidate the measures, alleging circulator “fraud” or notarial “malfeasance.”

A Hall County Court judge&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/22/all-charges-dismissed-against-notary-for-nebraska-medical-cannabis-petitions/">dismissed all 24 criminal allegations of “notarial malfeasance”</a>&nbsp;Friday against a campaign notary, pointing to an administrative process for the allegations.

District Judge Susan Strong has been given&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/19/ballot-sponsors-defend-nebraska-medical-cannabis-measures-in-post-trial-filing/">final</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/14/attorneys-summarize-arguments-against-nebraska-medical-cannabis-measures/">briefs</a>&nbsp;after a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/04/attorneys-make-final-arguments-in-trial-against-nebraska-medical-cannabis-petitions/">four-day trial</a>&nbsp;and could rule at any moment. She and multiple attorneys involved in the case have acknowledged the decision is likely to be appealed to the Nebraska Supreme Court no matter the outcome.

Hilgers and Evnen have said they&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/19/nebraska-ag-investigations-wont-affect-medical-cannabis-election-certification/">will certify the marijuana-related election results</a>&nbsp;at this juncture. Foley said in an email that he would defer to Hilgers for guidance.

“The timing of the court’s decision does not impact in any way my certification decision, nor would I think, as a matter of law, does it impact whether anyone would or would not vote to certify,” Hilgers told reporters Nov. 19.

Ongoing legal challenges against the petitions can continue after December.

Initiative Measure 434, from the Protect Women and Children campaign, will enshrine a ceiling in the Nebraska Constitution for abortion and prohibit most procedures after the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/pregnancy#:~:text=First%20Trimester%20(Week%201%20to%20Week%2012)&amp;text=The%20zygote%20is%20made%20up,and%20oxygen%20to%20the%20fetus." target="_blank">first trimester</a>, with exceptions for sexual assault, incest and the life of the mother. The Legislature will retain authority to pass additional restrictions, up to a complete ban. It received 54.94% of the vote.

The first trimester is roughly 12 weeks gestational age, the same limit as the current state law passed in 2023, Legislative Bill 574, meaning there will be no immediate effects.

State Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/02/22/i-made-a-mistake-lawmaker-who-sank-nebraskas-near-total-abortion-ban-seeks-changes/">cautioned his colleagues</a>&nbsp;not to go f<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/15/nebraska-state-senator-proposes-12-week-abortion-ban-instead-of-cardiac-activity-ban/">urther than 12 weeks</a>&nbsp;during the 2023 debate, and he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/05/08/state-lawmakers-to-try-again-to-limit-abortion-rights-pairing-it-with-a-bill-involving-gender-care/">helped to craft an amendment</a>&nbsp;that ultimately prevailed. Pillen has previously said he would fight to “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/06/29/nebraska-gov-jim-pillen-says-he-wont-stop-on-abortion-seeks-total-ban/">end abortion</a>.”

Initiative Measure 439, from the Protect Our Rights campaign, failed to garner enough support to enshrine a right to abortion in the State Constitution until fetal viability. That timing would have been defined by a treating health care practitioner. It garnered 49.01% of the vote.

Nebraskan was the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-passes-abortion-restrictions-amendment-bucking-national-trend/">first state</a>&nbsp;to place two competing abortion measures on the same ballot and the first to buck a national trend that favored abortion-rights measures in statewide elections.

Supporters of the abortion-restrictions amendment have said their success illustrates an offensive path in other states to push back on abortion. Supporters of the abortion-rights amendment have also vowed to keep fighting and are waiting in part to see what related proposals, if any, are introduced when the new Legislature convenes in January.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=18-2519" target="_blank">State law</a>&nbsp;will protect the new constitutional amendment from being repealed or changed via petition until after the November 2026 election. Petition campaigns will also be prevented from seeking the same measure as Protect Our Rights “either in form or in essential substance” until after 2026.

Referendum Measure 435, from the Support Our Schools campaign, will repeal legislation passed this spring to give the State Treasurer’s Office $10 million for “education scholarships” for private K-12 school attendance costs. The repeal passed with 57.03% of the vote.

The repeal of LB 1402 will be immediate with Pillen’s proclamation.

As part of the law, $750,000 was set aside for administrative costs. Briese’s office distributed education scholarships to nearly 4,000 students before the election.&nbsp;

Any unspent funds would return to the Legislature after June 30, 2025.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn sponsored LB 1402 and used it to repeal its predecessor, LB 753, the Opportunity Scholarships Act. That law was set up as an annual $25 million tax credit to encourage donations in order to create the opportunity scholarships.

LB 753 ended Oct. 31, with a total of&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/businesses/opportunity-scholarship-act-authorization-table" target="_blank">$9.57 million of refundable income tax credits</a>&nbsp;reserved for Nebraskans. The remaining $15.43 million will be returned to the state’s budget.

Advocates for the legislation have vowed to try again, though it isn’t yet clear who would pick up the mantle from Linehan, who is term-limited.

Initiative Measure 436, the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, won’t take effect until Oct. 1, 2025. It passed with 74.56% of the vote.

Jodi Lepaopao, campaign manager of Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans, said the next 10 months will focus on education and following up with community members. The new law is expected to impact more than 250,000 Nebraskans who currently don’t have paid sick leave.

After the law is implemented, employees can begin to earn at least one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Small businesses (fewer than 20 weekly employees) must offer 40 hours of paid sick leave, while larger employers must offer up to 56 hours in a year. Small businesses that had 20 or more employees for at least 20 calendar weeks would fall into the larger category.

Employees can use paid sick leave for themselves or a family member for mental or physical illness, injury or health condition or for a medical diagnosis or preventive medical care. Paid sick time could also be used during a public health emergency that closes a business or school.

“Family member” includes&nbsp;children, parents or legal guardians, a spouse, grandparent, grandchild, sibling or other blood relative. It also includes anyone “whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship.”

“Employee” does not include state or federal employees or an individual who works in the state for fewer than 80 hours in a calendar year.

Employers couldn’t punish employees for using paid sick leave but could set a written policy for how the employee must orally request to take sick leave.

Employees would not be required to search for a replacement worker. An employer could require a doctor’s note or other signed documentation after three consecutive work days.

The Nebraska Department of Labor can create additional rules and regulations as necessary.

Lepaopao said the campaign is aware of possible “attacks” in the Legislature to undermine the policy, such as suggestions to redefine “employee” or business categories, such as through a micro business exception.

Lepaopao pointed to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/25/more-than-200-businesses-back-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/">support from several businesses statewide</a>&nbsp;for the ballot measure, including small business owners, who agreed that the campaign’s approach was practical and beneficial to the state.

“We are all ready,” Lepaopao said, “and would oppose any legislation that would undermine the voices of the almost 75% of voters in Nebraska that voted to approve this policy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732653157938.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska Board of State Canvassers meet Monday, June 10, 2024, in Lincoln to certify the state’s 2024 primary election results. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska Board of State Canvassers meet Monday, June 10, 2024, in Lincoln to certify the state’s 2024 primary election results. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/26/whats-next-for-nebraska-medical-cannabis-paid-sick-leave-abortion-school-choice/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraskans made their voices heard this November on various ballot measures —&nbsp;medical cannabis, paid sick leave, abortion and school choice — and most of the measures are set to take effect in December.Six ballot measures were on Nebraska’s Nov. 5 ballot and&nbsp;<a href="https://electionresults.nebraska.gov/resultsSW.aspx?text=Race&amp;type=PA&amp;map=CTY" target="_blank">five got majority support</a>&nbsp;across the state. The State Canvassing Board will meet&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2024/2024%20Election%20Calendar.pdf" target="_blank">Dec. 2 to certify the election results</a>. The canvassing board consists of Gov. Jim Pillen, Secretary of State Bob Evnen, Attorney General Mike Hilgers, State Auditor Mike Foley and State Treasurer Tom Briese.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=III-4" target="_blank">Within 10 days of certification</a>, or by Dec. 12, Pillen must formally&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=32-1414" target="_blank">proclaim</a>&nbsp;how many votes were cast to approve and reject each measure.If there are any issues or changes resulting from recounts, which are planned for Dec. 4, the canvassing board could meet again Dec. 10, which would extend the proclamation deadline for Pillen until Dec. 20.The day that Pillen issues his proclamation is the day all but one measure takes effect. It’s unlikely to be the same day as certification.For example, former Gov. Pete Ricketts presided over eight successful ballot measures during his time in office, related to the death penalty, Medicaid expansion, payday lending, gambling, voter ID and minimum wage.Ricketts signed the proclamations an average of five days after the initial certification meeting — four days in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2016/2016-election-year-calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2016</a>, eight days in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2018/2018-election-calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2018</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2020/2020%20Election%20Calendar%20-%204.8.20%20Update.pdf" target="_blank">2020</a>, and the day after in&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2022/2022%20Election%20Calendar.pdf" target="_blank">2022</a>, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ricketts-ballot-measures-proclamations.pdf">records from the Nebraska State Historical Society</a>.Gambling and voter ID went to the Legislature for further legislation. This year’s measures do not require legislative approval.&nbsp;The measures may still go through the Legislature for tweaks, which would require&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=III-2" target="_blank">at least 33 votes</a>&nbsp;in the 49-member body because the measures were approved at the ballot box.Here is a breakdown of what comes next for the&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/elections/2024/2024%20Ballot%20Measures%20Pamphlet.pdf" target="_blank">different measures</a>:<h2>Medical cannabis</h2>Initiative Measures 437 and 438, from the Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana campaign, to legalize and regulate medical cannabis, will take effect the same day as Pillen’s proclamations.Measure 437, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act, will immediately allow Nebraskans to legally possess 5 ounces of medical cannabis with the written recommendation of their health care practitioner.That recommendation, which is not a one-to-one “prescription” under federal law, is valid for two years, or for the period of time the health care practitioner specifies.Measure 438, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act, will also take effect immediately but has more steps in 2025 with the creation of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission.The new law specifically authorizes a “registered cannabis establishment” and its employees or agents to possess, manufacture, distribute, deliver or dispense cannabis for medical purposes. It will be up to the commission to set the rules and regulations for the regulatory&nbsp;law. It’s unclear how Nebraskans would legally obtain medical cannabis before those regulations are adopted.The three commissioners of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lcc.nebraska.gov/background-history" target="_blank">Nebraska Liquor Control Commission</a>&nbsp;will comprise the commission, and the governor can appoint two more members with legislative confirmation.By July 1, 2025, the new commission must establish criteria to accept or deny applications for registered establishments. By Oct. 1, it must begin granting those registrations.The new commission will have the sole regulatory authority to oversee the new law, including issuing subpoenas, inspecting operations, imposing administrative fines and acquiring any necessary offices, facilities, counsel or staff to do so.The legalization measure, 437, received 71.05% approval. The regulatory measure, 438, received 67.29% approval.Whether the two measures formally take effect will depend on a pending court opinion in Lancaster County District Court. Evnen and Hilgers’ office have sought to invalidate the measures, alleging circulator “fraud” or notarial “malfeasance.”A Hall County Court judge&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/22/all-charges-dismissed-against-notary-for-nebraska-medical-cannabis-petitions/">dismissed all 24 criminal allegations of “notarial malfeasance”</a>&nbsp;Friday against a campaign notary, pointing to an administrative process for the allegations.District Judge Susan Strong has been given&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/19/ballot-sponsors-defend-nebraska-medical-cannabis-measures-in-post-trial-filing/">final</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/14/attorneys-summarize-arguments-against-nebraska-medical-cannabis-measures/">briefs</a>&nbsp;after a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/04/attorneys-make-final-arguments-in-trial-against-nebraska-medical-cannabis-petitions/">four-day trial</a>&nbsp;and could rule at any moment. She and multiple attorneys involved in the case have acknowledged the decision is likely to be appealed to the Nebraska Supreme Court no matter the outcome.Hilgers and Evnen have said they&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/19/nebraska-ag-investigations-wont-affect-medical-cannabis-election-certification/">will certify the marijuana-related election results</a>&nbsp;at this juncture. Foley said in an email that he would defer to Hilgers for guidance.“The timing of the court’s decision does not impact in any way my certification decision, nor would I think, as a matter of law, does it impact whether anyone would or would not vote to certify,” Hilgers told reporters Nov. 19.Ongoing legal challenges against the petitions can continue after December.<h2>Competing abortion measures</h2>Initiative Measure 434, from the Protect Women and Children campaign, will enshrine a ceiling in the Nebraska Constitution for abortion and prohibit most procedures after the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/pregnancy#:~:text=First%20Trimester%20(Week%201%20to%20Week%2012)&amp;text=The%20zygote%20is%20made%20up,and%20oxygen%20to%20the%20fetus." target="_blank">first trimester</a>, with exceptions for sexual assault, incest and the life of the mother. The Legislature will retain authority to pass additional restrictions, up to a complete ban. It received 54.94% of the vote.The first trimester is roughly 12 weeks gestational age, the same limit as the current state law passed in 2023, Legislative Bill 574, meaning there will be no immediate effects.State Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/02/22/i-made-a-mistake-lawmaker-who-sank-nebraskas-near-total-abortion-ban-seeks-changes/">cautioned his colleagues</a>&nbsp;not to go f<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/15/nebraska-state-senator-proposes-12-week-abortion-ban-instead-of-cardiac-activity-ban/">urther than 12 weeks</a>&nbsp;during the 2023 debate, and he&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/05/08/state-lawmakers-to-try-again-to-limit-abortion-rights-pairing-it-with-a-bill-involving-gender-care/">helped to craft an amendment</a>&nbsp;that ultimately prevailed. Pillen has previously said he would fight to “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/06/29/nebraska-gov-jim-pillen-says-he-wont-stop-on-abortion-seeks-total-ban/">end abortion</a>.”Initiative Measure 439, from the Protect Our Rights campaign, failed to garner enough support to enshrine a right to abortion in the State Constitution until fetal viability. That timing would have been defined by a treating health care practitioner. It garnered 49.01% of the vote.Nebraskan was the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-passes-abortion-restrictions-amendment-bucking-national-trend/">first state</a>&nbsp;to place two competing abortion measures on the same ballot and the first to buck a national trend that favored abortion-rights measures in statewide elections.Supporters of the abortion-restrictions amendment have said their success illustrates an offensive path in other states to push back on abortion. Supporters of the abortion-rights amendment have also vowed to keep fighting and are waiting in part to see what related proposals, if any, are introduced when the new Legislature convenes in January.<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=18-2519" target="_blank">State law</a>&nbsp;will protect the new constitutional amendment from being repealed or changed via petition until after the November 2026 election. Petition campaigns will also be prevented from seeking the same measure as Protect Our Rights “either in form or in essential substance” until after 2026.<h2>School choice</h2>Referendum Measure 435, from the Support Our Schools campaign, will repeal legislation passed this spring to give the State Treasurer’s Office $10 million for “education scholarships” for private K-12 school attendance costs. The repeal passed with 57.03% of the vote.The repeal of LB 1402 will be immediate with Pillen’s proclamation.As part of the law, $750,000 was set aside for administrative costs. Briese’s office distributed education scholarships to nearly 4,000 students before the election.&nbsp;Any unspent funds would return to the Legislature after June 30, 2025.State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn sponsored LB 1402 and used it to repeal its predecessor, LB 753, the Opportunity Scholarships Act. That law was set up as an annual $25 million tax credit to encourage donations in order to create the opportunity scholarships.LB 753 ended Oct. 31, with a total of&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/businesses/opportunity-scholarship-act-authorization-table" target="_blank">$9.57 million of refundable income tax credits</a>&nbsp;reserved for Nebraskans. The remaining $15.43 million will be returned to the state’s budget.Advocates for the legislation have vowed to try again, though it isn’t yet clear who would pick up the mantle from Linehan, who is term-limited.<h2>Paid sick leave</h2>Initiative Measure 436, the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, won’t take effect until Oct. 1, 2025. It passed with 74.56% of the vote.Jodi Lepaopao, campaign manager of Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans, said the next 10 months will focus on education and following up with community members. The new law is expected to impact more than 250,000 Nebraskans who currently don’t have paid sick leave.After the law is implemented, employees can begin to earn at least one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Small businesses (fewer than 20 weekly employees) must offer 40 hours of paid sick leave, while larger employers must offer up to 56 hours in a year. Small businesses that had 20 or more employees for at least 20 calendar weeks would fall into the larger category.Employees can use paid sick leave for themselves or a family member for mental or physical illness, injury or health condition or for a medical diagnosis or preventive medical care. Paid sick time could also be used during a public health emergency that closes a business or school.“Family member” includes&nbsp;children, parents or legal guardians, a spouse, grandparent, grandchild, sibling or other blood relative. It also includes anyone “whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship.”“Employee” does not include state or federal employees or an individual who works in the state for fewer than 80 hours in a calendar year.Employers couldn’t punish employees for using paid sick leave but could set a written policy for how the employee must orally request to take sick leave.Employees would not be required to search for a replacement worker. An employer could require a doctor’s note or other signed documentation after three consecutive work days.The Nebraska Department of Labor can create additional rules and regulations as necessary.Lepaopao said the campaign is aware of possible “attacks” in the Legislature to undermine the policy, such as suggestions to redefine “employee” or business categories, such as through a micro business exception.Lepaopao pointed to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/25/more-than-200-businesses-back-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/">support from several businesses statewide</a>&nbsp;for the ballot measure, including small business owners, who agreed that the campaign’s approach was practical and beneficial to the state.“We are all ready,” Lepaopao said, “and would oppose any legislation that would undermine the voices of the almost 75% of voters in Nebraska that voted to approve this policy.”

What’s next for Nebraska medical cannabis, paid sick leave, abortion, school choice

UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Lincoln, Neb. —A multi-state extension workshop series for women in agriculture will offer strategies to evaluate and improve farm estate and transition plans.

“Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women: A Succession Planning Series,” will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Central time on Jan. 21, Jan. 28, Feb. 4 and Feb. 11 at sites across Kansas, Nebraska and Indiana. The series is being produced through a collaborative effort by extension programs at Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.

Topics covered will include motivation for succession planning, communicating with family, the financial aspects of estate and transition plans, and the legal aspects of putting a plan in place. A keynote speaker will be simulcast to every workshop location during each meeting, with time for questions and a hands-on activity for participants. A meal will be provided on each date.

“Planning for what happens to your things when you’re gone can be daunting, but it’s so important, especially in agriculture, so that the transition to the next generation goes smoothly,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “This series will help women learn best practices and new strategies to help the transition and estate planning processes so they can take that back to their farm or ranch and help lead the way in creating or reevaluating their plans.”

Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”

The registration fee for in-person attendance is $60 before Jan. 13 and increases to $75 on or after Jan. 13. A virtual option is available for $75. Participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions. More information and registration is available on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website,&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/succession25" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu/succession25</a>.This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number2023-70027-40444.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesLincoln, Neb. —A multi-state extension workshop series for women in agriculture will offer strategies to evaluate and improve farm estate and transition plans.“Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women: A Succession Planning Series,” will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Central time on Jan. 21, Jan. 28, Feb. 4 and Feb. 11 at sites across Kansas, Nebraska and Indiana. The series is being produced through a collaborative effort by extension programs at Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.Topics covered will include motivation for succession planning, communicating with family, the financial aspects of estate and transition plans, and the legal aspects of putting a plan in place. A keynote speaker will be simulcast to every workshop location during each meeting, with time for questions and a hands-on activity for participants. A meal will be provided on each date.“Planning for what happens to your things when you’re gone can be daunting, but it’s so important, especially in agriculture, so that the transition to the next generation goes smoothly,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “This series will help women learn best practices and new strategies to help the transition and estate planning processes so they can take that back to their farm or ranch and help lead the way in creating or reevaluating their plans.”Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”The registration fee for in-person attendance is $60 before Jan. 13 and increases to $75 on or after Jan. 13. A virtual option is available for $75. Participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions. More information and registration is available on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website,&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/succession25" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu/succession25</a>.This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number2023-70027-40444.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Extension succession planning series for women in agriculture kicks off in January

LINCOLN, NEB. – “As President-Elect Trump finalizes his cabinet, Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are looking forward to learning and hearing more from this solid selection of cabinet and other senior level appointees. The federal policy "to-do" list of farm and ranch families is long with a new Farm Bill that provides additional risk management and trade promotion resources, expanding trade access to new markets around the globe, extending the Trump tax cuts of 2017, and ensuring environmental and other federal regulations make sense for agriculture are all at the top of the list. 

We look forward to working directly with each of President Trump's appointees to help ensure a bright economic future for Nebraska's farm and ranch families who remain dedicated to providing the food, fiber, and energy for the state, the nation, and the world."

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

Nebraska Farm Bureau&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB. – “As President-Elect Trump finalizes his cabinet, Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are looking forward to learning and hearing more from this solid selection of cabinet and other senior level appointees. The federal policy "to-do" list of farm and ranch families is long with a new Farm Bill that provides additional risk management and trade promotion resources, expanding trade access to new markets around the globe, extending the Trump tax cuts of 2017, and ensuring environmental and other federal regulations make sense for agriculture are all at the top of the list. We look forward to working directly with each of President Trump's appointees to help ensure a bright economic future for Nebraska's farm and ranch families who remain dedicated to providing the food, fiber, and energy for the state, the nation, and the world."The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Statement by Mark McHargue, NFB President, Regarding President-Elect Trump’s Cabinet Nominees

Nebraska Department of Transporation

 (Omaha, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is encouraging drivers to use good sportsmanship and follow suggested routes during the 2024 “Heroes Game” between the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers and University of Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City this week. 

This year’s game takes place November 29 at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to draw attendees from across Nebraska and Iowa. Significant event traffic is anticipated near Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, so please be patient and cautious when heading to and from the event. 

NDOT, in partnership with Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), recommends the following recommended routes to the game: 

• For drivers arriving in Iowa City from the west: Travel Interstate 80 (I-80) east to U.S. Highway 218 (US-218)/Iowa 27 (IA-27) at Exit 239. Then follow US-218 South to Melrose Avenue at Exit 93, then Melrose Avenue east to Kinnick Stadium. When returning home, take the same route in reverse, starting with Melrose Avenue east to US-218/IA-27 north and then I-80 west.

Both DOTs want drivers to be aware that construction activities are occurring on common routes to and from the game, including: 

• Lane shifts west of Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 110 De Soto and Exit 113 Van Meter 

• Lane shifts in western Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 118 Grand Prairie Parkway and Exit 121 Jordan Creek Parkway 

• Closure of the Victor westbound rest area 

Drivers are reminded to use extra caution in construction zones. When possible, drivers involved in a crash during event traffic should move both vehicles to the shoulder before reporting the incident. Remember: If you drink, never drive. Find a ride home using ride-sharing apps or by calling a sober friend or family member. For more detailed information on the 2024 Heroes Game, visit the 2024 Nebraska football schedule or 2024 Iowa football schedule.  

More information about NDOT and Omaha metro area city and county projects can be found at ndot.info/mtm For a real-time look at traffic, visit 511.nebraska.gov or 511ia.org. Stay safe during construction – plan ahead, follow detours and always remember: buckle up, phone down.

Nebraska Department of Transporation (Omaha, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is encouraging drivers to use good sportsmanship and follow suggested routes during the 2024 “Heroes Game” between the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers and University of Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City this week. This year’s game takes place November 29 at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to draw attendees from across Nebraska and Iowa. Significant event traffic is anticipated near Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, so please be patient and cautious when heading to and from the event. NDOT, in partnership with Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), recommends the following recommended routes to the game: • For drivers arriving in Iowa City from the west: Travel Interstate 80 (I-80) east to U.S. Highway 218 (US-218)/Iowa 27 (IA-27) at Exit 239. Then follow US-218 South to Melrose Avenue at Exit 93, then Melrose Avenue east to Kinnick Stadium. When returning home, take the same route in reverse, starting with Melrose Avenue east to US-218/IA-27 north and then I-80 west.Both DOTs want drivers to be aware that construction activities are occurring on common routes to and from the game, including: • Lane shifts west of Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 110 De Soto and Exit 113 Van Meter • Lane shifts in western Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 118 Grand Prairie Parkway and Exit 121 Jordan Creek Parkway • Closure of the Victor westbound rest area Drivers are reminded to use extra caution in construction zones. When possible, drivers involved in a crash during event traffic should move both vehicles to the shoulder before reporting the incident. Remember: If you drink, never drive. Find a ride home using ride-sharing apps or by calling a sober friend or family member. For more detailed information on the 2024 Heroes Game, visit the 2024 Nebraska football schedule or 2024 Iowa football schedule. More information about NDOT and Omaha metro area city and county projects can be found at ndot.info/mtm For a real-time look at traffic, visit 511.nebraska.gov or 511ia.org. Stay safe during construction – plan ahead, follow detours and always remember: buckle up, phone down.

Use Good Sportsmanship and Recommended Routes to  and from the Annual “Heroes Game”

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-nurse-gets-licenses-yanked-in-connection-with-weight-loss-business/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A Nebraska nurse has had her licenses revoked for at least two years by the state’s chief medical officer for alleged fraud related to her business, which advertises weight-loss medications on social media, according to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

Andrea Meisinger of Weeping Water, an advanced practice registered nurse and registered nurse, has been running a business called AR Virtual Health, which markets medications such as Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for weight loss on its website, the Attorney General’s Office said in a news release issued Friday.

In a settlement agreement filed with the State Department of Health and Human Services, Meisinger said she neither admits nor denies allegations by the Attorney General’s Office. But she consented to the order from Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Nebraska’s chief medical officer, that finds the allegations to be true and that grounds exist to revoke her licenses.

Meisinger, who was not immediately available for comment Friday, agreed to pay a civil penalty of $16,000. She allegedly prescribed to patients while her Nebraska licenses were suspended and authorized prescriptions to patients in states where she does not hold the required licensure.

She acknowledged that the revocation of her nursing licenses is for a minimum of two years and reinstatement is at the discretion of the Department of Health and Human Services and upon approval by the respective state nursing board.

The order signed by Tesmer was in response to a Nov. 5 petition filed by the Attorney General’s Office to seek disciplinary action, to revoke probation and to temporarily suspend Meisinger’s licenses.

The petition alleged that Meisinger was practicing a profession fraudulently, beyond authorized scope or with incompetence or negligence, including obtaining a fee for professional services by fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.

Previously, the Attorney General’s Office filed a petition May 16 alleging that Meisinger was trying to sell Tirzepatide without establishing any patient/provider relationship.

As a result of that lawsuit, Tesmer had ordered Meisinger to pay a $3,000 civil penalty and placed her on probation for a year. Her licenses were to be suspended and she was not to engage in activity that constitutes the practice of APRN or nursing.

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-nurse-gets-licenses-yanked-in-connection-with-weight-loss-business/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A Nebraska nurse has had her licenses revoked for at least two years by the state’s chief medical officer for alleged fraud related to her business, which advertises weight-loss medications on social media, according to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.Andrea Meisinger of Weeping Water, an advanced practice registered nurse and registered nurse, has been running a business called AR Virtual Health, which markets medications such as Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for weight loss on its website, the Attorney General’s Office said in a news release issued Friday.In a settlement agreement filed with the State Department of Health and Human Services, Meisinger said she neither admits nor denies allegations by the Attorney General’s Office. But she consented to the order from Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Nebraska’s chief medical officer, that finds the allegations to be true and that grounds exist to revoke her licenses.Meisinger, who was not immediately available for comment Friday, agreed to pay a civil penalty of $16,000. She allegedly prescribed to patients while her Nebraska licenses were suspended and authorized prescriptions to patients in states where she does not hold the required licensure.She acknowledged that the revocation of her nursing licenses is for a minimum of two years and reinstatement is at the discretion of the Department of Health and Human Services and upon approval by the respective state nursing board.The order signed by Tesmer was in response to a Nov. 5 petition filed by the Attorney General’s Office to seek disciplinary action, to revoke probation and to temporarily suspend Meisinger’s licenses.The petition alleged that Meisinger was practicing a profession fraudulently, beyond authorized scope or with incompetence or negligence, including obtaining a fee for professional services by fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.Previously, the Attorney General’s Office filed a petition May 16 alleging that Meisinger was trying to sell Tirzepatide without establishing any patient/provider relationship.As a result of that lawsuit, Tesmer had ordered Meisinger to pay a $3,000 civil penalty and placed her on probation for a year. Her licenses were to be suspended and she was not to engage in activity that constitutes the practice of APRN or nursing.According to Tesmer, Meisinger:<ul>
 <li>Provided prescriptions to a Georgia patient, although she held no licensure in Georgia.</li><li>Provided care to a patient in Illinois, where she holds no licensure.</li><li>Held virtual appointments with a Nebraska patient while her license was suspended.</li><li>Prescribed medications in numerous states with no licensure.</li><li>Shipped patient medications to her own address or to a coworker/friend.</li><li>Authorized dozens of prescriptions to Nebraska patients while her license was suspended.</li>
 </ul>

Nebraska nurse gets licenses yanked in connection with weight-loss business

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/25/national-child-literacy-group-aims-for-big-ne-growth-and-leading-the-charge-is-a-husker-native/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — A national early literacy program that has announced plans to at least triple its reach in Nebraska — and to serve 10 million children across the U.S. by 2030 — has a personal Husker connection.

The nonprofit, called&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/" target="_blank">Reach Out and Read</a>, uses a model that works through pediatricians and routine well-child visits to get books into the hands of preschoolers. The idea is to better prepare youngsters for school while at the same time building healthier bonds by involving parents.

Leading the effort and the 35-year-old organization is Omaha-born Marty Martinez, who has lived in Boston the past 25 years and most recently served as that city’s chief of Health and Human Services.

Martinez, who helped push Boston through COVID-19’s social and economic challenges, said that as a public health expert and dad of a 6-year-old, he recognizes the impact school readiness and healthy relationships have on kids.&nbsp;

He said science shows that a child’s brain is about 80% adult size by the time they are 3 years old. Engaging a child with a book, reading aloud, describing images and interacting helps “spark the brain” and prepare the child for lifelong learning, he said.

“You’ve got to integrate books and language at the earliest stage possible,” said Martinez.&nbsp;

Reach Out and Read is the only national&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ROR-Exposure-Research-FINAL.080723.pdf" target="_blank">pediatric literacy model</a>&nbsp;endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, its leadership says, and has “unparalleled access” to families and children through the near-universal reach of pediatric well-child visits and partnerships with tens of thousands of doctors.

Martinez, who took the CEO reins of Reach Out and Read in 2022, described its model as simple: “We integrate children’s books and we train the doctor.”

In Nebraska, the program started at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oneworldomaha.org/" target="_blank">OneWorld Community</a>&nbsp;Health Centers in 2000 and has since expanded to 35 sites. This fiscal year, nearly 39,000 children were served in the state during about 77,000 well-child visits.

Nearly 53,000 books were distributed to those Nebraska families.

Under the expansion plan, the Nebraska program is merging with the larger Iowa program to become the new Reach Out and Read Midwest affiliate. The goal is to reach more than 360,000 children under the age of 5 across both states by 2030.

This past year, Nebraska and Iowa served about 120,000 kids through Reach Out and Read, a spokeswoman for the organization said.

The emphasis for the new Midwest affiliate is on children in low-income households and children of color.

Already the organization offers books in 28 different languages.

Parents exposed to the program are more likely to read with their children daily, according&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/why-we-matter/the-evidence/" target="_blank">to the program’s research</a>. And those children demonstrate improvements in language development. The nonprofit says books are beneficial even for families that do not read.

Funding comes from a variety of sources — Martinez said the organization is in the public budget of 26 cities and states across the country.

In Nebraska, donors include Buffett Early Childhood Fund, Elevance, Janet Kahler, Lozier Foundation, Nomi Health, Better World Books and Nebraska Children and Families Foundation/Nebraska Growing Readers Initiative.

While the bulk of Nebraska sites are in the urban centers of Omaha and Lincoln, Martinez said the goal is to reach more into rural areas as well. More staff is to be hired.

“The program paves the way for all children, regardless of background, to develop foundational literacy skills and strengthen the essential relationships needed for a successful future,” said Kristin Christensen, the newly hired Midwest program manager.

Martinez went to South Omaha’s Spring Lake Elementary School before graduating from Ralston High School, Nebraska Wesleyan University and Tufts University in Massachusetts, where he obtained a master’s degree in urban and social policy.

Having many siblings and cousins still in Nebraska, Martinez, 47, and his husband and son visit often.

Reach Out and Read has been thriving in some of the biggest clinics and places in the country, Martinez said, and he would like to see more impact in his home state.

“We’re really excited to move it forward,” he said. “There is so much room to grow.”

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/25/national-child-literacy-group-aims-for-big-ne-growth-and-leading-the-charge-is-a-husker-native/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — A national early literacy program that has announced plans to at least triple its reach in Nebraska — and to serve 10 million children across the U.S. by 2030 — has a personal Husker connection.The nonprofit, called&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/" target="_blank">Reach Out and Read</a>, uses a model that works through pediatricians and routine well-child visits to get books into the hands of preschoolers. The idea is to better prepare youngsters for school while at the same time building healthier bonds by involving parents.Leading the effort and the 35-year-old organization is Omaha-born Marty Martinez, who has lived in Boston the past 25 years and most recently served as that city’s chief of Health and Human Services.Martinez, who helped push Boston through COVID-19’s social and economic challenges, said that as a public health expert and dad of a 6-year-old, he recognizes the impact school readiness and healthy relationships have on kids.&nbsp;He said science shows that a child’s brain is about 80% adult size by the time they are 3 years old. Engaging a child with a book, reading aloud, describing images and interacting helps “spark the brain” and prepare the child for lifelong learning, he said.“You’ve got to integrate books and language at the earliest stage possible,” said Martinez.&nbsp;<h2>Unique endorsement</h2>Reach Out and Read is the only national&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ROR-Exposure-Research-FINAL.080723.pdf" target="_blank">pediatric literacy model</a>&nbsp;endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, its leadership says, and has “unparalleled access” to families and children through the near-universal reach of pediatric well-child visits and partnerships with tens of thousands of doctors.Martinez, who took the CEO reins of Reach Out and Read in 2022, described its model as simple: “We integrate children’s books and we train the doctor.”In Nebraska, the program started at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oneworldomaha.org/" target="_blank">OneWorld Community</a>&nbsp;Health Centers in 2000 and has since expanded to 35 sites. This fiscal year, nearly 39,000 children were served in the state during about 77,000 well-child visits.Nearly 53,000 books were distributed to those Nebraska families.Under the expansion plan, the Nebraska program is merging with the larger Iowa program to become the new Reach Out and Read Midwest affiliate. The goal is to reach more than 360,000 children under the age of 5 across both states by 2030.This past year, Nebraska and Iowa served about 120,000 kids through Reach Out and Read, a spokeswoman for the organization said.The emphasis for the new Midwest affiliate is on children in low-income households and children of color.Already the organization offers books in 28 different languages.Parents exposed to the program are more likely to read with their children daily, according&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/why-we-matter/the-evidence/" target="_blank">to the program’s research</a>. And those children demonstrate improvements in language development. The nonprofit says books are beneficial even for families that do not read.Funding comes from a variety of sources — Martinez said the organization is in the public budget of 26 cities and states across the country.In Nebraska, donors include Buffett Early Childhood Fund, Elevance, Janet Kahler, Lozier Foundation, Nomi Health, Better World Books and Nebraska Children and Families Foundation/Nebraska Growing Readers Initiative.<h2>Urban and rural stretch</h2>While the bulk of Nebraska sites are in the urban centers of Omaha and Lincoln, Martinez said the goal is to reach more into rural areas as well. More staff is to be hired.“The program paves the way for all children, regardless of background, to develop foundational literacy skills and strengthen the essential relationships needed for a successful future,” said Kristin Christensen, the newly hired Midwest program manager.Martinez went to South Omaha’s Spring Lake Elementary School before graduating from Ralston High School, Nebraska Wesleyan University and Tufts University in Massachusetts, where he obtained a master’s degree in urban and social policy.Having many siblings and cousins still in Nebraska, Martinez, 47, and his husband and son visit often.Reach Out and Read has been thriving in some of the biggest clinics and places in the country, Martinez said, and he would like to see more impact in his home state.“We’re really excited to move it forward,” he said. “There is so much room to grow.”

National child literacy group aims for big NE growth and leading the charge is a Husker native

OMAHA, NE,&nbsp;(November 25, 2024) —&nbsp;AAA is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving holiday weekend, expecting to respond to more than 570,000 calls from drivers with car trouble. Beginning on Wednesday, The Auto Club Group will also launch its free ‘Tow to Go’ service, which is aimed at preventing impaired driving.

The program is available in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles. AAA requests that the program be used as a last resort, yet it is free to those who need it.

Nationwide, AAA expects Thanksgiving travel to set new records with&nbsp;an estimated 71.7 million Americans forecast to take a road trip. Combining cocktails with crowded roads can be deadly. During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from 2017-2021, more than 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver (<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2xHXBrRvv4XpZ1jGFgLGTb70U9ymCtJdBXWZiX9AYPAgPl2Hj7L5TBFIATYyry7KQBx0hnmil5AGxAMVp7CXf5BW6Ig-2B-2FvrGSx-2FJz-2FFSLwXaxiq_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86AN0MZLmgSAtjeF7LyC0MIyU8kVtbY5Zx4lJ9kiJFRXIkxXLv3R9I0oAcqpQBayMh86EB21bFpzv4lwIl0I4Aazd4dHN-2FEoHxzBCT7jCYcR10cV8YWV6E5PU9rfNXqD3SFiDGOQZ462U76-2BQ3AwxSeOmvJOk86S18ow4ej4co2spT3HqtKwyiEqhQB1164bslhOu9WLCqfy7zRNUjWYYA0aL36VHehBKRMXUXHNZbEjCWk-3D">NHTSA</a>).

“Tow to Go serves as that last line of defense in keeping impaired drivers off the road,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs this weekend, make plans for a safe ride home first. If your plans fall through, you can call AAA, and we’ll get you to a safe place.”

The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.

Florida, Georgia,&nbsp;Iowa,&nbsp;Michigan, North Dakota,&nbsp;Nebraska,&nbsp;Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732552897734.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>AAAOMAHA, NE,&nbsp;(November 25, 2024) —&nbsp;AAA is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving holiday weekend, expecting to respond to more than 570,000 calls from drivers with car trouble. Beginning on Wednesday, The Auto Club Group will also launch its free ‘Tow to Go’ service, which is aimed at preventing impaired driving.The program is available in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles. AAA requests that the program be used as a last resort, yet it is free to those who need it.<ul>
 <li>Tow to Go is active from&nbsp;6 p.m. Wednesday, November 27th&nbsp;to 6 a.m. Monday, December 2nd.</li><li>Available in FL, GA,&nbsp;IA, MI, ND,&nbsp;NE, TN, WI, CO (Denver), NC (Charlotte), IN (Fort Wayne/South Bend).</li>
 </ul>Nationwide, AAA expects Thanksgiving travel to set new records with&nbsp;an estimated 71.7 million Americans forecast to take a road trip. Combining cocktails with crowded roads can be deadly. During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from 2017-2021, more than 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver (<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2xHXBrRvv4XpZ1jGFgLGTb70U9ymCtJdBXWZiX9AYPAgPl2Hj7L5TBFIATYyry7KQBx0hnmil5AGxAMVp7CXf5BW6Ig-2B-2FvrGSx-2FJz-2FFSLwXaxiq_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86AN0MZLmgSAtjeF7LyC0MIyU8kVtbY5Zx4lJ9kiJFRXIkxXLv3R9I0oAcqpQBayMh86EB21bFpzv4lwIl0I4Aazd4dHN-2FEoHxzBCT7jCYcR10cV8YWV6E5PU9rfNXqD3SFiDGOQZ462U76-2BQ3AwxSeOmvJOk86S18ow4ej4co2spT3HqtKwyiEqhQB1164bslhOu9WLCqfy7zRNUjWYYA0aL36VHehBKRMXUXHNZbEjCWk-3D">NHTSA</a>).“Tow to Go serves as that last line of defense in keeping impaired drivers off the road,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs this weekend, make plans for a safe ride home first. If your plans fall through, you can call AAA, and we’ll get you to a safe place.”The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.Service AreaFlorida, Georgia,&nbsp;Iowa,&nbsp;Michigan, North Dakota,&nbsp;Nebraska,&nbsp;Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)Phone Number(855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246Guidelines<ul>
 <li>Free and&nbsp;available to AAA members and non-members.</li><li>Confidential local ride for&nbsp;one person and their vehicle&nbsp;to a safe location&nbsp;within a 10-mile radius.</li><li>Appointments&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;be scheduled in advance. Tow to Go is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.</li><li>In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.</li><li>Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.</li>
 </ul>

AAA Activates 'Tow to Go' for Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend

November is Native American Heritage Month. We need only look to our own State Capitol to see the enormous influence of indigenous people on our state. From the external door to the tapestries, sculptures, and mosaics within, the Warner Chamber in particular, pays homage to those who first lived on the prairie.

Early in my administration, I took part in the Nebraska Tribal Transportation Conference. It was an honor to be there as Governor, and to sit and talk with leadership representing our current tribes. One of the people I met was Alonzo Denney of the Santee Sioux Nation and what he told me at that meeting was so profound, it continues to inspire me to this day.

Alonzo’s grandfather taught him that when weighing a critical decision, it’s important to consider the impact for seven generations. Just imagine, the force of what we do today has the momentum to affect our kids, their kids and so on. It’s a simple principle – one that has completely changed how I think. To secure our future, we must take the long view and give thought to what our decisions will mean long after we are gone.

And so, for Native American Heritage Month, I thank Alonzo for his story and for his grandfather’s powerful wisdom. I hope his is a lesson we all take to heart.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732544814492.jpeg" alt="Gov. Pillen &amp; Alonzo Denney (Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Pillen &amp; Alonzo Denney (Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Jim PillenNovember is Native American Heritage Month. We need only look to our own State Capitol to see the enormous influence of indigenous people on our state. From the external door to the tapestries, sculptures, and mosaics within, the Warner Chamber in particular, pays homage to those who first lived on the prairie.Early in my administration, I took part in the Nebraska Tribal Transportation Conference. It was an honor to be there as Governor, and to sit and talk with leadership representing our current tribes. One of the people I met was Alonzo Denney of the Santee Sioux Nation and what he told me at that meeting was so profound, it continues to inspire me to this day.Alonzo’s grandfather taught him that when weighing a critical decision, it’s important to consider the impact for seven generations. Just imagine, the force of what we do today has the momentum to affect our kids, their kids and so on. It’s a simple principle – one that has completely changed how I think. To secure our future, we must take the long view and give thought to what our decisions will mean long after we are gone.And so, for Native American Heritage Month, I thank Alonzo for his story and for his grandfather’s powerful wisdom. I hope his is a lesson we all take to heart. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732544854966.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Powerful Wisdom & Native American Heritage Month

<a>(Lincoln, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp; The holiday season is in full force.&nbsp;The Nebraska State Patrol is kicking off the holiday travel season with the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;statewide campaign.

“With Thanksgiving comes travel from all corners of the state. Our goal is to make sure no one is missing from your table due to a fatal crash that could’ve been prevented by using a seat belt or child safety restraint,” said Colonel John Bolduc, “We want everyone to make it to their holiday gatherings as safely as possible.”

Troopers will be partnering with local law enforcement agencies across the state for the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;effort. The campaign begins Saturday, November 23, and will run through Sunday, December 1, covering the week of Thanksgiving.

Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols across the state to reduce fatal and serious crashes in Nebraska. During traffic stops, troopers will be looking for seat belt and child passenger restraint violations. Troopers will also be thanking motorists who are already wearing their seat belts.

Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the holiday. NSP’s portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. NSP encourages any motorist who observes a dangerous driver can report it to the NSP Highway Helpline by calling *55.

Mikayla HallNebraska State Patrol<a>(Lincoln, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp; The holiday season is in full force.&nbsp;The Nebraska State Patrol is kicking off the holiday travel season with the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;statewide campaign.“With Thanksgiving comes travel from all corners of the state. Our goal is to make sure no one is missing from your table due to a fatal crash that could’ve been prevented by using a seat belt or child safety restraint,” said Colonel John Bolduc, “We want everyone to make it to their holiday gatherings as safely as possible.”Troopers will be partnering with local law enforcement agencies across the state for the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;effort. The campaign begins Saturday, November 23, and will run through Sunday, December 1, covering the week of Thanksgiving.Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols across the state to reduce fatal and serious crashes in Nebraska. During traffic stops, troopers will be looking for seat belt and child passenger restraint violations. Troopers will also be thanking motorists who are already wearing their seat belts.Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the holiday. NSP’s portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. NSP encourages any motorist who observes a dangerous driver can report it to the NSP Highway Helpline by calling *55.

NSP Launches Make It Click Campaign Ahead of Thanksgiving

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/sofia-resnick/">SOFIA RESNICK</a>

The 2024 election results created complicated new realities for reproductive rights in the U.S., with Americans even in a few red states overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/voters-seven-states-restore-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">voting to protect</a>&nbsp;the right to have an abortion while also overwhelmingly electing anti-abortion representatives in state houses, courts, Congress and the White House.

With a Republican trifecta coming to the nation’s capital in January, anti-abortion activist groups are planning for the first potentially friendly presidential administration since the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated a 50-year federal right to terminate a pregnancy.

They aim to end other federal and state protections while vastly expanding restrictions on reproductive health care.

Though many anti-abortion leaders are skeptical of President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to their cause, they say they are willing to compromise to maintain influence in his administration. Some groups are strategizing how to end-run Trump’s campaign pledge not to enact any federal abortion bans — by heavily restricting medication abortion or trying to ban a common abortion procedure.

“I don’t think we have a champion here for pro-life causes,” said the Rev. Patrick Mahoney, longtime anti-abortion organizer. “What we have here is someone who will not work against us and try to crush us. We will not see pro-choice federal judges.”

Mahoney, director of the Christian Defense Coalition and the chief strategy officer of Stanton Public Policy Center, told States Newsroom that he is not a supporter of Trump and disagrees with his rhetoric on immigrants.

But he is happy Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris lost. The vice president had vowed to try to restore federal abortion rights and throughout her career has advocated for reproductive rights. As California attorney general, she&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-attorney-general-seizes-planned-parenthood-videos-20160405-story.html" target="_blank">prosecuted anti-abortion activists</a>&nbsp;charged with illegally recording abortion providers about a decade ago.

“We can have an opportunity now to begin the second phase after Roe was overturned,” Mahoney said. “We knew overturning Roe was only a starting line, not a finishing line.”

Lila Rose, president of Live Action, was one of the few prominent anti-abortion leaders who called out Trump before the election, after he criticized Florida’s six-week abortion ban and vowed to veto a federal ban. In late August, Rose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/08/29/lila-rose-abortion-trump-interview-00176619" target="_blank">told Politico</a>&nbsp;she would write in a presidential candidate and would encourage her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncregister.com/interview/fighting-for-life-lila-rose-s-mission-to-save-the-unborn" target="_blank">millions of followers</a>&nbsp;to do the same if Trump did not change course.

On her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSgwXPGviUA" target="_blank">podcast</a>, the millennial activist recently revealed that she met with Trump and asked him to say he would vote against Florida’s abortion-rights amendment, which he did. Days before the election, Rose&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LilaGraceRose/status/1852731859815542991" target="_blank">endorsed Trump on X</a>.

Live Action did not respond to an interview request.

Nationally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/voters-seven-states-restore-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">three out of 10 abortion-rights measures</a>&nbsp;failed: Florida’s proposed amendment had the highest threshold to clear, but got 57% out of the required 60% of the vote. It would have reversed the ban that reproductive rights advocates say has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/reproductive-health-care-southeast-hinges-florida-abortion-rights-ballot-measure-doctors" target="_blank">decimated abortion access in the Southeast</a>.

Another anti-abortion leader willing to compromise with the incoming president and Congress is Steven Aden, general counsel at Americans United for Life, the policy shop behind many state and federal abortion restrictions. Aden said he was disappointed the Republican Party removed from its platform a&nbsp;<a href="https://prod-cdn-static.gop.com/media/documents/DRAFT_12_FINAL%5B1%5D-ben_1468872234.pdf" target="_blank">previous commitment</a>&nbsp;to a federal ban.

However, he said his group was still able to inject critical language into the&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.nucleusfiles.com/be/beb1a388-1d88-4389-a67d-c1e2d7f8bedf/2024-gop-platform-july-7-final.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=ncl_amplify&amp;utm_campaign=240708-2024_gop_platform_make_america_great_again&amp;utm_content=ncl-4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nlid=4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nhids=g95bUYd" target="_blank">current platform</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rnc-approves-platform-would-give-rights-fetuses-endangering-abortion-ivf" target="_blank">effectively supports states establishing fetal personhood</a>&nbsp;through the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which grants equal protection under the law. The platform also says Republicans “will oppose Late Term Abortion,” a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/political-rhetoric-about-third-trimester-abortion-misleading-experts-say" target="_blank">political term</a>&nbsp;used to refer to abortions in the second and third trimesters, the rarest but most restricted types of abortions in the U.S.

“We had direct input into the Trump campaign and framing the pro-life language in the party platform,” Aden told States Newsroom. “The platform language was much pared down, but we believe that the pro-life language preserves the essence of the party’s position on the pro-life issue, and we’re proud of that, and look forward to continuing to work with the incoming Trump administration.”

Federal reproductive rights protections in question

Early into his term, Democratic President Joe Biden began reversing blocks on federal funding domestically and globally for reproductive health organizations that also provide or refer for abortions. Leading up to and following the Dobbs decision, the Biden administration loosened restrictions to the medication abortion regimen, a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol, which has become the most common way of terminating pregnancy in the U.S. during the first trimester.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration allowed abortion medication to be obtained via telemedicine and dispensed directly at pharmacies.

Nearly half the country has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/see-data-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">partially or fully banned abortions</a>. But abortion numbers have risen since before Dobbs, researchers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/despite-bans-number-abortions-united-states-increased-2023#:~:text=New%20findings%20from%20the%20Monthly,Organization%20overturned%20Roe%20v.%20Wade." target="_blank">have reported</a>, attributing the increase in part to expanded access to telemedicine abortion and to more people using online abortion clinics that mail abortion drugs from states with so-called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/telehealth-abortion-still-rise-especially-states-shield-laws-report-shows" target="_blank">shield laws</a>&nbsp;to those with bans.

Anti-abortion groups&nbsp;<a href="https://sbaprolife.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/win-memo.pdf" target="_blank">Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.studentsforlifeaction.org/roadmap/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Time%20for%20a%20Pro-Life%20New%20Deal%20%F0%9F%A4%9D&amp;utm_campaign=PLG%3A%202024%20Primary%20Wins%3A%20KJH%20Op-Ed%20Email%20%28Nov%20%20%2024%29#form" target="_blank">Students for Life of America</a>&nbsp;recently unveiled memos asking the Trump administration to pull&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/health-experts-outline-how-trump-administration-could-affect-abortion-contraception-access" target="_blank">regulatory levers</a>&nbsp;that especially target abortion drugs.

Under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, regulations could include:

When asked about stories of alleged&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/women-serious-pregnancy-complications-sue-over-state-abortion-bans-2" target="_blank">denied care</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/texas-woman-died-after-hospital-said-it-would-be-crime-intervene-her-miscarriage" target="_blank">maternal deaths</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/texas-ob-gyns-urge-lawmakers-change-abortion-laws-after-reports-pregnant-womens-deaths" target="_blank">doctor confusion</a>&nbsp;related to state abortion bans, Aden chalked up the problem to a misinterpretation of state laws, which he said should be clarified to address these problems, while noting several times, “I’m not a doctor.” Americans United for Life’s&nbsp;<a href="https://aul.org/2022/11/09/introducing-the-abortion-abolition-amendment/" target="_blank">recommended health-exception language</a>&nbsp;in part says abortion should be allowed “to preserve the life of a pregnant woman or to address a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.”

“That’s a health exception with teeth,” Aden said. “It doesn’t allow for a free-ranging, quote unquote, ‘mental health’ exception that would swallow the rule.”

Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-picks-dr-oz-run-mammoth-centers-medicare-and-medicaid-services" target="_blank">pick to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services</a>, which manages the country’s largest health programs, is Dr. Mehmet Oz, who&nbsp;<a href="https://19thnews.org/2024/11/trump-picks-dr-oz-celebrity-tv-doctor-medicare-medicaid/" target="_blank">opposes abortion</a>.

The U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs could:

The U.S. Agency for International Development could:

As they brace for the potential impact of Dobbs without a federal safety net, reproductive justice activists are working to expand access and fight anti-abortion laws, while also protecting new state wins. The election results did not change the fact that most people want abortion access, said Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center, during a recent media press briefing organized by the progressive Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

“Donald Trump won the election, but so did abortion, and people need to hold this incoming administration to its word that it would not restrict abortion,” Graves said. “We have to square the idea that millions of people in the United States voted for reproductive freedom … but they also will be experiencing a situation that will become even more dire, and that people will feel scared and hopeless in this period.”

Aden said AUL would support a federal “dismemberment” bill, referring to a proposed ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure known as&nbsp;<a href="https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.dilation-and-evacuation-d-e.tw2462" target="_blank">dilation and evacuation</a>, or D&amp;E. This procedure involves dilating the cervix and removing the contents of the uterus, typically performed beginning around 12 weeks. It would be a way to effectively get a 12- or 15-week ban without calling it that.

Despite its safety and efficacy record, the D&amp;E procedure has been banned in several states, over the objection of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/ban-standard-de-abortion-procedure-unsafe-unwarranted" target="_blank">American Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists</a>. It’s part of an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/political-rhetoric-about-third-trimester-abortion-misleading-experts-say" target="_blank">old anti-abortion playbook</a>, which under Republican President George W. Bush resulted in a federal ban on another later abortion procedure — dilation and extraction, or D&amp;X — by reframing it as “partial-birth” abortion, which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld in 2007’s Gonzales v. Carhart decision.

Abortion foes describe D&amp;Es as a gruesome procedure, or as Aden puts it, “tearing 13-week-old humans apart limb from limb.” Anti-abortion doctors&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/anti-abortion-researchers-back-riskier-procedures-when-pregnancy-termination-needed-experts" target="_blank">recommend more risky and invasive</a>&nbsp;procedures like C-sections, even when the abortion is medically indicated.

If D&amp;Es are banned, there would be fewer options for later abortions, which are sometimes necessary, said reproductive-health legal expert Rachel Rebouché, dean of Temple University School of Law in Philadelphia. She noted that some of the U.S. Supreme Court justices have indicated support for abortion restrictions for reasons of preserving fetal dignity rather than preserving maternal health.

“That litigation, from the anti-abortion perspective, depends on saying the fetus is a person with rights that attach at a certain point, if not from conception,” Rebouché told States Newsroom. “Dobbs opens the door wide open for those kinds of regulations. … But the question is, is there a role for the federal government to enact a nationwide ban that would curtail the rights of states that have not gone the way of Idaho or Texas or others?”

Aden said that for now AUL will be more focused on the incremental approach to abortion restrictions, as well as calling for expanded child and prenatal tax credits and other social supports.

The attorney, who was 11 when Roe was decided in 1973, is expecting another half-century of litigation over abortion with the hopes that one day the U.S. Constitution gives personhood rights to the unborn, regardless of the stage of that pregnancy. Aden said a so-called Human Life Amendment is likely impossible in the near term, needing approval from two-thirds of both houses of Congress. He said U.S. culture is not there yet.

“It would require a cultural sea change in the way that the majority of Americans view human life in the womb,” Aden said. “That’s our second generational goal. Having won our first generational goal of overturning Roe, we’d love to see the day when every life is welcomed and protected in law. And if that’s through a constitutional amendment, then we’re here for that.”

Abortion foes strategize to get Trump to ban some abortions while keeping his pledge

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>

WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.

The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.

Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.

The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.

Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.

The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.

The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.

“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.

“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727807641728.png" alt=" A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption> A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.<h2>2024-25 FAFSA mishaps</h2>The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

Feds roll out 2025-26 college financial aid form ahead of planned date

&nbsp; 2024 has been a contentious year in Washington, with its fair share of fights and drama. And while those fights get media attention, there are plenty of positive stories that don’t make headlines.

I’d like to share some of those stories with you as we head into the Thanksgiving season, because this year, I’m most thankful for the opportunity to help Nebraskans, whether through casework or legislation.

Each year, my staff speaks with hundreds of Nebraskans facing roadblocks in the federal government. Our office does everything we can to solve problems, and I have wonderful staff who help me get things done for my fellow citizens.

For example, a veteran we will call John reached out to my office this year. John was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, but he was still struggling to get his claim processed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). John asked if we could help.

My staff worked with a county veteran service officer and a VA office to find out why John’s claim wasn’t being processed. Our inquiry highlighted the urgency of John’s case, causing them to expedite John’s exam so he and his family could receive the benefits they needed. After our inquiry, John and his family received almost $70,000 in backpay, along with several other veteran benefits. Now, John has the benefits he earned through his years of serving our country.

But it isn’t just individual Nebraskans who need assistance with the federal government. This year, my office helped Nebraska’s Winnebago Tribe reclaim 1,600 acres of land that was wrongfully taken from them.

In 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unlawfully condemned land belonging to the Winnebago Tribe. For 50 years, the Tribe has gone to the courts to try and restore the land to their reservation. Last year, members of the Winnebago Tribe contacted my office. While no one opposed the Tribe reclaiming their land, they needed action on the federal level to officially restore it. I introduced the Winnebago Land Transfer Act last November to make that happen, and this June, the Senate unanimously passed my bill. In July, the president signed the legislation into law, righting a decades-old wrong for the Winnebago Tribe.

The residents of Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir communities have also faced problems with federal control of land.

Currently, Nebraskans living in these communities are in danger of losing their homes as a result of land restrictions. But after working with them for several years, my office—along with the rest of our federal delegation—has introduced legislation to return control of this land to the county level. I’ve heard from over 1,000 Nebraskans on this issue, and I’m urging my colleagues in Congress to support it.

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; 2024 has been a contentious year in Washington, with its fair share of fights and drama. And while those fights get media attention, there are plenty of positive stories that don’t make headlines.I’d like to share some of those stories with you as we head into the Thanksgiving season, because this year, I’m most thankful for the opportunity to help Nebraskans, whether through casework or legislation.Each year, my staff speaks with hundreds of Nebraskans facing roadblocks in the federal government. Our office does everything we can to solve problems, and I have wonderful staff who help me get things done for my fellow citizens.For example, a veteran we will call John reached out to my office this year. John was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, but he was still struggling to get his claim processed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). John asked if we could help.My staff worked with a county veteran service officer and a VA office to find out why John’s claim wasn’t being processed. Our inquiry highlighted the urgency of John’s case, causing them to expedite John’s exam so he and his family could receive the benefits they needed. After our inquiry, John and his family received almost $70,000 in backpay, along with several other veteran benefits. Now, John has the benefits he earned through his years of serving our country.But it isn’t just individual Nebraskans who need assistance with the federal government. This year, my office helped Nebraska’s Winnebago Tribe reclaim 1,600 acres of land that was wrongfully taken from them.In 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unlawfully condemned land belonging to the Winnebago Tribe. For 50 years, the Tribe has gone to the courts to try and restore the land to their reservation. Last year, members of the Winnebago Tribe contacted my office. While no one opposed the Tribe reclaiming their land, they needed action on the federal level to officially restore it. I introduced the Winnebago Land Transfer Act last November to make that happen, and this June, the Senate unanimously passed my bill. In July, the president signed the legislation into law, righting a decades-old wrong for the Winnebago Tribe.The residents of Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir communities have also faced problems with federal control of land.Currently, Nebraskans living in these communities are in danger of losing their homes as a result of land restrictions. But after working with them for several years, my office—along with the rest of our federal delegation—has introduced legislation to return control of this land to the county level. I’ve heard from over 1,000 Nebraskans on this issue, and I’m urging my colleagues in Congress to support it.I’m optimistic that our bill will pass, especially because a Senate committee unanimously approved it just this week.This year, I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities in Nebraska. It’s not something I take for granted, and I’m honored by the opportunity to keep doing this work for another six years.I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May you be reminded of the many blessings in your lives, and may you enjoy a special day surrounded by loved ones.Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;