<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/nebraska-school-choice-supporters-opponents-ready-for-another-rematch/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Advocates and opponents of school choice programs in Nebraska, including one that voters rejected in November, are gearing up for another legislative session featuring efforts to revive the policies.

Lawmakers supporting those programs introduced proposals this month with an end goal of helping students attend private K-12 schools in the state. Two bills would revive the laws&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-approves-nebraskas-newest-school-choice-law-as-opponents-weigh-next-steps/">passed, repealed, replaced and then repealed by voters</a>&nbsp;in just the past two years.&nbsp;

The latest version in law,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55486" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 1402</a>, was&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/05/nebraska-voters-reject-state-funding-for-students-attending-private-k-12-schools/">repealed by 57% of voters</a>&nbsp;in November —&nbsp;in 45 of Nebraska’s 49 legislative districts, 82 of its 93 counties and all three congressional districts.

“I’m not dissuaded by the fact that it was defeated at the ballot box,” said freshman State Sen. Tony Sorrentino of Omaha, one of many lawmakers with school choice proposals in 2025. “There’s been a number of cases that lost at the ballot box and were reinstated, so let’s hope for that.”

The effort to revive&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=50326" target="_blank">LB 753</a>&nbsp;and its one-for-one tax break to fund “opportunity scholarships” will return to the Revenue Committee, while the effort to revive LB 1402 and its state-funded vouchers or “education scholarships” will return to the Appropriations Committee.

Two new proposals will go to the Health and Human Services and Education Committees. The first would create and narrow a voucher or scholarship program for private education to youths in foster care. The other would pay families whose K-12 “option enrollment” application to a different public school district is rejected.

Tim Royers is president of the Nebraska State Education Association, which led successive repeal efforts against the state-funded version of the law in 2024, and successfully placed the tax credit version on the ballot before lawmakers replaced that program.

Royers said he and others are disappointed that senators, no matter their approach, are “choosing to ignore the very clear message that voters set in November on this issue.”

“We’re really looking for our leaders in Lincoln to be championing legislation that’s going to tackle the real issues surrounding education and not trying to relitigate something that has already been resolved at the polls,” Royers said.

Royers said the focus should be on getting friendly, pro-public education legislation over the finish line, such as those to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/21/all-nebraska-teachers-would-receive-retention-bonus-under-legislative-proposal/#:~:text=By%3A%20Zach%20Wendling%20%2D%20January%2021%2C%202025%205%3A00%20am&amp;text=LINCOLN%20%E2%80%94%20All%20Nebraska%20teachers%20could,and%20retain%20teachers%20through%202028.">tackle teaching vacancies statewide</a>. He’s confident school choice efforts will be stopped before a major vote this year.

But if needed, Royers said, opponents are ready for a school choice rematch, even if they have to “make it an annual summer habit” to get signatures to repeal the laws.

“We joke about it, but in all seriousness, we will out-resolve them on this issue,” Royers said. “We will be more tenacious than them. We will have more resources and more commitment than them on this. If they don’t get that point, yes, we will absolutely put this in front of the voters again so that way they can reject vouchers for the fifth time in the state’s history if necessary.”

Sorrentino is the Elkhorn-area successor to former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who championed the previous voucher and tax-credit laws in 2023 and 2024 after years of trying. Sorrentino’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59783" target="_blank">LB 509</a>&nbsp;would nearly word-for-word reinstate Linehan’s 2023 tax-credit law: the Opportunity Scholarships Act.

He said that law “didn’t get the proper time” before lawmakers repealed in October, a strategic move as part of LB 1402 by Linehan partly to stop a certified ballot measure seeking to repeal the law. When her replacement scholarship or voucher law made it to the ballot in November, nearly 55% of voters in their Legislative District 39 rejected it.

Sorrentino, a tax practitioner, noted the Opportunity Scholarships Act had raised nearly $10 million of the $25 million it could have raised in its first year. The program could grow over time to $100 million annually, if there is high demand.&nbsp;

Under the Opportunity Scholarships Act, Nebraskans could donate to scholarship-granting organizations for a one-to-one tax credit. Donations from 2024 are still tax deductible, even with the law being repealed.

He said the “beauty” of the bill is supporting children in their formative years, when their values are set.

“I just don’t think you can put a round peg in a square hole when it comes to education,” Sorrentino said. “Education needs to meet the needs of children, not to meet the needs of organizations or opponents to this.”

Of the four legislative districts that voted to retain LB 1402, the state-funded scholarship program in the State Treasurer’s Office, in November, one of the representatives is seeking to revive the program: State Sen. Rob Dover of Norfolk.

The other three districts that voted to retain the law are represented by State Sens. Brian Hardin of Gering, Terrell McKinney of Omaha and Mike Moser of Columbus.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59768" target="_blank">LB 624</a>, from Dover, would revive LB 1402, but his version is one page compared to the repealed section of LB 1402, which was five pages.

Part of his effort is to explicitly define the annual $10 million program as an appropriation, which some have argued can’t&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=III-3" target="_blank">constitutionally be subject to a referendum</a>. The Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that the more expansive LB 1402 version&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/13/nebraska-supreme-court-lets-voters-decide-fate-of-school-choice-law/">was subject to referendum</a>&nbsp;because it wasn’t a direct appropriation.

Dover said his structure is similar to the&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-announces-read-nebraska-grant-recipients/" target="_blank">READ Nebraska grant program</a>&nbsp;established in 2023 to boost mentorship, at the request of Gov. Jim Pillen. That program was created through the annual state budget, not an individual bill. Dover is a member of the Appropriations Committee.

“I think we should let the kids go where they need to go, where they’re the most happy because, obviously, a happy child, a happy student, is going to be much more receptive to learning,” Dover said.

Dover said he wants to be a voice for his constituents, and his primary concern is the roughly 4,500 students who received funds under LB 1402 but might not get additional funding in the future. Some, Dover noted, might go back to hostile environments where they were bullied or felt unwelcome.

“I’m not a Catholic. I’m not Lutheran. There’s no gain in my religion to do this,” Dover said. “I think it’s just a responsibility to children, to kids.”

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59412" target="_blank">LB 427</a>, from State Sen. Bob Andersen of Omaha, would require the state treasurer to allow families to create educational savings accounts for any K-12 school expenses.&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59361" target="_blank">LB 131</a>, also by Sorrentino, would expand the state’s current college savings accounts to let them be used to cover the costs of K-12 schools.

State Sens. Beau Ballard of Lincoln and Christy Armendariz of Omaha are taking a narrower approach to support students in need.

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59668" target="_blank">LB 481</a>, from Ballard, would create the Foster Care Child Scholarships Act focused on foster care youths, a vulnerable population he said the state already seeks to give every opportunity to flourish. He said those children, too, should have an opportunity to go to a school where they can achieve their dreams.

Ballard’s bill would set aside $200,000 in state funding for the next two years for HOPE Scholarships for private K-12 schools through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

“I just don’t want to fit students into a box,” Ballard said. “This is just an opportunity for them to fit their needs.”

<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59652" target="_blank">LB 557</a>, from Armendariz, would offer significant changes to the state’s option enrollment process by which a family can “option” to a different, participating public school district. Net option enrollment pays the receiving district about $11,000 per student in state funding, multiple senators said.

The bill would give any family $2,500&nbsp;for the educational support of the student&nbsp;should their option enrollment application be rejected, no matter the reason. LB 557, as introduced, has no cap on those funds.

Armendariz said she plans to amend her bill to narrow its impact to students who qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, at 185% of the federal poverty level, and who are currently in “failing schools,” which she said would be defined based on state test score proficiency rates.

“Really it’s to give more kids in failing schools some sort of an out,” Armendariz said, noting it “might be a drop in the bucket” of what some people would need.

A similar proposal,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59568" target="_blank">LB 633</a>&nbsp;from State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair, would empower the State Board of Education to give students’ families an “option enrollment tuition account” after a denied option enrollment application. It would have state K-12 funds follow the student.

Royers has testified in the past that option enrollment is a positive “choice” program within public schools but that denials could come because a family doesn’t fill out their application correctly or a school is at capacity.

He said the “obvious” efforts of the new bills to advance a “voucher agenda” through low-income students or youths in foster care are “fundamentally wrong.”&nbsp;

“They’re trying to utilize some of our most vulnerable students to prop up a foot in the door to set up a much larger voucher program,” Royers said. “Candidly, we think it’s pretty despicable that that’s the way that they’re choosing to try and do this rather than respecting the lesson they learned at the ballot.”

Royers originally criticized&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59009" target="_blank">LB 391</a>, from State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the Education Committee chair, which would create state savings accounts for people with disabilities to use for qualified expenses, including but not limited to education, before he learned more about the program uses.

Murman supports the school choice efforts and said he didn’t know education would be covered under his bill. He and Ballard said supporting people in need isn’t a “foot in the door.”&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/10/31/iowa-wisconsin-national-educators-urge-nebraskans-to-repeal-state-support-to-private-schools/">National education leaders</a>&nbsp;as well as Royers have noted similar programs usually start small and grow over time.

Armendariz said whether option enrollment works, in practice, “is a completely different picture” than its purported goals and that the Legislature can’t wait.

“My focus wants to be on a child. We only have them for 13 years, and it goes by fast,” Armendariz said. “To sit here and think about it for 20 [years] is not an option.”

Armendariz noted that she grew up in northeast Omaha, in what is now District 11, and sees a “real need” for local families. District 11 is represented by McKinney.

“I was one of those kids. My family could not afford any other options than the schools we went to, whether they were failing or not,” Armendariz said. “This really refines it to pinpoint poor kids that probably, arguably, are not getting the best opportunities that they could.”

Her comments on not waiting echo those of McKinney and former State Sen. Justin Wayne of northeast Omaha, two Democratic lawmakers in the officially nonpartisan Legislature who had joined Linehan and other Republicans in supporting the Opportunity Scholarships Act.

McKinney said change is “more than overdue” in part because lawmakers are seeking to repeal his 2023 law to prohibit suspensions of children before third grade or to lock children up younger, or charge them with crimes as adults sooner.

“And when you look at the demographic of the kids that will be suspended or locked up, they look like me, they’re coming from my community,” McKinney said.

“That’s why we can’t wait for change,” McKinney said. “The school system has to change. It has to be modernized. And it has to work for everybody, and not just some, and it hasn’t been working for everybody.”

In 2024, McKinney was “present, not voting” on LB 1402. His district has the lowest average household income in the state and has the highest percentage of people below the poverty level, including seniors and children, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/pdf/reports/research/districts_at_a_glance_2024.pdf" target="_blank">most recent legislative data</a>.

McKinney said fewer than 50% of students in some of his schools are on track to graduate.

He said he approaches school choice legislation thinking about his community, so he wasn’t surprised when his district’s voters voted to keep LB 1402. McKinney said he takes himself out of the conversation and focuses on the concerns affecting his community, not yet reading or weighing in on Sorrentino’s revival of the bill he previously supported.

McKinney said those issues are sometimes left out of the conversation of issues facing District 11.

“The real question is: Are we OK knowing that we have districts and communities where kids have been historically failed, and we have done nothing about it but say wait?” he said.

Whether McKinney and at least one other Democratic lawmaker, or two, support any school choice effort could be key to any of the legislation passing.

At least a couple of rural Republicans, including State Sen. Myron Dorn of Adams, say voters have already spoken. Dorn voted to allow LB 1402 to take effect partly to repeal its predecessor.

“If the Legislature is going to listen to our voters, then we shouldn’t pass that same type of bill up here,” Dorn said.

State Sen. George Dungan of Lincoln, a lead opponent of Linehan’s past efforts, said he’s a big believer that public dollars should remain in public schools, which isn’t a policy choice, he noted, but a constitutional mandate in Nebraska.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=VII-11#:~:text=VII%2D12-,Article%20VII%2D11,services%20are%20nonsectarian%20in%20nature." target="_blank">Nebraska Constitution</a>&nbsp;prohibits state appropriations to schools “not owned or exclusively controlled by the state or a political subdivision thereof.”

He said either directly, in the case of LB 1402, or through “loopholes” like tax credits, “they achieve the same goal” of sending public dollars to private schools.

Freshman State Sen. Ashlei Spivey, who succeeded Wayne in northeast Omaha, said she acknowledges the split views of vouchers and school choice in her district but that overall, voters have spoken.

“The true question for me is why aren’t parents happy with their school choice for their children, and how can we make sure that our public education system is meeting the needs of the unique challenges and opportunities especially faced in my district?” Spivey said.

McKinney questioned what opponents would suggest as a solution, and Spivey said she looks forward to working with local leadership on finding steps forward.

“We do not have the luxury to wait, and this is a top priority for me in ensuring that people have access to equitable, quality, fully funded public education,” Spivey said.

Dungan said he agreed that public schools can always be improved, ensuring that public education statewide serves students well, “not just adequately, but successfully,” while noting not every school will handle situations the same.

“I don’t think the way to answer that problem is to dismantle the system or fund it any less,” Dungan said. “I think the way to handle that problem is to make sure that we have the best public schools in the country.”

Supporters of LB 1402 didn’t fund an opposition campaign last year as they did in 2023 to try to preserve the tax credit for funding scholarships&nbsp;in the face of a public vote.

Jeremy Ekeler, executive director of Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, a group that benefited from both of Linehan’s school choice laws, said he is encouraged by the passion of senators seeking to help Nebraska kids and families.

“Thousands of Nebraska families are counting on lawmakers to protect their right to access the education that works best for them,” he said in a statement.

Linehan has said if Nebraskans knew they were&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/10/31/families-urge-nebraskans-to-retain-state-support-to-private-schools/">voting to take funds from students</a>, they would have preserved the laws, and she expected parents to demand answers if the repeal won.

Sorrentino said supporters are energized more than before. He’d be happy with any 2025 proposal “getting some air time” because “repetition, sometimes, drives the point home.”

“These are all Nebraska’s kids, these are all God’s kids, and they weren’t all created equal, both financially and needs-wise,” Sorrentino said. “I don’t see why we turn our back on a young man or a woman for financial need just because we have public schools.”

Nebraska school choice supporters, opponents ready for another rematch

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Cruise travel volumes will reach a record high for the third consecutive year. AAA forecasts 19 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2025. This is a 4.5% increase over 2024, when 18.2 million Americans went on cruise vacations. It’s also 34% more than the pre-pandemic peak of 14.2 million in 2019.

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There is reason to be optimistic about travel in 2025, as most indicators point towards continued growth in incomes and spending. Additionally, consumer surveys suggest the intent to travel remains strong and consumers still prioritize travel spending.

Most Americans going on cruises this year are seeking fun in the sun!

Shorter Caribbean cruises are rising in popularity.&nbsp;The most common cruise itineraries are 6 to 8 days, yet shorter itineraries are making waves. Cruises for five days or less are projected to rise from 2% of Caribbean cruises in 2023 to 18% in 2025.

The three busiest cruise ports in the world&nbsp;are in the same state: Florida! Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale are the busiest ports based on embarkation and debarkation. Miami landed the world’s largest cruise ship with the debut of Royal Caribbean’s&nbsp;Icon of the Seas&nbsp;last year. This summer, Port Canaveral welcomes the&nbsp;Icon’s&nbsp;sister ship, the equally large&nbsp;Star of the Seas.

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You Booked a Cruise ... Now What?!&nbsp;&nbsp;

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href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC4lWODUrRSzebG68HWXiL-2BDVs0rqq6X6o4WMfNsJ8-2FQY25dDUTq2dfz2XYae1hRg8GIsjR-2Fe69aENjYl40rUvEgOs-2FQusvot6nO-2FnbzZV0yXT2-2BnWkco3mhICoKSaD-2FlNbmJs0ojOGEsKd9SnnNFppPgboO2RI8guVeevsBc9LeGliwl8wkvMGL9NxFs7DM5lPgc3P7LeQhL9WBjpe17MN-2FY-2Fbfqxo-2FkNSgpunTuMfCcpHcSA0wfwDPuMcbRj0m5QmfS6rEa-2FU-2B1jjjRh-2F0KoAwSRaeVtG0Hs7cddQhgFeRCkrTPOg-2FACyd696-2FS-2FCnueFufCFzyXhr9bRzVKwpoRwkO-2BUHrFXcJRwYC8X0khdJnQxfsLF0lJ5RL-2B8NvbB8tCaVHOVFXRM2HQJOYvQtWJabog0-2BxnzYJWz364YoTqrQa6gT2pkTW9fjVEjHaHzldWOcIjSUAkRtOHjrzWjeW4XAnbsZEz945gg3KXIlMCOkgePHzc8RJ1T9dixBfJSC6qxSaHL7vZih-2ByDpIsm4JBBiKQ3lqVxj7MjNUCrxEeClWco7QtsILKqk8jl7wJjCTRvwDwxXE2Acjri-2B-2BuaPr3PqlVPVxL7oEaNrrO23mg7XWYMvJAIPwDj6KE-2FDdzQWFQ5UTNRkaR-2FhqATYLO0-2BpP8OWv-2Bil7OHUOmSMyereG83XhN2JOO4TL1W4m5QgMvWK28ALrDqKTu0zLGXCIG6LwE6ye5ZJbUdK5dBBiAaVG5H6kBtK71oIFR-2B1q-2FbPl1x8cW6-2FGXiOPoSgM6o6xWY3XL1NHlAR8QvCi8i4iEuqcUOebnhndIKWIBAeNJgzL42mHzZ6gJkyPlajhKwhnFjO1REPgdkmx-2FZIzsoLl4CswE1MYV79kfhU9taW82C2WJn0iDyB2SS1iCPuwzZAixmEzVBZmC76aUw2RbycR1cvXCNn00MgqnAZpPfJ85dT-2BVkxCnOW9vnulEJMKx6FcYsW2E2nS6-2BpkF96wAEpAwhGQ39gZEfXEKmdNTdtqDYaAZOXKxACRNsqvwhWKRc2C-2B5t-2F-2Fso7MxDt7CSJuaiQFMjNnvu08XJl3qcgPZqujZKwGeINg0a7BCAzznAyNNCazCcAYHMhVOzyTjGZGPT7dWY0opzC0DyXkOlLMOHjYxUxPZWdT8Rx2DlJrtIcI7Pc2raf0lJoGik6gog3UojJg0mIpZP4hZpuJcJYFoXNt4NOGpnxFxdbyp30GXwKonxkGmQ1wA-3DPvjk_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wgIItaUiH8oWBapNsm3sFHQlARpeTYXtczMxWYN8oaotieoceEOi7S4Vvx-2BdORE0NoUIdo2TYEQ7ZyXwXSF5FlzDKSjPw-2FwWTPnAgxyIiVYkTgPtCZ-2F1iSLeZwdAC6EkkUePu7zKkbRGx9D2SuCtIf8-3D">AAA Mobile app</a>, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" 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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738078321375.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>AAAOMAHA, NE&nbsp;(January 28, 2025) – Sailing into new waters. For the first time ever, AAA is releasing a cruise forecast for the year ahead. This report is similar to the travel forecasts AAA releases for major holidays. It examines the number of U.S. residents that will take an ocean cruise from a U.S. or international port.2025 Cruise OutlookCruise travel volumes will reach a record high for the third consecutive year. AAA forecasts 19 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2025. This is a 4.5% increase over 2024, when 18.2 million Americans went on cruise vacations. It’s also 34% more than the pre-pandemic peak of 14.2 million in 2019.“The cruise industry’s focus on bigger ships, shorter itineraries and private islands has contributed to remarkable growth in recent years,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Cruise lines have introduced larger ships, which accommodate more guests and have an incredible range of amenities on board. It’s at the point now where the ship itself can be the destination. Many of these vessels sail on short 3–4-night itineraries, which allows for more frequent sailings and the opportunity to sample cruising while visiting a private island.”Economic DriversThere is reason to be optimistic about travel in 2025, as most indicators point towards continued growth in incomes and spending. Additionally, consumer surveys suggest the intent to travel remains strong and consumers still prioritize travel spending.<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Popular Cruise ItinerariesMost Americans going on cruises this year are seeking fun in the sun!<ul>
 <li>72% of U.S. cruise passengers are heading to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9MQVoAJyfpJyOrscdHsxZH4dvhTu4BClSkGuMc4Bk3ZzTjElPYVDwds-2FvbkTZxoLcifjjt0G19TbT9Dcdyw7Hul-2BN5uptlY-2BKFTU-2B0z2FTbwEfj-2FByH65lJGutwm-2Fdcwg-3D-3Dc0_P_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wh749YBL8MlKqFxD6DE6-2B0O9-2B0AjnpHuSziIVf8Slzo2fK1ZJvhOfnPZ7PR4CWYw0N2WDZe4c7fqeM4O7bqXh1Yyu2a8QIDjgkWEeNcOnzkTl8I6qpPfvgcw2GR3N0yrRbxIYvW-2Fk4y7HkkN45DqAWA-3D">Caribbean</a>, making it by far the most popular destination. 6% are taking Alaska cruises and 5% will cruise in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9MQVoAJyfpJyOrscdHsxZE-2F9CRrzRWSXd7iTLsHUInyi2Nc9jJHW6J8kvFl129OklKbCT4WGuvgCMB-2FwVx2x95pKEYthLERxztk47tHfdrPvAB1-2BWPXlV75kP-2FMoLFfxA-3D-3D-UHE_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wkuVaGOxUdFdiKNnoBEeXPNtWIkJ-2BmTobFs7a0me18ij4OmkAq2jLuowBZrNxekmZXLKWYVTzCQFtxadS0JIILjJ1LQrr9eJkDCg-2FczMnhgD1YbN4qlyrzibPYYM0i0gGlmrSQ3xOYJrVeISCUDhC8o-3D">Mediterranean</a>.</li><li>The Caribbean’s dominance this year is on par with its pre-pandemic numbers in 2018 and 2019.</li><li>The Caribbean’s share dipped to 68% in 2022-23 as cruises to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9MQVoAJyfpJyOrscdHsxZH4dvhTu4BClSkGuMc4Bk3ZOyW4zwyxyGgjD-2B0FAkrYoOKyOo71WhwZ6yIhtoF34PU-3DIN-g_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wsAc-2FzfO2EpR0cAdlU-2BZTPZyhTg-2B4cj-2BRbADH8DXvQfMbI1mTuC-2BT0QnD-2FFX6yurHO0MzL99oHMOak3KoZUblgFWkfJQ3395ShN-2BfvArORVVM2jljznJzpzwSq2x2CX6gSya4hu6XXsblAQ9eet-2FzHU-3D">Alaska</a>&nbsp;and the Mediterranean surged, but destination shares have returned to pre-pandemic norms over the past year.</li>
 </ul>Shorter Caribbean cruises are rising in popularity.&nbsp;The most common cruise itineraries are 6 to 8 days, yet shorter itineraries are making waves. Cruises for five days or less are projected to rise from 2% of Caribbean cruises in 2023 to 18% in 2025.<figure>
 <img src="" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The three busiest cruise ports in the world&nbsp;are in the same state: Florida! Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale are the busiest ports based on embarkation and debarkation. Miami landed the world’s largest cruise ship with the debut of Royal Caribbean’s&nbsp;Icon of the Seas&nbsp;last year. This summer, Port Canaveral welcomes the&nbsp;Icon’s&nbsp;sister ship, the equally large&nbsp;Star of the Seas.“So much has been included on these new ships from fine dining to live entertainment, shopping, and activities for all ages,” Haas continued. “Cruising is like staying at a floating all-inclusive resort which delivers you to the world’s most beautiful destinations. It’s an appealing option for large and small family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and a great first trip outside the country.”You Booked a Cruise ... Now What?!&nbsp;&nbsp;If you’re one of the 19 million Americans going on a cruise this year,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9Jx-2BKjapp5TG9KdFTgiHOY-3D9giW_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7woAqVaoJ3emo6ooMFYfZqVozQioEHNYcLTuDgmKQwor2YlyHIcSpi-2F1qYfj4bFEfplV-2B2wMWTqKiOQQc08LcKTAD-2BnAW7zBF02eeFBP4isMPi7-2FVH1kAPBZ-2B1rRM80uCmj07ilrtcYaXv6V5nX5XSJ4-3D">AAA Travel</a>&nbsp;has expert advice to ensure your trip is smooth sailing:<ul>
 <li>Work with a AAA Travel Agent.&nbsp;They can help setup all aspects of your trip and ensure you have proper documentation like passports, which are required for cruises to international destinations. AAA also offers additional benefits and savings that can be combined with what is provided by the cruise lines.</li><li>Reserve activities early.&nbsp;Whether it’s an excursion, specialty dinner, or spa treatment, your best bet is to reserve your spot ASAP. Popular cruise activities sell out fast!</li><li>Consider getting travel insurance&nbsp;to protect your investment in case of a medical emergency or another interruption during your trip. Remember, most U.S. health insurance plans do not cover you at international destinations.</li><li>Arrive the day before.&nbsp;If you’re flying into your port city, arrive a day or two before your ship is scheduled to depart. That takes the stress out of worrying about flight delays and cancelations, and it gives you time to explore your departure city. AAA travel agents can help book your flights to help you have a great experience from the time you leave home.</li><li>Have a parking plan.&nbsp;If you’re driving to your port city, decide ahead of time where you will leave your car. Most cruise ports offer parking right at the terminal, but like airports, those spots come at a premium price. To save some money, look for off-site cruise port parking options that offer a shuttle service. Another option is to look for hotels near the cruise port that offer “park &amp; cruise” options. These packages allow you to stay at the hotel the night before your cruise and park your car there while you’re gone. The hotel will then take you to the cruise port on departure day and pick you up once you return.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Download the cruise line’s app.&nbsp;You can check in for your cruise through the app, review the itinerary, complete the mandatory lifeboat drill, look at the daily program, and in some cases, open your stateroom door, order food, make dinner reservations, and text your friends. Best of all, you don’t need the ship’s internet package to use cruise line apps - they are free to use onboard!</li><li>Do your homework before packing.&nbsp;Check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items ahead of your trip. From irons and steamers to certain foods and beverages, each company is different, so take the time to look up what you can and can’t bring onboard or your items will be confiscated.</li><li>Items that come in handy.&nbsp;If you’re going on a Caribbean cruise, sunscreen is a must and bringing it from home saves you money. In general, sundries onboard are more expensive. If you take prescription medications, bring extra in case there is a delay during your trip. Magnetic hooks are popular with passengers who need extra storage space. Since cruise cabin walls are made of metal, hooks come in handy for hanging swimsuits and towels. Colorful beach towel clips are also useful at the pool deck to not only keep your towel in place but help you identify your lounge chair when you come back from taking a dip!</li><li>Embarkation dos and don’ts.&nbsp;Some cruise lines have scheduled embarkation times. Do arrive at your assigned embarkation time. Don’t try to get there early and hope they will let you on – they likely won’t. Don’t pack your passport or birth certificate in your suitcase. Always have your documentation with you including a copy of your boarding pass. If you do not have proper identification when you are checking in at the port, you will be denied boarding. If you check your suitcase with a porter, your bag may not arrive at your stateroom for a few hours. Pack a small carry-on with your swimsuit so you can change right away and start the fun!</li><li>Having fun? Run it back!&nbsp;If you’re enjoying your vacation at sea, look for the future cruise office onboard to book your next trip. There are often special promotions like onboard credits on top of the regular cruise line offers for bookings made onboard. Your travel agent back home will also be notified about your new booking. Just don’t wait until the last minute. The office gets busier as the final day of the cruise approaches, so stop by early in the trip, or make an appointment if the office takes reservations.</li>
 </ul>Cruise Forecast Methodology&nbsp;&nbsp;In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2025 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. This forecast relies on cruise-related analytics from Cruise IP (Tourism Economics’ proprietary database for the cruise industry), economic forecasts prepared by Oxford Economics, and assumptions on the future path of the tourism industry.In this analysis, U.S. cruise passenger volume refers to ocean cruises taken by U.S. residents. It includes cruises that depart from U.S. or international ports.&nbsp;About AAA - The Auto Club GroupThe Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13&nbsp;million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories.&nbsp;ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 64 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC4lWODUrRSzebG68HWXiL-2BDVs0rqq6X6o4WMfNsJ8-2FQY25dDUTq2dfz2XYae1hRg8GIsjR-2Fe69aENjYl40rUvEgOs-2FQusvot6nO-2FnbzZV0yXT2-2BnWkco3mhICoKSaD-2FlNbmJs0ojOGEsKd9SnnNFppPgboO2RI8guVeevsBc9LeGliwl8wkvMGL9NxFs7DM5lPgc3P7LeQhL9WBjpe17MN-2FY-2Fbfqxo-2FkNSgpunTuMfCcpHcSA0wfwDPuMcbRj0m5QmfS6rEa-2FU-2B1jjjRh-2F0KoAwSRaeVtG0Hs7cddQhgFeRCkrTPOg-2FACyd696-2FS-2FCnueFufCFzyXhr9bRzVKwpoRwkO-2BUHrFXcJRwYC8X0khdJnQxfsLF0lJ5RL-2B8NvbB8tCaVHOVFXRM2HQJOYvQtWJabog0-2BxnzYJWz364YoTqrQa6gT2pkTW9fjVEjHaHzldWOcIjSUAkRtOHjrzWjeW4XAnbsZEz945gg3KXIlMCOkgePHzc8RJ1T9dixBfJSC6qxSaHL7vZih-2ByDpIsm4JBBiKQ3lqVxj7MjNUCrxEeClWco7QtsILKqk8jl7wJjCTRvwDwxXE2Acjri-2B-2BuaPr3PqlVPVxL7oEaNrrO23mg7XWYMvJAIPwDj6KE-2FDdzQWFQ5UTNRkaR-2FhqATYLO0-2BpP8OWv-2Bil7OHUOmSMyereG83XhN2JOO4TL1W4m5QgMvWK28ALrDqKTu0zLGXCIG6LwE6ye5ZJbUdK5dBBiAaVG5H6kBtK71oIFR-2B1q-2FbPl1x8cW6-2FGXiOPoSgM6o6xWY3XL1NHlAR8QvCi8i4iEuqcUOebnhndIKWIBAeNJgzL42mHzZ6gJkyPlajhKwhnFjO1REPgdkmx-2FZIzsoLl4CswE1MYV79kfhU9taW82C2WJn0iDyB2SS1iCPuwzZAixmEzVBZmC76aUw2RbycR1cvXCNn00MgqnAZpPfJ85dT-2BVkxCnOW9vnulEJMKx6FcYsW2E2nS6-2BpkF96wAEpAwhGQ39gZEfXEKmdNTdtqDYaAZOXKxACRNsqvwhWKRc2C-2B5t-2F-2Fso7MxDt7CSJuaiQFMjNnvu08XJl3qcgPZqujZKwGeINg0a7BCAzznAyNNCazCcAYHMhVOzyTjGZGPT7dWY0opzC0DyXkOlLMOHjYxUxPZWdT8Rx2DlJrtIcI7Pc2raf0lJoGik6gog3UojJg0mIpZP4hZpuJcJYFoXNt4NOGpnxFxdbyp30GXwKonxkGmQ1wA-3DPvjk_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wgIItaUiH8oWBapNsm3sFHQlARpeTYXtczMxWYN8oaotieoceEOi7S4Vvx-2BdORE0NoUIdo2TYEQ7ZyXwXSF5FlzDKSjPw-2FwWTPnAgxyIiVYkTgPtCZ-2F1iSLeZwdAC6EkkUePu7zKkbRGx9D2SuCtIf8-3D">AAA Mobile app</a>, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC4lWODUrRSzebG68HWXiL-2BDVs0rqq6X6o4WMfNsJ8-2FQY25dDUTq2dfz2XYae1hRg8GIsjR-2Fe69aENjYl40rUvEgOs-2FQusvot6nO-2FnbzZV0yXT2-2BnWkco3mhICoKSaD-2FlNbmJs0ojOGEsKd9SnnNFppPx-2F7v2pPqEGuJWKPzYEYtHw9XZ6eDbEPjXwyWuxn64Z9szjPhIQheIoh1umJpUOzQmY3iOgdhfwEaRbos0GytTu5f2CoSo7BMNluqp15y1H1hziOSwDmBrPfF1Uk2Todu0uOtBY-2BgqGaOmNgmiNjYhvQbPAxxMmJ2dfk3OoXwiSyJkbq5VsoDUw-2BRrSJYMwdnhoX2p7weDt1I3CB895xr3MIr1CjrHXHJCkBESOyEabTzI5q4H4-2FqLDQ26ZJsyC3wjlwXAgV-2BCQa1JcYx-2Fqg6c9-2Ff6H-2FZdtXCEx-2FMrQ6E1qWV15aWm0wCy13MuLB14iwj9T92jhg8lYO-2Bd4WA9XOShuMzPRE2NxEqqzICjlwWpdWoEmzmmfYy8dImYzOH8buOyoANEntkHcjTtTCbUZOOpkvMLqhRWwIguANTFYmiXCwwjNEKzZwCie5p8UMM-2Fba4Whmfz06Ujn1LwBm0-2FmdXNrlJS14JanpZVuJifxw4-2FaqpaDgg30OZo5s4861jBxhhkyMwrg7HYccMq8fQ0BDO77m6ojCLN9SezKb9YCh0G3cmFdicbOKi8P8lfjSPi4FkmT-2B4uhU7eOGyra-2B4e4XaW0lUhodXEnK4GiMDOMk-2FfU5bLN4KIS7kJ4AUqICaS3YHbS4Koc4bCQCbSymPCAV0lqEGpwzD3AyBDizOd9R0qVEhxowCB1XlGact-2F5QbmSr9askY5YzRhAmaiq-2BWoTiemr-2FuOD69biZfD2TpkEU-2FikB32ScarB6GW-2BUdfoDfYJfTsNU041YbmAias-2BT-2FiHdECDNIuI8QkQlwTKpb7IidglA6E3iNDv72YYk3sKIbRbr-2FGpmGg3SC3ljHqb2bR6yx8taYDnEJbr-2Br9W9t9KDYo40piBjmQQXAGzWg0ZKB75ihwtJEYrCCrdn5Zk7cR2NI-2FfarkFWjxlP7Py9X7WeoBXRypCzTaibtR2HNxOqEwoNUmp2hsFdPTdGiGvuE4zCz47K8juiD0sOLWnfLy0AMBPKtxoCPIrmc20QvKF-2FvRwO5tINgsaaqsZ-2F3v6EswE4zF6CC-2FIsbyAuq1GpV7d-2FiV-2FCPJh9RJUDTV2mWJ4ll6N-2FikKkDkHiOUXIaoz7UdQlQ-2BsblCN-2F506u7bX4HR8-2F68PJTD5tr3bTpk1fq5JtU-2B5kpFMSZRnAjK9KYaIIEhqIXRTim0UQ-2BtScGtJoZ2LodGxHLViDrGpSBFNWjIkNwhpOcnJBhWQZwGwdgF-2F-2FZt0nN0hT2DsVpZ3d6z1ktUNMepkeC4UTLFt0lD91bWYYHHXJKVoaMBI0oxFlSn0AJYzGyFtUxMrxqmDhHvQslGl45wtx3UtPLpWO33hPs-2Fx-2FGSlnMhJ01YlCLz4-2B5llRuii5Z7hHJQ7N9YRu1L5FmLC1lQo5PEKIICNInKfcAEFeSHIe3AuHzRuHqoD5wbvl2-2FixSayCJ-2FbE-2BW-2BYsAG7k90IBUWSqA-2Fmpgb-2F66FzqJnDEIFV7NKPPm2I7lDYM5MmxHCVbWOOdnX1MdJzRZtYBVdXShjnbCAWMlr-2FFJ6CMMoa8ixEwUwVEkA4jA-2Bh3MJinL5o-2Fj8sZK8A4K70fGvlv8t6DUj5phidGq55BG56DOOGA-2FP9aTNPRqqZiIPuLUj34U8x5QR0w9McL96Rf1jnUR3fxDJ2Fg6yd-2BzDetiuJhamA-2Fu2rN43kU7wQ-2BXuSDg9k6Pm9T7IW4dZBpmkDbzHiNO9G1va-2FTh4yyaHcjJ0u892diQxQGdQTBbZoUEWVe95FSh4NKynFfFwd-2BW-2BhOzPn8-2FKgPuZlh-2Bd-2BpZV1Cvljfj6KmasgpEnHZyzvTXlBOMNtiO31-2Ft4oei0UixkCLL-2Bb8Cb94DI9phk2PLSKptmlwJY4atqoeArDmQ3YVj2TEWCp674yZd11shNRPKCNSAKFBJ3Uqh4aMdDUudOlk3nIUouc6z8eVGeb-2FJZNdFe-2FOe9Y6tD3a63j5qi79ItqODaZt9f4UXayFos4ZzrWBJ6EfO34UqycCNevS7bq5LyNE0oRRax6pSgva8pHdWWMPETpLB1lflJgp-2BbMbPRDIT4APY5Xrcv5u1Fg-2B5c2DL10bStWRBtveCiQ9worv4BYRdDfwWrcbm9S5UYm80As-2FNRwo-2BPRrFzWnJhIu6lrBdVZEbaGMXaDy4r1100Xwq5hExDNoIa-2FygptUse5i4BX70rMMfqBEz3VkNy0FbgM5IGW7zEF7ucC-2BG5vJRq3oevF3nF5uMbnoFPWGp4J468UOJxWF9NmRPx33USYIOeP6spKdTPe81kh-2Fkg22-2FrqbeymHnMJuzT1AHA-3D-3D3y0D_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANx9g9iNDJcW1p9l7ZPGEPcy-2Bn1Ti9spD4jjedSp4l6qEnaXOWZILeRJDjlzydDGevhlGNm25ehTDbIXmvGJb7wuME3ApPHw-2BkccIEzovZjyWNkcD76gGO2DvV1yi8fyG-2FFAybpuhsYqjqkxnJl8EV-2BeXw3gVIMttVvUbSZab3vWv1NUF1azLNPW5WLBa6ul5svQE8DYX8SOkLVZa7FAmtOgv4Rd6CjMfJ6Dj10IcCzSA-3D">AAA.com</a>, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.About Tourism EconomicsTourism Economics is an Oxford Economics company with a singular objective: combine an understanding of the travel sector with proven economic tools to answer the most important questions facing our clients. More than 500 companies, associations, and destination work with Tourism Economics every year as a research partner. We bring decades of experience to every engagement to help our clients make better marketing, investment, and policy decisions. Tourism Economics operates out of regional headquarters in Philadelphia and Oxford, with offices in Belfast, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Frankfurt, and Ontario.&nbsp;Oxford Economics is one of the world’s foremost independent global advisory firms, providing reports, forecasts and analytical tools on 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors, and over 3,000 cities. Our best-of-class global economic and industry models and analytical tools give us an unparalleled ability to forecast external market trends and assess their economic, social, and business impact. 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AAA: Record 19 million Americans Projected to Cruise This Year

Hebron, Neb. - The Thayer County Sheriff's Office were called to the scene of an emergency plane landing near Hebron.&nbsp;

The incident occurred on Sunday and the plane landed safely on Hwy 136, just east of Hebron by about half a mile. The aircraft was then taxied back to Hebron Airport. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pilot was a student performing a solo flight. The cause of the aircraft making the emergency landing on the highway was due to an engine issue. While the airplane was back at Hebron Airport for inspections, it was found the airplane also had a fuel supply issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Thayer County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Nebraska Game and Parks and Hebron Fire.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738079592532.jpeg" alt="A small plane conducted an emergency landing on an Eastern Nebraska highway on Sunday (Photo Thayer County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>A small plane conducted an emergency landing on an Eastern Nebraska highway on Sunday (Photo Thayer County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hebron, Neb. - The Thayer County Sheriff's Office were called to the scene of an emergency plane landing near Hebron.&nbsp;The incident occurred on Sunday and the plane landed safely on Hwy 136, just east of Hebron by about half a mile. The aircraft was then taxied back to Hebron Airport. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;The pilot was a student performing a solo flight. The cause of the aircraft making the emergency landing on the highway was due to an engine issue. While the airplane was back at Hebron Airport for inspections, it was found the airplane also had a fuel supply issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Thayer County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Nebraska Game and Parks and Hebron Fire.&nbsp;

Small Plane Makes Emergency Landing on an Eastern Nebraska Highway

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, introduced the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency (FACT) Act.

The legislation would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to&nbsp;publicly identify&nbsp;entities&nbsp;that hold&nbsp;FCC licenses, authorizations, or other grants of authority that are owned, wholly or partially, by foreign adversarial governments. This includes the governments of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined Senator Fischer as original cosponsors of the bipartisan bill.U.S. Representatives Thomas Kean (NJ-07), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and Ro&nbsp;Khanna&nbsp;(CA-17) will lead companion legislation in the House.

“Authoritarian regimes&nbsp;like China and Russia are actively working to undermine the security of our domestic communications. My bill will better position the FCC to evaluate the risks foreign ties pose to America’s national security so that we can respond to these network infrastructure threats,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“The U.S. must protect our telecommunications systems from global adversaries that are trying to do us harm,”&nbsp;said Senator Rosen.

“That’s why I’m helping to introduce this bipartisan bill to increase transparency and publicly keep track of companies with influence from adversaries, including China, Russia, and Iran. I’ll always work to support our national security.”

“It’s no secret that foreign adversaries threaten our national security by exploiting both legal and illegal access to technology and communication infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Senator Cornyn.

&nbsp;“The FACT Act would shine light on these vulnerabilities by identifying foreign entities that hold FCC licenses, helping to reduce national security risks and strengthen oversight.”

"Securing our telecommunications systems is crucial for our country’s national security,”&nbsp;said Senator Luján.

“The FACT Act is a critical step to promote transparency and boost the FCC’s ability to detect risks posed by our adversaries. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with my colleagues to safeguard our telecommunications networks."

Until now, there has been no mandated public disclosure of companies linked to foreign adversaries operating within U.S. technology and telecommunication markets.

Although the FCC is prohibited from granting licenses or authorizations deemed a national security threat, some entities with ties to adversarial foreign governments continue to hold certain approvals. As a result, more transparency is necessary.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/59cd1bba-ff72-4a46-a67b-e2e1cb4977e6/1.27.25-fact-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the bill.

Office of U.S. Senator Deb FischerWASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, introduced the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency (FACT) Act.The legislation would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to&nbsp;publicly identify&nbsp;entities&nbsp;that hold&nbsp;FCC licenses, authorizations, or other grants of authority that are owned, wholly or partially, by foreign adversarial governments. This includes the governments of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined Senator Fischer as original cosponsors of the bipartisan bill.U.S. Representatives Thomas Kean (NJ-07), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and Ro&nbsp;Khanna&nbsp;(CA-17) will lead companion legislation in the House.“Authoritarian regimes&nbsp;like China and Russia are actively working to undermine the security of our domestic communications. My bill will better position the FCC to evaluate the risks foreign ties pose to America’s national security so that we can respond to these network infrastructure threats,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.“The U.S. must protect our telecommunications systems from global adversaries that are trying to do us harm,”&nbsp;said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’m helping to introduce this bipartisan bill to increase transparency and publicly keep track of companies with influence from adversaries, including China, Russia, and Iran. I’ll always work to support our national security.”“It’s no secret that foreign adversaries threaten our national security by exploiting both legal and illegal access to technology and communication infrastructure,”&nbsp;said Senator Cornyn.&nbsp;“The FACT Act would shine light on these vulnerabilities by identifying foreign entities that hold FCC licenses, helping to reduce national security risks and strengthen oversight.”"Securing our telecommunications systems is crucial for our country’s national security,”&nbsp;said Senator Luján. “The FACT Act is a critical step to promote transparency and boost the FCC’s ability to detect risks posed by our adversaries. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with my colleagues to safeguard our telecommunications networks."Background:Until now, there has been no mandated public disclosure of companies linked to foreign adversaries operating within U.S. technology and telecommunication markets.Although the FCC is prohibited from granting licenses or authorizations deemed a national security threat, some entities with ties to adversarial foreign governments continue to hold certain approvals. As a result, more transparency is necessary.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/59cd1bba-ff72-4a46-a67b-e2e1cb4977e6/1.27.25-fact-act.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;to read the text of the bill.

Fischer Introduces Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Telecommunications Against Foreign Adversaries

The seasonal variability of distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production, has been one drawback of using it in a cattle finishing ration. New research from the University of Nebraska — Lincoln is indicating that may not be the drawback the industry thinks it is.

Feeders and researchers have assumed disruptions in the supply of distillers’ grains would affect the performance of feeder cattle accustomed to the feed source. An ongoing study at UNL looks to quantify how much.

According to the research so far, it doesn't.

“Ever since COVID, the supply and deliveries of distillers grains has been inconsistent,” said Paige Madison, a master’s student in the UNL ruminant nutrition department who worked on this research project. “We wanted to see what it would do to the cattle if producers ran out of distillers and had to pull it out of the diet and then a week later, they got a delivery and could put the full inclusion back into the diet.”

When the diet is not consistent, cattle can experience ruminal acidosis, which is when the pH of the rumen becomes low, said Jim MacDonald, UNL professor of animal science and principal investigator on this research project. 

“Acidosis may cause cattle to go off feed, reducing intakes and subsequently causing a reduction in average daily gain and hot carcass weight,” MacDonald said. “Rumen acidosis contributes to economic losses from reduced hot carcass weight, increased liver abscesses, and increased death loss. The economic impact of liver abscesses alone is estimated to be $41.6 million, annually.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Distillers grains are used in feedlot diets as a source of energy and protein. Distillers can be wet, dry or modified based on the moisture of the byproduct. This research project used modified distillers grains, which have a moisture level of about 48%.

Research on variable amounts of distillers grains included in the feedlot diet can help producers manage feedlot diets for maximum efficiency and cattle health. “The current strategy to manage variable supply is to limit the inclusion of distillers grains,” MacDonald said. “We have seen the inclusion of distillers grains reduced significantly over the past decade due to an increase in the price relative to corn, a perceived reduction in the feeding value of the distillers grains, and variable supply.”

Phase one of the study looked at a ration that included distillers only at 25% of the ration. In this study the distillers grains were replaced with a blend of high-moisture corn and dry-rolled corn. Since the distillers grains also provide protein, urea was added to the control diet so the study was evaluating only the feed source to ensure cattle were not deficient in protein when the distillers grains were removed. The results of this study showed no significant differences in the performance—intake, average daily gain, and feed efficiency—between the constant versus variable inclusion groups of cattle.

Phase two focused on constant versus variable distillers at 10% and 25% of the diet, with a control of corn with no distillers. The researchers were surprised to find there was still no significant difference between the constant versus variable inclusion groups.

The research was conducted at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska and is funded by the Nebraska Corn Board.

This winter UNL researchers started a third phase of the variable distillers grains research at UNL’s recently-opened at ENREEC's Klosterman Feedlot Innovation Center using Hokofarm RIC2Discover technology feed bunks, which measure the pattern and amount of feed consumption by individual animals.

Instead of using just cattle performance to determine if there are differences between the constant and variable groups, phase three is also using pH probes in the rumen to detect rumen acidosis that may not result in visible symptoms.

“While we would never recommend that anyone should make sudden dramatic changes to their finishing diets, these data do provide some peace of mind that if supply disruptions or sudden changes in price occur, there is flexibility in making diet changes without negatively impacting animal performance,” MacDonald said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNL BeefThe seasonal variability of distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production, has been one drawback of using it in a cattle finishing ration. New research from the University of Nebraska — Lincoln is indicating that may not be the drawback the industry thinks it is.Feeders and researchers have assumed disruptions in the supply of distillers’ grains would affect the performance of feeder cattle accustomed to the feed source. An ongoing study at UNL looks to quantify how much.According to the research so far, it doesn't.“Ever since COVID, the supply and deliveries of distillers grains has been inconsistent,” said Paige Madison, a master’s student in the UNL ruminant nutrition department who worked on this research project. “We wanted to see what it would do to the cattle if producers ran out of distillers and had to pull it out of the diet and then a week later, they got a delivery and could put the full inclusion back into the diet.”When the diet is not consistent, cattle can experience ruminal acidosis, which is when the pH of the rumen becomes low, said Jim MacDonald, UNL professor of animal science and principal investigator on this research project. “Acidosis may cause cattle to go off feed, reducing intakes and subsequently causing a reduction in average daily gain and hot carcass weight,” MacDonald said. “Rumen acidosis contributes to economic losses from reduced hot carcass weight, increased liver abscesses, and increased death loss. The economic impact of liver abscesses alone is estimated to be $41.6 million, annually.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Distillers grains are used in feedlot diets as a source of energy and protein. Distillers can be wet, dry or modified based on the moisture of the byproduct. This research project used modified distillers grains, which have a moisture level of about 48%.Research on variable amounts of distillers grains included in the feedlot diet can help producers manage feedlot diets for maximum efficiency and cattle health. “The current strategy to manage variable supply is to limit the inclusion of distillers grains,” MacDonald said. “We have seen the inclusion of distillers grains reduced significantly over the past decade due to an increase in the price relative to corn, a perceived reduction in the feeding value of the distillers grains, and variable supply.”Phase one of the study looked at a ration that included distillers only at 25% of the ration. In this study the distillers grains were replaced with a blend of high-moisture corn and dry-rolled corn. Since the distillers grains also provide protein, urea was added to the control diet so the study was evaluating only the feed source to ensure cattle were not deficient in protein when the distillers grains were removed. The results of this study showed no significant differences in the performance—intake, average daily gain, and feed efficiency—between the constant versus variable inclusion groups of cattle.Phase two focused on constant versus variable distillers at 10% and 25% of the diet, with a control of corn with no distillers. The researchers were surprised to find there was still no significant difference between the constant versus variable inclusion groups.The research was conducted at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska and is funded by the Nebraska Corn Board.This winter UNL researchers started a third phase of the variable distillers grains research at UNL’s recently-opened at ENREEC's Klosterman Feedlot Innovation Center using Hokofarm RIC2Discover technology feed bunks, which measure the pattern and amount of feed consumption by individual animals.Instead of using just cattle performance to determine if there are differences between the constant and variable groups, phase three is also using pH probes in the rumen to detect rumen acidosis that may not result in visible symptoms.“While we would never recommend that anyone should make sudden dramatic changes to their finishing diets, these data do provide some peace of mind that if supply disruptions or sudden changes in price occur, there is flexibility in making diet changes without negatively impacting animal performance,” MacDonald said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Preliminary UNL Beef research shows no performance loss associated with varying distillers grains in cattle finishing diets

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/states-largest-union-accepts-labor-contract-aimed-at-luring-new-generation-of-public-servants/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;The largest labor union representing state government employees has voted to accept a contract with the state that includes pay raises of between 6.5% and up to 19% over a two-year period.

"Another step in the right direction is a negotiated benefit that allows six weeks of paid maternity leave, up from none before", said Justin Hubly, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees.

The Nebraska Association of Public Employees, or NAPE/AFSCME, had been in discussions with Gov. Jim Pillen’s negotiators since September, and union members wrapped up a two-week voting period on the current terms Friday.

The new contract covers more than 8,000 state employees who provide services in more than 500 jobs at more than 40 state agencies in all 93 counties, according to the union.

“Our members spoke loudly and clearly before negotiations began that in order to attract and retain state employees, salary increases had to outpace inflation and increased insurance costs,” said Hubly.&nbsp;

He said vacancy rates at state agencies remain high, and union members prioritized benefits that would draw applicants who could fill gaps and help with efficient delivery of state services, including salary increases. A media statement said the union expects the contract to help lure a “new generation of public servants.”

The bulk of employees covered under the contract would see a pay raise of 6.5% over the two years, July 1, 2025-June 30, 2027, assuming satisfactory job performance. About 2,000 would see raises of between 9% and 19%, said Hubly.

Among those positions in line for higher salary increases are certain work classifications with notable vacancies, said Hubly, such as behavioral health practitioners in the state prison system and state-employed developmental disabilities service coordinators.

Not reflected in the contract or discussed during negotiations is the future of flexibility to work remotely for state employees, a point of high-profile disagreement after Pillen ordered all state employees, save for certain exceptions, to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/13/governor-orders-end-to-remote-work-directs-state-workers-back-to-offices/">return to the office</a>&nbsp;beginning Jan. 2, 2024.

“The state refused to bargain over remote work because of the pending appeal,” Hubly said Monday.

The union and state&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-employees-union-appeals-remote-work-decision-to-nebraska-supreme-court/">continue a legal battle</a>&nbsp;over whether it can force the state to bargain with the union over his decision to force state employees back to the office.&nbsp;

Hubly and other union leaders have said they plan to appeal a July decision by the Commission of Industrial Relations rejecting the union’s push to force Pillen to negotiate the issue and not act unilaterally.

Before they could do so, they needed to wait for the state labor court to decide this month that the union would have to pay the state at least $42,000 in attorney fees from the case.&nbsp;

Of the six weeks of paid maternity leave, Hubly said future negotiations will seek to also gain leave for new fathers. He and Melissa Haynes, president of the union and a program specialist for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services in Fremont, were pleased with the latest move.

“Six weeks of paid maternity leave is a great start to attract and retain younger public employees to serve our state,” said Haynes. “As younger Nebraskans start their families, we want to encourage them to chase a life of public service, and paid maternity leave does just that.”

Among other highlights of the new contract:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738004788996.jpeg" alt="Justin Hubly, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees, leads a news conference Dec. 7, 2023, in Lincoln regarding Gov. Jim Pillen’s executive order mandating state employees return to in-peson offices by Jan. 2, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Justin Hubly, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees, leads a news conference Dec. 7, 2023, in Lincoln regarding Gov. Jim Pillen’s executive order mandating state employees return to in-peson offices by Jan. 2, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/states-largest-union-accepts-labor-contract-aimed-at-luring-new-generation-of-public-servants/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;The largest labor union representing state government employees has voted to accept a contract with the state that includes pay raises of between 6.5% and up to 19% over a two-year period."Another step in the right direction is a negotiated benefit that allows six weeks of paid maternity leave, up from none before", said Justin Hubly, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees.The Nebraska Association of Public Employees, or NAPE/AFSCME, had been in discussions with Gov. Jim Pillen’s negotiators since September, and union members wrapped up a two-week voting period on the current terms Friday.The new contract covers more than 8,000 state employees who provide services in more than 500 jobs at more than 40 state agencies in all 93 counties, according to the union.“Our members spoke loudly and clearly before negotiations began that in order to attract and retain state employees, salary increases had to outpace inflation and increased insurance costs,” said Hubly.&nbsp;<h2>High job vacancy</h2>He said vacancy rates at state agencies remain high, and union members prioritized benefits that would draw applicants who could fill gaps and help with efficient delivery of state services, including salary increases. A media statement said the union expects the contract to help lure a “new generation of public servants.”The bulk of employees covered under the contract would see a pay raise of 6.5% over the two years, July 1, 2025-June 30, 2027, assuming satisfactory job performance. About 2,000 would see raises of between 9% and 19%, said Hubly.Among those positions in line for higher salary increases are certain work classifications with notable vacancies, said Hubly, such as behavioral health practitioners in the state prison system and state-employed developmental disabilities service coordinators.Not reflected in the contract or discussed during negotiations is the future of flexibility to work remotely for state employees, a point of high-profile disagreement after Pillen ordered all state employees, save for certain exceptions, to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/13/governor-orders-end-to-remote-work-directs-state-workers-back-to-offices/">return to the office</a>&nbsp;beginning Jan. 2, 2024.“The state refused to bargain over remote work because of the pending appeal,” Hubly said Monday.<h2>Maternity leave</h2>The union and state&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-employees-union-appeals-remote-work-decision-to-nebraska-supreme-court/">continue a legal battle</a>&nbsp;over whether it can force the state to bargain with the union over his decision to force state employees back to the office.&nbsp;Hubly and other union leaders have said they plan to appeal a July decision by the Commission of Industrial Relations rejecting the union’s push to force Pillen to negotiate the issue and not act unilaterally.Before they could do so, they needed to wait for the state labor court to decide this month that the union would have to pay the state at least $42,000 in attorney fees from the case.&nbsp;Of the six weeks of paid maternity leave, Hubly said future negotiations will seek to also gain leave for new fathers. He and Melissa Haynes, president of the union and a program specialist for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services in Fremont, were pleased with the latest move.“Six weeks of paid maternity leave is a great start to attract and retain younger public employees to serve our state,” said Haynes. “As younger Nebraskans start their families, we want to encourage them to chase a life of public service, and paid maternity leave does just that.”<h2>Contract highlights</h2>Among other highlights of the new contract:<ul>
 <li>Minimum wage of $15 an hour for contracted labor, expected to help state employees better compete with outside workers.</li><li>“Premium pay” for people in designated positions who speak more than one language.</li><li>Catastrophic illness sick leave sharing program, which allows flexibility to donate sick leave to other workers.</li><li>Higher shift differentials for the Nebraska State Patrol and Department of Transportation.</li><li>“Premium pay” for certain NDOT employees with commercial drivers licenses, such as snow plow drivers, which is expected to help retain a high turnover group.</li>
 </ul>

State’s Largest Union Accepts Labor Contract Aimed at Luring ‘New Generation’ of Public Servants

Nebraska Department of Transportation

 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announces federal and state funding is available for fiscal years 2026-2027 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027), to support public transit projects in rural Nebraska. 

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) 5311 Rural Public Transportation Program provides capital, planning and operating assistance to support public transportation in rural areas with populations less than 50,000 and where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. 

Organizations eligible to receive funds for operating a public transportation program include private nonprofit organizations, state or local governmental authorities, operators of public transportation services or intercity bus operators. 

In addition to the 5311 Rural Public Transportation Program, funding is also available for the FTA 5311(f) Intercity Bus Program which provides planning and operating assistance.  The FTA Section 5311 Rural Transit Program and 5311(f) Intercity Bus Program awards grants for operating assistance on a two-year grant cycle. Applications are due March 21, 2025.  

Additional information and applications can be obtained at nebraskatransit.com or by contacting Sarah Soula, at sarah.soula@nebraska.gov 402-479-4871.

Nebraska Department of Transportation (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announces federal and state funding is available for fiscal years 2026-2027 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027), to support public transit projects in rural Nebraska. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) 5311 Rural Public Transportation Program provides capital, planning and operating assistance to support public transportation in rural areas with populations less than 50,000 and where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. Organizations eligible to receive funds for operating a public transportation program include private nonprofit organizations, state or local governmental authorities, operators of public transportation services or intercity bus operators. In addition to the 5311 Rural Public Transportation Program, funding is also available for the FTA 5311(f) Intercity Bus Program which provides planning and operating assistance. The FTA Section 5311 Rural Transit Program and 5311(f) Intercity Bus Program awards grants for operating assistance on a two-year grant cycle. Applications are due March 21, 2025. Additional information and applications can be obtained at nebraskatransit.com or by contacting Sarah Soula, at sarah.soula@nebraska.gov 402-479-4871.

NDOT Announces Available Funding for Rural Public  Transportation  

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/27/twice-a-year-clock-switching-could-tick-closer-to-end-under-three-nebraska-proposals/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraskans tired of switching their clocks twice each year, in March and November, could have three legislative proposals to choose from this year to inch toward ending the practice.

State Sens. Megan Hunt of Omaha, Dave Murman of Glenvil and Danielle Conrad of Lincoln have introduced, or plan to introduce, proposals to help end the time switch, which the senators said they, like many Nebraskans, are generally over with.

“I don’t care which way we set the clocks,” Hunt said in a text. “I just support stopping the madness of changing the time twice a year.

Hunt’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58980" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>&nbsp;would provide for year-round daylight saving time, maintaining the period between March and November to preserve sunlight later in the day — between the second Sunday in March (“spring ahead”) and the first Sunday in November (“fall back”).

Murman’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59293" target="_blank">LB 302</a>&nbsp;would provide for year-round standard time, the current position of the clocks in the colder fall and winter months when the sun rises earlier.

Both bills would not go into effect until other surrounding states adopt similar laws:

Federal law currently prohibits year-round daylight saving time but does allow year-round standard time, which Hawaii and Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation) observe.

The bills are up for a hearing before the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee on Friday at 1:30 p.m.

Conrad’s yet-to-be-introduced legislative resolution would more broadly urge Nebraska’s congressional representatives to push for a uniform decision and end the “antiquated” clock changes. It echoes calls from President Donald Trump and bipartisan U.S. senators to find a permanent solution, according to draft language shared with the Nebraska Examiner.

State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54627" target="_blank">LR 276</a>&nbsp;in 2024 examining Nebraska’s time zone boundary in western Nebraska and urging Congress to&nbsp;<a href="https://daylight-savings.com/zones/usa/nebraska/" target="_blank">move the line a little west</a>, matching where Nebraska’s panhandle begins. It would affect the counties of Dundy, Chase and Perkins in Ibach’s district, as well as Keith, Arthur, Grant, Hooker and the western part of Cherry.

She said lawmakers should be deliberate in deciding what to do with the clock switching because of the extra state approval needed.&nbsp;

Ibach suggested bringing Colorado into the conversation would be helpful, particularly for the three Mountain Time Zone counties in her district that “sandwich” between Colorado and other Nebraska counties in the Central Time Zone.

If Colorado sticks with the clocks as is, year-round standard time would create a “southwest Nebraska time-zone island,” between March and November, for Perkins, Chase and Dundy Counties, as reported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://nptelegraph.com/news/local/government-politics/nebraska-legislature-hearing-standard-time-dst/article_01f5a4f8-da86-11ef-b17f-a7d42d321346.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">North Platte Telegraph</a>&nbsp;and Scottsbluff Star-Herald. Those residents would be surrounded in the west by a different version of the Mountain Time Zone and in the east by Nebraska’s Central Time Zone.

“I think we need to dissect it just a little bit further and find out the repercussions of actually passing legislation or investigating if we can pass that legislation,” Ibach said.

Ibach said it’s possible that any of the proposals could restart conversations on moving the time zone a few miles west, while she understands arguments from some local residents opposed because that system is all they’ve ever known.&nbsp;

Moving the time zone would also require the blessing of at least South Dakota and Kansas.

Hunt said she is a night owl and likes it sunny later in the evening, but she’s cosigning Murman’s bill to end the practice either way. Conrad has added her name to both measures and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/senators-vote-down-proposals-to-end-spring-forward-fall-back-changes/">led a defeated effort in 2024</a>&nbsp;on behalf of&nbsp;former State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion, now the state treasurer.

Murman said he prefers standard time because of purported health benefits, aligning with more sun in the morning when people are starting their day, including students.

Former State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard was an&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/debate-continues-on-whether-nebraska-should-change-to-permanent-daylight-saving-time-or-permanent-standard-time/">ardent proponent of year-round standard time</a>, particularly for the effect on his Mountain Time residents and students.

Erdman famously&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Transcripts/FloorDebate/r2day41.pdf" target="_blank">stated in March 2022</a>: “The sun comes up at an appointed time every day irregardless of what we say the time is. … When God created time, he put the sun right in the middle of the sky at noon. And if it’s good enough for God, it’s good enough for me.”

Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/27/twice-a-year-clock-switching-could-tick-closer-to-end-under-three-nebraska-proposals/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraskans tired of switching their clocks twice each year, in March and November, could have three legislative proposals to choose from this year to inch toward ending the practice.State Sens. Megan Hunt of Omaha, Dave Murman of Glenvil and Danielle Conrad of Lincoln have introduced, or plan to introduce, proposals to help end the time switch, which the senators said they, like many Nebraskans, are generally over with.“I don’t care which way we set the clocks,” Hunt said in a text. “I just support stopping the madness of changing the time twice a year.<h2>Three different proposals</h2>Hunt’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58980" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>&nbsp;would provide for year-round daylight saving time, maintaining the period between March and November to preserve sunlight later in the day — between the second Sunday in March (“spring ahead”) and the first Sunday in November (“fall back”).Murman’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59293" target="_blank">LB 302</a>&nbsp;would provide for year-round standard time, the current position of the clocks in the colder fall and winter months when the sun rises earlier.Both bills would not go into effect until other surrounding states adopt similar laws:<ul>
 <li>For Hunt’s bill, three adjacent states to Nebraska would need to adopt a single year-round standard of time.</li><li>For Murman’s bill, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Wyoming would all need to adopt legislation for year-round standard time.</li>
 </ul>Federal law currently prohibits year-round daylight saving time but does allow year-round standard time, which Hawaii and Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation) observe.The bills are up for a hearing before the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee on Friday at 1:30 p.m.Conrad’s yet-to-be-introduced legislative resolution would more broadly urge Nebraska’s congressional representatives to push for a uniform decision and end the “antiquated” clock changes. It echoes calls from President Donald Trump and bipartisan U.S. senators to find a permanent solution, according to draft language shared with the Nebraska Examiner.<h2>Time zones and Colorado</h2>State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54627" target="_blank">LR 276</a>&nbsp;in 2024 examining Nebraska’s time zone boundary in western Nebraska and urging Congress to&nbsp;<a href="https://daylight-savings.com/zones/usa/nebraska/" target="_blank">move the line a little west</a>, matching where Nebraska’s panhandle begins. It would affect the counties of Dundy, Chase and Perkins in Ibach’s district, as well as Keith, Arthur, Grant, Hooker and the western part of Cherry.She said lawmakers should be deliberate in deciding what to do with the clock switching because of the extra state approval needed.&nbsp;Ibach suggested bringing Colorado into the conversation would be helpful, particularly for the three Mountain Time Zone counties in her district that “sandwich” between Colorado and other Nebraska counties in the Central Time Zone.If Colorado sticks with the clocks as is, year-round standard time would create a “southwest Nebraska time-zone island,” between March and November, for Perkins, Chase and Dundy Counties, as reported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://nptelegraph.com/news/local/government-politics/nebraska-legislature-hearing-standard-time-dst/article_01f5a4f8-da86-11ef-b17f-a7d42d321346.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">North Platte Telegraph</a>&nbsp;and Scottsbluff Star-Herald. Those residents would be surrounded in the west by a different version of the Mountain Time Zone and in the east by Nebraska’s Central Time Zone.“I think we need to dissect it just a little bit further and find out the repercussions of actually passing legislation or investigating if we can pass that legislation,” Ibach said.Ibach said it’s possible that any of the proposals could restart conversations on moving the time zone a few miles west, while she understands arguments from some local residents opposed because that system is all they’ve ever known.&nbsp;Moving the time zone would also require the blessing of at least South Dakota and Kansas.<h2>‘Good enough for God’</h2>Hunt said she is a night owl and likes it sunny later in the evening, but she’s cosigning Murman’s bill to end the practice either way. Conrad has added her name to both measures and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/senators-vote-down-proposals-to-end-spring-forward-fall-back-changes/">led a defeated effort in 2024</a>&nbsp;on behalf of&nbsp;former State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion, now the state treasurer.Murman said he prefers standard time because of purported health benefits, aligning with more sun in the morning when people are starting their day, including students.Former State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard was an&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/debate-continues-on-whether-nebraska-should-change-to-permanent-daylight-saving-time-or-permanent-standard-time/">ardent proponent of year-round standard time</a>, particularly for the effect on his Mountain Time residents and students.Erdman famously&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Transcripts/FloorDebate/r2day41.pdf" target="_blank">stated in March 2022</a>: “The sun comes up at an appointed time every day irregardless of what we say the time is. … When God created time, he put the sun right in the middle of the sky at noon. And if it’s good enough for God, it’s good enough for me.”

Twice-a-year Clock Switching Could Tick Closer to End Under Three Nebraska Proposals

LINCOLN, NEB. – “Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska's farm and ranch families will be well served by Jim Macy as the new administrator of EPA Region 7 which comprises of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. Jim served Nebraska well during his time at the Department of Environment and Energy, and we look forward to working with him at Region 7. 

Jim knows and regularly proved that the best way to work with farmers and ranchers is to maintain regular communication, and work as partners to help protect the environment. We congratulate Jim on his appointment, and we're excited to get to work on the many regulatory issues that impact Nebraska's farmers and ranchers."&nbsp;

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 56,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm BureauLINCOLN, NEB. – “Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska's farm and ranch families will be well served by Jim Macy as the new administrator of EPA Region 7 which comprises of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. Jim served Nebraska well during his time at the Department of Environment and Energy, and we look forward to working with him at Region 7. Jim knows and regularly proved that the best way to work with farmers and ranchers is to maintain regular communication, and work as partners to help protect the environment. We congratulate Jim on his appointment, and we're excited to get to work on the many regulatory issues that impact Nebraska's farmers and ranchers."&nbsp;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 56,000 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, President, Regarding Jim Macy Selection as Administrator of EPA Region 7

&nbsp;President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp; discussed his campaign promise to eliminate taxes on tips during a rally Saturday in Las Vegas. (Click below to watch)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737846846313.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp; discussed his campaign promise to eliminate taxes on tips during a rally Saturday in Las Vegas. (Click below to watch)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OXo-XBvMAUQ?si=mFg7mkE_gLDGmNoX&amp;start=8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥President Trump in Las Vegas discussed No Tax on Tips policy 

January 25, 2025 (Omaha, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— One person is in custody, and nobody is injured, after an incident that included an officer-involved shooting early this morning in Omaha.

Preliminary information shows that at approximately 12:40 a.m. Saturday, a trooper attempted a traffic stop on a Jeep Commander for speeding while traveling westbound on Interstate 80 near 96th&nbsp;Street. The driver refused to stop, and the trooper initiated a pursuit.

The pursuit came to an end at an apartment complex near 108th&nbsp;and Harrison Streets, where troopers attempted a felony traffic stop. As troopers were giving commands to exit the vehicle, the driver rammed three NSP patrol units, a garage, and a retaining wall at the apartment complex. Officers from several other agencies began responding as well.

The driver then drove toward troopers who were outside their patrol units, at which point two troopers fired shots toward the driver. The driver was not struck and was able to drive a short distance before crashing into multiple parked vehicles in the parking lot, disabling the suspect’s vehicle.

At that point another trooper deployed a taser and troopers took the driver into custody. Neither the suspect nor any troopers were injured during this incident. Alcohol is believed to be a factor and will be part of the investigation. The suspect will be lodged in jail on several charges.

Further information will be released when possible.

Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolJanuary 25, 2025 (Omaha, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— One person is in custody, and nobody is injured, after an incident that included an officer-involved shooting early this morning in Omaha.Preliminary information shows that at approximately 12:40 a.m. Saturday, a trooper attempted a traffic stop on a Jeep Commander for speeding while traveling westbound on Interstate 80 near 96th&nbsp;Street. The driver refused to stop, and the trooper initiated a pursuit.The pursuit came to an end at an apartment complex near 108th&nbsp;and Harrison Streets, where troopers attempted a felony traffic stop. As troopers were giving commands to exit the vehicle, the driver rammed three NSP patrol units, a garage, and a retaining wall at the apartment complex. Officers from several other agencies began responding as well.The driver then drove toward troopers who were outside their patrol units, at which point two troopers fired shots toward the driver. The driver was not struck and was able to drive a short distance before crashing into multiple parked vehicles in the parking lot, disabling the suspect’s vehicle.At that point another trooper deployed a taser and troopers took the driver into custody. Neither the suspect nor any troopers were injured during this incident. Alcohol is believed to be a factor and will be part of the investigation. The suspect will be lodged in jail on several charges.Further information will be released when possible.

One Arrested, None Injured After Officer-Involved Shooting in Omaha

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed January as Mentoring Month in Nebraska in front of an audience of state mentorship organizations and Miss Nebraska Raechel Warren whose platform was mentorship. Organizations in attendance included 100 Black Men of Omaha, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lincoln, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, Kids Can, MentorNebraska, Partnership for Kids, TeamMates and Visionary Youth.

After signing the proclamation, Gov. Pillen awarded specially designed mentorship challenge coins to 25 of the State of Nebraska’s top public servant youth mentors. Following the awarding of the challenge coin, each honoree received a photo with Gov. Jim Pillen, First Lady Suzanne Pillen and Miss Nebraska Raechel Warren.

“One of the best things we can do for kids is ensure that they have a mentor in their life who will listen to them and provide guidance,“ said Gov. Pillen. “I am pleased to proclaim January as Mentoring Month in Nebraska and I am proud of the public servants being recognized today for their service as youth mentors.”

Melissa Mayo, executive director of MENTORNebraska, emphasized that more than 2,500 Nebraska kids still need mentors. She encouraged Nebraskans to get involved with mentoring youth across the state.

"National Mentoring Month is an opportunity to celebrate the powerful impact of mentoring and raise awareness about the critical need for mentors,” Mayo said. “The Governor's Public Servant Youth Mentoring Program stands as a prime example of how dedicating just one hour a week of paid time off to mentor a young person can create lasting positive change throughout communities in Nebraska."

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed January as Mentoring Month in Nebraska in front of an audience of state mentorship organizations and Miss Nebraska Raechel Warren whose platform was mentorship. Organizations in attendance included 100 Black Men of Omaha, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lincoln, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, Kids Can, MentorNebraska, Partnership for Kids, TeamMates and Visionary Youth.After signing the proclamation, Gov. Pillen awarded specially designed mentorship challenge coins to 25 of the State of Nebraska’s top public servant youth mentors. Following the awarding of the challenge coin, each honoree received a photo with Gov. Jim Pillen, First Lady Suzanne Pillen and Miss Nebraska Raechel Warren.“One of the best things we can do for kids is ensure that they have a mentor in their life who will listen to them and provide guidance,“ said Gov. Pillen. “I am pleased to proclaim January as Mentoring Month in Nebraska and I am proud of the public servants being recognized today for their service as youth mentors.”Melissa Mayo, executive director of MENTORNebraska, emphasized that more than 2,500 Nebraska kids still need mentors. She encouraged Nebraskans to get involved with mentoring youth across the state."National Mentoring Month is an opportunity to celebrate the powerful impact of mentoring and raise awareness about the critical need for mentors,” Mayo said. “The Governor's Public Servant Youth Mentoring Program stands as a prime example of how dedicating just one hour a week of paid time off to mentor a young person can create lasting positive change throughout communities in Nebraska."TeamMates Mentoring is one of the organizations participating in the public servant youth mentoring program. CEO DeMoine Adams of TeamMates spoke on the importance of expanding mentoring. “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is ‘what are you doing for others?’” he said."We’re excited to celebrate Mentoring Month in Nebraska collectively with other mentoring organizations by celebrating the power of relationships, raising awareness around the importance of mentoring, and expanding the mentoring movement across the state of Nebraska,” said Adams. “We appreciate the state for supporting mentoring by allowing their employees to volunteer their time."Christopher McCoy, executive director of 100 Black Men of Omaha, emphasized the importance of mentorship programs rooted in cultural sensitivity and community engagement. These programs help young people see their potential reflected in mentors who share their experience."As we navigate an increasingly complex and polarizing world, the role of mentorship in shaping the future of our youth has never been more critical,” said McCoy. “National Mentoring Month provides a meaningful opportunity to unite in celebration of the powerful impact mentoring has on the lives of young people. When mentors actively engage with youth in their communities, they foster a sense of belonging, cultural pride, and a vision of what is possible. Mentoring is more than just guidance — it is a lifeline."The State of Nebraska Public Servant Youth Mentoring program provides one hour of paid leave to public servants participating in an approved mentoring program. Public servants being recognized today mentored through 100 Black Men of Omaha, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, Kids Can and TeamMates Mentoring.“The State of Nebraska is pleased to contribute to our local communities by offering this opportunity for public servants to mentor Nebraska youth,” said State Personnel Director Sean Davis. “We are working to expand the number of mentors in the program and look for even more to be recognized for their efforts next year.”The 25 public servants recognized with challenge coins, and their respective agencies:Courtney Brewer, Department of Health and Human ServicesAlison Kortefay, Department of EducationKaren Krull Robart, Department of Health and Human ServicesNicole Mercer, Nebraska Probation SystemDaniell Moore, Department of Health and Human ServicesAnissa Rasmussen, Department of Economic DevelopmentLeticia Torres, Department of Health and Human ServicesJamie Adkins, Department of Health and Human ServicesLucas Atkinson, Department of Health and Human ServicesTiffany Bui, Department of Health and Human ServicesTrudy Clark, Department of EducationAmi Dorant, Department of Health and Human ServicesJadyn Gentleman, Department of CorrectionsMichele Janky, Department of Health and Human ServicesCrystal L'Heureux, Department of Health and Human ServicesNicole Miller, Board of ParoleKayleigh Monzon, Department of Health and Human ServicesKerrin Packard, Department of Health and Human ServicesMichelle Schmit Zwingman, Department of EducationMacey Van Ackeren, Department of CorrectionsRuth Walla, Department of RevenueTylor Watts, Department of Health and Human ServicesCaitlyn Wensel, Nebraska State PatrolBrennan Young, Department of CorrectionsPaige Zamora, Nebraska Probation System