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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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142 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "NE" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending

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  • Senate · 142 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=13F3D30C-8D2A-4CAB-8A4D-09A2AFC6BFEE Fischer’s Christmas Message 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following video to celebrate Christmas day. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E38959C8-0DB0-4838-BF81-A84FD5F6F02C Fischer Statement on Colorado Supreme Court Ruling 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today in response to the Colorado Supreme Court’s recentruling disqualifying President Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 ballot: “Regardless of your political persuasion, denying a candidate even the ability to stand for election is wrong. It’s the right of American voters to support who they wish, but this ruling takes away that right. This election interference is deeply unAmerican. I encourage the Supreme Court to weigh in quickly. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-statement-on-colorado-supreme-court-ruling 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D0DAF740-0B67-4E73-AB95-214A93014A49 Fischer, Ricketts Applaud Nomination of Susan Bazis to U.S. District Court of Nebraska 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) released the following statements regarding President Biden’s nomination of Susan M. Bazis of Omaha to be a federal judge for the District of Nebraska: “I was honored to recommend Susan Bazis to be a federal judge for the District of Nebraska to the White House earlier this year. A bright legal mind, Judge Bazis is a dedicated public servant who works hard not only to administer justice fairly, but to make our court system more efficient,”said Senator Fischer. “Her broad experience in both criminal and civil affairs will continue to serve our state and its people well. I encourage all of my Senate colleagues to support her nomination—congratulations, Susan!” “I applaud Senator Fischer for working with the president to nominate a qualified and well-respected Nebraskan to the federal bench,” said Senator Ricketts. “Judge Susan Bazis’s varied experience, strong intellect, and temperament will benefit us all. I have every confidence she will receive strong, bipartisan support. Congratulations, Judge Bazis!” Background: Senator Fischer first recommended Susan Bazis as a federal judge to President Biden for the District of Nebraska in January of 2023. Bazis’ nomination now enters the Senate confirmation process. After a confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, the committee will vote on her nomination. Following approval by the committee, her nomination heads to the Senate floor for a final vote. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-ricketts-applaud-nomination-of-susan-bazis-to-u-s-district-court-of-nebraska 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=228CDC6B-2BDE-4CD5-AE13-1A126595C175 Fischer to Mayorkas: Your Border Negligence Caused an Economic Crisis 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Demands Action to Reopen Railways, Protect Commerce WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and a member of the Agriculture Committee, sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas criticizing the closure of the international railway crossing bridges in Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas. In her letter, Senator Fischer said the closure would hurt agriculture producers across the United States, and demanded the administration enact policies to curb the record levels of migration at the U.S. southern border. “The border crisis is not new. Since President Biden took office, CBP personnel have encountered over 6.6 million migrants – not counting additional millions of got-aways… Your office had an opportunity to implement policies that would stem the flow of illegal migration to prevent these suspensions from reoccurring. Instead, you failed to act and placed a heavier burden on American businesses and industries,” wrote Senator Fischer. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A13EA98D-F1B9-45A2-9692-12752539547F Fischer Statement on the Passing of Scott Lautenbaugh 2023-12-16 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, Neb. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after learning of the passing of former Nebraska State Senator Scott Lautenbaugh: “I was saddened to learn of the passing of my former colleague Scott Lautenbaugh this morning. Scott was a valuable member of the Legislature and of the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee. I enjoyed working with him on the infrastructure needs of Nebraska. He helped build a stronger Nebraska and was always guided by his conservative values.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4BF1B1C4-CBB5-4D02-AA9D-8EF7CC1BB6C1 Fischer, Colleagues Condemn Hamas’ Use of Sexual Violence During October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel 2023-12-14 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator DebFischer (R-Neb.), asenior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined U.S. Senators JeanneShaheen (D-N.H.), KatieBritt (R-Ala.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) in leading a resolution condemning Hamas for using sexual and gender-based violence against Israelis during the October 7th terrorist attack. “Some events are so evil they cannot be ignored or explained away—they should unite us in condemnation, speaking in one, human voice. And yet, in the wake of mass rape on October 7th, human rights activists became terror apologists, while women’s groups turned their backs on thousands of Israeli women. Every organization that has denied or ignored Hamas’s war crimes must speak out and help bring justice to the perpetrators,” said Senator Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer, Shaheen, Britt, and Gillibrand, the resolution was cosponsoredby U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Angus King (I-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-Wyo.), andMichael Bennet (D-Colo.). Full text of the resolution can be foundhere. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-colleagues-condemn-hamas-use-of-sexual-violence-during-october-7th-terrorist-attack-on-israel 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B5072EA0-FEB7-4CC2-ABEA-EA1B76D25E49 Fischer: Europe’s Munitions ‘Cupboard’ is Bare 2023-12-14 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “This Boom-And-Bust Cycle of Production Has Put the United States Dangerously Behind” WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a speech on the Senate floor this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called on the United States and Europe to build up their stockpiles of weapons and munitions. Senator Fischer stated that the U.S. is currently unprepared to increase munitions production at the scale and speed required to win a large war — noting that Russia and China far outpace America’s current capacity to build and replace equipment. During her remarks, Senator Fischer cited a Wall Street Journal article outlining the damaging impact of budget cuts and an eroded defense industry on European armed services. According to the article, Germany’s army only has enough ammunition to last for two days of battle, and the British military previously considered removing rocket launchers from museums to upgrade and donate to Ukraine. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=06C85282-252E-45A9-AEF9-D6762CD26580 Fischer Applauds Final Passage of Annual Defense Bill 2023-12-13 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Fischer Secured Dozens of Key Provisions to Strengthen U.S. National Security, Support State of Nebraska WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This annual legislation authorizes defense spending and sets the policies and priorities for the U.S. military. Senator Fischer secured dozens of key national security provisions in the bill that strengthen America’s military and support the state of Nebraska. “The first responsibility of the federal government is the safety and security of this nation. As the United States faces growing threats from China, Russia, and Iran, it’s vital that Congress act to equip our military to protect the American people. This year’s NDAA secures a pay raise for our troops and supports key defense priorities across the country, including at Offutt Air Force Base. Our bipartisan legislation will also update our aging nuclear forces, boost domestic munitions production, and bolster our national security.” Key National Security Priorities Nuclear Capabilities Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) – Created a program of record for SLCM, authorization for $190M for development, and $70M for National Nuclear Security Administration to develop the warhead. Sentinel ICBM – Improved contracting flexibility for Sentinel Military Construction projects and created a Sentinel task force. New START Treaty – Prohibited the sharing of New START information with Russia without equivalent sharing from Russia. W76-2 Warheads – Prohibited a reduction in W76-2 warheads, a low-yield variant of a thermonuclear weapon for submarine-launched missiles. Minuteman III – Retained key Minuteman III provisions, including a requirement to maintain and modernize all 150 silos at each of the three sites and to decrease upload times.” Munitions Multi-year Procurement – Included multi-year pr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=981A0E61-68CF-4935-ACD1-322689837C79 WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Groups Support Fischer Effort to Protect Rural Seniors’ Access to Care, Halt Damaging Medicare Staffing Rule 2023-12-12 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Stakeholders Say President Biden’s CMS Rule “Threatens Access to Long-Term Care for Seniors Everywhere” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act. The legislation prohibits the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would hurt facilities across rural Nebraska and could force many to close. Since its introduction, the legislation has received broad support from stakeholders. The bill is endorsed by over 100 organizations including: the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN), American Health Care Association (AHCA), American Hospital Association, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, American Seniors Housing Association, Association of Jewish Aging Services, Catholic Health Association of the United States, Federation of American Hospitals, Good Samaritan, Immanuel, LeadingAge, LeadingAge Nebraska, Lutheran Services in America, National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH), National Center for Assisted Living National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), National Rural Health Association, Nebraska Health Care Association, Nebraska Hospital Association, Tabitha Health, and Vetter Senior Living. Stakeholder Support: “We are already facing a crisis in access to care in Nebraska nursing homes, and the proposed staffing mandate would only make this worse. We have more people needing services than we have available providers, and many waiting for services in our hospitals and at home. The CMS proposed minimum staffing mandate will only make it harder for older adults and families to receive the care they need. Getting this wrong will jeopardize equity and access for care now and into the future with a growing number of older adults. The issues that need to be addressed are developing a strong workforce and assuring providers receive adequate funding to cover the cost of services. LeadingAge Nebraska wholly s… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=04AAE713-7855-47CC-9B78-338F170D7255 Fischer Secures Key National Security Priorities in Defense Bill 2023-12-07 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the release of the final Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. Senator Fischer secured dozens of key national security provisions in the bill that strengthen our military and support the state of Nebraska. “The federal government’s primary responsibility is the safety and security of this nation. The threats facing the United States from China, Russia, Iran, and elsewhere are the gravest in decades, and Congress must equip our military to protect the American people. This year’s defense bill will advance vital defense priorities nationwide and in Nebraska, including key updates to our nuclear forces, munitions production, and Offutt Air Force Base.” Key National Security Priorities Nuclear Capabilities Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) – Created a program of record for SLCM, authorization for $190M for development, and $70M for National Nuclear Security Administration to develop the warhead. Sentinel ICBM – Improved contracting flexibility for Sentinel Military Construction projects and created a Sentinel task force. New START Treaty – Prohibited the sharing of New START information with Russia without equivalent sharing from Russia. W76-2 Warheads – Prohibited a reduction in W76-2 warheads, a low-yield variant of a thermonuclear weapon for submarine-launched missiles. Minuteman III – Retained key Minuteman III provisions, including a requirement to maintain and modernize all 150 silos at each of the three sites and to decrease upload times.” Munitions Multi-year Procurement – Included multi-year procurement authority for munitions, which is vital for long-term planning and the support of our military industrial base. B83 Gravity Bomb – Prohibited retirement of the B83 gravity bomb and authorized the production of B61-13 gravity bombs, which are more capable against hard and deeply buried targets. Israel Cooperation Missile Def… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A239BAFF-9085-464B-B243-E80BED2AB8C5 Nebraska’s Senators Raise Concerns with Ineffective Emergency Relief Program for Producers 2023-12-07 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) joined their colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives to call attention to issues regarding the 2022 Emergency Relief Program (ERP). In a recent letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas Vilsack, the Senators highlighted ongoing producer concerns with the new program. “The 2022 crop year was challenging for many of America's farmers and ranchers who were saddled with record-high production costs, inflation, and met with historic drought conditions in the West and significant flood and freeze events in other regions of the country. In light of these challenges, we thank you for the swift assistance made to livestock producers with drought or wildfire losses in 2022. However, following the USDA’s 2022 ERP rollout for qualified crop losses, we have heard from producers in our states with concerns regarding the new program,”the members wrote. The Senators outlined several questions for Secretary Vilsack to increase transparency on how the emergency reimbursements were calculated, administered, and what would be done with remaining funds. “We recognize that ad hoc disaster assistance is costly to U.S. taxpayers and only a band-aid to issues exacerbated by extreme weather volatility. It is for this reason that we believe an adequate farm safety net, including conservation investments that address persistent drought, are critical in any upcoming multi-year Farm Bill reauthorization,”the members continued. In addition to Senators Fischer and Ricketts, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas), Lance Gooden (R-Texas), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Troy Nehls (R-Texas) and Vincente Gonzalez (D-Te… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=872279AF-3F59-4BE0-9879-69ADD8052407 Fischer Legislation to Protect Rural Seniors’ Access to Care, Halt Damaging Medicare Staffing Rule 2023-12-06 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act. The legislation would prohibit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would hurt facilities across rural Nebraska and could force many to close. In addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Angus King (I-Maine). The legislation would also establish an advisory panel on nursing home staffing that includes voices from both urban and rural communities. The panel would submit a report to Congress that analyzes workforce shortages and makes practical recommendations to strengthen the workforce. “Nursing homes across the country face historic staffing shortages, and nowhere are those challenges more real than in rural states like Nebraska. This mandate from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services would force many facilities to reduce their number of patients or even close their doors for good. My legislation will stop this staffing rule and allow time to find a fairer solution that protects rural facilities across our state,” said Senator Fischer. “Imposing a one-size-fits-all staffing mandate on nursing homes will have costly and devastating impacts on Kansas seniors’ access to care. The pandemic, compounded with reimbursement challenges and staffing shortages, has led to the closure or reduced services in nearly 50 nursing homes across Kansas. The importance of having access to local long-term quality care facilities for seniors cannot be understated. Kansas seniors should be able to live and age comfortably in a local community where they can stay connected to their families. This unachievable rule further highlights the Biden Administration's continued disregard for rural America. I'm proud t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E03D7F43-1744-4C9A-A6E3-AE8CEF9345BD Fischer, Ricketts Call on Senate to Pass Bipartisan CARS Act Following House Passage 2023-12-06 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following passage of the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act in the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) called for immediate Senate passage. Senators Fischer and Ricketts are cosponsors of the CARS Act in the Senate. “Mandating electric vehicles is unfair, expensive, and deeply unrealistic. The Senate should follow the House’s lead by passing the CARS Act and put the needs of Americans before climate alarmism,” said Senator Fischer.“The EPA cannot continue to pick winners and losers. This legislation ensures the Biden administration can’t prioritize their radical left agenda over affordable and reliable transportation. I’ll always fight to protect Nebraskans’ ability to choose what is best for them and their families. The Senate should pass it swiftly,” said Senator Ricketts. In October, Senators Fischer and Ricketts joined U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) to introduce the Senate version of the CARS Act. The bill aims to counter Biden Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions mandates that would require two-thirds of new cars and trucks be electric in just eight years. More information about the bill is available here. BACKGROUND: On April 12, 2023, the EPA introduced the “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles.” This is the most aggressive emissions standards ever released by the agency. It is a de facto mandate for the mass production of electric vehicles (EVs). This mandate would require two-thirds of all vehicles be electric by 2032. The average price of an EV is over $17,000 more than gas-powered vehicles. The Biden administration’s persistent advocacy for EVs raises concerns for Americans about higher costs and less choice. It also has the potential to cause a loss of jobs in the auto industry. The mandate would also increase our dependency on the Chinese Communist Party, the global supply leader for the critical minerals necessary for EV battery pro… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1B64BCB4-1238-4921-A203-BA35A9E08482 Fischer Statement on Attacks Against USS Carney in the Red Sea 2023-12-03 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today after reports that a U.S. warship was attacked in the Red Sea: “The Biden administration’s anemic attempts to deter attacks on U.S. forces have failed. Attacks on Americans demand a forceful, credible response. It’s also beyond time for President Biden to correct his error and redesignate the Houthis as a terrorist organization.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0621EF8C-541E-4874-97E4-350B013DDA6F Fischer Statement on Passing of Justice O’Connor 2023-12-01 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after learning of the passing of Justice O’Connor: “Sandra Day O’Connor embodied the pioneer spirit of the rural West, trail-blazing her way from a cattle ranch in the American Southwest to our nation’s highest court. A lawmaker herself and a gifted jurist, she loved our country and left future generations of Americans a stronger, fairer nation. I was privileged to spend time with Justice O’Connor at The Prairie Club near Valentine, where we enjoyed an evening of conversation exploring many topics, including her love for golf and ranching. May her family find comfort and peace in her remarkable legacy.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7A19E523-0793-4F3D-AA94-8753EAECBFA3 Fischer: Biden Admin Rule Would Close Down Nursing Homes Nationwide 2023-12-01 2023 2023-12 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Across the country, over 1.2 million Americans live in nursing homes. Many of our own parents, grandparents, and other loved ones are among them. Nursing facilities provide specialized, attentive care to seniors in critical need of their services. Long-term care facilities are especially indispensable in small towns and rural areas like much of my home state of Nebraska. In those areas, a larger percentage of the population is over 65. Unfortunately, the Biden administration released a rule this fall that could force many nursing facilities around the country to close their doors. The new rule, introduced in September by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, mandates new minimum staffing standards for long-term care facilities. It requires each facility to staff a registered nurse on site 24/7 and would require staff to provide each resident with at least three hours of direct care per day. The administration believes this rule would improve the quality of care in our nursing facilities. Unfortunately, the rule as written would simply force many facilities to shut down — denying care to seniors entirely. According to CMS, 75% of nursing homes would have to increase staffing to comply with these proposed standards. But across our country, these homes already face historic staffing shortages. According to federal labor statistics, nursing homes lost more than 200,000 workers from February 2020 to December 2022. The industry is still rebuilding its workforce after a devastating pandemic. Under this rule, nursing homes would be forced to go to great lengths to find staff in the midst of these overwhelming shortages. If they failed, they would likely need to shut their doors, depriving seniors of care. Even one nursing home closure could be detrimental to seniors in certain rural communities. Highly populated urban areas may host several long-term care options — but these facilities are few and far between in the rural … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=23541332-FE0F-4A86-9840-B11C591EA2D1 Fischer’s Thanksgiving Day Message 2023-11-22 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, Neb. – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following video ahead of Thanksgiving Day. “As we approach Thanksgiving Day, I want to express my gratitude to the people of Nebraska. It is a tremendous honor to work for you in the United States Senate. I also want to extend my sincerest gratitude to the brave members of our Armed Forces who keep us safe, especially those who cannot be with their loved ones this holiday,” said Senator Fischer. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8E93F599-1A5D-4A3C-A5E2-901B6937F6A9 Fischer Statement on Conditioning U.S. Support for Israel 2023-11-21 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after Democrats in Congress held discussions about placing conditions and restrictions on U.S. support for Israel: “This administration has said from the beginning that it would not tell Israel how to protect itself — President Biden and Democrats in Congress should stay the course. The political whims of a far-left minority shouldn’t erode American support for our ally. In the coming weeks, Congress ought to reject attempts to dictate Israel’s response to the worst terrorist attack in its history.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-conditioning-u-s-support-for-israel 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3E1BC658-59E6-43A3-9A24-4043F97A6A7A Fischer, Casey Introduce Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act, Investing in Rural Communities 2023-11-17 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Penn.) in introducing the Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act. This legislation will help rural communities access federal funding and resources. Rural communities struggle to compete for federal investment opportunities due to insufficient funding, low capacity, and staffing shortages. “Rural Nebraskans deserve to see their tax dollars invested in projects that help their communities. Our bipartisan legislation would optimize federal funding for local communities and enhance their access to federal programs,” said Senator Fischer.“Our rural communities deserve a fair shot to grow their economies and improve their quality of life. This legislation will put rural communities on a level playing field to compete for federal resources alongside our cities and suburban areas. This is a critical moment to ensure that communities that have been the bedrock of our Nation for generations are receiving the support they need to thrive,” said Senator Casey. Click here to read an overview of the bill. Click here to read the text of the bill. Background: The Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act will: Create a grant program providing awards to communities to address urgent needs, including affordable child care, housing, and job training Provide technical assistance grants to help rural communities navigate existing federal funding opportunities. Improve supportive services offered by the federal government to rural communities. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F260B4E5-6324-4B0C-820E-9AB7330E9D4C Fischer Applauds FCC Action Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence 2023-11-16 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) action today to implement the Safe Connections Act. Senator Fischer led the Safe Connections Act with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), which was passed into law in 2022. In compliance with this legislation, the new FCC rules will protect survivors of domestic violence by enabling them to separate their phone lines from shared mobile accounts, shield their privacy when calling domestic violence hotlines for help, and access the FCC’s affordability resources. “I’m grateful to the FCC and Senator Schatz for their teamwork to pass and implement the Safe Connections Act. Survivors of domestic violence should never have to live in fear of their abusers. The FCC’s implementation of our legislation will ensure that these survivors have the tools to safeguard their communications and connect with critical services securely.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=51E4F79C-C394-4422-B296-72C7ECA25415 Fischer Leads Letter Urging EPA to Consider Impact of Proposed Rulemaking on Small Meat and Poultry Processing Facilities 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led a letter with 7 of her Senate Republican colleagues to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan urging the agency to ensure that very small and small meat and poultry processing facilities are fairly considered under proposed revisions to the Meat and Poultry Products (MPP) Effluent Guidelines and Standards. “As you know, small to mid-sized meat and poultry processing facilities have a vital role in the economy. This was proven throughout the COVID-19 pandemic when these facilities remained open while large facilities were closed. Additionally, many federal resources have been used to expand meatpacking capacity, so we need to ensure that these very small and small facilities do not face regulations that will force them to close,” wrote the Senators. In their letter, the Senators asked Administrator Regan to explain what testing and data has been collected from very small and small processing facilities. The Senators also called on the EPA to outline the number of small processing facilities with which it has engaged while drafting its proposed revisions. “As EPA seeks to update Meat and Poultry Products (MPP) wastewater regulations, we strongly encourage you to work with very small and small meat and poultry processing facilities to certify that any new regulations are practical, science-based, and don’t create an unnecessary burden for the continued operations of these facilities,” the Senators concluded. In addition to Senator Fischer, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Risch (R-Idaho), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), and Mike Braun (R-Ind.). "We are happy for the support of Senator Fischer as we await the new proposed rule from EPA on wastewater. From the information we have seen from EPA, the proposed rule could have a major impact on the meat industry and especially small processors who… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5939FE3E-5873-4254-AEE3-4DF6A3EB8239 Fischer Legislation Removes Barriers to Precision Ag Technologies 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– At a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) discussed how three of her bills address common barriers to the adoption of precision agriculture tools. These barriers include financing, connectivity, and internet access. Senator Fischer also noted that the joint FCC and USDA Precision Ag Connectivity Task Force recommended including both her PAL Act and her LAST ACRE Act in the Farm Bill. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=883F435E-BD18-400D-AEB1-F55C8DF580BB Fischer Statement on United Nations Security Council Resolution 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the United States’ failure to veto the United Nations Security Council’s resolution calling for extended humanitarian pauses in Gaza. “A pause in Israel’s offensive will allow Hamas to regroup and plot attacks against innocent Israelis and will only prolong this war. It’s shameful that President Biden has abandoned our ally at the United Nations.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-united-nations-security-council-resolution 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AA8632D3-27EA-40A0-8C8E-B8CF4C22D0C9 End EV Freeloading 2023-11-15 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “If anyone should be paying into federal road repair, it should be EV users.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the need to end electric vehicle (EV) freeloading and secure continued funding for America’s infrastructure. In her remarks, Senator Fischer noted that the Highway Trust Fund, which maintains U.S.infrastructure, will run out of money in the next few years. The current funding structure does not consider EVs and only generates revenue from gas-powered vehicles. This places an unnecessary burden on gas-powered vehicles and limits the funding available to modernize and upgrade U.S. infrastructure. Senator Fischer’s Stop EV Freeloading Act would help address the fund’s impending insolvency by requiring EVs to contribute to the Highway Trust Fund, leveling the playing field for all drivers. Senator Fischer’s weekly column on the legislation can be found here. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: As Americans in 2023, there’s plenty we disagree on. But last week, USA Today released a new study on something we can all agree to hate. Potholes. The study ranked all 50 states based on how many potholes cover their roads. It also included that the average car repair after a tussle with a pothole costs over $400. That’s a lot of money for Americans to pay unexpectedly after a road incident. And unfortunately, our pothole problem is about to get much worse. For the past 67 years, the Highway Trust Fund has largely funded road maintenance across our nation. The Fund repairs wear and tear from vehicles on the highway. That’s critical for our roads, for our infrastructure, and for our transportation. But the Highway Trust Fund is running on empty. It’s projected to run out of money in the next few years. The insolvency of the Fund would n… 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CF95D8C6-FF84-4494-AC2C-E8942C0FFB6E Administration’s Spectrum Strategy Undermines National Security Needs 2023-11-14 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the administration’s recent announcement of its national spectrum strategy.“The administration’s newspectrum strategy deliberately undermines our military’s use of federal airwaves. Modern equipment vital to our nation’s defense, including aircraft and radar, operates on specific airwaves and cannot be moved. The administration’s first priority must be the safety and security of our country — that means preserving a portion of the finite spectrum for vital military use.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/administration-s-spectrum-strategy-undermines-national-security-needs 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ECEF8ED8-126F-4161-8B03-CF2B6E72620B Senate Unanimously Passes Fischer Legislation to Give Tribal Colleges and Universities a Stronger Voice in Education Funding 2023-11-14 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved her National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act. The legislation would give Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them. U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-Mon.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) cosponsored the legislation. The legislation now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives. “Tribal Colleges and Universities should not be left out of the conversation when it comes to federal education resources. I am glad to see this strong, bipartisan legislation pass the Senate with unanimous support. It’s long past time to ensure that the Departments of Education and Interior hear directly from TCU leaders about their challenges and funding needs,” said Senator Fischer. “Montana’s Tribal Colleges and Universities educate and inspire Montana’s next generation of leaders, so it’s important that they have the tools they need to be successful. TCU leaders know best what their students and faculty need which is why they ought to have the opportunity to work directly with the Departments of Education and the Interior to make sure federal dollars are spent effectively. The Senate passing our commonsense bill is a big step forward and I’ll keep fighting to ensure Montana Tribes and TCU leaders have a seat at the table,” said Senator Tester. “I am pleased that the NACIE Improvement Act has passed the Senate. Leaders of Tribal Colleges and Universities know the needs of their organizations, faculty and students better than anyone else. This legislation will amplify their voice on how to best meet those needs and improve the effectiveness of federal resources,” said Senator Rounds. “A quality education is the foundation for success, and too often Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are left out of the decision-making process on feder… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F5B32E37-3E9E-4272-96A7-836F70A36C37 Fischer Reintroduces Real MEAT Act to End Deceptive Labeling of Imitation Meat Products, Stop Smear Campaign Against Real Beef and Pork 2023-11-14 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently reintroduced the Real Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully (MEAT) Act to end deceptive labeling practices for alternative protein products. The Real MEAT Act would clarify the definition of beef and pork for labeling purposes by requiring alternative proteins to clearly display the word “imitation” on their packaging. The legislation would eliminate the consumer confusion that results from misbranding and ensure that the federal government is able to enforce labeling standards. “It’s time to end the deceptive propaganda of plant-based protein products that deliberately confuse consumers by mimicking beef and pork. My Real MEAT Act will clarify that these imitation products aren’t held to the same food safety and labeling standards as real, nutritious beef and pork. Americans deserve to know what’s on their dinner plate, and my bill will bring certainty to the supermarket and end the smear campaign against real meats,” said Senator Fischer. “USCA appreciates Senator Fischer’s leadership on truthful, accurate labeling of meat products and protein alternatives through the introduction of the REAL Meat Act. As new alternatives and substitutes are brought to market, it’s important that consumers remain confident in national food safety and labeling programs. What is on the label is what should be inside the package, every time,”said U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper. “The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has long been a supporter of the Real Meat Act. Cattle producers work hard every day to raise a high-quality, wholesome protein and we appreciate Congress' continued effort to bring further transparency to plant based products,” said National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattle producer. “Nebraska’s hardworking beef cattle producers are globally recognized for providing prime product to consumers. While imitation meat will never come close… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AEBCF4E4-04C2-4BC4-B57C-BA61E52E23AA VIDEO: Fischer: Bidenomics Driving Up Costs for Families, Hurting Small Businesses Across Nebraska 2023-11-13 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “Our Economy is Sick, and This Administration is Making It Sicker with Every Reckless Financial Decision." WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) spoke on the Senate floor recently about President Biden’s failing economic agenda and the damaging impact of “Bidenomics” on families and small business owners across Nebraska. In her remarks, Senator Fischer discussed how skyrocketing inflation has driven up costs for fuel oil, electricity, groceries, and even Halloween candy. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B1B572DA-17A4-40D5-A38E-3DC0EB47D732 Fischer Statement on Growing Iranian Aggression, Attacks on U.S. Troops 2023-11-13 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today after repeated reports of attacks on U.S. forces by Iran-aligned groups. “Iran is the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism and a destabilizing force in the Middle East. These ongoing attacks on U.S. troops cannot go unanswered. The United States must do more to effectively deter Iran and its proxies from attacking our forces in the region. Strong deterrence is essential to preventing further regional escalation.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-growing-iranian-aggression-attacks-on-u-s-troops 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5B5DC743-2363-49C3-866F-48E64492742C Fischer Statement on Veterans Day 2023-11-10 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day: “On Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who answered the call to serve our nation. They exemplify the best our country has to offer: courage, honor, integrity, and patriotism. We are forever grateful for their sacrifices to defend our freedom. I invite every Nebraskan to thank a veteran for all they have done to safeguard the American way of life.” Click here for Senator Fischer’s Veterans Day Column. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C38084D3-89D0-4957-B700-204F64FB3778 VIDEO: Fischer Presses Homeland Security Secretary on National Security Crisis at the Southern Border 2023-11-09 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Senator Also Slams HHS Secretary on Administration’s Push to Extend Temporary, Partisan Priorities: “COVID Emergency Funding Was Never Intended to be Indefinite.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) pressed U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on the historic crisis at the U.S. southern border. During the hearing, Senator Fischer urged the Biden administration to enact substantive policy changes to address the border crisis, like tightening asylum standards or limiting the use of parole. As Senator Fischer noted, 169 migrants with positive terrorism watchlist matches were arrested between ports of entry on the southern border in Fiscal Year 2023. Senator Fischer also questioned U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra on the administration’s attempts to extend a temporary program that was included in the partisan American Rescue Plan and expired on September 30, 2023. Senator Fischer stressed the need to address America’s important childcare challenges through the regular appropriations process — including amendments and open debate — instead of inconsistent year-end supplemental packages. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E950AC28-6047-46D6-B3A2-2E2627676E98 Fischer Welcomes Groundbreaking for Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island 2023-11-09 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island, which will be held on Friday, November 10. “We owe so much to those who have served our country and sacrificed in defense of our freedoms. The Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island will provide a fitting location to honor these heroes and stand as a solemn tribute to their patriotism and service. I was pleased to secure funding for this project, and I want to thank the many who have been fighting to make this a reality,” said Senator Fischer. Earlier this year, Senator Fischer commended the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) announcement that it had awarded up to $8,391,524 for the establishment of a Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island. The VA also announced it would reimburse the state of Nebraska $577,495 for the cost of fabrication and delivery of outer burial receptacles used for the project. Background: Senator Fischer secured funding in the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act to continue honoring Nebraska’s fallen veterans through the Veterans Cemetery Grant Program. The program provides funding to establish, expand, and improve veteran cemeteries, ensuring that veterans in Nebraska and across the U.S. are buried with the honors they deserve. According to the VA, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island will serve more than 13,000 veterans and their eligible family members. The grant will fund 506 pre-placed crypts, 548 cremains gravesites, 640 columbarium niches, an administration building, a maintenance facility, a committal service shelter, and landscaping. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4EAC29E7-A48D-4EA3-BAFA-6EB346EF2901 Fischer, Colleagues Urge Blinken to Bring New Suite of UN Sanctions Against Iranian Regime 2023-11-08 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined 12 of her Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken demanding that the Biden administration press for a broader, more permanent framework of sanctions on Iran from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The letter was led by U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). On October 18, the United Nation’s (UN) sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programs expired, and in October 2020, the UN’s conventional arms embargo against Iran expired. Both expirations are delayed consequences of the Obama administration’s Iran Nuclear Deal. “[Iran’s] systemic support of terror merits broader, permanent treatment by the UN Security Council. If the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China wish to demonstrate their opposition to the UN Charter’s call to advance peace and security, it would provide important clarity to other nations suffering from Iranian terror threats of their true allegiances,” wrote the Senators. “A new UNSC resolution should target the same activity the UN permanently sanctioned prior to the 2015 enactment of Resolution 2231, including … involvement in Iran’s enrichment, reprocessing, and heavy water production; assistance with its ballistic missile testing, development, and launches; transfer of nuclear and missile technology to Iran; transfer of conventional weapons, rockets, and drones to and from Iran. It should also add a multilateral prohibition on the import of Iranian oil, petroleum products, metals, or investment in its energy sector, essentially multi-lateralizing the objective of American secondary sanctions in these areas,” the Senators continued. The Senators argued that Iran’s material support for terrorist organizations poses a significant threat to the world and merits strong sanctions, just like Iran’s nuclear program — especially following the recent Hamas attack on Israel. In addition to Senator… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=159D3F35-9120-49E6-833A-71850F8885BC Fischer Introduces Bill to Return Improperly Seized Army Corps of Engineers Land Back to Nebraska’s Winnebago Tribe 2023-11-07 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– This week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) led the introduction of the Winnebago Land Transfer Act. The legislation would transfer approximately 1,600 acres of land back to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska that were illegally seized in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a proposed recreation project that was never started. In addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). “The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was wrong to seize this land through eminent domain in the 1970s. After decades of inaction, it’s time for us to make this right. My legislation will return this land to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and I look forward to getting this bill to the President’s desk,” said Senator Fischer. “The Army Corps of Engineers’ decision to condemn and seize land from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska was a classic case of government overreach. My colleagues in the Nebraska and Iowa delegations and I want to see this wrong corrected, and the land returned to the Winnebago people,” said Senator Ricketts. “The introduction of the Winnebago Land Transfer Act by Senators Fischer, Ricketts, Grassley, and Ernst is a historic and beautiful moment for the Winnebago people. We have been waiting for this wrong to be made right, and we are grateful for the leadership demonstrated by our congressional delegation. We look forward to the passage of this important legislation,” said Winnebago Tribal Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan. Click here to read the text of the bill. Background: The Treaty of 1865 established the Winnebago Reservation in northeastern Nebraska along the Missouri River. Due to westward shifts in the river, portions of the reservation are now in Iowa. In 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) was performing stabilization efforts on the Missouri River’s banks and condemned land on both the Nebraska and Iowa sides of the river for a proposed recreation project. The conde… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A999885C-9E64-441C-99A7-A5C10DC8D102 Senate Unanimously Approves Fischer’s Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Vets’ Access to CDL Schools 2023-11-06 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved her Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act. The legislation, which was co-led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), ensures that veterans’ GI benefits can be utilized at new branches of commercial driving program (CDL) schools whose primary institutions have already received regulatory approval. Currently, if an approved trucking school opens a secondary facility in a new location, existing laws require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and state regulators to deny the branch’s ability to receive GI benefits for two years. “I’m glad to see our bipartisan legislation to support veterans pass the Senate with unanimous support. Trucking is a vital part of our economy, yet unnecessary red tape continues to prevent some veterans from utilizing their GI benefits in the industry. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to get this legislation to the President’s desk,” said Senator Fischer. Senator Fischer led the introduction of the legislation in March. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives, where it is being led by U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards (NC-11). The bill has received endorsements from: Veteran Service Organizations: American Legion, Moving Veterans Forward, Student Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Great Plains Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Nebraska Military Officers Association of America Labor: International Brotherhood of Teamsters Industry: Werner Trucking, American Trucking Association, Commercial Vehicle Training Association, Nebraska Trucking Association, North Carolina Trucking Association, American Road and Transportation Builders Association, and Home Depot Background The trucking industry is currently facing a shortage of 80,000 drivers, with some estimates showing that number could reach 160,000 by 2030. Trucking shortages have a ripple effect across our nation’s s… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6B3B6979-5410-4B54-9027-3335E6B78656 VIDEO: Fischer Urges Continued Support for Israel, Stresses Need to Expand U.S. Defense Production Capacity 2023-11-02 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “We’ve Been Asleep to Changes in the Global Threat Environment for Too Long — Now Is the Time to Wake Up.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the Biden administration’s national security supplemental funding request and the importance of U.S. military aid for Israel. During her remarks, Senator Fischer emphasized the need to expand domestic defenseproduction capacity to better address the changing global threat environment. Senator Fischer also cited a recent bipartisan report, which found that the current U.S. strategic posture will not effectively deter America’s two peer nuclear competitors, China and Russia. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: We’ve heard story after story this past month about Hamas’s brutal ground attacks on Israel. Hamas militants murdered Israelis and Americans alike as they stormed places from border towns to music festivals. Hamas didn’t just attack from the ground. They continue to rain rockets upon Israel. These rockets have destroyed people’s homes, ruptured their livelihoods, and taken their lives. Throughout this conflict, Israel’s Iron Dome defense system has played a crucial role. The Iron Dome acts as a shield, detecting rockets and firing missiles to intercept them before they hit the ground. The United States has stood by Israel — our closest ally in the Middle East — since the country’s inception. We’ve always pledged our support in times of crisis. So it’s critical that my colleagues and I on the Senate Appropriations Committee work together to ensure that Israel receives the defensive and offensive capabilities it’s requested from the United States. That includes replenishing the Iron Dome system so that Israel is able to protect its people from rocket attacks by terrorist groups. It… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=06BF36FC-DA64-40D4-9C18-D1C9C87A2CEA VIDEO: Fischer Highlights Need to Replenish U.S. Weapons Stockpiles, Boost Domestic Munitions Production at Senate Appropriations Hearing 2023-11-01 2023 2023-11 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “We Simply Do Not Have the Workforce, Supply Chain, or Infrastructure Necessary to Meet the Coming Threats.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) questioned Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin about the administration’s national security supplemental funding request and spoke about the urgent need to replenish U.S. weapon stockpiles and boost domestic munitions production. In her remarks, Senator Fischer highlighted a recent report from the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States, which found that the nation’s current strategic posture is not sufficient to effectively deter America’s two peer nuclear competitors: China and Russia. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A09B0F15-1536-4CE9-81F5-9E015165414F VIDEO: Fischer Joins “Fox Report” to Discuss U.S. Support for Israel, Anti-Semitism on College Campuses, and Key Upcoming Hearing 2023-10-30 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Senator Calls on Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas to Testify Before Key Appropriations Hearing: “He Needs to Be There.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined “Fox Report” with Jon Scott on Sunday to discuss the latest national security news including Israel’s response to Hamas’s brutal attacks and the importance of U.S. aid to Israel. During the interview, Senator Fischer called on every Member of Congress to recognize Hamas as a terrorist group. Senator Fischer expressed concern about reports of pro-Hamas activities and demonstrations on college campuses in the United States. Recently, Senator Fischer joined a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas to review and remove visa holders who participated in, or encouraged the spread of, pro-Hamas, pro-terrorist activity. In addition to the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Fischer serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, which will hold a hearing this week to question Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken about President Biden’s national security supplemental request. During the interview, Senator Fischer called on Secretary Mayorkas to appear before the Appropriations Committee to defend the Biden administration’s funding request and outline its plans to address the border crisis. The annual number of encounters at the southern border set an all-time record during Fiscal Year 2023 at 2,475,669. September set the all-time monthly record at 269,735 encounters. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s interview Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s interview: Jon Scott: Let's bring in Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer. She is a member of the Armed Services Committee. How would you assess, Senator, what the administration has provided Israel so far? And, in your view, is it enough? Senator Fischer: Well, first of all, I think tha… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6E7FD47F-A522-443D-BA20-B98962CA51D4 Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Recognize Benefits of Biofuels, Promote Efficient Farming 2023-10-27 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Bill Would Require EPA to Apply Argonne National Lab’s GREET Model WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently co-led the reintroduction of the Adopt Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Act. The legislation would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its greenhouse gas modeling for all renewable fuels under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Specifically, the bill would require EPA to apply the Argonne National Lab’s GREET Model to any fuel for which EPA has approved a pathway and deemed qualified for the RFS. EPA would then be required to update its modeling every five years or report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made. U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) led the introduction of the legislation. “The biofuels industry is on the frontlines of innovation, and it’s critical that the EPA’s modeling is updated to reflect the latest science and technology — including in the biofuels industry. Our bipartisan legislation would ensure that the EPA is using the GREET Model to more efficiently and accurately recognize how biofuels can be a source of clean, homegrown energy,” said Senator Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer, Thune, and Klobuchar, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.). The legislation is supported by Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, the American Coalition for Ethanol, POET, the National Corn Growers Association, Gevo, and the National Oilseed Processors Association. Click here to view the legislation. Background: In June, Senator Fischer co-led the introduction of the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act of 2023. The legislation would require the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=34D66194-CA78-4B40-852A-7F46E6B9A9D4 VIDEO: Fischer Outlines Devastating Impact of Barbaric Hamas Attack, Reaffirms U.S. Support for Israel in Senate Floor Speech 2023-10-26 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “We Must Send a Clear Message to Hamas, Hezbollah, and Their State Sponsor Iran: We Will Not Equivocate in Our Support for Israel.” Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Eighteen days ago, terror shook the Middle East. Eighteen days ago, Hamas tore children from their parents, tore mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters from their families. Eighteen days ago, terrorism swept across Israel, destroying everything in its path. We all know this. We’ve heard about these attacks repeatedly with every news cycle. Even as we continue reading articles, hearing analysis, and seeing new information, let’s not forget the reality of these terrorist attacks — the seriousness of such a massive loss of human life. Hamas killed over 1400 people, over 1400 innocent civilians, in its attacks this month. Death touched thousands of friends and family members, and its aftereffects are still rippling across Israel and across the world. Let’s resist our modern impulse to leave this tragedy behind in favor of the next headline. Let’s allow the abuse, torture, and murder of Israelis and Americans alike to strike a fresh sense of grief and anger in our hearts every time we hear of them. That grief and anger must drive us to respond to the horror of terrorism. Israel is responding, yes. But the response to terrorism should not be bound by Israel’s national borders. Because terrorism itself is not bound by national borders. Hamas killed American citizens in its assaults on innocent people across Israel. Terrorists are still holding American citizens hostage in Gaza. Hamas has American blood on its hands. One American, Hayim Katsman, hid in a closet with his neighbor as Hamas militants rained gunfire on an Israeli village. A neighbor told CNN that Katsman covered him with his body and saved his life by absorbing the bullets. American Deborah Matias and her husband sacrificed themselves for their 16-year-old son, acting as human shields against Hamas’s fire. Two American brothers, Igal and Amit Wachs, died t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DE496BEA-E023-492F-AA9E-8CDAE621A08E Fischer, Rubio, Colleagues Push for Removal of Terrorist Supporters 2023-10-26 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined four of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas urging him to review and remove those who participated in, or encouraged the spread of, pro-Hamas, pro-terrorist activity. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). “You have an opportunity–and the obligation–to use the tools Congress has already provided to you to protect the safety of the United States during this critical time. We urge you to work hand-in-hand with the agencies of DHS, the U.S. Department of State, state and local law enforcement, and institutions of higher education to ensure that aliens who support terrorism are quickly removed from our country,” the Senators said. Since the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas, an Iranian-backed Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), protests and demonstrations have spewed hateful and antisemitic messages across the United States. In addition to Senators Fischer and Rubio, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.). Full text of the letter can be found here or below. We write with regard to recent demonstrations supporting Hamas, a U.S. designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), on American soil. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a brutal terrorist attack on the State of Israel. This attack included the raping, mutilating, and kidnapping of innocent Israeli civilians, including children, as well as several Americans. Support for this attack is vile, and sadly, American universities have caved to terrorist sympathizing students by allowing rampant antisemitism and support for Hamas to pervert their grounds. Unfortunately, this abhorrent support could also be shared by those who are in the United States on a myriad of visa categories. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is tasked with protecting America from those … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F27C5B7F-CE7B-4945-928E-5205A285BC22 VIDEO: Fischer Calls for Additional Enforcement to Protect Consumers Against Illegal Robocalls 2023-10-26 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “We Must Be Able to Empower Consumers with the Knowledge of Who Is Actually Calling Them and the Ability to Block Illegal Callers” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, delivered remarks at a hearing this week highlighting the urgent need to improve enforcement and protect consumers from illegal and spoofed robocalls. In her remarks, Senator Fischer discussed the damaging impact of unlawful scam calls and texts that can lead to devastating financial losses and personal identity theft. In 2019, Senator Fischer cosponsored the TRACED Act to advance solutions that would reduce illegal robocalls. Senator Fischer also introduced the Spoofing Prevention Act in 2016 to close existing legal loopholes allowing fraudulent caller ID information to be conveyed through texts, certain IP-enabled voice services, and calls originating outside the United States. Both bills are now law. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s opening remarks: Good morning, Thank you, Chairman Luján, for holding this hearing. The persistent issue of illegal robocalls has been a long-standing concern of mine. Nationwide illegal and spoofed robocalls continue to be the number one consumer complaint. I want to ensure that we have the right tools in place to protect consumers from these calls that prey on them. As we all know, our phones give us a connection to the world around us. Whether it's calling family, friends, or colleagues, scheduling appointments, or summoning emergency services, they are integrated into our daily lives. Our phone numbers are a very personal part of our identities as well. We use them to verify who we are, and we hold on to them for decades — sometimes for a lifetime. But, as we know too well, this allows scammers to reach directly into our homes and into our pockets. Bad actors are increasingly savvy in the technologies they use to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=2677F555-175D-4C12-9082-FDF22A46C4F1 Fischer, Colleagues Demand Biden Expand Border Wall Construction 2023-10-25 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently joined 12 of her Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Joe Biden encouraging the administration to resume and expand construction of the border wall. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). “Despite the administration’s messaging on this issue, construction of a border wall is sorely needed as communities and elected officials across the country demand a more robust response to illegal immigration,” the Senators wrote. “Your administration’s decision to continue construction of the Trump Administration’s physical border wall is a step in combating ‘high illegal entry’ rates. With that, more must be done,” the Senators continued. In August, the administration sought funding from Congress to address the migration crisis on the border, but did not request resources to construct a border wall. After the Senators’ letter was sent, the Biden administration submitted a supplemental budget request that failed to include additional funding for border wall construction. In addition to Senators Fischer and Rubio, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Katie Boyd Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and John Hoeven (R-N.D.). Read the full letter here or below. President Joe Biden The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write with regard to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) notice of determination to begin construction of the border wall along the U.S. southern border. This acknowledgement of the law will help deter illegal immigration. However, less than 24 hours after the posting of the notice, this administration has sought to walk back this common-sense initiative. While technology can be deployed as a useful tool on our southern border, it does not act as a ph… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BDE6970A-ECE5-4A3F-96F9-0894B9EEC10B Senate Passes Fischer, Ricketts Resolution to Honor “Volleyball Day in Nebraska,” Celebrate Women’s Collegiate Athletics 2023-10-25 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) to honor the record-setting “Volleyball Day in Nebraska” event on August 30 and celebrate the importance of women’s collegiate athletics in Nebraska. Ahead of the bill’s passage, Senators Fischer and Ricketts delivered remarks on the Senate floor to support the resolution and honor the historic occasion. Click the image above to watch video of Senator Fischer’s remarks Click the image above to watch video of Senator Ricketts’ remarks 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D7ACB90-E60B-401E-AF95-AC42C06B5169 VIDEO: Fischer Joins “Mornings with Maria” to Talk U.S. Aid to Israel, Threats from Iran, and Jack Lew’s Nomination 2023-10-24 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business today to discuss the horrific attack on Israel by Hamas and the importance of providing lethal aid to Israel. Senator Fischer also discussed the need to replenish U.S. weapons stockpiles and bolster domestic munitions production. During the interview, Senator Fischer pushed back against President Biden’s failed Iran policy, including the administration’s attempts to release $6 billion to Iran. Senator Fischer announced she would oppose Jack Lew’s nomination to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Israel given his previous appeasement of Iran and his work to promote the Obama administration’s flawed Iran nuclear deal. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s interview Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s interview: Maria Bartiromo: Joining me right now is Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer. She's a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator, thanks very much for being here. Assess the situation as you know it. Senator Fischer: Well, we have a really horrible situation that the Israelis are facing. And our part of this: we need to be able to give them the time that they need to really defend their nation and to wipe out Hamas. We also need to give them the resources that they need. They are a strong partner for us. This is a strategic relationship that we have with them, and we need to make sure that we stand with them. Maria Bartiromo: Well, I mean, for the last two and a half years, this administration has been trying to get an Iran deal done with the Iranians and appeasing the Iranians — sanctions, enabling the Iranians to generate billions of dollars in revenue on the oil money, so that they could sell the oil money. Do you think that's going to reverse course anytime soon? Senator Fischer: Well, I would hope it would. Obviously, I was not in favor of that Iran deal to begin wit… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=63E63E95-6601-413E-9FA0-639CAD8D0CCB Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Resupply Israel’s Iron Dome 2023-10-24 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently co-led the introduction of the Emergency Resupply for Iron Dome Act of 2023. The legislation would require the Executive Branch to transfer the U.S. foreign assistance that the U.S. Department of State plans to send to Hamas-controlled Gaza and redirect it to resupply Israel’s highly effective missile defense interceptors. U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) led the introduction of the bill. “Israel has the right and the responsibility to defend itself against unconscionable assaults from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Our bill would reallocate aid funding that could have ended up in Hamas’s pockets to Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system — the backbone of its missile defense architecture. The United States will stand by our ally,” said Senator Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer and Hagerty, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.). Click here for bill text. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-resupply-israel-s-iron-dome 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1D40E574-87DE-4413-A298-45235B09ED81 Fischer Questions Officials on Program Supporting Service Members During Military to Civilian Transition 2023-10-20 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned officials from the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) at a joint hearing this week with the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. TAP is a cooperative interagency effort that provides important resources and tools to service members transitioning from military to civilian life. During the hearing, Senator Fischer stressed the importance of ensuring TAP offices can specifically tailor their curriculum to an individual’s needs. Senator Fischer also pressed officials regarding a 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) study that found nearly 25% of service members who needed maximum support did not attend a mandatory two-day class. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s questioning: Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Vazirani, within the [Transition Assistance Program], how much leeway is given to individual TAP offices to teach the curriculum so they can tailor it to their needs? For example, if you have a service member who's going to sign up again, but that doesn't show in their records yet, they still have to attend the weeklong class. Is that correct? Under Secretary Vazirani: Senator, if I can clarify your question, if a service member has gone through TAP, transitioned, and then come back into service? Is that the question? I’m sorry. Senator Fischer: No, No. If they are still in the service, but with the requirements and the timeline that's there, they have to start the process. But yet, their records haven't kept up with their intentions that they plan to reenlist, for example. Are the programs given any kind of flexibility there to be able to tailor it to certain instances? Under Secretary Vazirani: Senator, the program is designed to tailor to each indi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4C3B0CB7-F0AC-4E37-A0DE-09BD17CBE1AA Fischer, Colleagues Press Buttigieg on Grants Favoring New York City Rail Projects Over Rest of Country 2023-10-20 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Senators Express Concern Over Ballooning Costs, Excess Grant Funding for NY-NJ Gateway Program WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joined five fellow Republican committee members this month in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) pressing Secretary Pete Buttigieg about the decision-making behind certain grants to the Amtrak NY-NJ Gateway Program. In the letter, the Senators asked the department to commit to giving fair consideration to the whole country for grants, rather than favoring the Northeast Corridor. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas). “DOT’s lack of transparency with Congress and potential misadministration of grant programs, particularly with respect to the billions of dollars in DOT funding for the Gateway Program, are deeply concerning. We request that you rectify the inadequate responses to our past letters,” the Senators said. The letter highlights the project’s ballooning costs over the last decade from $13 billion (2012 estimate) to $37 billion (2022 estimate). In addition, the Senators requested the DOT provide a number of answers related to how the funding for the Hudson Tunnel project was awarded and how much could ultimately be awarded to the Gateway Program overall. In addition to Senators Fischer and Cruz, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.). Read the full letter here or below. We write to follow up on letters to the Department of Transportation (DOT) earlier this year. In February, Senators Cruz, Thune, and Fischer sent a letter (“the February letter”) asking the administrators of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) about those agencies’ support and oversight of the Amtrak-New York-New Jersey Gateway Program (“the Gateway Program”). In April, Republican senators of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation wrote askin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3B59129C-B28B-4859-8EF4-514C4B3816D8 VIDEO: Fischer Highlights Urgent Need to Update U.S. Strategic Posture Following Alarming Bipartisan Report 2023-10-19 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “Unless We Change Our Strategy, We Will Not Be Able to Deter Both China and Russia” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, delivered remarks at a hearing today to highlight the urgent need for the United States to comprehensively update its strategic posture, including by modernizing its nuclear deterrent. The hearing focused on the findings from a recent bipartisan report on the long-term strategic posture of the United States. During her remarks, Senator Fischer noted that the current U.S. strategy is not sufficient to effectively deter America’s two peer nuclear competitors, China and Russia. Senator Fischer also emphasized the importance of turning the Commission’s recommendations into legislation. This week, Senator Fischer released a joint statement with the Chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee in support of the bipartisan report. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click to download audio Click to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I do want to begin by thanking the commissioners for your work on this report. The report is thoughtful, clear-eyed about the threats, and honest about how underprepared we are to address these threats. And we are woefully underprepared. Since the Second World War, the United States’ national security strategy has been predicated on having one major nuclear adversary. And we now face two major nuclear adversaries for the first time in history. Russia and China have rapidly modernized their strategic nuclear forces. They have dramatically expanded their theater nuclear forces, and they are developing novel nuclear weapons and delivery systems. Meanwhile, we have barely begun to modernize our strategic nuclear forces, and only plan to replace them on a one-for-one basis – a plan that was developed on outdated assumptions. As you say in your report, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5993AFDF-E530-4BDD-B8D6-58656F6DF8A8 VIDEO: Fischer: U.S. Must Stand With Israel After Brutal Hamas Attack 2023-10-19 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper On Israel’s Right to Defend Itself: “Hamas's cold-blooded attack last week, it was loathsome, and it was obscene. And what we see when we look at terror of that proportion: We have to have a response. Israel has to have a response. We stand with Israel. They have the right, and they have the responsibility to do what needs to be done.” On Israel’s Defense Needs: “We know that Israel will need more defensive capabilities. They will need interceptors for the Iron Dome. We know that Israel will also need more offensive capabilities like precision guided munitions. And we know that Israel is going to need medical equipment to help their troops, to help their citizens, to help them recover from these vicious attacks by Hamas, who is backed by Iran. The United States and Israel have long partnered and have a special relationship. We share intelligence with the Israelis on terrorism that happens in the Middle East. And that must continue.” On U.S. Assistance to Israel: “They have to defend themselves, and we are there to offer them assistance. We need to provide the Israeli Government with the support that it needs to defend its own territory and to defend its people. And this will allow Israel the resources to make difficult decisions that it's going to have to make in the days and the weeks and the months ahead.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=50772407-2474-4FFD-836F-6A8E8393BCC4 Fischer Praises Introduction of Senate Resolution to Stand with Israel Against Terrorism 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in support of a bipartisan Senate resolution introduced this week to support Israel against terrorism. The resolution was led by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.). “The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is unbreakable, and Israel has the right to defend itself against this brutal, barbaric attack from Hamas. Our strong, bipartisan resolution is a powerful sign of the American people’s support for Israel. The United States stands by our ally,” said Senator Fischer. The resolution secured the support of nearly every member of the U.S. Senate. In addition to Senators Fischer, Risch, and Cardin, the resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), John N. Kennedy (R-La.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ben Luján (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Todd Young (R-Ind.),… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=95E8DD35-233F-4EE5-97B3-F8910AC76596 Fischer, Colleagues Oppose Biden FCC’s Internet Takeover 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, recently joined more than 40 of her colleagues in sending a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to abandon her proposal to reinstate the failed, heavy-handed Obama-era regulations on the internet. This letter was led by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas). “Re-imposing heavy-handed, public-utility regulations on the internet would threaten the progress our country has made since 2017, and it would steer our country out of the fast lane and into a world of less competition, less choice, less investment, slower speeds, and higher prices,” the Senators said. “Further, the FCC lacks this statutory authority over broadband internet access. Any attempt by the FCC to reinstate net neutrality regulations and the onerous rules of Title II on internet service providers will not survive judicial review. The FCC has pushed net neutrality and already lost in court – more than once – and two of President Obama’s former solicitors general have warned that reclassification by the FCC cannot survive the major questions doctrine,” the Senators continued. In addition to Senators Fischer, Thune, and Cruz, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-S.D… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D2C51929-A40B-40B7-A23D-DC6E82D55090 VIDEO: Fischer Condemns Brutal Hamas Attack, Urges Support for Israel in Senate Floor Speech 2023-10-18 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “If We Can’t Stand Up Against This, What Can We Stand Against?” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the brutal Hamas attack against Israel and the importance of America’s continued support for the people of Israel. In her remarks, Senator Fischer stressed the importance of deterring Iran and other countries seeking to take advantage of the situation and further destabilize the region. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Along with Americans all across our country, I am appalled at what has happened in Israel over the past week. It’s hard to watch the brutality of Hamas’s attack on Israel. It’s hard to believe that the terror Hamas perpetrated is something human beings are capable of doing. Last week, Hamas militants stormed the Israel-Gaza border in a despicable, deadly attack against Israeli civilians. Men and women, children and the elderly, Israelis and foreigners, Americans — Hamas killed person after person with no regard for human dignity. The militants seized and kidnapped almost 200 hostages, including many of our own American citizens. When civilians in small Israeli towns came out of hiding — sheltering for their lives and praying that they would be spared — they came out to find corpses in their streets. Doors riddled with bullet holes. The ground stained with human blood. Houses burning and collapsing. They’ve told journalists the horror they felt when they stepped out into the wreckage and were met with the smell of decaying flesh. This is obscene. This is hideous. We can and should all agree on that. Secretary of State Blinken, on his visit to Israel, said he saw images of a baby covered in bullet holes, soldiers who’d been beheaded, and people burned alive in their cars. He said: “Images are worth a thousand w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ADED0CC2-158D-4F96-BC21-0A37E15DCE1F Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Permanently Freeze $6 Billion Payment to Iran Immediately 2023-10-17 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined her colleagues in introducing legislation that would block Iran from accessing a $6 billion fund released in August by the Biden administration. These actions respond to the attacks against Israel committed by Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists. The legislation is led by U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). “Iran is an adversary of the United States and the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. It funds, trains, and equips terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, advancing its malign influence across the region. Our legislation will permanently prevent this $6 billion from flowing to the government of Iran,” said Senator Fischer. Text of the bill may be found here. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-permanently-freeze-6-billion-payment-to-iran-immediately 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C17FE629-B7BF-472A-8DCA-2355DF181A51 Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Freeze $6 Billion to Iran, Probe Additional Iranian Assets 2023-10-17 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined her colleagues in introducing the Revoke Iranian Funding Act. The legislation would rescind the general licenses that enabled the release of the $6 billion to Iran and prevent the Iranian regime from accessing and using the funds held in Qatar to finance terrorist attacks against Israel or any other nation. In addition, the bill would direct the Treasury Secretary to study all high-value Iranian assets around the world that are currently blocked by U.S. sanctions. This information would be provided to Congress to ensure it has the information necessary to enact further targeted legislation, if necessary. U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) led the introduction of the bill. “Hamas couldn’t have planned or carried out its attack against Israel without support from Iran, the world’s number one state sponsor of terrorism. Our legislation will halt efforts to provide billions of dollars to Iran. It will also increase transparency by providing Congress with more information about Iran’s high-value assets around the world that are currently subject to U.S. sanctions,” said Senator Deb Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer and Scott, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.). Click here for an overview of the bill. Click here for bill text. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D972A900-E8CF-4700-9C76-E710246C7494 Fischer, King Welcome Key Report on U.S. Strategic Posture 2023-10-17 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Senators Highlight Need to Address Changing Global Threat Environment WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Angus King (I-Maine), the Ranking Member and Chair of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement after the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States released its final unclassified report: “As the top members of the Strategic Forces subcommittee, we understand the need for a nuclear force posture that can successfully deter adversaries in a worsening global threat environment. We appreciate the bipartisan Commission’s work to develop and unanimously endorse this report. We look forward to continuing conversations with the Commissioners on their findings and options to strengthen our national defense.” Background The Fiscal Year 2022 (FY 2022) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) established the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States (Commission) and tasked it with examining the long-term strategic posture of the United States. The Commission’s report includes a comprehensive review of the current and projected threat environment; an assessment of our current nuclear weapons policies and strategic posture; and recommendations for the most appropriate strategic posture and nuclear weapons strategy. The bipartisan Commission is led by Madelyn Creedon, who most recently served as Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) from 2014 to 2017, and former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona. The Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing on the findings of the Commission’s report at 9:30 a.m. ET on Thursday, October 19th. Click here to read the report. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=55A34716-E1C3-4D5B-84AD-15A5A22985C8 Fischer Highlights Resources for Nebraskans Impacted by Crisis in Israel 2023-10-14 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) highlighted the following resources from the U.S. Department of State to assist Nebraskans affected by the crisis in Israel. Starting Friday, October 13, the U.S. government began facilitating departure assistance for U.S. citizens and their immediate family members seeking a safe means of departing Israel who have been unable to book commercial transit. Chartered transportation will be by air or sea to nearby safe locations. From these locations, individuals will be able to make their own onward travel arrangements to the destination of their choice. Access to departure assistance information can be found here. The State Department has a team communicating around the clock with U.S. citizens impacted by the situation in Israel. U.S. citizens in need of assistance should complete the crisis intake form or call 1-833-890-9595 (toll-free), 1-606-641-0131 (U.S. local), or 03-519-7426 (Israel local). U.S. citizens in Gaza who need assistance should complete the crisis intake form or call 1-833-890-9595 (toll-free), 1-606-641-0131 (U.S. local), or 03-519-7426 (local). For the most up-to-date information, visit the State Department’s webpage on Israel, West Bank, and Gaza here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4A1437F2-D6F4-4AA1-AAC0-B9BF668AF4C6 Fischer Statement on Passing of Jim Jensen 2023-10-13 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, Neb. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after learning of the passing of former Nebraska State Senator Jim Jensen: “I was honored to know and serve with Jim Jensen in the Nebraska legislature and was saddened to hear of his passing. Jim was a thoughtful man with a wonderful laugh who loved his family, his community, his state, and his country. Bruce and I send our prayers to his wife Joan, his children, his grandchildren, and many friends.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=428C126F-1689-41B1-9886-BBF2E9F17F7F Fischer: Administration Must Officially Freeze $6 Billion Payment to Iran 2023-10-12 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, this week joined nine of her Senate Republican colleagues in a letter calling the Biden Administration to take action against Iran following the Hamas attack on Israel. Today reports emerged that the White House reversed course and intends to deny Iran access to $6 billion that the administration released in August. These reports, if true, are a first step; but the President must confirm this as the official position of the United States. In their letter, the Senators called on President Biden to immediately convene the G7 nations and take coordinated action to further isolate Iran with severe sanctions that would strike directly at the wealth it contributes to regional terrorist groups. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.). “We urge you to immediately reverse your decision regarding [the $6 billion payment to Iran] and, as the leader of the free world, lead America’s partners and allies in securing agreements from as many nations as possible to take the most severe economic and diplomatic action against Iran possible under law,” the Senators wrote. In addition to Senators Fischer and Scott, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Katie Britt (R-Ala.). Read the full letter here or below. The Honorable Joe Biden President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear President Biden: The terror and devastation unleashed on Israel over the last 72 hours by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists has rightly horrified the world. Innocent families were murdered in their homes. Teenage girls have been raped and then burned alive. An elderly wheelchair-bound woman, who was later identified as a Holocaust survivor, was brutally dragged through the streets of Gaza and killed. Children who witnessed the mu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0926B13C-3416-4B37-904E-BCD213AD935F Fischer Commends $8.39 Million VA Grant Announcement to Establish Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island 2023-10-10 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)announcedit has awarded up to $8,391,524 for the establishment of a Nebraska VeteransCemeteryinGrand Island.The VA will also reimburse the state of Nebraska $577,495 for the cost of fabrication and delivery of outer burial receptacles used for the project. “As Americans, we owe a deep debt of gratitude to those who have served. Establishing a cemetery in Grand Island will honor the service and sacrifice of those who fought to defend our freedom. This announcement reflects the hard work of so many who have been fighting to make this project a reality,”said Senator Fischer. Background: Senator Fischersecuredfunding in the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act to continue honoring Nebraska’s fallen veterans through the Veterans Cemetery Grant Program. The program provides funding to establish, expand, and improve veteran cemeteries to ensure veterans in Nebraska and across the U.S. are buried with the honors they deserve. According to the VA, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island will serve more than 13,000 veterans and their eligible family members. The grant will fund 506 pre-placed crypts, 548 cremains gravesites, 640 columbarium niches, an administration building, maintenance facility, committal service shelter, and landscaping. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-commends-8-39-million-va-grant-announcement-to-establish-veterans-cemetery-in-grand-island 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8741519D-6D8A-4B73-AE80-8B3FDBE2F3B5 Fischer: Hamas Attack on Israel “Despicable and Shocking to the Core” 2023-10-10 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after President Biden delivered remarks at the White House regarding Hamas’s attack against Israel: “As President Biden said today, the atrocities carried out by the Iran-backed terrorist group Hamas are ‘sheer evil.’ “The butchering of babies, the burning of human bodies, the kidnapping, rape, beating, and murder of Israelis is despicable and shocking to the core. “The relationship between the United States and Israel is unbreakable, and Israel has the right to defend itself against this brutal, barbaric attack. “America’s support will serve as an important deterrent against countries seeking to take advantage of the situation and further destabilize the region.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-hamas-attack-on-israel-despicable-and-shocking-to-the-core 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=200F8D48-3C46-4253-B0B0-15485BF1D2C9 Fischer Welcomes NHA and NeRHA Announcement on Rural Veteran Referral Program 2023-10-05 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Fischer Led Delegation Letter in April Urging VA to Establish Pilot Program in NE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today after the Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) and the Nebraska Rural Health Association (NeRHA) announced a new pilot program aimed at helping rural Nebraska veterans access health care. “I voted for the VA MISSION Act to provide veterans with more options to seek treatment when and where it makes sense for their needs. This announcement from NHA and NeRHA is welcome news for veterans across Nebraska, especially in our rural areas. In the Senate, I will continue leading efforts to advance the Rural Veteran Referral Program nationwide, starting here in Nebraska,” said Senator Fischer. According to a news release, NHA and NeRHA have received onboarding commitments from over 20 Nebraska critical access hospitals, and are in early discussions with other statewide health systems. Background: The Fischer-backed VA MISSION Act created the Community Care Program, which enables veterans who meet certain requirements, such as living more than a 60-minute drive from a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility, to receive care in the community paid for by the VA. However, because this care is received at non-VA providers, it can often be difficult for community providers to effectively and efficiently communicate with the VA about the health care needs of a veteran and provide them with timely referrals for care in their community. In March, Senator Fischer led all five members of the Nebraska congressional delegation in sending a letter urging the VA to create a new rural veteran referral pilot program in Nebraska to improve care coordination between the VA and rural providers. The Rural Veterans Health Access Program works to expand the reach of the VA MISSION Act by increasing the number of hospitals and clinics Nebraska veterans will have access to use for their healthcare needs… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EB690BA6-CBB4-4868-9ED8-9CB6BBD249B4 Fischer, Colleagues Demand Accountability on Iran-Linked DoD Official 2023-10-04 2023 2023-10 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined 30 of her Senate Republican colleagues in a letter demanding a full accounting of actions taken by a senior Pentagon official who has close links to the Iranian government. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) led the letter. Ariane Tabatabai, the chief of staff to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict, was reportedly engaged in an Iranian government-linked initiative to bolster the Iranian government’s image and reinforce Tehran’s national security views. Leaked emails show Tabatabai asking the Iranian government for input on her speaking engagements and offering to consult with the Iranian government on a congressional briefing that she was invited to give. In the letter, the Senators suggested that it is “unconscionable” for Tabatabai to continue holding a sensitive national defense-related position and called for the immediate suspension of her security clearance. “Iran continues to threaten U.S. military personnel in the Middle East and remains intent on assassinating American citizens here in the United States. Given these facts, we find it simply unconscionable that a senior Department official would continue to hold a sensitive position despite her alleged participation in an Iranian government information operation,” the Senators wrote. “While we note that Assistant Secretary of Defense for SOLIC Christopher Maier, who is Ms. Tabatabai's current supervisor, testified before the House on Thursday that the Department is ‘actively looking into whether all law and policy was properly followed in granting my chief of staff top secret special compartmented information,’ we urge you to suspend Ms. Tabatabai's security clearance immediately pending further review, as the State Department did with her former supervisor, Robert Malley,” the Senators continued. The Senators also posed a range of questions related to the nature and extent of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=32E8EB94-904B-4106-97C1-9775D2A8B6A1 Fischer Joins Legislation to Pay Armed Forces During a Government Shutdown 2023-09-29 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, cosponsored the Pay Our Military Act of 2023. The legislation would ensure that members of America’s military — Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard,and Space Force — are paid in the event of a government shutdown in Fiscal Year 2024. U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) led the introduction of the legislation. “Our dedicated military men and womenshouldn’t miss a paycheck because of political fights in Washington. Congress needs to take action to protect this nation’s military readiness and ensure that our Armed Forces receive the pay they have rightfully earned,” said Senator Fischer. Background: The Pay Our Military Act of 2023 would appropriate funds to pay members of the Armed Forces, including reservists, if a temporary or full-year federal funding bill is not passed and signed by October 1. The Pay Our Military Act would also fund the pay of civilian Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel and contractors whom each department’s respective secretary determines are “providing support to members of the Armed Forces.” In addition to Senators Fischer and Sullivan, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). Full text of the legislation can be found here. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/9/fischer-joins-legislation-to-pay-armed-forces-during-a-government-shutdown 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9816E139-7F5C-45C6-A884-DD6B28AE69C1 VIDEO: Fischer Questions USDA Official on Foreign Ownership of U.S. Farmland, Need to Protect Sensitive U.S. Military Installations 2023-09-28 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) questioned U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary Gloria Montaño Greene about foreign ownership in U.S. agriculture and possible threats to sensitive American military installations, including ICBM sites in Western Nebraska. In February, Senator Fischer joined legislation to protect America’s agricultural industry from improper foreign investment. The Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act bolsters the U.S. agriculture industry’s role on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), the governmental body that oversees the vetting process for foreign investment and acquisition of American companies. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s questioning: Senator Fischer: In addition to serving on the Agriculture Committee, I also serve as a senior member on the Senate Armed Services Committee. And I am the ranking member on the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, which is responsible for our nuclear deterrent, space systems, and our missile defense. It is no secret that many critical weapons systems are located in rural America near agricultural land. For example, in western Nebraska, that is home to the Minuteman III ICBMs, and it will soon be replaced by the Sentinel ICBMs. These weapons systems and the airmen operating them keep Americans safe every day. We cannot let military installations hosting sensitive missions like these in Nebraska become vulnerable by allowing adversaries to purchase land nearby from which they can then conduct espionage or other nefarious activities. The Chinese Communist Party will actively seek and exploit any opportunity they see to do so. And so, I believe we have to have a process in place to prevent them from doing that. Ms. Greene, while foreign investments in ag land should be reported, we also … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BA0257EA-2CE7-4EC3-8B0C-DD4B6BA3DEF2 Fischer Introduces “Stop EV Freeloading Act” to Support Infrastructure Investments, Promote Fairness 2023-09-25 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, recently led U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) in introducing the Stop EV Freeloading Act. The legislation would ensure that electric vehicles (EVs) pay into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) to support the construction and maintenance of U.S. roads and bridges. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, the sale or charging of EVs does not contribute to the HTF. The average EV is significantly heavier than its gas-powered counterpart because of the weight of large EV batteries. This legislation would require additional investment in the HTF from heavy EVs that can damage the road and increase maintenance costs. “It’s not fair to force the millions of Americans who don’t drive EVs to foot the bill for those who do. Our legislation will stop EVs from freeloading and force them to pay into the Highway Trust Fund like other vehicles. If the Biden administration plans to continue pushing EVs on the American people, the least Congress can do is require EVs to support the upkeep of our nation’s infrastructure,” said Senator Fischer. “It’s patently unfair that EVs increase the wear and tear on roads and bridges without paying their fair share for maintenance. Citizens fueling up their vehicles should not be forced to subsidize the costs incurred by EV drivers,” said Senator Ricketts. “Every car that drives on our federal highways is responsible for paying into the Highway Trust Fund, and electric vehicles should be no exception.This legislation would ensure EVs pay their fair share and can’t cheat the system,” said Senator Cornyn. “The Highway Trust Fund is used to pay for repairs and maintenance on federal highways and right now EVs are contributing to wear and tear on these roads without contributing to this important upkeep. This administration cannot continue to favor the liberal elite and their expensive electric vehicles over the rest of American motorists; EV drivers use highw… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E08F043D-E16D-40AD-A16E-5631B7BFCB9E VIDEO: Fischer: Bidenomics Is Making Life Harder for Nebraska Families 2023-09-20 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) spoke on the Senate floor today about the failures of President Biden’s economic agenda and its devastating impact on children, families, and small business owners across Nebraska. Senator Fischer cited recent data from the Census Bureau to emphasize how high inflation is continuing to strain Americans’ budgets. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: When it comes to the economy, we hear a lot of statistics. Since President Biden took office and put his Bidenomics plan into action, prices have risen by 17.37 percent. Rent is up by 17 percent, grocery prices by 25 percent, and energy costs by 43 percent. Gas prices have risen by an unbelievable 65 percent. As alarming as those percentages are, I’m most concerned about the individuals who are hurting because of these increases. That’s why I was struck by new numbers I saw last week from the Census Bureau. Bidenomics is making life harder for children in Nebraska. The number of children living in poverty in my home state increased by almost 5,000 from 2021 to 2022. Five thousand more kids. That’s thousands more families who are living below the poverty line. Thousands of families who are struggling to pay bills, buy food, and afford a place to sleep. Some of these 5,000 children are from families who can’t afford any of these things — they’re going hungry, couch surfing, or worse. That’s Bidenomics in Nebraska. Bidenomics is making life harder for the more rural parts of Nebraska. Soaring prices caused by inflation are especially affecting those areas of my state. They’re especially affecting kids in more rural areas, according to an analysis by an Omaha nonprofit. From 2021 to 2022, there was a 25 percent increase in the number of kids below the poverty line who are located in nonmetro areas of Nebraska. A quarter more kids living outside urb… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F1068BC6-D700-4241-A3E3-1B90412686D1 VIDEO: Fischer Outlines Need for Federal Data Privacy Law, Additional Transparency at the FTC 2023-09-20 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned three of President Biden’s nominees to serve on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at a hearing today. During her questioning, Senator Fischer highlighted the continued need for a federal data privacy law and the importance of restoring transparency and accountability at the FTC. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s questioning: Senator Fischer: Thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you to the nominees for being here today. I really appreciate your desires to continue with your public service. If confirmed, you will be tasked with vital responsibilities protecting Americans' personal safety. Fulfilling these responsibilities will also allow free enterprise and innovation to thrive, whether it's identifying monopoly misconduct or market-oriented safety solutions. Mr. Ferguson, I wanted to focus on how Congress provides resources and guidance for Commission activities. In our conversation, I really thought your insights on this were really helpful, and I'd like all of our colleagues to hear this. So, from your perspective, is there a key policy that lawmakers should be focusing on right now to provide better guidance or authority to the Commission? Commissioner Ferguson: Thanks, Senator Fischer. I enjoyed our conversation as well. Like we discussed and like we just discussed with Senator Hickenlooper, from the perspective of a state law enforcer, I think sort of the critical question for Congress to address is data privacy. Largely because, in the absence of congressional action on what I think is uniquely an interstate commercial question, the states have had to act. That's good. That's how the Constitution was designed. But as the states act and as they experiment and as they come up with unique solutions, we end up with this patchwork problem, which can be very difficult … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5A5BF340-5BF0-4317-B442-5B528A086DAD ICYMI: Fischer and King Respond to WaPo Editorial Board: "The Essence of Our National Defense Strategy is Deterrence" 2023-09-19 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper In Case You Missed It… The Nuclear-Force Structure of the Past Will Not Suffice Now By U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Angus King The Washington Post The Aug. 10 editorial on sea-launched cruise missiles (SLCM), “The weapon the warriors don’t want,” didn’t provide key information on why a bipartisan coalition in Congress agrees that this program is necessary. The essence of our national defense strategy is deterrence — both conventional and nuclear. The realization by potential adversaries that we have the capacity and the will to impose unacceptable costs on them should they use nuclear weapons has constrained the use of these terrible weapons for almost 80 years. But for our deterrent to be effective, it must also be credible. The adversary must believe that we can and will respond; if they do not believe this, deterrence has failed and an unthinkable nuclear conflict becomes more likely. We have a strong strategic nuclear capability today, but it is just that: strategic, not tactical. The danger is that an adversary might believe that we would not respond to the use of a low-yield tactical nuclear weapon because our only tool is massive retaliation. Indeed, this almost certainly is part of President Vladimir Putin’s calculation as he continues to threaten the use of tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine. The nuclear-armed, sea-launched cruise missile fills this gap and can be a critical part of maintaining the credible deterrent that has protected us all these years. The decision to remove cruise missiles armed with nuclear warheads from our military vessels occurred more than 30 years ago, when Russia participated in negotiations. The world has changed. Russia has unilaterally pulled out of New START, and China expresses no interest in arms-control agreements. Russia has modernized and expanded its nuclear arsenal; China is on pace to triple its own by 2035 and already possesses more intercontinental ballistic missile launchers than the United States. For the first time, we are facing two peer nuclear a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6E006080-E17B-40E0-8537-AB7FA148948C Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Senate Companion to House-Passed Secure the Border Act 2023-09-19 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently co-led the introduction of the Secure the Border Act of 2023 in the Senate. The legislation, which is the most comprehensive border security legislation in decades, was already passed by the U.S. House of Representatives as H.R. 2. The Secure the Border Act will resume construction on the wall, tighten asylum standards, criminalize visa overstays, increase the number of Border Patrol Agents, defund NGOs receiving tax dollars to help traffic illegal aliens throughout the heartland, and prohibit DHS from using its app to assist illegal aliens. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) led the introduction of the legislation. “I’ve been to the southern border and seen the chaos there. It is nothing short of a humanitarian and national security crisis. Our legislation will force this administration to finally take steps to secure the border — like resuming construction of the border wall, ending catch-and-release, and reinstating President Trump’s Remain in Mexico policy. If President Biden won’t act to fix the crisis he has created, Congress must,” said Senator Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer and Cruz, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and John Kennedy (R-La.). Background: The Secure the Border Act enacts effective border security solutions, including: Requiring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to resume border wall construction Increasing the number of Border Patrol Agents Tightening asylum standards by restricting asylum to only aliens who present at ports of entry and by requiring aliens to prove they are “more likely than not” to qualify for their asylum claim Narrowing DHS’s power to unilaterally grant parole to illegal aliens Criminalizing visa overstays by making the first offense a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EFCC740A-E6A5-4FC6-B432-C02D387136CF VIDEO: Senior Defense Nominee Reaffirms Need for Fischer-Backed Sea-Launched Cruise Missile Program 2023-09-15 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, questioned President Biden’s Chief of Naval Operations nominee, Admiral Lisa M. Franchetti, at a hearing this week about the importance of nuclear deterrence and the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) program. During the hearing, Admiral Franchetti publicly endorsed the SLCM program, which the Biden administration has attempted to cancel multiple times. Senator Fischer secured a provision in the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 that codifies SLCM as a program of record. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is an edited transcript of Senator Fischer’s questioning: Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thank you, Admiral, for providing your insight in our meeting last week. I wanted to follow up on that discussion. As we discussed, the Columbia program is on a tight timeline to deliver the first submarine to the Navy in 2027. What actions is the Navy taking to ensure that we can meet this schedule, given the residual workforce and the supply chain challenges that we discussed? Admiral Franchetti: Senator Fischer, again, it was nice to meet you the other day. And, you know, the Columbia program has been the Navy's number one priority. And if confirmed, that will remain my number one priority. It's essential that we recapitalize the incredible deterrent capability that we have. Columbia started out on an accelerated schedule. We are no longer on the accelerated schedule, but we are meeting the contracted delivery schedule for Columbia. We are continuing to work closely with industry, again, against all those challenges that have described earlier and continuing to provide the right level of oversight - so we understand where we are. It is an all hands on deck effort to ensure that we stay on tim… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=253F00C1-790C-4103-998D-53B60B0CA4CA VIDEO: Fischer Sets Record Straight, Knocks President Biden for Downplaying Nuclear Threats 2023-09-13 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, pushed back against President Biden’s recent comments suggesting climate change is a bigger threat to global security than nuclear war. In her remarks on the Senate floor, Senator Fischer called on the administration to more seriously address the existential threat posed by China. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: China is on track to triple its nuclear arsenal by 2035. Russia continues its nuclear saber-rattling in Ukraine. North Korea is hell-bent on developing the capability to deliver nuclear weapons at longer-ranges, conducting dozens of missile tests in the last year. And Iran is weeks away from obtaining nuclear weapons. But on Sunday night, President Biden said — and I’m quoting him: “The only existential threat humanity faces even more frightening than a nuclear war is global warming going above 1.5 degrees in the next 10 years.” The leader of the free world believes that global warming is a bigger threat to global security than nuclear war. Now, I’m not dismissing the importance of our climate. We should continue to take responsible, common-sense action to address climate change, and we should support an all-of-the-above energy strategy. We should promote policies to ensure that we have clean air and water, and we should do that without hindering economic prosperity or burdening hardworking Americans and their families. But the president’s claim that global warming is more frightening than nuclear war sends the wrong signal to our adversaries and allies. It demonstrates a total ignorance of the instability of today’s global threat environment. The strategic forces subcommittee, where I’m ranking member, specifically oversees our country’s nuclear forces. And ba… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9E93A3D8-B0F5-4471-81E7-F74791FEE8D7 Fischer Highlights Upcoming VA Health Care Enrollment Deadline for Veterans Who Deployed to Combat Zones 2023-09-13 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of an upcoming deadline for veterans who deployed to combat zones and who are seeking to enroll in VA Health Care under the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. Senator Fischer voted in favor of the PACT Act. “Last year, I stood with our nation’s veterans and voted in favor of the PACT Act. It is critical that we continue to raise awareness about this important law and how veterans can access the benefits they have earned,” said Senator Fischer. Eligibility and Deadlines: There is no deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, veterans who deployed to a combat zone, never enrolled in VA health care, and left active duty between September 11, 2001, and October 1, 2013, are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care, as long as they enroll before 11:59 pm local time on September 30, 2023. This special enrollment period gives veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other combat zones an opportunity to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. For more information on the PACT Act and about eligibility for the special enrollment period, please visit www.VA.gov/PACT. Legislative Background: Named after Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson who died in 2020 from toxic exposure as a result of his military service, the PACT Act is comprehensive legislation to expand health care for post-9/11 combat veterans, create a framework for the establishment of future presumptions of service connection related to toxic exposure, expand VA’s list of service presumptions, and improve resources to support VA’s claims processing. Since the PACT Act was signed into law on August 10, 2022, more than 361,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care and more than 4.3 million enrolled veterans have been screened for toxic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=195D1A87-56E4-4F3A-B96C-547AD9A83744 ICYMI: The 2023 Farm Bill: Supporting New Frontiers of Agriculture 2023-09-12 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Over a century and a half ago, pioneers from every background streamed westward in search of a better life. It’s the American story: We dream big, and we follow those dreams wherever they take us. For many pioneers, that place was my home state of Nebraska. Nebraska’s history was driven by the pioneer spirit, and that’s true of our present, too. The agriculture industry remains at the core of our state, and it continues to discover new frontiers. Our state is paving the way for the future of agriculture, and I’m committed to supporting that innovation as a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. Agriculture legislation that empowers Nebraska’s producers will benefit our farmers and ranchers, but it won’t stop there. Every state in our union is populated by agricultural producers who put food on the table for millions across our country and the world. That’s why it’s critical that the Senate deliver a robust farm bill this fall. One way we can empower producers is by expanding their access to innovative tools. The farm bill will last through 2028, so it needs to propel the agriculture industry into the future. And the future of agriculture is precision agriculture. Precision agriculture technologies help producers use more precise amounts of pesticides, seed, water, and other resources. Farmers and ranchers waste fewer resources and less money and energy when they have access to precision technology. But it can be difficult for small and midsize producers to make initial investments in expensive precision technologies. Our farm bill could alleviate that difficulty. My Precision Agriculture Loan Act would give smaller farmers and ranchers the opportunity to apply for Department of Agriculture loans to fund precision agriculture purchases. My Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment Act would expand existing USDA programs to cover precision agriculture technologies. Both of these bills would make strides toward expanding access to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=977FBB30-70D8-4EBC-9E0D-B1B72E452BF7 VIDEO: Fischer on How Bidenomics Is Failing Nebraska Families 2023-09-07 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) spoke on the Senate floor this week about President Biden’s failing economic agenda and the damaging impact of “Bidenomics” on Nebraska families and small businesses. During her remarks, Senator Fischer also spoke about her stops across Nebraska during the August work period. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Twenty-two years ago, Apple released the first desktop version of its Mac OS operating system. The first Harry Potter movie and the first Lord of the Rings movie both came out. Alicia Keys and Destiny’s Child were topping the charts. And Bill Clinton left office. Twenty-two years ago was also the last time mortgage rates were as high as they are now — yes, they’re higher now than they were during the 2008 financial crisis. Mortgage hit its lowest rate in American history in January 2021. Then, Joe Biden became president. Over the past two-and-a-half years, mortgage rates have almost tripled. In the meantime, inflation rates are still climbing higher. This past month, as I traveled Nebraska during the Senate’s state work period, I visited with dozens and dozens of middle-class Americans. It’s truly the best part of my job — meeting small business owners, ag producers, schoolteachers, nurses, students, and employees around my home state. But this year, aside from the fun, I was sad to hear about the economic struggles Nebraskans are facing. Middle-class Nebraskans are scraping by financially. And what’s ironic is that they’re doing it on the watch of a president who calls himself “Middle Class Joe.” President Biden’s line recently has been: “When the middle class does well, everyone does well.” I agree with him. I’d just add that right now, everyone is not doing well. That’s especially true for the middle class. And it’s because this administration’s ill-advised policies keep pumpi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CA7B32CD-07B0-428D-B9F2-867C41E62F0D Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Stop President Biden’s Attack on School Hunting, Archery Programs 2023-09-07 2023 2023-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined 24 of her Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Allowing for Recreational Resources for Outdoor Wellness (ARROW) Act. The bill would stop the Biden administration from blocking funding for elementary and secondary schools with hunting and archery programs. U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) led the introduction of the legislation. “Basic archery and hunter education programs teach Nebraska students important safety skills. They also provide our youth with a valuable athletic outlet. I’m pleased to co-lead this legislation because President Biden’s Department of Education has no business disrupting Nebraska schools and blocking funding for these critical initiatives,” said Senator Fischer. In addition to Senators Fischer and Barrasso, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Kennedy (R-La.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.). Background: The ARROW Act would clarify that the prohibition of the use of federal education funds for certain weapons does not apply to the use of funds for sports clubs, teams, trainings, or related activities provided for students. Last month, Senator Fischer joined a letter to President Biden urging the administration to withdraw any plans to block funding for schools with hunting and archery programs. Every year, more than 500,000 students participate and are certified through hunter education courses. These programs have decreased hunting accidents by over 50 percent. According to the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP), … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9299924D-8863-4F63-8177-EDB4012267EB Fischer, Armed Services Republicans Call for Halt to Border Wall Material Auctions 2023-08-23 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently joined her fellow Republican members of the Senate Armed Services Committee in demanding the Department of Defense halt the sale of border wall construction materials. Recent reports revealed the Department was moving quickly to dispose of the parts. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), ranking member of the Armed Services Committee, led the letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. “We are deeply disappointed to learn that rather than using construction materials that were purchased to secure the southwest border for that purpose, the Department of Defense has begun auctioning these materials off for other purposes,” the senators wrote in the letter. “These auctions represent a brazen attempt to circumvent the FINISH IT Act, which was included in both the House and Senate FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act.” The FINISH It Act would force the administration to allow the materials to be used to complete sections of the southern border wall in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA passed the Senate with a broad bipartisan majority, and the provisions of the FINISH It Act were also included the House-passed version of the NDAA. In addition to halting all further auctions of border wall materials and requesting detailed information on the current sales, the letter calls for the administration to direct the Department of Defense Inspector General to investigate Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs Melissa Dalton for her failure to provide Congress accurate and timely information about the use of these border wall construction materials. The Senate Armed Services Committee Republicans pledge not to consent to a confirmation hearing for the nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy until the senators’ concerns are addressed. In addition to Senators Fischer and Wicker, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Dan Sulli… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=702C004A-C39E-45B4-94BD-8F75FEC55A16 Fischer Thanks University of Nebraska President Ted Carter for Years of Service to State 2023-08-22 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement thanking current University of Nebraska President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. for his leadership and service to Nebraska over the last four years. President Carter today announced he will be transitioning to President of the Ohio State University in January 2024. “Since 2019, Ted Carter has led the University of Nebraska with distinction. Thanks to his leadership and vision, he’s put our exceptional university on a path to even greater success and ensured that its students are well-prepared for the workforce. He leaves behind a lasting legacy, and I wish him all the best in this new endeavor. Nebraska has a long history 0f providing America’s future leaders with quality educations, and I look forward to working with the next NU President to support that proud tradition,” Senator Fischer. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=10FEDEC6-2A54-4AFB-8A06-C6FCBAA05BBC Fischer, 18 GOP Senators Urge President Biden to Withdraw Funding Block on School Hunting, Archery Programs 2023-08-18 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined 18 of her Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden urging his administration to withdraw its plans to block funding for elementary and secondary schools with hunting and archery programs. U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) led the letter. “While the administration claims to be eliminating dangerous activities, this guidance will, in fact, have the opposite effect. These programs provided thousands of students with the opportunity to learn proper instruction for firearm and archery safety,” the Senators wrote. The letter condemns the Biden administration’s purposeful misinterpretation of last year’s gun control bill to justify blocking funding for schools with these outdoor recreation programs. In Nebraska, more than 275 Nebraska schools offer archery programs through the National Archery in Schools Program. More than 30,000 Nebraska students from 4th through 12th grades participate each year. “By including hunter education in schools, students are given the tools to be safe and responsible hunters. It is now clearer than ever that the Biden Administration will use the bill to attack the constitutional rights of Americans,”the Senators continued. In the letter, the senators urge President Biden to withdraw this guidance immediately and support hunter education and archery programs in schools across the country. These important programs help students learn how to handle firearms safely — in turn, decreasing firearm-related injuries and accidents. In addition to Senators Fischer and Barrasso, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.). Full text of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=58AA231E-15FF-4E88-81FA-731F56F85728 Fischer Statement on Latest USTR Action Against Mexico’s Misguided Ban on GMO Corn 2023-08-17 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced it has formally requested the formation of a dispute resolution panel under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The panel of trade experts will decide whether Mexico’s ban on GMO corn is consistent with the USMCA Agreement, and its findings will be binding. “I welcome USTR’s decision to move forward with a dispute resolution panel under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. “This much-needed step will hold Mexico accountable and prevent its blatant trade violation under the USMCA. “We must continue using every available option to stop this unscientific and economically damaging ban on genetically modified corn from coming into effect. It would harm Nebraska producers, hurt consumers in Mexico, and sabotage international trade. “As I have said before, there can be zero compromise with Mexico on this issue.” Background: In June, Senator Fischer commended USTR’s decision to formally request dispute settlement consultations with Mexico concerning the country’s ban on genetically modified corn. Under the USMCA, member countries can request dispute settlement consultations to resolve trade compliance issues. In March, USTR requested and held technical consultations with Mexico. Technical consultations for biotechnology issues are required before any dispute settlement can be pursued. In December, Senator Fischer led 25 of her bipartisan Senate colleagues in calling for the administration to hold Mexico accountable, including by pursuing a dispute settlement process through USMCA. # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1A6C0839-5A68-4EA0-B600-5521FD262D57 Fischer, 38 Other Senators Call on EPA to Withdraw Harmful Power Plants Regulations 2023-08-14 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and 38 fellow Republican Senators recently sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan requesting the withdrawal of the Clean Power Plan 2.0 proposed rule. In the letter, the Senators state that the EPA has overstepped its authority, is acting counter to Congressional intent, and is disregarding a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in order to pursue burdensome regulations on America’s power sector. The EPA’s proposal would increase consumer energy prices, decrease energy grid resiliency, and strain America’s electric grid. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led the letter. “In direct conflict with West Virginia v. EPA, this proposal requires generation shifting from fossil-fuel power to other types of energy. While the Agency falsely claims this does not run afoul of the Supreme Court’s decision, it is undeniable the proposal would require generation shifting that the Court has definitively found Congress has never granted EPA the authority to require under the Clean Air Act,” the senators wrote. The proposed rule would force source transitions and require energy generators to implement carbon capture and sequestration technologies to limit greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new and existing fossil fuel powered electric generating units. Specifically, the rule would require coal plants that expect to continue to operate past 2040 to implement a 90% carbon dioxide capture rate by 2030, which is not feasible and would eventually force them to close their doors. Additionally, it establishes clean hydrogen as the best system of emission reduction for natural gas plants, which is not based on sound science. In addition to Senators Fischer and Capito, the letter was signed U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Braun… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B0BDEE4B-AF62-4F20-B70D-136F65C642B4 Fischer Highlights Benefits for Eligible Veterans Under the PACT Act 2023-08-09 2023 2023-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act being signed into law. Senator Fischer voted in favor of the PACT Act, which became law on August 10, 2022. “Last year, I was pleased to vote in favor of the PACT Act. We need to keep raising awareness about this important law so that every eligible veteran can access the benefits they have earned,” said Senator Fischer. Eligibility and Deadlines: There is no deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, veterans and survivors who apply for benefits before August 9, 2023, may be eligible to receive benefits backdated to August 10, 2022—when the PACT Act was signed into law. Recently, some veterans submitted intent to file applications related to the PACT Act and received error messages. The VA announced that veterans who received these error messages will have their applications honored as meeting the August 9th deadline, and may be eligible to receive benefits backdated to August 10, 2022. Legislative Background: Named after Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson who died in 2020 from toxic exposure as a result of his military service, the PACT Act is comprehensive legislation to expand health care for post-9/11 combat veterans, create a framework for the establishment of future presumptions of service connection related to toxic exposure, expand VA’s list of service presumptions, and improve resources to support VA’s claims processing. As of July, the VA has received more than 744,000 PACT Act-related claims. More than 103,000 veterans with PACT Act-related eligibility have also enrolled in VA health care since October 1, 2022. # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:31:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=189BDDC0-0E37-448B-A9F7-3D6D15CEBD74 ICYMI: Fischer Secures Over $20 Million for Critical Nebraska Water Infrastructure Projects in Funding Bill’s Key First Step 2023-07-31 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that she secured over $20 million for water infrastructure priorities across Nebraska in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. The bill, which must still be voted upon by the Senate and House, was advanced Thursday by the Senate Appropriations Committee by a vote of 28-o as a first key step. “This funding bill will keep Nebraskans healthy and safe by investing in crucial water infrastructure projects across our state. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I fought to secure measures that support the construction of water treatment plants, the replacement of aging water towers, and the continued removal of dangerous lead pipes throughout our state. I look forward to the full Senate taking up and passing this important legislation,” said Senator Fischer. Nebraska Bill Highlights Recipient Name: Lewis and Clark NRD Project Name: Cedar Knox Rural Water Project Project Description: Funds used for the construction of a water source, treatment plant, and distribution system Project Location: Cedar and Knox Counties, NE Amount Appropriated: $10,000,000 Recipient Name: Village of Platte Center Project Name: Village of Platte Center for Collection System Improvements Project Description: Improve collection system through CCTV inspection and make repairs Project Location: Platte Center, NE Amount Appropriated: $200,000 Recipient Name: City of Henderson Project Name: City of Henderson for Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project Description: Construct and rehabilitate sanitary sewer facility Project Location: Henderson, NE Amount Appropriated: $480,000 Recipient Name: Village of Taylor Project Name: Village of Taylor for Sewer Collection System Project Project Description: Funding will be used to replace connection mains, upgrade manholes, and connect existing lift stations and lagoons Project Location: Taylor, NE Amount Appropri… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=31920335-5E63-40C3-9339-1909D8D39711 ICYMI: Fischer Advances Defense Funding Bill in First Key Step 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Includes Over $170M in Funding for Nebraska Military Equities & Key National Security Priorities WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that she secured over $170 million for critical Nebraska and national defense priorities in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Defense Appropriations bill. The bill, which must still be voted upon by the Senate and reconciled with the House bill, was advanced Thursday by the Senate Appropriations Committee by a vote of 27-1 as a first key step. “This important legislation will provide a 5.2% pay raise for our troops and ensure that the United States is better able to meet the changing global threat environment. Nebraska’s military installations are vital to our national defense, and I was proud to secure provisions to support STRATCOM and Offutt. I’m also glad this legislation fully funds key components of our nuclear triad and expands munitions procurement. As the only Republican Senator who serves on both the Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, I’ll continue to be a strong champion for measures that keep our nation safe,” said Senator Fischer. The legislation includes a number of Fischer-backed provisions, including $90 million for the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile (SLCM) program, which the Biden administration previously attempted to cancel. Senator Fischer continued her legacy of spearheading efforts to modernize America’s nuclear triad by introducing additional funding. The defense appropriations bill also supports funding for multi-year munitions procurement contracts, which Senator Fischer has long supported. Senator Fischer secured provisions in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would obtain multi-year procurement authority for certain munitions. Provisions secured by Senator Fischer in the funding legislation include: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=426D7ECA-00E9-40C7-A9A5-D6C6389613B0 Senate Passes NDAA With Fischer National Security Provisions, Support for Nebraska Military Equities 2023-07-28 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, today voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The annual legislation, which authorizes defense spending and sets the policy priorities for our military, passed the Senate by a vote of 86-11 Sen. Fischer successfully secured a series of national security provisions in the Senate’s NDAAthat: Strengthen the U.S. nuclear deterrent Expand domestic munitions production capacity Continue to block China’s propaganda efforts in Hollywood A more detailed breakdown of the FY24 Senate NDAA and how it supports Nebraska military equities can be found here. “This year’s Senate NDAA is a strong package that will ensure the United States is prepared to tackle the challenges China, Russia, and other adversaries pose to our nation. I’m pleased that my provisions to modernize our nuclear triad, expand munitions production, and stand up to China’s propaganda efforts were all included in this bipartisan bill. We will continue to work to get the NDAAacross the finish line and to the President’s desk in the coming months,” said Sen. Fischer. Strengthening Nuclear Deterrence Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s floor remarks on nuclear deterrence Click here to download audio Click here to download video SLCM Sen. Fischer has long spearheaded the effort to modernize our nuclear triad, despite efforts by the Biden administration to cancel initiatives like the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) program. Because of her continued leadership, the FY 24 Senate NDAA codifies SLCM as a program of record. It also authorizes over $75 million to continue the NNSA’s research and development of the W80-4 ALT-SLCM warhead, and $190 million for the Navy’s development of the SLCM missile body. Sentinel The U.S. Air Force will be replacing the LGM–30G Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile weapon … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1AAC6891-CE1B-4248-9B0A-46D9F61C38E1 PASSED: Senate Unanimously Passes Fischer Legislation to Boost Law Enforcement Hiring and Retention 2023-07-27 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper The Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.) bipartisan Recruit and Retain Act on Wednesday, which will support law enforcement agencies grappling with recruitment issues. U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) co-led the introduction of the legislation. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives. “Police departments nationwide are struggling with a staffing crisis that threatens community safety. It’s why I introduced the Recruit and Retain Act, which will allow law enforcement to use federal resources to reduce hiring costs and create local career pipelines. I want to thank my colleagues for their unanimous, bipartisan support of my bill, and I look forward to getting the legislation passed in the House of Representatives,” said Senator Fischer. “As co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, I know the critical role that our law enforcement officers have on the front lines of our communities in Delaware and across our nation. The Recruit and Retain Act would provide staffing assistance to these agencies and help build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I’m glad my Senate colleagues unanimously passed my bipartisan legislation to ensure our police departments recruit qualified officers who reflect our communities,” said Senator Coons. Background The Recruit and Retain Act would primarily boost the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants to make them more responsive to onboarding costs and hiring challenges. This would help law enforcement agencies across the country hire new officers more easily, as many continue to face staffing shortages and struggle to attract new applicants. This includes the creation of a new program to encourage voluntary partnerships between schools and police departments to foster a stronger local pipeline for law enforcement careers. The Recruit and Retain Act has received national endorsements from the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Major Ci… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9BF24858-F58A-439A-BEF2-7425B86FE09D Fischer Leads Bill to Address “Last Acre” Connectivity, Expand Broadband Access Across Farmland and Ranchland 2023-07-27 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture and Commerce Committees, this week introduced the Linking Access to Spur Technology for Agriculture Connectivity in Rural Environments (LAST ACRE) Act. This legislation would create a new Last Acre Program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Office of Rural Development aiming to expand network connectivity across farmland and ranchland. U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) co-led the introduction of the legislation. Existing Rural Development programs support “last mile” broadband deployment, which connects broadband networks to rural households or businesses. USDA lacks a program focused on extending connectivity across rural acreage, reaching the “last acre.” This last acre connectivity is critical for farmers and ranchers looking to use precision agriculture technologies in their operations. “It’s time for us to connect the last mile to the last acre. Producers looking to adopt precision agriculture technologies need network connectivity that extends far past their residences. They need to be able to make real-time decisions that increase yields and employ resources more efficiently. Our LAST ACRE Act will ensure that USDA has the strategy and resources needed to support last acre connectivity,”said Senator Fischer. “Small farms in remote zip codes should not preclude folks from access to high-speed internet. With nearly one-fourth of zip codes in New Mexico classified as ‘remote,' the LAST ACRE Act will help farms and ranches in remote areas connect to broadband to provide precision agriculture and next generation farming technology. That’s why I’m proud to join Senator Fischer in this effort to close the digital divide in all communities, regardless of zip code,”said Senator Luján. National Stakeholder Support: “Equipment manufacturers are proud to provide American farmers and ranchers with innovative tools that will keep our agriculture sector competitive for generations to come. Farmers and ranchers cann… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B32738B5-0664-4A6B-92A8-540D30685696 VIDEO: Fischer Outlines Her NDAA Provision to Fight Threats of Chinese Propaganda in Hollywood 2023-07-26 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper “This New Policy Will Ensure That Taxpayer Dollars Are Never Involved in Anti-American Messaging Efforts” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor today about the importance of pushing back against the growing influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the entertainment industry. During her remarks, Senator Fischer highlighted instances of potential Chinese propaganda in prominent films like the new Barbie movie and the pervasiveness of China’s authoritarian agenda in seemingly innocent messages. Senator Fischer also discussed how she successfully secured language in the last two National Defense Authorization Acts to prevent the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) from participating in entertainment projects with ties to the CCP. Because of these provisions, the DoD is now prohibited from assisting with entertainment projects that censor the content of the project in a material manner to advance the national interest of the People’s Republic of China. Click here to watch Senator Fischer's remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Earlier this month, the Chinese Communist Party’s relentless propaganda efforts rose to the forefront of international discussion yet again. China’s authoritarian government squashes opposition at home without hesitation, but its censorship and propaganda spreads far beyond Chinese borders. The CCP uses an array of insidious means to push its messages across national boundaries. Concerns that the CCP’s influence is seeping into Hollywood continue to grow. This issue flared up once again this month. Why? Well, in a word, Barbie. You heard me right, M. President. A movie about a plastic doll is the last place you’d expect national security questions to arise. But it was. One trailer for the Barbie movie depicted a cartoon map of the title character’s world travels. On the map … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=796F9ED7-9736-4838-BED0-5EC97128DB7C Fischer and Smith Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Create Mental Health Dashboard 2023-07-25 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) recently reintroduced the Achieving Thorough Transparency & Accessibility for Information Navigation (ATTAIN) Mental Health Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a user-friendly online dashboard to assist applicants in identifying federal grants that support mental health and address substance abuse. “Our country is experiencing a serious mental health crisis — especially in more rural areas where resources can be limited. By creating a streamlined online dashboard of federal mental health programs, our legislation will make it easier for communities to access critical grants,”said Senator Fischer. “Right now, too many people don’t have access to the mental or behavioral health care they need. This bipartisan legislation will improve access to mental health care by making it easier for organizations to apply for mental health grant funding. I'll be working to move it forward with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle,” said Senator Smith. Support for the ATTAIN Mental Health Act: “There is a dire lack of mental health resources in our communities. Senator Fischer’s ATTAIN Act will help ensure that our schools and local communities are aware of federal and state mental health grants that may be available to them. NAMI is proud to support the ATTAIN Act to help our communities receive the mental health resources they desperately need,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “The ATTAIN Mental Health Act will allow a diverse group of stakeholders within community-based settings, such as clinics, schools, and nonprofit organizations, to have improved awareness of federal mental health grant funding availability and the guidelines to access those funds. This web-based resource will assist mental and behavioral health service providers with ease of access to information and help to get funding to the communities who are most in need,” said Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, L… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E1C7E43B-FFFF-4370-9029-7760B41A3E9F Fischer Introduces Legislation to Improve Highway Safety, Implement Motor Carrier Selection Standards 2023-07-25 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, recently introduced the Motor Carrier Safety Selection Standard Act. The bill would improve highway safety by requiring the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish a Safety Fitness Determination test for shippers and brokers to ensure trucking companies are licensed, registered, and insured. U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) co-led the introduction of the legislation. “Our legislation is a common-sense measure to improve highway safety and end the confusion over motor carrier selection standards. Implementing a single, simplified federal rule will also strengthen America’s supply chain and provide much-needed clarity for the transportation sector. I want to thank Senator Crapo for his support to push this legislation forward,” said Senator Fischer. “The entire nation benefits when our interstates and highways are made safer. The Motor Carrier Safety Selection Standard Act directs the Department of Transportation to establish new safety standards for motor carriers, and sets interim requirements to help ensure shippers and manufacturers hire safe, reliable drivers that are properly licensed, registered and insured,” said Senator Crapo. “TIA applauds Senator Fischer on the introduction of the Motor Carrier Safety Selection Standard Act in the United States Senate. TIA thanks Senator Fischer for her continued support to address highway safety and confusion in the supply chain as it relates to motor carrier selection. Senator Fischer is a leader on policy issues in the transportation and supply chain and continues to be a champion on major issues that impact motor carriers, brokers, the motoring public, and highway safety,” said Anne Reinke, President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association. “Senator Fischer has consistently been a champion of common-sense safety reform, and she demonstrates that again with the introduction of the Motor Carrier Safety Selection Standard Act. Without a clear fed… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=17A24D6F-F073-4863-9429-28DF024B0204 Fischer Advances Over $45 Million for Critical Nebraska Transportation Priorities in Funding Bill’s First Key Step 2023-07-24 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that she secured over $45 million for critical Nebraska transportation priorities in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill, which must still be voted upon by the Senate and House, was advanced last Thursdayby the Senate Appropriations Committee in a unanimous, bipartisan vote as a first key step. “I’m committed to ensuring Nebraska communities receive the resources needed to keep our transportation systems up to date. The committee’s vote is a crucial first step. Infrastructure has always enjoyed bipartisan support here in the Senate, and this year’s legislation builds on that consensus — providing critical funding to strengthen our nation’s roads, bridges, highways, and water infrastructure,” said Senator Fischer. The Transportation-HUD legislation prioritizes safety and includes increases for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to hire air traffic controllers, and funding to enhance rail safety. It also includes Senator Fischer’s language to improve the federal government’s vehicle safety testing practices, specifically around crash test dummies. It would also ensure the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is submitting data to the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Funding Map in compliance with Senator Fischer’s provision in the bipartisan infrastructure law. Last Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Committee also approved the FY2024 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies bill, including a Fischer provision to advance nuclear modernization. Additional details on the provisions secured by Senator Fischer are listed below: Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: Nebraska Bill Highlights Nebraska Department of Transportation Project Name: Heartland Expressway Four Lane Expansion Project Description: E… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3F1CFA62-2585-4788-9773-31F482DB4BFF Fischer Introduces Bill to Stop Burdensome Ag Odor Reporting Requirement, Ensure First Responders Aren’t Unnecessarily Overwhelmed 2023-07-24 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently introduced legislation to stop a burdensome reporting requirement on family farmers and ranchers by President Biden’s Environment Protection Agency (EPA). The legislation would clarify that the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) is not intended to regulate manure odors, which pose no threat to public safety. It would also ensure that emergency first responders are not inundated with unnecessary reporting. “The last thing producers need are more government regulations. And first responders, who deal with real public safety emergencies every day, don’t need to be inundated with irrelevant reports. My bill would make permanent the previous administration’s reporting exemption under EPCRA for animal waste emissions. Rural America doesn’t need Washington bureaucrats pushing through more rules that burden producers and provide no value to local emergency planning commissions,” said Senator Fischer. The legislation has been endorsed by the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, United Egg Producers, National Pork Producers Council, National Turkey Federation, National Chicken Council, and National Association of SARA Title III Program Officials (NASTTPO). “The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act is an important tool in keeping communities safe in times of emergency, but it was never designed to require farmers to report the normal odors of a farm to first responders. We appreciate Sen. Fischer for her work to formally exempt farms from EPCRA, which will enable authorities to focus on responding to real disasters when they threaten neighborhoods,” said American Farm Bureau Federation Senior Director Courtney Briggs. “United Egg Producers is very grateful to Senator Fischer for leading this legislative effort to eliminate a reporting requirement that would impose on egg producers a pointless burden that ser… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=759EF20C-6D4F-4CD1-9928-F47DE364A5E2 VIDEO: Fischer Outlines Need to Modernize America’s Nuclear Deterrent 2023-07-13 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, spoke on the Senate floor this week to discuss the urgent need to update America’s aging nuclear deterrent. Senator Fischer successfully secured a series of provisions in the Senate’s FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that strengthen our nuclear deterrent and ensure the U.S. can properly address the challenges adversaries like China and Russia pose. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Last week, we celebrated the birth of our nation. The first Americans took long, dangerous journeys across the Atlantic Ocean in search of better lives — far away from a regime that stripped away their God-given rights and freedoms all too often. Our founders fought a revolution against absolute power. They chafed against the control of the British Empire. Americans united against encroachments on liberty and emerged victorious, just as we’ve done many times since then — from Great Britain to the Soviet Union. M. President, as we look back on our history, we should consider our future as well. The United States faces a threat environment growing more dangerous by the day. Authoritarian adversaries including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are accelerating their efforts to chip away at global stability and undermine America’s national security. A couple weeks ago, a radio host asked me an important question: what’s the point of modernizing our nuclear deterrent? Don’t we already have the capabilities we need to defend ourselves? And if we build up a stronger arsenal of nuclear weapons, doesn’t that just increase the risk of nuclear war? My answer was related to the history I’ve just discussed. From the Revolutionary War to the World Wars to the Cold War, Americans have prio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6FAD7AE2-BAF0-4ACF-9176-84FB133840BE VIDEO: Fischer Highlights Devastating Impact of Bidenomics on Nebraska 2023-07-12 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) spoke on the Senate floor today about the devastating impact of President Biden’s economic agenda. During her remarks, Senator Fischer discussed how “Bidenomics” is driving up costs for working families and hurting small businesses. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: When it comes to the economy, we hear a lot about numbers — the inflation rate, how much more groceries cost, or how many businesses are struggling to find employees. Those numbers are important — they tell us the big picture story of where our economy is and where it’s going. And right now, it’s not a pretty picture. But as elected representatives, we work for our people. It’s critical that we listen to the voices of the people who live in our states and who are being deeply affected by the numbers we read in Bloomberg or The Wall Street Journal. In a speech he made last week, President Biden promised that his economic policy is helping across the board, “in rural America, the heartland, all across America.” He claimed that Bidenomics is the silver bullet for financial struggles among middle-class Americans around the country. I don’t know who the President’s talking to, but my experience hearing from Americans in the heartland is a lot different than what he said in that speech. Many Nebraskans are struggling under an unforgiving load of inflation, kickstarted by this administration’s almost two trillion-dollar stimulus package in 2021. So today, let’s zoom in on Nebraska. When I’m back in my home state, I’m constantly hearing stories of hardship from my fellow Nebraskans — whether they’re farmers, teachers or small business owners. It’s truly painful to hear about some of the experiences people are having due to inflation. So let me tell you about Bidenomics in Nebraska. When I stopped by a coffee shop in 2022, the own… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ED3BB22A-56ED-4C70-BCB9-5B44ECE9E772 ICYMI: Fischer Joins Your World with Neil Cavuto to Talk Artificial Intelligence, Ukraine, and Domestic Munitions Production 2023-07-12 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Your World with Neil Cavuto on Fox News yesterday to discuss artificial intelligence and the importance of boosting domestic munitions production. At an Armed Services Committee hearing yesterday, Senator Fischer questioned President Biden’s nominee to serve as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Air Force General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., about America’s munitions supply and the need to expand domestic munitions production. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s interview Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a partial transcript of Senator Fischer’s interview: On Artificial Intelligence: Neil Cavuto: What do you think of this, Senator — the back-and-forth as to artificial intelligence? Some people are thinking there's got to be a pause, including some of the biggest boosters of it. China isn't pausing. So, what do we do? Senator Fischer: You know, Neil, what we were looking at today and listening to from our defense and intelligence people were really the threats that we face to our national security. Now, we have to understand what our adversaries, what kind of capabilities they're exploring that are a threat to our homeland. And then, we also have to be able to figure out how are we going to defend against those. So, to get the basic knowledge there — to be able to listen, learn from the experts, from our defense, as I said, and our intelligence communities. I think that gives us a really good basis to be able to move forward on this. On Ukraine: Neil Cavuto: Well, you know, Senator, seeing as you sit on the Armed Services Committee — very influential in foreign policy matters — I wonder what you make of the president's decision right now to hold off on pushing NATO membership for Ukraine, the gist of it, because we're in the middle of a war, and now is not the time to be doing that? How do you feel about that? Senator Fischer… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5DBA55E6-4161-4C31-9302-9BF4622EF17A VIDEO: Fischer Presses Joint Chiefs of Staff Nominee on Ramping Up Domestic Munitions Production 2023-07-11 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned U.S. Air Force General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., President Biden’s nominee to serve as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, today about America’s munitions supply and the need to expand domestic munitions production by modifying or removing unnecessary red tape. Senator Fischer has repeatedly discussed the importance of boosting munitions production. Senator Fischer secured a provision in the FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to expand domestic munitions production capacity. During the hearing, Senator Fischer highlighted a recent Wall Street Journal Editorial calling on President Biden to expand U.S. weapons production and stocks. During a recent interview, the President acknowledged the topic of low munitions stockpiles for the first time. Click the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s questioning: Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thank you, General, to you and your wife and your family for your service to this country. I took note of a comment you made in your opening statement. You said, "having led warfighters abroad has shaped my thinking." As you know, I remain deeply concerned about our munitions production capacity. And, in the Wall Street Journal a couple of days ago, they wrote an editorial about "America Is Running Out of Ammo – Biden Admits the Problem, But Then Why Not Do Something About It?" I remember hearing the President make a passing comment on that a couple of days ago, and I was struck by it because it's the first time I had heard from the administration concern about munitions for our security and our defense here in this country. So, frankly, after years of under-investing in munitions production, we now find ourselves, I think, in a very precarious position. While this committee has generally been supportive … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0EE2CAC7-F62C-4628-A739-6A23D89BA8F5 Fischer, Colleagues Demand Answers on Chinese Intel Centers Inside U.S. 2023-07-10 2023 2023-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined nine of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding answers regarding reports of Chinese intelligence outposts operating inside the United States, including Nebraska. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.). “We write to express our grave concerns regarding reports of ‘Overseas Chinese Service Centers’ (OCSCs) operated by an intelligence service of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in conjunction with the PRC’s national police force,” the Senators wrote. “The ongoing discovery of additional OCSCs raises the question of whether DOJ’s response sufficiently addresses the threat, particularly because OCSCs have openly operated for several years and their activities have been reportedly documented in Chinese state media and social media posts. The DOJ must ensure that our adversaries such as the CCP are not operating intelligence operations or engaging in repression on U.S. soil,” the Senators continued. In addition to Senators Fischer and Budd, the letter was co-signed by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Mitt Romney (R-Utah). Read the full letter here or below. We write to express our grave concerns regarding reports of “Overseas Chinese Service Centers” (OCSCs) operated by an intelligence service of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in conjunction with the PRC’s national police force. One such OCSC is reportedly housed at the Carolinas Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the other centers are collocated with nonprofits in San Francisco, California; Houston, Texas; Omaha, Nebraska; St. Paul, Minnesota; Salt Lake City, Utah; and St. Louis, Missouri. These seven OCSCs have reportedly been openly operating for several years and were established throughout the U.S. during this past decade; for example, the Charlotte OCSC was first … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:25:20Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=50C301EA-1B98-480C-A5BB-24AA7B0A888E Fischer Statement on SCOTUS Ruling in Biden v. Nebraska 2023-06-30 2023 2023-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court released its ruling in Biden v. Nebraska. The decision overturned President Biden’s student loan cancelation scheme, which would transfer up to $20,000 in student loan debt per borrower onto taxpayers, costing an estimated $400 billion. “Today, the Supreme Court delivered a victory for common sense. The millions of hard-working Americans who paid their debts or did not go to college shouldn’t be forced to bear the burden of others’ debt. “From the beginning, I’ve said President Biden didn’t have the legal authority to pursue such a reckless loan transfer. I commend Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers for spearheading this effort and protecting Nebraskans from a deeply unfair proposal. “It’s time the administration work with Congress on policies that address the root causes of high tuition and provide the public with better access to more educational opportunities.” # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=65455044-B2FA-405F-A556-848947C83D65 Fischer, Colleagues Reintroduce Bipartisan Firefighter Cancer Registry Reauthorization Act 2023-06-27 2023 2023-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently co-led the introduction of the bipartisan Firefighter Cancer Registry Reauthorization Act, which would reauthorize the program and raise the authorized funding level. The registry, which was enacted in 2018 and officially went online earlier this year, is the largest effort undertaken to understand the risk of cancer among U.S. firefighters. The original legislation directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop a database of firefighters diagnosed with cancer and to study the relationship between career-long exposure to dangerous fumes and toxins and the incidence of cancer in firefighters. The registry can be used to develop better protective gear and prevention techniques. U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) led the introduction of the legislation. “Our firefighters always have our backs when we need them the most. We need to do our part here in Congress to continue supporting them. Reauthorizing the Firefighter Cancer Registry will further shine a light on solutions to protect first responders from the risk of cancer,” said Senator Fischer. In 2019, Senator Fischer joined a bipartisan letter requesting $2.5 million to fully fund the Firefighter Cancer Registry. Background: The Firefighter Cancer Registry Reauthorization Act will reauthorize the program for an additional five years and increase the annual authorization level to $5.5 million, in line with the program’s current appropriation. The additional funding level will support critical cybersecurity and encryption measures to protect sensitive personal data, as well as help expand enrollment and outreach efforts. This extension and funding increase will allow the CDC to be able to continue to collect the data necessary to study the occupational risks of firefighters. In addition to Senators Fischer and Menendez, the legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Marco Rubio (R-Fla), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Sherrod B… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=75D82A6B-4F6B-4597-86EC-F2539C668DAB Fischer Announces $405 Million in Broadband Funding for Nebraska 2023-06-26 2023 2023-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Funding Made Possible by 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law LINCOLN, NEB. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, today announced that Nebraska will receive $405,281,070 in broadband funding through the BEAD program within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The funding for this program was made possible by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, which Senator Fischer supported. “For far too long, our state has lacked the broadband infrastructure communities need to unlock new economic opportunities and access critical services. This once-in-a-generation investment will do much to close the digital divide and provide more Nebraskans with the connectivity they deserve. I am pleased to see my work on the infrastructure law continue to deliver real results for our great state,” said Senator Fischer. Background: Sen. Fischer has been a steadfast advocate of increasing broadband access. This includes introducing legislation to improve broadband mapping to benefit unserved, rural areas. Her Broadband Funding Map amendment, which was part of the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, has ensured better coordination between federal agencies on broadband programs. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:15:57Z

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