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223 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "NE" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending

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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=04E803CD-846B-495D-834A-912862C7D273 Fischer Makes the Case for Golden Dome During Subcommittee Hearing 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, convened a hearing for an update on Golden Dome, the multi-layer missile defense system being developed for the United States. Click here to download video of Fischer’s opening remarks Watch the full hearing here The committee heard testimony from the following witnesses: The Honorable David J. Trachtenberg, senior scholar, National Institute for Public Policy Dr. Thomas O. Karako, director of the Missile Defense Project, Center for Strategic and International Studies Mr. David E. Mosher, director of National Security Analysis, Congressional Budget Office Fischer’s remarks as prepared: Good afternoon and welcome to our witnesses who are joining us to discuss outside perspectives on Golden Dome for America. Our homeland is not a sanctuary. Our adversaries are developing and fielding long-range capabilities specifically designed to challenge and evade the limited defenses currently deployed. These include cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, and large drones – threats that fall below the threshold of a full nuclear attack, yet could still provide devastating damage to our ports, critical infrastructure, and military installations. We do not have an effective counter to these threats, and we cannot afford to remain complacent. Our adversaries must never believe that they can coerce us with the threat of a limited, conventional missile attack on the United States. Which is why this subcommittee has been clear for years – on a bipartisan basis – that the United States needs a more comprehensive integrated air and missile defense system. This administration has supercharged these efforts. The Department [of War] is finally prioritizing homeland defense, has requested the resources needed to rapidly develop and field new systems, and has granted General Guetlein with all the authorities necessary to realize this vision as the Direct Reporting Program Manager for Golden Dome for America. I… 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A1EB5405-40F1-49AE-851F-5003A62FE92B Fischer Votes to Protect Consumers from Data Center Energy Costs 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted for the Ratepayer Protection Act, a bill introduced by Senator Jon Husted (R-OH), to create a federal standard for data centers to cover the cost of energy generation and transmission and keep local ratepayers from facing increased energy costs. Fischer is a cosponsor of the legislation. “We’ve heard concerns from Americans across the country about the impact data centers could have on their energy bills,” Fischer said. “Senator Husted has worked hard to address this, but Senate Democrats put politics over a real solution. I was proud to cosponsor and support the bill, and I remain hopeful we can still get it to President Trump’s desk.” The Ratepayer Protection Act overwhelmingly passed the U.S. House of Representatives on September 16, 2026, by a vote of 417-3. The legislation creates a standard that states can consider when connecting new large-load data centers or hyperscalers with 100 megawatts or more of peak demand at a single facility. This standard is based on three provisions: Large-load data centers should cover the full, incremental cost of any generation, transmission, or distribution upgrades they require. If a data center needs a new high-voltage line or a new generating station to meet its load, they alone should be responsible for those costs. Contracts between large-load data centers and utilities should include meaningful financial assurances to prevent overbuilding or stranding assets that would otherwise force everyday customers to absorb the cost. Many of the infrastructure upgrades they require last for decades, so communities should not be left paying for infrastructure built for a single customer who later scales back or relocates. States retain full flexibility to design the specific standards and agreements that work best for them. The bill does not impose a federal mandate; instead, it provides a thoughtful federal standard for states to consider as they evaluate how best to connect these very large loads. ### 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F009CCC4-54CB-4E3E-AFA9-CF591BD66562 Fischer Votes for Ricketts’ Stop Insider Trading Act 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Bill includes SAVE America Act provision requiring photo ID to vote WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted for the Stop Insider Trading Act, introduced by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and cosponsored by Fischer, to prohibit Members of Congress from purchasing publicly traded stocks. It also includes a provision of the SAVE America Act requiring photo identification to vote. “Senator Ricketts has tackled insider trading to rebuild public trust and make sure Congress plays by the rules,” Fischer said. “I was proud to cosponsor and vote for this bill. Chuck Schumer, meanwhile, rallied Senate Democrats against it despite claiming to oppose insider trading and support photo ID to vote. It’s disappointing Senate Democrats refused to support this commonsense bill.” The Stop Insider Trading Act prohibits Members, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing any new stocks in publicly traded companies. It also requires public notice at least seven days, but no more than 14 days, in advance of any sell. The bill establishes a penalty of $2,000 or 10 percent of the investment value, whichever is greater, as well as the forfeiture of any net gain realized from any sale. The Stop Insider Trading Act was introduced in March of this year and is companion legislation to House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil’s legislation introduced in the House of Representatives in January of this year. ### 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-democrats-block-ricketts-stop-insider-trading-act/ Senate Democrats Block Ricketts’ Stop Insider Trading Act 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C – Today, Senate Democrats blocked U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts’ (R-NE) Stop Insider Trading Act. This bill would prohibit members of Congress, their spouses, and immediate family members from profiting off stocks while serving in public office. It would also require Members and their families to disclose plans to sell stock to the public seven days in advance. “Public service is not a profit-making business,” said Ricketts. “Democrats disagreed when they blocked my bill to ban members of Congress from insider trading. Senate Republicans voted to deliver for Americans and help restore their faith in government officials. The House passed this bill in a bipartisan manner. It’s discouraging that Senate Democrats failed to do the same.” The House passed the bill with a bipartisan vote of 232 – 198. Thirteen Democrats supported this bill. This is the second time Senate Democrats have blocked passage of the Stop Insider Trading Act. 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=88B99E68-7577-48F5-8AC0-B8262C8DE641 Fischer Statement on Gregory Ibach USDA Nomination 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement on Gregory Ibach’s nomination to serve as the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): “Congratulations to Greg on another well-deserved nomination. Having worked with Greg over the years, I know he will bring his experience and expertise to USDA at a time when farm country truly needs it. I look forward to working with him and finding new ways we can help producers in Nebraska.” Gregory Ibach served as the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs at USDA in President Donald Trump’s first term. Before his time at USDA, Ibach served as Nebraska’s Director of Agriculture. ### 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=271765AC-5AC9-4BE6-B339-72987B1A1E75 Senate Passes Fischer Satellite Defense Bill 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) Secure Space Act to prevent foreign adversaries from accessing American satellite systems. “The threat foreign adversaries pose to our satellite infrastructure cannot be overstated,” Fischer said. “Countries like China and Russia are constantly trying to infiltrate our networks and get ahead. I am thankful my colleagues understand the importance of this legislation and the national security risks we face.” The Secure Space Act prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from granting satellite licenses or U.S. market access for foreign-licensed satellite systems to any entity or its affiliates that produce or provide communications equipment, or services deemed a national security risk. This legislation amends the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 to extend this prohibition to both geostationary and non-geostationary orbit satellite systems and includes gateway stations within its scope. It applies to new licenses and authorizations issued after the bill's enactment and requires the FCC to establish implementing regulations within one year. Background: The Secure Space Act was passed by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on April 14, 2026. Fischer is a member of the committee and serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media. See bill text here. ### 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-op-ed-on-renewable-fuels-follow-nebraskas-lead/ Ricketts Op-Ed: On renewable fuels, follow Nebraska’s lead 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper The following op-ed by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) was originally published by the Washington Times on September 3, 2026. Nebraska is a biofuels state. We are a leading producer of crops used for biofuel production. We are finding new opportunities to integrate and make biofuels in our supply chains. And we’ve incorporated them into our everyday lives. Nebraskans know that biofuels are a win-win-win. It’s time for the rest of the country to follow our lead. The first win is for American consumers. Biofuels save consumers money at the pump. In 2025, Nebraskans saved over $300 million using E10 or higher ethanol blends. The last time I filled up at Hy-Vee, I saved 55 cents a gallon with E10. Using biodiesel, Nebraskans pay about 20 cents less a gallon at the pump. This extra money can be used for a house payment or groceries. And that’s why I am pushing for nationwide E15and diversifying our biofuel markets. It would save Americans even more money. When I was Governor of Nebraska, we ran a program on standard state vehicles to test how 30% ethanol blends (E30) would perform. As of 2025, over 600,000 gallons of E30 had been used in state vehicles. We saved taxpayers more than $300,000 in fuel costs with E30. The study proved that fueling up with this higher ethanol blend was safe, clean and cheaper. But biofuels aren’t just good for consumers — they are also good for the environment. In the state E30study, 529 fewer tons of CO2 emissions have been emitted so far. Higher ethanol blends also lower pollutants such as carbon monoxide that can be harmful to people with heart disease. They also improve local air quality by lowering tailpipe emissions of harmful particulate matter. This is a huge win for the environment. It’s more than just ethanol blends, though. While Governor, I also signed the ImagiNE Nebraska Act to encourage public-private partnerships. This extends to biofuels projects. Just last month, I joined a ribbon-cutting for one of these projects. A new, state-of-the-art facility at Adams Land & C… 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-introduces-agricultural-data-privacy-act/ Video: Ricketts Introduces Agricultural Data Privacy Act 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) shared his new legislation to protect farmers’ and ranchers’ intellectual property. The Agricultural Data Privacy Act would require producers’ approval before any company uses their data. Under the act, data could not be sold or otherwise used without farmers’ and ranchers’ express written consent. Ricketts also discussed his letter to the Trump Administration on behalf of Nebraska’s corn and soybean producers. “As technology expands, farmers and ranchers should be able to choose how they share their expertise. It’s important that we protect their intellectual property,” said Senator Ricketts. “They shouldn’t be forced to share their data. My Agricultural Data Privacy Act protects that right.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “Agriculture is the heart and soul of what we do in Nebraska. “It is also a knowledge business. “Farmers and ranchers are experts in their fields. “They know what to plant and when. “They know every contour of their land. “Every day, they perform countless calculations to maximize yield, deliver food, and pay their bills. “That expertise represents a lifetime of hard work. “Often, it’s generations of hard-won lessons and insights. “Farmers and ranchers have always been happy to share their insights. “First, they published them in almanacs. “Then, they spoke on radio and wrote into newspapers. “But now, internet-connected devices are changing the game. “Sharing on your own terms is one thing. “But, as technology expands, farmers and ranchers should be able to choose how they share their expertise. “It’s important that we protect their intellectual property. “They shouldn’t be forced to share their data. “My Agricultural Data Privacy Act protects that right. “Data on climate and weather, land, livestock, and yield are valuable. “My bill would require producers’ approval before any company uses their data. “That means this data can’t be sold or otherwise be u… 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-legislation-to-protect-farmers-and-ranchers-data/ Ricketts Introduces Legislation to Protect Farmers’ and Ranchers’ Data 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Agricultural Data Privacy Act. This bill would codify that agricultural producers are the sole owners of the data they produce. It would also prohibit companies from using or selling producers’ data without written consent. “Excellent agriculture requires excellent knowledge,” said Senator Ricketts. “Farmers and ranchers who work a lifetime to build their knowledge should own it. It is only fair that we protect their data and intellectual property. This bill would do just that.” The Nebraska Corn Growers Association and the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation endorse this bill. “This is a meaningful step forward for Nebraska farmers. As agriculture continues to adopt new technologies, data has become an essential part of how farmers make decisions and keep our operations running efficiently. This legislation provides clarity and puts common-sense protections in place to ensure farmers maintain ownership and control of their data,” said NeCGA President Michael Dibbern, a farmer from Cairo. “Nebraska Farm Bureau has been a longtime supporter and leader in pushing policy that protects the massive quantity of data modern farms and ranches produce. The protection of this data is vital both economically and from a national security level. We thank Nebraska Senator Pete Ricketts for bringing this conversation to the federal level and we look forward to working with him as this legislation moves forward,” said Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. The Agricultural Data Privacy Act would: Make agricultural producers the sole owners of agricultural data originating from their farm, land, device, or equipment. Prohibit companies from using or selling a producer’s agricultural data without written consent from the producer. Apply data privacy protections across six categories of data (agronomic, climate and weather, land, livestock, management, and sustainability data). Ensure producers retain access to their data for future … 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-urges-trump-administration-to-support-nebraskas-farmers-and-ranchers-hold-china-accountable-on-trade-agreements/ Ricketts Urges Trump Administration to Support Nebraska’s Farmers and Ranchers, Hold China Accountable on Trade Agreements 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) sent a letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer expressing the importance of foreign market access for Nebraska’s beef and soybean producers. The letter was sent ahead of the trade negotiations set to take place during President Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping this week. It urges the Administration to ensure that Communist China follows through on its purchasing agreements. China is the world’s largest importer of soybeans, importing over 60 percent of all available global stocks. Historically, the United States has been a supplier of choice for the Chinese market. Communist China has failed to follow through on trade commitments with the United States. This uncertainty undercuts market access for American producers. In the 2018 Phase I Agreement, China did not fulfill its soybean purchase commitment. In October 2025, China agreed to purchase 25 million metric tons of soybeans annually. Communist China restored market access to some of our beef processing facilities earlier this year. Many facilities that should have access under the Phase I agreement are still suspended. This letter encourages the administration to expand market access for these agriculture commodities and hold Communist China accountable to its existing trade commitments. The letter reads: “Nebraska is the nation’s fifth-largest agricultural exporter, with nearly $8 billion in agricultural exports last year. We lead the nation in beef and veal exports and are a top exporter of corn, feed grains, and soybeans. Nebraska farmers and ranchers sell these commodities to customers across the globe, including in Communist China. However, unfair trading practices and unreliable market access have particularly impacted Nebraska’s soybean and beef producers.” Full text of the letter: Dear Ambassador Greer, Thank you for your continued work to expand markets for our agricultural producers by securing historic trade deals that ensure fair market acce… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=663C3BFC-CE1C-4676-B47D-C7E5948DEFA6 Fischer Statement on Judge Rossiter’s Senior Status Announcement 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper OMAHA – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) today released the following statement after Judge Robert F. Rossiter announced he will take senior status on the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska: “Judge Robert Rossiter has served Nebraska with distinction in this role for a decade. His tenure on the federal bench has been defined by integrity, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. Nebraska is better for his dedicated service. I’m proud to call him a friend and wish him all the best.” In 2014, Fischer recommended to former President Obama the nomination of Judge Rossiter. In 2015, Fischer testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on behalf of his nomination. In 2016, the Senate confirmed Judge Rossiter to serve as the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska. Next steps: Senators Fischer and Pete Ricketts will soon announce the application process for Nebraskans interested in filling Judge Rossiter’s vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska. ### 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7414D5E8-789F-4200-9960-A7B07C00CCFD Fischer Receives Equipment Manufacturers Champion of Industry Award 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) received the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) Champion of Industry Award for her legislative work supporting American manufacturers. “Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the U.S. workforce and economy,” Fischer said. “I’m honored to receive this award again and proud of what we can accomplish when we work together. I’ll continue fighting in Congress for our manufacturers who lead the world in equipment innovation.” Fischer is the first legislator to receive the Champion of Industry Award twice, having first won the award in 2022. According to AEM, Champion of the Industry award is reserved for one Republican and one Democrat from each legislative chamber who have championed legislation important to equipment manufacturers and have demonstrated a commitment to work across the aisle in support of common objectives. ### 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-ratepayer-protection-act/ Ricketts Supports Ratepayer Protection Act 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his support for the Ratepayer Protection Act. Senator Ricketts is a cosponsor of this legislation introduced by Senator Jon Husted (R-OH). “Nebraskans should not be responsible for footing the bill of data centers,” said Sen. Ricketts. “Senate Republicans know this and are pushing a bill that passed the House nearly unanimously to protect ratepayers. I am working to protect Nebraskans’ wallets while Democrats blocked this commonsense legislation.” The Ratepayer Protection Act would require data centers to pay the full utility cost needed to serve them. It would prevent rate hikes for ratepayers in communities where data centers are developing. “We need to beat Communist China in the AI race. This bill would strengthen our national security and protect American families’ wallets,” said Ricketts. The House of Representatives passed the Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 9340) on September 16, 2026, in an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 417-3. 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6848F6D8-C02B-426F-AC3A-391C2F38E57D Fischer Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve VA Hiring, Retention of High-Skilled Doctors 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Angus King (I-ME), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the bipartisan VA Salary Cap Waiver Adjustment Act to allow the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue waivers to VA medical directors allowing them to exceed existing salary caps for the hiring and retention of physicians. “Hiring and retaining skilled physicians is a serious challenge within the VA and it needs to be addressed now,”Fischer said. “Giving the VA flexibility to retain medical professionals will help it compete with private-sector salaries and ensure veterans receive high-quality care. I thank Senators King and Blumenthal for their leadership, and I will continue working to support Nebraska’s veterans.” “Our men and women in uniform served our country with patriotism and without conditions, and they deserve medical attention with a minimum of red tape,” King said.“The VA Salary Cap Waiver Adjustment would allow VA facilities to have a more competitive salary structure that will maintain high levels of care for our veterans and reduce the odds that the VA lose doctors to higher paying opportunities elsewhere.” “VA’s current salary cap is outdated and counterproductive — hindering the Department as it competes with the private sector to hire doctors,” Blumenthal said. “Our bipartisan bill gives VA authority to raise physician salaries. As the cost of living continues to skyrocket, VA needs this authority to recruit and retain the best doctors around to serve veterans.” The VA Salary Cap Waiver Adjustment Act would allow the VA Secretary to issue as many waivers as necessary and give VA medical facilities the ability to compete with the salaries of private healthcare jobs. This legislation is supported by Vietnam Veterans of America, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), and the American Legion. Background: The United States Congress passed, and the president signed the bipartisan Elizabeth Dole Act in December … 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7B6C86C6-8FF9-486B-9FC6-941CD71310D4 Fischer, Ricketts Applaud Grant Funding for Bellevue Public Schools 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Funding secured through the Working Families Tax Cuts WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following joint statement on the U.S. Department of War Education Activity’s (DoWEA) announcement that Bellevue Public Schools will receive a $2.89 million grant from the Fiscal Year 2026 Military-Connected Schools Construction, Modernization, and Facilities Maintenance Grant Program: “This is wonderful news for Bellevue and a great way for the department to return federal investments to military communities. Offutt has brought thousands of families to the region, and this grant will improve the learning environment for their children and all the students in the school system. This is another win from the Working Families Tax Cuts, and we thank the department for selecting Bellevue this year.” This grant funding will support facility improvements benefiting military-connected students and families assigned to Offutt Air Force Base. Bellevue Public Schools will use the grant to execute coordinated infrastructure and facilities maintenance projects across 12 district school sites. The work will address critical requirements in life-safety systems, Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility, health-code compliance, and general facility repair. Background: The Military-Connected Schools Construction, Modernization, and Facilities Maintenance Program was funded in the Working Families Tax Cuts passed by Congress and signed by the president in 2025. Authorized under 10 U.S.C. § 2008, the program permits the Department of War to use funds to support the construction, renovation, repair, or expansion of school facilities serving federally connected students. To be eligible for funding, Local Education Agencies must receive U.S. Department of Education Impact Aid Basic Support Payments and demonstrate a military-connected student enrollment of 15 percent or greater at the targeted school facility. Read more about the grant here. 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-addresses-suicide-awareness-month/ Video: Ricketts Addresses Suicide Awareness Month 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed efforts to combat suicide and mental health issues. Ricketts also highlighted Nebraska’s success in lowering suicide rates, and the ways that he is bringing those solutions to the nation. Ricketts has long been an advocate for mental health. As Governor, he helped launch the “Nebraska Needs You” suicide prevention campaign: a statewide Public Service Announcement that educated Nebraskans about suicide warning signs and encouraged those in crisis to seek help. His administration created a behavioral health System of Care designed specifically to help Nebraska’s youth. It also launched the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families in Nebraska. In August, Ricketts co-sponsored the Campus Lifeline Act. This bipartisan bill would increase awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and expand resources to students nationwide. It would also increase access to student-led outreach on college campuses. “Our goal is zero deaths from suicide. And until that goal is reached, I will continue to fight to improve mental health and expand resources that help prevent suicide. This month and every month, check on your family, your friends, and your neighbors. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone. Our loved ones should never have to face them alone.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “Over the past month, I had the opportunity to travel the state and talk with many Nebraskans about the issues that matter most to them. “I spent time with families, farmers, ranchers, small business owners, healthcare professionals, first responders, teachers, and students. “A few weeks ago, I hosted my third annual Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair. “This year I was joined by special guests USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Senator Fischer. “We talked about ways we are working together to support our farmers and ranchers—who feed and fuel our nation. … 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=2EB391A3-DBAB-43C7-9FCC-97108F42C15B Fischer Votes to Advance Farm Bill, Secures Year-Round Sale of E15 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, voted to advance the Farm Bill out of committee. The legislation passed with a vote of 12-11 and includes several of Fischer’s priorities. “We are one step closer to getting a full Farm Bill done for producers in Nebraska, and across the country,” Fischer said. “I am proud to have led the effort to get E15 included in this strong, bipartisan bill, and secure many of my top priorities for the ag industry and rural America. I thank Chairman Boozman for his leadership and unwavering support for farmers and ranchers who are in dire need of a modern Farm Bill.” The Farm Bill passed out of committee today includes several of Fischer’s priorities: Year-Round Sale of E15 Led by Fischer for a decade, this provision allows for the nationwide year-round sale of E15 gasoline. The provision removes the summertime restriction that has been extended through emergency waivers by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the last several years. The provision does not require consumers to purchase the gasoline, nor does it require gas stations to install E15 pumps. PRECISE Act The Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment (PRECISE) Act provides a suite of financial tools to help farmers and ranchers of all sizes increase their adoption of precision ag technologies through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs. Read more. PAL Act The Precision Agriculture Loan (PAL) Act creates a program within USDA to provide loan financing to farmers and ranchers interested in purchasing precision agriculture equipment. Read more. LAST ACRE Act The Linking Access to Spur Technology for Agriculture Connectivity in Rural Environments (LAST ACRE) Act creates a new Last Acre Program at the USDA Office of Rural Development to expand network connectivity across farmland and ranchland. Read more. Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act This legislation preven… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E37DACFD-0CC6-4E4F-9315-77F2E39266D9 ICYMI: Fischer Urges Long-Term Funding For Golden Dome 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined the Air and Space Forces Association’s 2026 Air, Space & Cyber Conference to discuss why the Golden Dome missile defense shield is urgently needed to bolster America’s homeland defense. Fischer – who chairs the SASC Strategic Forces Subcommittee – was joined by Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander of U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command, and Gen. Michael Guetlein, director of Golden Dome for America. Watch the full discussion here or by clicking the image above. On congressional support for Golden Dome: “There is still a lot of work that has to be done. We've always had really strong bipartisan support on the Armed Services Committee when it comes to working together to identify threats and meet the needs that the Department and the military have presented to us. … “First of all, we need to get the information that we need, but we also need to have a better understanding of just what Golden Dome involves. “I think a lot of times people forget that in our 2024 NDAA, which came out of the Senate Armed Services Committee, we had a provision to do a study on a layered missile defense system. When President Trump came into the White House, he made it Golden Dome, but it started within Congress. I think that's important to remember because it shows you the level of commitment that's there. “As we move forward, we're going to need better information. We were talking backstage a little bit about [Congressional Budget Office] scores and how unrealistic some of those can be sometimes. I think that's due to the fact that there isn't a clear understanding of this layered defense that we're looking at when it comes to defending our homeland.” On whether the current plans for Golden Dome are ‘good enough’: “Well, right now we aren't defending [our homeland], so that's not good enough. “Sure, we can defend against a massive strategic attack on this country. We can deter. That's o… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EC91FC30-FA98-4B29-9D33-ADBAF1C445A3 Fischer Statement on House Passage of Russia Sanctions Bill 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after House passage of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act: “Russia’s financial backers must pay a price for enabling Putin’s barbaric atrocities against sovereign Ukraine. I was proud to support this bill in the Senate and encouraged to see it pass the House. Now that it will soon become law, we can finally inflict decisive economic pressure on Putin’s lifeline and work toward lasting peace.” Background Fischer was an original cosponsor when the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) first introduced this legislation with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in 2025. She was also an original cosponsor of the updated version when Senator Darline Graham (R-SC) introduced it on July 16, 2026. On July 22, 2026, Fischer spoke on the Senate floor in support of the bill to tout its mandatory sanctions on Russia’s political leadership, financial institutions, and energy sector — which will put economic pressure on Moscow to end Vladimir Putin’s illegal war against Ukraine. After championing the bill, Fischer applauded its passage by the full Senate in August. ### 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-ricketts-hosts-secretary-mullin-in-nebraska/ PHOTOS: Ricketts Hosts Secretary Mullin in Nebraska 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Monday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) welcomed Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin to Nebraska. Ricketts and Mullin hosted a roundtable with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other members of the community who aided inrecovery efforts following this year’s wildfires, tornadoes, and severe storms. This included the Omaha Fire Department and Omaha Public Power District. “We were glad to have my friend and DHS Secretary, Markwayne Mullin, in Nebraska today. This year has been a hard year for our state. Historic wildfires, tornadoes, and severe storms have damaged many communities. Nebraskans are resilient and have worked together to recover and rebuild. Support from FEMA has helped in this process,” said Ricketts. Senator Ricketts and Secretary Mullin hosted FEMA roundtable. Ricketts and Mullin also met with the family of Sarah Root. In 2016, Sarah was struck and killed by an illegal immigrant from Honduras who was driving drunk. Sarah had just graduated from Bellevue University. In March 2025, her killer was found, extradited to the U.S., and held accountable for taking her life. Following the meeting, Sarah’s family joined Ricketts and Mullin for a press conference in honor of their daughter. “It’s been over ten years since Sarah Root’s life was tragically taken. For nine years, her killer evaded law enforcement. This year, her family finally got the justice they deserved,” said Ricketts. “We should be very proud of our law enforcement for all the work they did to bring her killer back to the U.S. to face American justice.” Senator Ricketts and Secretary Mullin joined a press conference in honor of Sarah Root. 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-discusses-future-of-us-china-competition-at-hudson-institute/ Ricketts Discusses Future of US-China Competition at Hudson Institute 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined the Hudson Institute for a conversation on the future of US-China competition. The discussion highlighted Ricketts’ efforts to ensure U.S. leadership in the global tech race, protect American agriculture against China’s malign actions, and strengthen our national security. **Click here or above to watch Senator Ricketts’ conversation.** Ricketts has long championed efforts to maintain U.S. leadership and protect Americans against Communist China: 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-farm-bill-passing-senate-ag-committee/ Ricketts Statement on Farm Bill Passing Senate Ag Committee 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after Senate Ag Committee Republicans passed the Farm Bill out of committee: “Today, Senate Ag Committee Republicans passed the Farm Bill out of committee. It’s disappointing that Democrats voted against it. The Farm Bill is important to supporting our farmers and ranchers. It includes my provisions that will secure nationwide E15, support Nebraska’s recovery efforts, and prevent Communist China from buying American farmland. 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=312689DB-277E-4BAB-9330-2CB267752079 ICYMI: Fischer Makes Case for Strong, Modern U.S. Nuclear Deterrent on Atlantic Council Podcast 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined the Atlantic Council’s “So What’s the Strategy?” podcast to share her vision for strengthening America’s nuclear deterrent amid growing threats from China and Russia. During the conversation, Fischer – who chairs the SASC Strategic Forces Subcommittee – outlined the need to modernize U.S. nuclear forces, maintain a credible nuclear triad, and ensure America has the capabilities necessary to deter its adversaries and protect its allies. Watch the full discussion here or by clicking the image above. On the cost of nuclear modernization: “Why spend so much? What’s our security worth? That’s what it boils down to. “What risks are we willing to take as a country, as a world, if the United States doesn’t follow through and continue our modernization? Can we meet those threats? “It’s a very small percentage of our defense spending in this country. But as I said earlier, it is the bedrock of our security. And it’s not just for us. We also offer a secure nuclear umbrella for our allies and partners. That keeps the world safer. We don’t see nuclear proliferation around the world because of that. It’s called deterrence for a reason. “We don’t ever want to have to use a nuclear weapon, but our adversaries need to know that we have a safe, credible, and secure triad, and we will use it if it becomes necessary.” On nuclear deterrence and assurance: “We always want our adversaries—we want everyone—to wake up every morning and say, ‘Not today. We are not going to do anything against the United States. Not today. Too risky.’” On the type of nuclear capabilities the U.S. needs: “I believe we have certain capabilities that are the base of our deterrence. Whether that’s our ICBMs—the Sentinel program—that’s a program that has to happen. It has had some bumps in the road, but we have General White now … to handle that. We established that position to make sure whoever was in charge of that program, along with… 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6E06DD17-45BB-44FA-B88B-B2B55F6F70BA After Fischer Push, NTIA Announces New Round of Broadband Funding 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee, issued the following statement after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced another round of Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funding: “The BEAD program is essential to getting all of Nebraska connected to broadband. I have worked for years to help build this program into something that can truly help rural areas. I’m thankful NTIA answered our call to make additional funding available to serve unconnected locations. We need to keep these funds working for Nebraskans, and I will be working hard to allow unobligated BEAD funding to be utilized for other critical purposes like precision ag technologies.” In the announcement, NTIA states this round of funding is intended to serve locations that remain unserved after the initial deployment round. In the initial deployment, only around $44.5 million of Nebraska’s allocation was spent, leaving approximately $340 million to be spent. Fischer’s work: NTIA’s announcement comes after Fischer’s numerous letters and close work with the U.S. Department of Commerce to deploy additional funding: In March of this year, Fischer sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Assistant Secretary Arielle Roth urging them to make additional BEAD funding available to serve locations that Nebraska’s final plan did not capture. In April of this year, Fischer questioned Secretary Lutnick on his plans to deploy the remaining $340 million in BEAD funds allocated to Nebraska. Fischer also met with Assistant Secretary Roth in her Washington, D.C. office earlier this year to discuss BEAD funding. In December of 2025, Fischer sent a letter to Assistant Secretary Roth advocating for NTIA to affirm precision ag as an option for unobligated BEAD funds. Also in December of 2025, Fischer sent a letter to Secretary Roth urging the administration to preserve states’ ability to use their non-deployment BEAD Progr… 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-third-annual-federal-issues-forum-highlights-his-work-to-support-nebraska-producers/ Ricketts’ Third Annual Federal Issues Forum Highlights His Work to Support Nebraska Producers 2026-09-03 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper GRAND ISLAND, NE – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) hosted his third Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair. The event included a legislative update from Senator Ricketts and a panel discussion on federal issues facing Nebraskans. “Nebraska is an Ag State,” said Senator Ricketts. “Agriculture is more than what we do, it’s our way of life. I am grateful for Secretary Rollins and Senator Fischer for joining me to share how we are working together to support our agriculture community. Nebraska producers are the best in the business. I will continue working to deliver policies that put our farmers and ranchers first.” The event took place in the Aurora Cooperative Pavilion and included a panel discussion and Q&A session with panelists U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and U.S. Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer (R-NE). WATCH: Highlights of Senator Ricketts’ Third Annual Federal Issues Forum During the event, Ricketts highlighted his work to protect the Good Life for every Nebraskan. Attendees also received a copy of the Ricketts Review. This report highlights Senator Ricketts’ track record of delivering wins for Nebraska families, consumers, and producers. WATCH: Senator Ricketts shares legislative wins for Nebraskans You can view the Ricketts Review here. 1 2026-09-04T09:19:37Z 2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7AD3BF0B-FF46-4EA3-8810-DC8737DFF781 Fischer in the Lincoln Journal Star: Take advantage of this real solution to paid family leave 2026-08-24 2026 2026-08 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: Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) penned an op-ed in the Lincoln Journal Star encouraging Nebraskans to capitalize on her Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit, made permanent through the Working Families Tax Cuts. Fischer also highlights guidance recently released from the U.S. Department of Treasury on how business owners can claim this credit to offer paid leave to more employees. Read the op-ed here or below. Imagine working for a mom-and-pop store in the Haymarket and you’re expecting a new baby or need to care for a sick family member. Your boss would like to offer you paid leave to care for your family, but as a small business, the margins are thin. Your boss wants to do the right thing, but they can’t afford it. This had been the reality for small business owners and their employees for decades — until 2017 when I created the nation’s first-ever paid family and medical leave policy. My Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit allows employers to claim a general business tax credit covering up to 25% of the wages they pay employees who are out on parental or family medical leave. Importantly, this is not a government mandate. It is a voluntary incentive. I designed the credit with an income cap to ensure that it helps the workers who need it the most: middle-income and hourly workers. That cap adjusts every year. And the more generous the employer is, the more help they get. Last year, through the Working Families Tax Cuts passed by Congress, we made my tax credit permanent. Now, businesses of all sizes can build paid leave into long-term benefit plans without wondering whether the incentive will disappear. Washington should make it easier — not harder — for a small business to stand by an employee when their family needs them most. A tax credit only helps if employers know it exists and apply for it. That’s why, this year, I used my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure $1 million in federal funds for the U.S. Small Business Administration to help increase awaren… 1 2026-08-25T05:31:37Z 2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-in-support-of-nebraska-farmers-and-ranchers/ Ricketts Issues Statement in Support of Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers 2026-08-21 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper Omaha, Nebraska. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in support of Nebraska farmers and ranchers: “I appreciate the Administration’s work to lower grocery prices. Short term policy shifts do not equal long term solutions. Flooding the market with lower quality beef compromises Nebraska farmers and ranchers. They should be enabled to grow herd sizes and meet consumer demand.” 1 2026-08-22T05:24:59Z 2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=833716C4-D01A-403E-BD01-FF1D84CC6663 Fischer Welcomes VA Secretary in Omaha 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper OMAHA – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins and Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) for a tour of the Omaha VA Medical Center and the Sarpy County VA Clinic. “Great day in Omaha with Secretary Collins and Rep. Bacon,” Fischer said. “The secretary saw firsthand the hard work being done by our local VA providers and offered his appreciation to both the staff and veterans he had the pleasure of meeting. I thank Secretary Collins for his support of our nation’s veterans and look forward to continuing to work with him.” Secretary Collins took time to recognize top-performing VA employees for their outstanding commitment to providing world-class care for veterans in Omaha and the surrounding area. Fischer greets Secretary Collins at the Omaha VA Medical Center, August 19, 2026 (Office of Senator Fischer) Fischer, Collins, Bacon, and leadership of the Omaha VA Medical Center, August 19, 2026 (Office of Senator Fischer) Fischer, Collins, Bacon, and leadership of the Sarpy County VA Clinic, August 19, 2026 (Office of Senator Fischer) ### 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BEB10BC9-60DA-4136-8CD2-B13827B51865 Fischer Introduces Legislation Addressing Excessive Trucking Lawsuits 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) has introduced the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act to ensure federal vehicle safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are the nationwide standards. This legislation comes amid an increase in costly civil lawsuits where damages are awarded based on arbitrary standards, even when vehicles and equipment are compliant with federal standards. This has resulted in an increase in insurance costs and higher trucking prices, which are passed on to consumers. “These decisions are not being driven by the law, and we need to set the record straight,” Fischer said. “Federal standards are drafted for the safety of drivers and others on the road. These regulations should be consistent across states, and consumers should not be forced to pay more because of unfair practices that raise transportation costs.” The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act would prevent litigation when the safety component at question is fully compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Plaintiffs could still bring claims for manufacturing defects, failure to meet FMVSS, breach of warranty, or other independent legal violations. Representative Mike Flood (NE-01) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill is supported by the American Trucking Associations, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the International Foodservice Distributors Association, the Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association, the Truckload Carriers Association, the Truck Renting and Leasing Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, the American Bus Association, the National Tank Truck Carriers, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, the Transportation Intermediaries Association, the Nebraska Trucking Association, Werner Enterprises, and Timpte. Alex Rosen, Senior Vice President, American Trucking Associat… 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D804F6DE-33CE-4B9A-A602-6D62D1DE935B Fischer Applauds USDA Announcement of $37M for Agricultural Research Service Facility at UNL 2026-08-19 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Since 2021, Fischer has secured over $70 million to fund ARS facility LINCOLN – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement that the agency will direct $37 millionto the construction of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus: “This is great news for UNL and the future of the ARS facility. Over the years, I have worked hard to secure over $70 million dollars in federal investments for this project. I thank Secretary Brooke Rollins and Undersecretary Scott Hutchins for recognizing the importance of funding this facility. I look forward to continuing to work to get this project fully finished.” Fischer’s work to fund the ARS facility at UNL: Fischer has helped secure over $70 million for this project: 1 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-legislation-to-improve-wildfire-response-efforts/ Ricketts Introduces Legislation to Improve Wildfire Response Efforts 2026-08-13 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recently introduced the Pilot for Regional Emergency Prepositioning of Aerial Resources and Equipment (PREPARE) Act. This legislation would establish prepositioned aerial resources during early-season conditions. It would increase preparedness and improve firefighting response efforts. “When it comes to wildfires, response time matters,” said Senator Ricketts. “We must do more to protect our communities, ranches, and farms. Nebraska experienced devastating losses due to historic wildfires this year. This legislation would ensure aerial firefighting resources are ready to respond before fire strikes. It would limit response time and prevent damages to our farms, livestock, and communities. I will continue to fight to protect Nebraskans.” The PREPARE Act would establish a pilot program for seasonal prepositioning protocols. This includes aerial suppression resources for early-season fine fuel wildland fires. The program would be directed at improving wildfire management response efforts. This would apply to Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The Nebraska Forest Service endorsed this legislation. “Over the past several years, Nebraska has experienced some of the most challenging wildfire seasons in recent history,” said John Erixson, Nebraska State Forester. “Early-season grassfires, prolonged drought, and extreme fire weather have demonstrated that wildfires no longer respect traditional fire seasons. The PREPARE Act recognizes this reality by helping ensure aerial firefighting resources can be strategically positioned where they are needed most before conditions become critical. Investing in preparedness is one of the most effective ways to protect lives, communities, working lands, and natural resources.” Recently, Senator Ricketts visited Fort Robinson State Park. He saw the wildfire damage that devastated Nebraska this year. He also met with the Crawford Volunteer Fire Department. He took the opportunity to thank firefighters for prote… 1 2026-08-14T06:13:05Z 2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-the-protect-college-sports-act/ Ricketts Supports the Protect College Sports Act 2026-08-13 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined the Protect College Sports Act. This legislation would end the disorder facing college athletics by establishing nationwide standards for name, image, and likeness (NIL), transfers, eligibility, and enforcement. “The Protect College Sports Act is a good step forward for athletics,” said Senator Ricketts. “This bipartisan bill addresses issues that were causing chaos in college sports, like eligibility requirements and NIL. These improvements will better support student athletes while preserving the tradition of college sports.” In addition to Senator Ricketts, this bipartisan legislation is supported by Senators Cruz (R-TX), Cantwell (D-WA), Schmitt (R-MO), Coons (D-DE), Capito (R-WV), Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Welch (D-VT). A national survey found that 81% of Americans believe the Protect College Sports Act would do more to protect student-athletes and preserve women’s and Olympic sports programs. With the recent endorsement from the Big Ten, the Protect College Sports Act now has the backing of 28 collegiate athletic conferences, more than 370 colleges and universities across all 50 states and Washington, D.C, historically black colleges and universities, hundreds of thousands of student athletes, and President Trump. To view a fact sheet on the legislation, click HERE. 1 2026-08-14T06:13:05Z 2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EB40426C-38CC-4589-B638-825BF0AC6DA3 ICYMI: Fischer Speaks at North Platte Airport Terminal Ribbon Cutting After Securing $17M for Project 2026-08-12 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper NORTH PLATTE – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) spoke Monday at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the North Platte Airport’s new passenger terminal. Fischer helped secure $10 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and $7 million though her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee for the project. Fischer joins the ribbon cutting of the new North Platte Airport Terminal, August 10, 2026 (Office of Senator Deb Fischer) See more from the North Platte Post and KNOP News2. ### 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-leads-nebraska-delegation-letter-supporting-usmca/ Ricketts Leads Nebraska Delegation Letter Supporting USMCA 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper On Friday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led the Nebraska congressional delegation in sending a letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Greer expressing support for the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA). USMCA has led to increased market access and certainty for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and businesses. “As Mexico and Canada are Nebraska’s two largest export markets, USMCA is important for thestate’s economy. Over the past three decades, farmers, ranchers, and business owners across thestate have built lasting relationships with both countries, benefiting from the improved businessenvironment created by the negotiation of USMCA. The agreement increased market access forthe Nebraska’s corn, soybeans, beef, pork, agricultural machinery, steel, pharmaceuticals, ethanol, and other products, resulting in nearly $10 billion in agricultural exports from Nebraska to Mexico and Canada. In 2025, Nebraska exports included $550 million in corn, $373 million in agricultural machinery, and $164 million in autos and auto parts,” the delegation wrote. The letter was signed by Senators Pete Ricketts and Deb Fischer and Representatives Mike Flood, Don Bacon, and Adrian Smith. Read the full letter here and below: Dear Ambassador Greer, Thank you for your continued efforts to secure trade agreements that level the playing field forNebraska farmers, ranchers, and businesses. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement(USMCA) has delivered meaningful results for Nebraska, and this Joint Review provides animportant opportunity to strengthen the agreement by addressing concerns with market access,regulatory certainty, and market stability. As Mexico and Canada are Nebraska’s two largest export markets, USMCA is important for thestate’s economy. Over the past three decades, farmers, ranchers, and business owners across thestate have built lasting relationships with both countries, benefiting from the improved businessenvironment created by the negotiation of USMCA. The agreement incr… 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-op-ed-match-act-can-protect-americas-ai-lead-from-china/ Ricketts Op-Ed: MATCH Act Can Protect America’s AI Lead from China 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper The following op-ed by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) was originally published by the Washington Times on August 10, 2026. Industry and government officials widely believed that American frontier models were six months ahead of Chinese competitors. That lead shrank last month when the China-based Moonshot AIreleased its new model Kimi K3. This Chinese model is competitive with America’s leading artificial intelligence models by some measures. It also could cost 40% less to run. How we respond to this development will shape American competitiveness for decades to come. A world in which China dominates AI would threaten our security and prosperity. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has closed the AI gap with the help of illicit activities, including distillation attacks and chip smuggling. Beijing uses these unethical methods because it lacks access to the advanced compute necessary to train and run AI models effectively. Moonshot AI even admitted that it doesn’t have enough advanced compute to serve Kimi K3 to customers at scale. Advanced compute requires memory and logic “chips.” These cannot be made without complex semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME). The CCP is completely reliant on foreign SME, making it its Achilles’ heel. Beijing must be denied access to critical SMEs. We introduced the Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act to preserve that chokepoint. SME makes advanced chips possible. It consists of lithography machines and hundreds of etch tools, testing systems and specialized chemicals. A handful of American, Dutch and Japanese firms almost exclusively control SME production. Despite spending billions trying, Beijing still can’t replicate these tools. But our leverage is slipping away — and the stakes aren’t just economic. They directly affect American security and values. Beijing wants to dominate AI. The CCP believes that it can use AI to cancel out America’s military and innovation edge. The Chinese military is alrea… 1 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DBE43652-BFF6-47AF-ACC2-F160F31C3E12 Fischer Secures Return of Over $10.3M to Nebraskans from the Federal Government in 2026 … So Far 2026-08-10 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper OMAHA – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) announced that so far, in 2026, her office helped secure the return of over $10.3 million to Nebraskans owed to them by the federal government through her casework services. The dollar amount returned to Nebraskans is made up of money they have earned, or benefits owed to them by the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Veteran Affairs, the Social Security Administration, and other agencies. “One of the most important parts of my job as Nebraska’s senator is cutting through the bureaucratic red tape,” Fischer said. “I’m so fortunate to have great staff across the state who work hard every day to get folks the money and benefits they have earned. I encourage any Nebraskan who needs assistance to contact one of my offices. We are here to help.” More than just dollars and cents: Thomas, from Lincoln, Nebraska booked a last-minute trip to Scotland. He then realized that a country he would be connecting through required his passport to have six months validity beyond his travel dates. His current passport was set to expire before then, so he needed a new one quickly. When Thomas contacted Senator Fischer’s office for help, he was provided clear guidance on navigating the renewal process and contacted passport office representatives to help ensure the application was expedited. Even during the holiday season, Thomas received his passport in time and was able to keep his travel plans. How Fischer’s office can help: Nebraskans experiencing issues with federal agencies can request assistance from Fischer’s office at fischer.senate.gov. ### 1 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=069249E9-FA94-4479-BC83-79B18C98BD19 Fischer Votes for Sanctioning Russia Act 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed and she voted for the Sanctioning Russia Act, which she championed as an original cosponsor: “The Kremlin’s war machine runs on the money it makes from selling cheap oil and gas to countries like China, India, and Brazil who then profit by reselling Russian energy at a markup. It is long overdue for these enablers to pay a price. The Sanctioning Russia Act will pressure the world’s largest purchasers of Russian energy to reduce their dependence on Moscow. I urge the House to take it up swiftly and send it to the president’s desk.” Fischer recently spoke on the Senate floor in support of the bill to tout its mandatory sanctions on Russia’s political leadership, financial institutions, and energy sector — which will put economic pressure on Moscow to end Vladimir Putin’s illegal war against Ukraine. Background Fischer was an original cosponsor when the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) first introduced this legislation with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in 2025. She was also an original cosponsor of the updated version when Senator Darline Graham (R-SC) introduced it on July 16, 2026. ### 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C38AFADA-027A-4934-B716-C81AC535CEB1 Fischer Statement on Democrats Blocking the Farm Bill in Committee 2026-08-07 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement after Democrats on the committee voted against advancing the Farm Bill: “It is disgraceful Democrats refused to advance the bipartisan Farm Bill out of committee. First, Senate Democrats refused to stand up for our service members by not moving the bipartisan NDAA. Now, they’re turning their backs on farmers, ranchers, and rural America. We worked with them to secure bipartisan support for E15 and offered a compromise on SNAP cost share concerns. “What did the Democrats do? They voted against every policy they claim to care about: funding food banks, improving rural and mental health services, increasing access to safe drinking water, and expanded broadband connectivity. “This is a massive disservice to producers and communities across the country. I certainly hope they wake up and realize the pain this will inflict on American families.” ### 1 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-slotkin-introduce-legislation-to-prevent-offshoring-biotech-industry-to-communist-china/ Ricketts, Slotkin Introduce Legislation to Prevent Offshoring Biotech Industry to Communist China 2026-08-06 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced the Biotech Investment National Security Act (BINSA). This bill would ensure American investment in adversary biotechnology is subject to the review requirements of the Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security (COINS) Act. Specifically, this legislation adds biotechnology, including pharmaceutical development, biologics manufacturing, and clinical research to the list of sectors subject to screening. “America leads the world in innovation across all sectors,” said Senator Ricketts. “This critical legislation ensures American investment in the biotech industry benefits Americans—not our enemies. We cannot allow Communist China to obtain the resources it needs to threaten our way of life. I will fight every effort that weaponizes American investments to undercut our businesses and reshape supply chains against us. Maintaining America’s innovative leadership and global economic dominance is a matter of national security.” “Biotech is crucial for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and spurring innovation in science and technologies, like lifesaving medicines,”said Senator Slotkin.“But right now, China is eating our lunch in this field. This bill ensures strong U.S. leadership in biotech and protects U.S. intellectual property and investments. We’ve seen China use this playbook before to dominate other critical sectors, such as the automotive industry and drone market. This bill will stop that.” This legislation would: Amend the COINS Act to include biotechnology –specifically pharmaceutical and biological product development—to the list of sectors subject to outbound screening. Make U.S. pharmaceutical licensing deals, joint ventures, and equity investments with Chinese covered foreign persons subject to review by the U.S. Treasury Department. Direct the Treasury Department to consult with Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of War (DoW), and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) … 1 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FF54EF48-DB8C-4EB9-AB7A-BC2AB0C154DB Fischer Applauds Release of Treasury, IRS Guidance on Her Permanent Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Fischer’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit is first-ever nationwide leave policy enacted into law; Treasury Secretary recognizes Fischer for leadership WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement upon the release of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidance for employers looking to claim the permanent Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit she secured in the 2025 Working Families Tax Cuts. Fischer’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit is the first-ever nationwide paid family leave policy enacted into law. “The Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit is a first of its kind policy that gives working families flexibility as they care for their loved ones,” Fischer said. “The guidance released today gives employers the tools they need to take advantage of this credit and provide paid leave for their employees. Secretary Bessent has been a great partner in getting this done for hardworking Americans, and I thank him for his leadership." “Hardworking Americans should not have to choose between caring for a loved one and earning a paycheck,”Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “The Working Families Tax Cuts permanently expands the federal Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit, giving businesses, especially small businesses, greater incentives to provide paid leave so workers can care for a newborn or other family member or recover from a serious illness without sacrificing their financial security. I appreciate Senator Fischer’s leadership to establish the nation’s first federal Paid Family and Medical Leave policy and to secure its permanent expansion through the Working Families Tax Cuts. Today’s guidance provides employers with the clarity they need to claim the enhanced credit, supporting American workers, families, and businesses.” “The permanent expansion of the credit encourages businesses to provide paid family and medical leave,” IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said. “The changes enacted by the Working Families Tax Cuts will make more… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-legislation-to-establish-national-violent-offender-registry/ Ricketts Introduces Legislation to Establish National Violent Offender Registry 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Karly Rain Wood Act. This bill would establish a national violent offender registry, providing vital information to law enforcement and the public. Karly Rain Wood was a 20-year-old woman who was shot and killed at a friend’s birthday party in Omaha in 2022. Karly’s murderer was a repeat offender who had been arrested four times before being convicted of Karly’s murder and sentenced to life in prison in 2024. Two others were charged in the mass shooting that took Karly’s life and injured seven others. All had prior criminal records. Senator Ricketts was joined by Senator Fischer (R-NE) in introducing this bill. “Repeat violent offenders are freely roaming our streets without warning,” said Sen. Ricketts.“Americans deserve to know these criminals are living in their communities. A national violent offender registry is not only useful but also necessary to keep the public informed and update law enforcement of their whereabouts. Karly Rain was murdered by a repeat violent offender. Her death was a tragedy. That’s why I introduced this legislation in honor of Karly and to make our communities safer.” “Communities deserve to know about the potential danger that could be around the corner, and we need to do everything we can to prevent tragedies like Karly Rain Wood’s death. I thank Senator Ricketts for his leadership on this important legislation to create a nationwide system to identify repeat violent offenders in our communities,” said Sen. Fischer. Several states have implemented databases to track individuals convicted of violent offenses, but these vary based on jurisdiction. The national violent offender registry would mirror the national sex offender registry. This national database would help keep communities safe by providing important information to law enforcement and the public across state and local jurisdictions. The Karly Rain Wood Act would require: The Department of Justice to create a national database system to track … 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-leads-delegation-letter-in-support-of-nebraska-air-national-guard-hosting-kc-46s/ Ricketts Leads Delegation Letter in Support of Nebraska Air National Guard Hosting KC-46s 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a letter to the Secretary of the Air Force requesting that the Nebraska Air National Guard’s (ANG) 155th Air Refueling Wing at Lincoln Municipal Airport be selected to host the KC-46 aircraft. This letter was signed by the Nebraska congressional delegation. “The 155th Air Refueling Wing is uniquely positioned to excel in all of these areas through its central U.S. location, unmatched infrastructure capacity, proven recruiting success, and rapidly expanding operational partnerships,” the delegation wrote. “The 155th Air Refueling Wing is mission-ready today and ideally positioned for tomorrow. As a Congressional delegation, we are confident that Lincoln is an ideal candidate for the KC-46A. We look forward to working closely with you and your team as you consider how Nebraska can play a crucial role in the Air Force’s new era of aerial refueling.” In May, the Secretary of the Air Force approved the enterprise definition and basing criteria for the ANG KC-46A Main Operating Base (MOB) 9. The ANG has 14 KC-135 locations, including Lincoln, operating aging aircraft. One of these locations will be selected to base 8 KC-46A aircraft. The letter was signed by Senators Ricketts and Fischer and Representatives Mike Flood, Don Bacon, and Adrian Smith. Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Secretary Meink, As the Air Force considers sites for the Air National Guard (ANG) KC-46A Main Operating Base (MOB) 9, we respectfully request your full consideration of the Nebraska Air National Guard’s 155th Air Refueling Wing at Lincoln Municipal Airport as a top candidate to fulfill basing criteria. The May 2026 approval of the enterprise definition and criteria emphasizes the operational, manpower, and capacity requirements to support future KC-46 missions. The 155th Air Refueling Wing is uniquely positioned to excel in all of these areas through its central U.S. location, unmatched infrastructure capacity, proven recruiting success, and rapidly expanding op… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=26A67676-FC48-4D58-A3BD-349B58A8BC01 ICYMI: Fischer Joins “America Reports” on FOX News 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined “America Reports” on FOX News with hosts Sandra Smith and Bill Melugin to discuss the Democratic Socialists of America platform and what it means for the future of the country. The interview comes after Fischer penned an op-ed in FOX News: ‘The left’s war on the Senate and Supreme Court puts our republic at risk.” Click here to download video of Fischer’s interview Transcript of Fischer’s interview: MELUGIN:Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischer writing an op-ed for Fox News today, saying that the DSA's calls to abolish the Senate and undermine the Supreme Court put the Republic at risk. Senator Fischer joins us now to talk all about it. Senator, great to see you this afternoon. Thanks for joining us. FISCHER:Good to see you. Thank you. MELUGIN:I kind of want to segue off what Jason and Sandra were just talking about, that wild video in Spain, right? We've been talking about socialism. We know what the socialist platform is here in the United States. They literally went on Fox News on Sunday and said, "Yes, we want to get rid of all borders. Yes, we want to get rid of ICE. Yes, we want to get rid of all immigration enforcement. We want complete freedom of movement with no restriction whatsoever between countries." That video we're looking at from Spain right now on the right side of our screen - that is what the socialists want in a future United States. Give us your thoughts. FISCHER:Well, we're seeing it. You know, if this doesn't wake up the people in this country when they see what an open border is going to cause. They need to tune in and start watching. This is frightening. It's very sobering, but it's also really sad. A lot of people think, "Oh, we need to open our borders and open our country and offer opportunity to all those who need it, who want it, who desire it." No, this is what you end up with, and that the people that come into this country without a shirt on their back, mostly young men, what are they going to do? … How are they g… 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AAD85614-B4CA-40AC-8503-5607095356D5 Fischer Leads Hearing on AI in Communications Networks 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee, convened a hearing examining how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming communications networks and how the technology can enhance services across the country. Click here to download video of Fischer’s opening remarks Watch the full hearing here This hearing titled “Intelligent Networks: Powering Artificial Intelligence and Transforming Communications” was convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:00am ET. The witnesses for the hearing are as follows: Mr. Dan Watermeier, Commissioner, Nebraska Public Service Commission Mr. Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO of USTelecom—The Broadband Association Mr. Bob Everson, Chief Architect, Cisco Fischer’s remarks as prepared: Good morning to the members of this subcommittee and to our witnesses. Thank you all for being here. This hearing will explore the relationship between telecommunications infrastructure and artificial intelligence. That relationship moves in both directions: AI requires low-latency and high-bandwidth networks. But AI has real potential to make networks more efficient and secure. This hearing is not intended to be a referendum on the merits of artificial intelligence. Around the world, however, our allies and adversaries are jockeying for AI leadership. To position the United States for ongoing economic and security leadership, the U.S. needs AI-supportive and AI-enhanced networks. AI is increasingly a part of Americans’ everyday lives. For example, in 2024, nearly three-quarters of enterprises used AI for at least one business function. In 2025, more than half of Americans reported using generative AI. These trends have been accompanied by a surge in demand across networks. And AI adoption is only expected to grow. Most enterprises are still scaling their… 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C33FF48D-71C3-4CDD-9E17-45835C711095 Fischer in Fox News: The left’s war on the Senate and Supreme Court puts our republic at risk 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 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: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, penned an op-ed in Fox News calling for a renewed commitment to preserving America’s institutions. After hearing testimony from Supreme Court Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan detailing threats to their safety, Fischer denounces the Democratic Socialists of America’s platform to abolish the Supreme Court and Senate and condemns escalatory rhetoric undermining the legitimacy of these institutions. Read the op-ed here or below. The Democratic Socialists of America recently rolled out a policy platform wrapped in delusional promises — free government-run healthcare, the abolition of the police and prison systems and the defunding of our military. While those proposals sound crazy enough, something far more radical is buried underneath: a call to abolish the Senate and subordinate the presidency and the Supreme Court to a new unicameral body that would choose and control the executive and judicial branches. That proposal is not just unserious — it is a direct assault on the Constitution. The attacks on the Supreme Court's legitimacy and the calls to abolish the Senate spring from the same impulse: impatience with constitutional limits on political power. When institutions become obstacles to ideological goals, the answer should never be to tear them down. That dangerous mindset has consequences beyond political rhetoric. Our Supreme Court justices and their families have been subject to escalating threats in recent years. During a recent Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, I heard directly from Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan. Both described a security posture that has not kept pace with the threats they now face. In fact, after the leak of the court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Justice Barrett came home from work wearing a bulletproof vest given to her by her security detail. She recounted placing the vest on a table and having to explain to her 12-year-old son what it was and… 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-ending-cafe-standards-to-lower-automobile-costs-for-nebraskan-farmers-and-consumers/ Ricketts Supports Ending CAFE Standards to Lower Automobile Costs for Nebraskan Farmers and Consumers 2026-07-29 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Senator Crapo (R-ID) and four of his senate colleagues to introduce the Restoring Affordability in Automobile Manufacturing (RAAM Act). This bill would permanently eliminate the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. This would increase consumer choice and lower automobile prices for Nebraskans. Republicans eliminated civil monetary penalties for noncompliance with CAFE standards as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts in July 2025. The Trump administration fully reversed President Biden’s CAFE standards by executive order in December 2025. The RAAM Act would permanently eliminate the standards and prevent future administrations from reestablishing these standards or stricter regulations. “Affordability is at the top of minds for Nebraskans,” said Senator Ricketts. “Biden-era fuel regulations impose unfair fuel standards that limit consumer choice and drive-up costs. Last year, Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which zeroed out these penalties. To prevent future administrations from raising penalties again, I support permanently repealing the Federal Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. Nebraskans will have more control over the vehicles they purchase, and farmers will no longer have to pay the costs of burdensome regulations. I support the RAAM Act to unleash American energy dominance, lower costs for consumers, and support our agriculture community.” “The Biden-era CAFE standards turned an energy-security program into a de facto electric vehicle mandate, beyond Congress’s original intent to improve fuel economy and strengthen our nation’s energy security,” said Senator Crapo. “Today’s CAFE standards distort the automobile market, saddle manufacturers with costly compliance requirements that drive up vehicle costs for hardworking families and do little to shield Americans from the volatility of global oil markets. The RAAM Act would repeal the costly, outdated CAFE program and put consumers–not federal regul… 1 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AEC6E2EC-3D59-480D-92A5-8B51DA7F8973 ICYMI: Fischer Joins “Mornings with Maria” on FOX Business 2026-07-28 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON –Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and member of the Appropriations Committee, joined “Mornings with Maria” on FOX Business with host Cheryl Casone to discuss government funding and Senate Democrats’ refusal to advance the National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA). Fischer’s exchange with Casone: CASONE: There are just a few legislative days here before the August recess for you and your colleagues. The House sent a wave of bills up to the Senate last week: reconciliation 3.0, the Congressional Stock Trading Ban. There's a CR [Continuing Resolution] there, the NDAA. All of these bills have elements, however, of the Save America Act included. I know that you're a supporter of that, but there's also this push to confirm more nominees of the president. DNI [Director of National Intelligence] nominee Jay Clayton. Senator, what is your top priority right now? Is it funding and what else? FISCHER: Well, I want to make sure that we keep the government open. I know Chuck Schumer and the Democrats—they want to shut down. They want to shut down before the election, so they can try and blame Republicans for that. Republicans are working to keep this government open, and that includes funding. We need to work through an appropriations process where it's very transparent, where we're accountable. We need to look at the supplemental that the president sent over. That's extremely important in Appropriations. We had a hearing last week where Secretary Hegseth and General Caine came before the committee. They stressed the need in order to meet the threats that this country faces. We need to fund our military. We need to make sure that we have the munitions necessary and to bolster that production for munitions. I think it's just unconscionable that Democrats didn't advance the National Defense Authorization Act. You know, this takes care of our military men and women. They turned their backs on our military men and women. They would not even move forward… 1 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-op-ed-its-time-to-ban-congressional-insider-trading/ Ricketts Op-Ed: It’s Time to Ban Congressional Insider Trading 2026-07-23 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper The following op-ed by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) was originally published by the National Review on July 22, 2026. When the American people send lawmakers to Washington, they expect them to serve their constituents. Sadly, polling confirms that many Americans believe politicians are abusing their positions for personal financial gain. Over 80 percent of Americans believe members of Congress do a bad job keeping their personal financial interests separate from their work in Congress. As a result, it should come as no surprise that only 15 percent of Americans approve of how Congress handles its job. Polling doesn’t just tell the story. History does, too. Social media accounts publish routine updates tracking a former speaker’s stock trade. Today, mimicking a few lawmakers’ trades is a legitimate investment strategy. In 2020, the chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee sold over $1.5 million in stock just days prior to the pandemic-induced market crash. Stories like these underscore the need to act. Even the perception of self-dealing by lawmakers erodes public trust and can negatively impact voter participation in our democracy. To be clear, no lawmaker should profit from insider information. My Stop Insider Trading Act is the solution. President Trump has voiced support for this legislation. Just last week, Vice President Vance told House Republicans we need to pass it. There are a couple of big reasons why we need to get this bill to the president’s desk. First, it eliminates even the appearance of impropriety by prohibiting members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from buying new stock. If a lawmaker or their family already owns stock, they can maintain ownership. However, if members of Congress or their families wish to sell stock, they must publicly disclose those plans seven days in advance. Doing so allows the public — and the market — to get ahead of any news that could impact a stock’s price. Second, my bill carries significant penalties. Any violation would incur a… 1 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=551F4394-3A46-4EC2-9B87-F99148E195C8 Fischer on Senate Floor: Pass the Sanctioning Russia Act 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Sanctioning Russia Act, which she is an original cosponsor of. The legislation will impose mandatory sanctions on Russia’s political leadership, financial institutions, and energy sector — putting economic pressure on Moscow to end Putin’s war against Ukraine. Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s remarks. Click here to download audio. Click here to download video. Fischer’s Senate floor speech as prepared for delivery: M. President, Lindsey Graham. Friend. Colleague. Tireless national security advocate. He was a true leader in strengthening our military and our country’s defense. I miss him dearly. I am so pleased his beloved sister, Darline, now serves here in this institution. She is carrying on his legacy and honoring his commitment to the people of South Carolina and this country. M. President, I rise here today to, yes, pay tribute to Lindsey Graham – but to also call on my colleagues to help us carry on one of his greatest efforts: ending Putin’s barbaric and unjust war against sovereign Ukraine. For more than four years, the Ukrainian people have shown extraordinary resilience and resolve. They have defended their homeland with courage that has inspired the world. In 2022, Vladimir Putin thought he could seize eastern Ukraine in days. He thought he could drag Europe back into the dark shadow of the Soviet Union. He thought he would be feared and respected. But he is neither strong nor powerful. He is a war criminal. Putin has made clear his intentions to push beyond Ukraine and into NATO territory. Russian drones have encroached on Polish, Finnish, Lithuanian, Latvian, Estonian, and Romanian airspace. These were deliberate provocations to test NATO’s resolve. Putin seeks to push deeper into Europe, to see just how far he can go before we push back. That is why the United States and our allies must raise the stakes throug… 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C33388BA-EFD7-4F23-BCF1-E5C46E7EF685 Fischer Questions Hegseth, Caine on Munitions Stockpiles 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine on the importance of replenishing munitions expended in Operation Epic Fury and expanding domestic production capacity. Click here to download video of Fischer’s remarks Fischer’s exchange with Caine: FISCHER: If we want to support Ukraine going forward, I think the best way to do that is to dramatically increase munitions production, and we need more interceptors. We have to be able to move forward. Let me emphasize that this supplemental does that. This is what we're talking about here today. It's one of the things that we're talking about. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, one of my priorities for over five years now has been on munitions production. General Caine, what happens if Congress doesn't fund this $21 billion request for additional munitions? CAINE: Well, ma'am, there's been a lot of work done by the department to partner with the private sector. I'll acknowledge some of the efforts that the private sector is doing to utilize their own capital to facilitate factories. If we don't, as a team, figure out how to properly fund the department, then we're not going to get the munitions, and there's going to be a lack of shared risk between the federal government and the private sector. I think we're at a point in time in our history where we need to partner. We need to find an ability to share risk. We need to be better sellers and buyers on both sides in order to make sure that the young, all volunteer force has the weapons that they need before they are asked to go do something. FISHER: You're saying we need to be prepared as a country? CAINE: Yes, ma'am, and I hope, as I said in my opening statement, that we will find a way to make sure that we seize this moment in this time in history to ensure that we've got the right mix of munitions—high, low scale, autonomous. FISCHER: What's yo… 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-support-for-reforming-birthright-citizenship/ Ricketts Announces Support for Reforming Birthright Citizenship 2026-07-21 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his support for reforming birthright citizenship: “Birthright citizenship was included in the U.S. Constitution to reconcile an incredible error in America. It was added to ensure those freed from slavery were granted American citizenship. This made our nation better. Today, birthright citizenship is being exploited by bad actors and our adversaries. We are one of the only nations that lacks commonsense guardrails on birthright citizenship. This incentivizes illegal immigration and promotes birth tourism. Illegal immigrants and non-citizens are crossing our borders and having children, who are then given American citizenship automatically. Our current policy also allows bad actors to game the system with birth tourism. Unrestrained birthright citizenship hands Communist China an opportunity to infiltrate our country. We must reform the system. I am proud to be an American. I understand why others want to be a citizen of our great nation. But becoming an American is a privilege, not a right. It is about more than being born on our soil. It’s about committing to our nation’s promise and holding to our values of freedom and democracy. I support reforming birthright citizenship in America.” Ricketts is a co-sponsor of two pieces of legislation that would reform birthright citizenship: 1 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-on-combatting-atm-fraud-and-scams-in-nebraska/ VIDEO: Ricketts on Combatting ATM Fraud and Scams in Nebraska 2026-07-21 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work to combat crypto ATM fraud in Nebraska. Ricketts highlighted successes at the State of Nebraska Department of Banking and discouraged overreliance on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). “As Governor of Nebraska, I had a Department of Banking, and if any of our consumers in Nebraska came and approached us with a problem, no matter how big the bank was, we would investigate to make sure that that consumer got the resolution they needed from whatever problem they had,” Ricketts said. “Take the example of crypto kiosk ATM scams. The state of Nebraska and twenty-eight other states have passed laws to protect consumers on this and combat them. In Nebraska, from September 2025 to June 2026, the Nebraska Department of Banking returned $325,000 back to consumers in our state stemming from crypto ATM fraud and scams. It wasn’t the CFPB that did that — it was the State of Nebraska Department of Banking. In the CLARITY Act, I worked to ensure that the bill preserves the authority of states to enforce laws such as these crypto ATM laws, laws that have helped protect consumers.” Watch the video here. 1 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E4B8885B-D86E-41A9-9487-A3BA3CFD0B61 Fischer, Thune, Fetterman Introduce Legislation to Improve Broadband Mapping 2026-07-20 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), and Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced the bipartisan Broadband Mapping Accurate Providers (MAP) Act of 2026 to improve the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) broadband mapping process. “We need a better understanding of where internet connectivity falls short, especially in rural America,”Fischer said. “With broadband maps, we can accomplish this goal; however, they must be accurate. I’m joining Leader Thune to make sure these maps correctly identify unserved and underserved communities. This will safeguard taxpayer dollars while connecting more Americans to high-speed internet.” “Broadband providers who are on the ground in South Dakota and across rural America have vital, firsthand knowledge of the communities they serve,” Thune said. “Ensuring the accuracy of the FCC’s broadband map and its corresponding challenge process is critical to build on our progress to make federal broadband investments as effective and efficient as possible. I thank Chairman Carr for supporting our efforts and for his continued commitment to connecting households across our country to the internet.” “Broadband internet is a necessity, especially for our rural communities,”Fetterman said. “The first step we can take to ensure families have internet access across Pennsylvania and the country is figuring out who still doesn’t. I’m proud to join Senator Thune in introducing this bill to get us one step closer to bringing connectivity to every American. I look forward to working with the FCC when the maps are complete to continue to expand broadband.” This legislation is supported by NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association and NCTA—The Internet and Television Association. Mike Romano, CEO, NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association, said, “While we have seen improvements to the National Broadband Map over time, precisely because this is an iterative and evolving process, there is more to be done to make sure the map accurately captures wher… 1 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-ricketts-weekly-column-combatting-fraud-waste-and-abuse-will-preserve-our-nation/ Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Combatting Fraud, Waste and Abuse Will Preserve Our Nation 2026-07-17 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper Nebraskans are honest, trusting people. We expect others to behave the same way. However, that’s not always the case. Too many people are stealing and abusing tax dollars. These people lie and cheat to line their own pockets. In some cases, they send stolen money overseas. This illegal behavior drives up the cost of living. It also burdens programs meant to help Americans who need it. Too many politicians made stealing from the government easy. I’m fighting to put an end to this fraud, waste, and abuse. The Trump Administration has unearthed widespread misuse of government resources. In Minnesota and California, we’ve learned of extensive fraud and abuse. A federal prosecutor found that at least half of the Medicaid funding for 14 Minnesota-run programs was stolen. That’s at least $9 billion in taxpayer money. In one case in California, over $50 million in Medicare benefits were stolen. This is just one example of pervasive fraud and abuse in California. Los Angeles County alone accounts for about 34% of hospice care fraud in the U.S. CBS News found that 93% of Los Angeles County hospice care providers have at least one indication of fraud. Funds meant to support those in hospice are being used for personal gain. Even in Nebraska, our state auditor has found abuse. People live in homes worth half a million dollars and receive paychecks over $100,000. Then, they draw benefits from the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. WIC wasn’t designed for those folks. WIC is a safety net designed to help women, infants, and children in need. We must stop people from abusing this program. They are taking away resources from the people who need them. To build on these efforts, I co-founded the new Senate Anti-Fraud Task Force. We are identifying vulnerabilities in existing programs. We’re strengthening government accountability. And we’re ensuring proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The Government Accountability Office looked at fraud between 2018 and 2022. They estimated that between $233 billion and $521 billi… 1 2026-07-18T06:58:50Z 2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-combatting-fraud-waste-and-abuse/ VIDEO: Combatting Fraud, Waste, and Abuse 2026-07-16 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work in the Senate to combat fraud, waste, and abuse. Ricketts also highlighted how the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will lower the cost of housing and make the Good Life more affordable. “Too many people are stealing and abusing tax dollars. These people lie and cheat to line their own pockets. In some cases, they send stolen money overseas,” said Ricketts. “This illegal behavior drives up the cost of living. It also burdens programs meant to help Americans who need it. Too many politicians made stealing from the government easy. I’m fighting to put an end to this fraud, waste, and abuse.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “First, let me share an update on the housing bill. “As of Friday, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is officially law. “This is the most comprehensive housing bill to pass Congress in 36 years. “It’s a real achievement to cut through the red tape and regulation that drives up housing costs. “For example, HUD and USDA have grant programs that they don’t work together on. “This bill will require them to work together in a streamlined manner to get their processes to get out the money faster. “The housing law will also get rid of the requirement for manufactured homes to have a trailer or chassis. “This regulatory requirement was from 50 years ago. “Removing this requirement knocks off about $10,000 from the cost of manufactured homes. “It will also get rid of the requirement to do environmental reviews on infill sites where these reviews have already happened. “We don’t need to duplicate things that have already been done. “These are just a few examples of how this law will streamline the process of building a home to be able to help bring down the cost of homes. “With that, let’s move on to what we are working on this week, which is addressing fraud, waste, and abuse. “Nebraskans are honest, trusting people. “We expect others to behave the same… 1 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-commemorates-lindsey-graham/ VIDEO: Ricketts Commemorates Lindsey Graham 2026-07-16 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on the Senate Floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) commemorated the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC). “Lindsey Graham was part of the glue for the Senate — not just for Republicans, but for Republicans and Democrats… When Lindsey would see an issue, he would hop on a plane and go fix it, whether it was overseas or in my home state of Nebraska,” said Ricketts. “Susanne and I are praying for Darline, and the rest of her family, and Lindsey’s staff at this tragic time. And indeed, for our entire country as we’ve experienced the loss of this larger-than-life patriot, Lindsey Olin Graham.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT Senator Ricketts: “Mr. President, I rise today to talk about our colleague Lindsey Graham, who tragically passed away last weekend. “Lindsey Graham was the definition of the word patriot. “He loved this country and dedicated his life to serving this country. “He was from humble backgrounds. “His parents ran a bar, and again, tragically, he lost his parents at a young age. “His mom died when Lindsey was 20, and his dad died when he was 22. “And so, as a young man, he took over the care of his sister Darline, who was only 13 years old. “He was the first in his family to go to college and then got a law degree. “He joined the Air Force, and to help take care of his sister, he adopted her so she could get his Air Force benefits. “He served our country in the Air Force, the National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve. “Total of 33 years, retiring with the rank of colonel and a Bronze Star. “He began his career in politics in 1992 in the South Carolina Legislature and got elected to the U.S. Congress — the House of Representatives — in 1994. “He was the first Republican to be elected from his district since 1877. “He served in the House for eight years and then came to the Senate in 2002, taking over for Strom Thurmond. “And he has been a dynamic personality in this body. “And I’ve had the privilege to get to know him and call him my friend. “L… 1 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CBDE990A-E16F-4AE2-848C-01FACF5F2640 Fischer Wildfire Disaster Assistance Bill Becomes Law 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement after her bill, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act, became law: “Nebraska farmers and ranchers will directly benefit from this law, and I am proud to have gotten it across the finish line,” Fischer said. “I will be urging USDA to quickly issue new guidance to FSA so producers can begin receiving this improved assistance.” Fischer reintroduced this legislation on February 19, 2025. After returning from Nebraska to assess the Morrill fire damage with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Fischer successfully passed the bill with a unanimous vote on the Senate floor. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on June 23, 2026. The legislation is supported by the Nebraska Cattlemen and the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. Background The Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) were created to help to reduce the burden of natural disasters by providing producers with financial and technical assistance to repair and restore their land. These programs, however, are often slow to respond to wildfires, floods, and other disasters. This means producers face significant delays and red tape when trying to access financial assistance. For many producers, that significant time delay forces them to put off needed repair work, or risk beginning the recovery process without a guarantee of federal help. The Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act addresses these issues by reforming the programs. The bill specifically gives producers impacted by disasters the option to receive an advance on cost-sharing relief that is based on existing USDA estimates. This expedited option ensures family farmers and ranchers in dire need of help can begin the critical work of restoring their property to productive levels. The Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act also reframes eligibility for relief from wildfire damage to include any wildfire caused or spread due to … 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-voting-to-support-perkins-county-canal-nebraska-water-infrastructure/ Ricketts Issues Statement After Voting to Support Perkins County Canal, Nebraska Water Infrastructure 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement after voting to pass the Water Resource Development Act (WRDA) in the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works: “The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is critical to addressing water infrastructure needs across Nebraska and the rest of the country. This legislation includes my efforts to address ice jams along the Missouri River. It also includes provisions to improve government efficiency and expedite a permit to construct the Perkins County Canal. Efficient, predictable regulatory frameworks drive down costs. I’m glad to support this effort on behalf of Nebraskans.” BACKGROUND: The Water Resource Development Act of 2026 (WRDA) includes an amendment from Senator Ricketts that would expedite permitting for Perkins County Canal construction. The legislation would require the Corps to issue a permit for construction before February 15, 2028. The legislation also addresses ice jams along the Missouri River, flood risk management on the Platte River, and reporting for the Wehrspann Lake spillway basin. The legislation would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite its 408 permitting process and to brief the Environment and Public Works Committee on endangered species on the Missouri River. The legislation was voted out of committee unanimously. 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-america-is-safer-when-putin-loses/ VIDEO: “America is Safer When Putin Loses” 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined a press conference announcing a bipartisan Russian sanctions bill. This legislation was the result of the late Senator Lindsey Graham’s tireless efforts to protect Americans against Vladimir Putin. Sanctioning Russia will prevent the spread of its aggression and keep Americans safe. “America is safer when Putin loses,” said Ricketts. “Lindsey Graham was very clear-eyed about the threat Vladimir Putin created for the United States — the threat he was to the United States. And he knew that we are safer with peace through strength. And that’s why Senator Graham pushed this bill so hard — to make America safer.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “America is safer when Putin loses. “Lindsey Graham was very clear-eyed about the threat Vladimir Putin created for the United States — the threat he was to the United States. “And he knew that we are safer with peace through strength. “And that’s why Senator Graham pushed this bill so hard — to make America safer. “This bill will put additional sanctions on Putin, the oligarchs, businesspeople in Russia, banks, the shadow fleet, who allow the president to put up to 100% tariffs on people who are buying Russian oil. “Who are supporting the war machine that is terrorizing Ukraine. “If Putin were to be successful in Ukraine, he will move on NATO members and then we will be involved directly in the war. “This sanctions bill will allow us to continue to put pressure on Russia so that we can end this war before that happens and make sure Putin loses. “Senator Graham’s commitment to this bill is part of his commitment to keeping our country safe — and all our commitment to keeping this country safe. “And I want to thank all my colleagues who are standing up here and all the ones who are on this bill and support getting this bill passed as quickly as possible so we continue to let Putin know he will not win in Russia.” 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0557C8D1-8EA4-4C12-83FD-15D1E475FAAF Fischer Applauds $22M Grant for Gage County Infrastructure Improvement 2026-07-07 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Comes after Fischer secured over $4.7 million for project last year and urged Transportation Secretary to award the grant WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) awarding of a $22.6 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to Gage County for Clatonia-DeWitt Road and Hickory Road improvements. “This project is important to the safety of travelers along the highway and will help the local ag industry move their products,” Fischer said. “I was proud to take the hard work of our local leaders to Secretary Duffy and convince DOT of the immediate need for this investment.” Emily Haxby, Gage County Supervisor, said, “We are incredibly excited to receive this BUILD grant. Thank you to our community volunteers, the public, the NDOT Infrastructure Hub, and Nebraska's federal delegation for helping make this project possible. This award shows what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal partners work together.” Background This BUILD grant funding will be used for roadway improvements and bridge replacements on Clatonia-DeWitt Road and Hickory Road. Clatonia-DeWitt Road begins in Clatonia, Nebraska, travels south on SW 100th Road, then west on W Chestnut Road to DeWitt, Nebraska. Hickory Road provides a connection between U.S. Highway 77 and Nebraska Highway 103. Fischer secured $4,733,354 for the project in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development appropriations bill. In February of this year, Fischer wrote to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy urging DOT to award Gage County a BUILD grant. See the DOT announcement here and a full list of grant awards here. 1 2026-07-08T07:27:19Z 2026-07-08T07:28:28Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-senate-republicans-launch-anti-fraud-task-force/ Ricketts, Senate Republicans Launch Anti-Fraud Task Force 2026-07-02 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in announcing the launch of a new Senate Anti-Fraud Task Force. The Anti-Fraud Task Force will examine fraud, waste, and abuse across federal programs. It will also identify vulnerabilities in existing systems and strengthen government accountability to ensure the proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The U.S. Government Accountability Office released a report estimating that the government lost between $233 billion to $521 billion annually to fraud from 2018-2022. “We are days away from celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Preserving this great nation for another 250 years will require us to recommit to protecting Americans, our tax dollars, and our values. This includes combatting fraudsters that are stealing from Americans and driving up the cost of living. I am proud to join the Anti-Fraud Task Force and continue my efforts to fight waste, fraud, and abuse across our country,” said Senator Ricketts. “The fraud epidemic burdening our country is one of the most pressing issues facing Americans today. It’s organized theft on a national scale, and the Americans paying the price are the ones swinging the hammer and driving the trucks, working their tails off to make ends meet. The fraudsters taking advantage of America’s generosity to the tune of billions and billions of dollars should be exposed and held accountable. Our Task Force will go after the fraud rings and bad actors exploiting our systems and robbing Americans. Following President Trump’s lead, we’re declaring war on fraud,” said Senator Schmitt. Ricketts and Schmitt were joined by Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Ron Johnson (R-WI). 1 2026-07-03T08:00:00Z 2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BB50C678-5430-49BD-9D98-E4BEA9AB89F8 Fischer Applauds STRATCOM Launch of ETHEREAL FORGE 2026-06-26 2026 2026-06 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-NE) issued the following statement on the launch of U.S. Strategic Command’s (STRATCOM) Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center’s (JEC) new initiative, ETHEREAL FORGE, designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced electromagnetic warfare capabilities: “Modern warfare is constantly evolving, and the JEC is on the forefront of next-generation capabilities,” Fischer said. “ETHEREAL FORGE will streamline how our military leaders utilize spectrum and help us keep a strong warfighting advantage over our adversaries.” Through her roles on the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee, Fischer has secured significant investments and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provisions supporting JEC and Joint Electronic Spectrum Operations (JEMSO). In the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, Fischer included $9 million for JEC to test and evaluate advanced electromagnetic warfare technologies. In the Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA, Fischer designated STRATCOM’s JEMSO office as the lead entity for coordinating evaluation of joint deployment Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DDS) technologies. In the Fiscal Year 2024 NDAA, Fischer included a provision restructuring the Department of Defense’s electronic warfare activities to more effectively align under the JEMSO office at STRATCOM. Background ETHEREAL FORGE supports the United States and its allies in maintaining a technological edge by focusing on Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) compatible systems. MOSA is a “plug-and-play” design approach that allows the Department of Defense to upgrade systems quickly and more affordably by using compatible parts from multiple manufacturers. This initiative provides an operationally relevant environment to accelerate the maturation and fielding of software-centric electronic warfare capabilities, significantly reducing time-to-field. By establishing a standardized infrastructure, this initiative enables a modular ecosystem that integrates flexible, best-of-breed ap… 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-making-the-good-life-affordable-for-all-nebraskans/ VIDEO: Making the Good Life Affordable for All Nebraskans 2026-06-26 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his work in the Senate to make the Good Life affordable for all Nebraskans. Ricketts discussed how the Trump Accounts invest in the next generation of Nebraskans. He also highlighted wins for families in the Working Families Tax Cuts. “In the Senate, I’m fighting to renew the American dream,” said Ricketts. “The Working Families Tax Cuts invest in American families and the next generation. With my Senate Republican colleagues, we’re building a path for 250 more years of the Good Life in Nebraska. The Working Families Tax Cuts was great for families.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “Our country was founded on the belief that all Americans have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. “These building blocks make the American dream possible. “We live in a nation of opportunity. “A nation that enables kids to have it better than their parents, and a nation that believes that hard work leads to success. “For the last 250 years, Americans from all backgrounds have achieved their American dream. “In the Senate, I’m fighting to renew the American dream. “The Working Families Tax Cuts invest in American families and the next generation. “With my Senate Republican colleagues, we’re building a path for 250 more years of the Good Life in Nebraska. “The Working Families Tax Cuts was great for families. “One of the ways we’re supporting Nebraskans is with the new Trump Accounts. “These investment accounts will kick start the American dream for kids. “You can download the app now. “Starting on July 4th, Nebraskans will be able to start opening these accounts. “All American kids under the age of 18 are eligible for Trump Accounts. “Those born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028 will be able to enroll in accounts that will automatically have $1,000 deposited. “This investment will be provided by the U.S. Treasury. “Parents and guardians will be the custodian… 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-fights-to-make-american-dream-good-life-more-attainable-for-nebraska-families/ VIDEO: Ricketts Fights to Make American Dream, Good Life More Attainable for Nebraska Families 2026-06-26 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week on the Senate Floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work to support the American Dream and make the Good Life more attainable for the next generation of Nebraskans. He highlighted how the Working Families Tax Cuts invest in American families and children. This includes the new Trump Accounts and the expansion of the Child Tax Credit. “For over 250 years, people from all backgrounds have been able to work hard and to achieve the American Dream,” said Ricketts. “And here in the United States Senate, I am fighting to renew the American dream. One of the ways that we have done that, with my Senate Republican colleagues, is the Working Families Tax Cuts that we passed last year. The Working Families Tax Cuts invests in American families and in American children.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT Senator Ricketts: “Mr. President, our country was founded on the belief that all Americans have the right to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. “It’s fundamental to who we are as Americans. “And these are the building blocks of the American dream. “We live in a nation of opportunity. “We live in a nation that enables kids to have it better than their parents. “A nation that believes that hard work leads to success. “And for over 250 years, people from all backgrounds have been able to work hard and to achieve the American dream. “And here in the United States Senate, I am fighting to renew the American dream. “One of the ways that we have done that, with my Senate Republican colleagues, is the Working Families Tax Cuts that we passed last year. The Working Families Tax Cuts invests in American families and in American children. It invests in the next generation. “With my Senate colleagues, on the Republican side, we’re building a path for another 250 years of opportunity for this great nation and for the children and families in this great nation. “The Working Families Tax Cut was great for families. “One of the ways that it was great for families and for Nebrask… 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0497B97F-0DF7-4E55-A16E-B77414F1FEDF ICYMI: Fischer Prescribes U.S. Strategic Deterrence Strategy for Indo-Pacific 2026-06-25 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) delivered the keynote address at the Washington Times’ Threat Status 2026 INDOPAC event. In her speech, she outlined her policy agenda on how to deter China by investing in our nuclear triad, revitalizing the U.S. defense industrial base, and supporting Golden Dome for America. Watch Fischer’s speech here or by clicking the image above. Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: Good morning. It's a pleasure to be here with all of you. I want to spend my time today discussing the strategic environment America faces in the Indo-Pacific, the steps Congress is taking today to modernize our forces to meet tomorrow's threats, and the work that lies ahead to ensure the United States deters the Chinese Communist Party. Informed discussions about U.S. investment priorities — whether nuclear modernization, shipbuilding, or autonomy — require a clear understanding of how fundamentally the geopolitical environment has shifted. For the first time in history, the United States faces two peer nuclear adversaries at once. In addition to Russia, China is expanding its nuclear arsenal at a breathtaking pace – consistently exceeding U.S. estimates. China is building new missile silos, increasing its warhead stockpile, and rapidly developing the full range of nuclear delivery systems. This is not the strategic environment we planned for. The structure of our nuclear forces today was determined during a very different geopolitical moment. The prevailing consensus was that China would remain a more limited strategic competitor. Those assumptions have been proven wrong. China is now an increasingly capable strategic rival. President Xi is working with our persistent adversaries — Iran, Russia, and North Korea. They are sharing weapons, technology, resources, and strategic objectives. Together, these countries are working to challenge American power, undermine stability, and threaten international security. That reality should inject urgency into everything we do — from force mo… 1 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=26A3523F-2560-4573-81C7-47790F797854 Fischer, NE Delegation Urge Disaster Declaration for Nebraska Storms 2026-06-24 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to President Donald Trump supporting Governor Jim Pillen’s request for a major disaster designation for the severe storms and flooding from May 15-18 of 2026 in Nebraska. The requested declaration would apply to Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston counties. Read the letter below: Dear Mr. President: We write in support of Governor Jim Pillen’s request for a major disaster declaration, which followed severe storms that resulted in tornadoes, extreme straight-line winds and flash flooding, for the Nebraska counties of Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston over the period of May 15-18 of 2026. These severe storms caused widespread damage across Nebraska, including to schools, buildings, and roadways, along with downed power poles and lines. Several counties also faced significant debris cleanup, while emergency shelters were opened in areas where residents had been displaced. The total damage estimates now exceed $4.9 million. We know Nebraska communities will once again demonstrate their resilience as they recover from these storms. We encourage the federal government to join with the state in their ongoing efforts to recover from these storms and provide assistance where it is needed. We stand ready and willing to assist in any way possible to ensure prompt evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions. View a copy of the transmitted letter here. ### 1 2026-06-25T06:30:03Z 2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=868B9658-78FB-479C-A22F-A0A0BC278690 Fischer Introduces Bill Addressing Firefighter Equipment Safety 2026-06-24 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Curtis (R-UT), and Peter Welch (D-VT) have introduced the Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art (PFAS) Alternatives Act to authorize grant funding for new protective gear for firefighters free of forever chemicals. “Our firefighters put everything on the line to keep us safe, and it’s our job to make sure they are taken care of,” Fischer said. “This bill gives us the resources for producing next-generation protective gear, free of PFAS chemicals, to protect the health and safety of firefighters in Nebraska and across the nation.” “Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and too many suffer or lose their lives from cancers caused by toxic exposures on the job — including from harmful PFAS chemicals in their protective gear. Our firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to protect them is putting their health at risk,” Heinrich said. “That’s why I’m leading legislation to invest in the next-generation PFAS-free firefighting gear. Because we need to do more to protect the people who protect all of us.” “Utah’s firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to keep them safe could expose them to harmful chemicals,” Curtis said. “This bipartisan legislation invests in the research needed to improve turnout gear, helping ensure firefighters have the proper protective equipment they deserve.” “From Vermont to Idaho and everywhere in between, firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. Their line of work is already hazardous enough without having to deal with toxic chemical exposure from the very gear meant to protect them,” Welch said. “I’m proud to work across the aisle on this legislation to support investments into developing new, PFAS-free turnout gear that protects firefighters across the country.” The PFAS Alternatives Act would authorize $25 million annually for fiscal years 2027-2031 for grants to devel… 1 2026-06-25T06:30:03Z 2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-on-improving-cost-of-living-for-nebraskans/ VIDEO: Ricketts on Improving Cost of Living for Nebraskans 2026-06-24 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work to drive down the cost of living for Nebraskans. Ricketts highlighted his efforts to pass year-round E15. “Biofuels are a win-win-win. They save consumers money at the pump, help clean up the environment, and are good for our farmers and ranchers,” said Ricketts. “If we pass E-15, that would allow for even more savings for Americans, put more money back in Americans’ pockets.” Ricketts also celebrated Senate passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. This legislation will make housing more affordable for Nebraskans. It will increase housing stock, cut through burdensome red tape, and streamline building processes. “That is the goal of what we are doing here with the 21st Century housing bill is to try and find more ways to create more housing stock,” said Ricketts. “We are working on making housing more affordable for Nebraskans.” Watch the video here. 1 2026-07-01T06:34:07Z 2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0C83034A-7D0F-4C69-891B-4BB5479C4D2E Fischer Secures Key Farm Bill Wins 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) issued the following statement after the release of Farm Bill legislative text, which includes several of her priorities, by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: “Producers in Nebraska and across the country are working under an outdated Farm Bill,” Fischer said. “We got a large portion of it done in the Working Families Tax Cuts, but we need to finish the job. I thank Chairman Boozman for his leadership and working with me to secure some real victories for our farmers and ranchers.” The Farm Bill legislative text contains several of Fischer’s top priorities including: PRECISE Act The Producing Responsible Energy and Conservation Incentives and Solutions for the Environment (PRECISE) Act provides a suite of financial tools to help farmers and ranchers of all sizes increase their adoption of precision ag technologies through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs. Read more. PAL Act The Precision Agriculture Loan (PAL) Act creates a program within USDA to provide loan financing to farmers and ranchers interested in purchasing precision agriculture equipment. Read more. LAST ACRE Act The Linking Access to Spur Technology for Agriculture Connectivity in Rural Environments (LAST ACRE) Act creates a new Last Acre Program at the USDA Office of Rural Development to expand network connectivity across farmland and ranchland. Read more. Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act This legislation prevents future food shortages by requiring USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It also strengthens USDA’s emergency response during disruptions and allows for tribal consultation on nutrition programs in the state. Read more. FENCE Act Championed by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Fischer co-led the Fencing Eligibility for New Conservation Equipment (FENCE) Act to authorize USDA to include virtual fencing as an option for farmers and ranchers under the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP). Inclu… 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3DC81A7E-EA60-455D-9F2D-510C395D6FBC To the President’s Desk: Fischer Bill to Expedite Wildfire Disaster Relief 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act to expedite ag producers’ access to federal disaster relief under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP). This legislation passed the Senate on March 24, 2026, and will now be sent to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “This is great news for farmers and ranchers in Nebraska who suffered devastating losses from wildfires this spring,” Fischer said. “Producers need this assistance as soon as possible, and we’ve helped make sure bureaucracy doesn’t stand in the way. I thank my colleagues in both chambers of Congress for understanding the urgency of getting this done.” Fischer reintroduced this legislation on February 19, 2025. After returning from Nebraska for visits assessing the Morrill fire damage with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Fischer successfully passed the bill with a unanimous vote on the Senate floor. This legislation is supported by the Nebraska Cattlemen and the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. Craig Uden, President, Nebraska Cattlemen, said, “We cannot overstate the importance of this legislation for cattle producers in the Beef State as we continue recovering from the devastating wildfires our industry has faced. Our livelihoods depend on rebuilding quickly, and we cannot afford delays caused by unnecessary red tape. We thank Senator Fischer for her leadership in ensuring Nebraska’s beef producers have the flexibility needed to move forward with recovery and rebuilding.” Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, said, “For many, federal disaster assistance programs work too slowly and often require farm and ranch families to battle through layers of red tape and bureaucratic hurdles. The passage of Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer's Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act through the House now sends the bill to President Trump's desk… 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=58F95F50-EF0C-4860-8F91-EECDF5507B9D Fischer Statement on Memorandum of Understanding with Iran 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 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-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran: “I commend President Trump for taking decisive action with the goal of eliminating Iran’s nuclear weapons capability. After much progress, I’m urging the administration to not lose sight of that objective. The president has put us in a position of strength. We cannot afford to squander it. I want more details from the administration on how the final deal will put America first, limit the regime’s ballistic missiles, and verifiably ensure Iran turns over its highly enriched uranium.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2026/6/fischer-statement-on-memorandum-of-understanding-with-iran 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D8D61E5C-9527-434B-8399-651A0172FF46 Senate Passes Fischer Broadband Map Oversight Bill 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-NV) bill, the Modernization, Accountability, and Planning (MAP) for Broadband Funding Act, to make sure the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Funding Map is working effectively for the public, government agencies, and broadband providers. “I’ve spent years working to connect Nebraskans, and Americans across the country, with reliable internet access. The Broadband Funding Map is essential to that goal,” Fischer said. “This bill will help us make the most of broadband buildout while safeguarding taxpayer dollars. I’m committed to delivering this bill to the president’s desk.” “It is past time every American had access to fast, reliable internet,” Cortez Masto said. “As funding continues to go out the door to connect our communities, this bipartisan, commonsense bill will help ensure that all federal agencies are working together to close the digital divide as quickly and efficiently as possible.” Download video of Fischer’s remarks here Download audio of Fischer’s remarks here Fischer’s remarks as prepared: Mr. President, I rise today to discuss an issue near and dear to the state of Nebraska and rural America. That is the issue of closing the digital divide for unserved and underserved communities. My husband Bruce and I raised our family on a cattle ranch near Valentine, Nebraska. So, I know what it means to live in a community where reliable internet is a luxury, not a given. And I know the opportunities rural America is missing as a result, from education and telehealth to entrepreneurship and precision agriculture. Over the past decade, Congress has provided tens of billions of dollars for hundreds of programs administered by more than a dozen federal agencies. The centerpiece of that investment was the BEAD Program, a more than $40 billion broadband deployment initiative included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and enacted into law nearly five ye… 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-bill-to-improve-snap-efficiency/ Ricketts Introduces Bill to Improve SNAP Efficiency 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the SNAP Staffing Flexibility Act. This bill would make the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) more efficient and reduce application backlogs by allowing limited term contractors. This would allow state agencies to make eligibility determinations and distribute benefits to those who need them more quickly. “When Americans apply for SNAP, they need timely approval,” said Ricketts. “Backlogs can overwhelm state departments that provides these services. This bill would allow state agencies to hire contractors when they don’t have sufficient staff. That way, Nebraskans can get the SNAP benefits they need on time.” The SNAP Staffing Flexibility Act would: Allow a state agency to hire contractors to perform Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) certification and application intake under certain conditions, including: temporary staffing shortages, seasonal workforce shortages, pandemics and other health emergencies, and natural disasters. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to create a report of measures taken to address increases in SNAP program applications and any inabilities to process them. This bill was introduced by Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2) and is included in the House-passed Farm Bill. 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-bank-fintech-partnerships/ Ricketts Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Bank-Fintech Partnerships 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Bank-Fintech Partnership Enhancement Act. This bill would require a comprehensive study on partnerships between financial technology (fintech) companies and small-to-medium sized banks and credit unions. Strengthening these partnerships can help banks and credit unions better serve Americans in rural communities. “Technology should make banking easier, not harder,” said Senator Ricketts. “My Bank-Fintech Partnership Enhancement Act is a step toward doing just that. Community banks and credit unions are the backbone of Nebraska’s rural communities. By studying the role of fintech services in small-to-medium sized banks, we can help these institutions cut costs, compete, and better serve Nebraskans.” “Emerging technology has revolutionized the banking sector, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that these new resources are safely and effectively put to work helping our communities,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “By exploring how credit unions and community banks can best utilize fintech, we can expand access to banking services, protect the privacy of Americans’ financial information, and bolster consumer protections.” The Bank-Fintech Partnership Enhancement Act would: Direct the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Comptroller of the Currency, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to conduct a comprehensive study on partnerships between fintech companies, banks, and credit unions. The study would assess the extent to which these partnerships support community bank health, as well as their impact on the banking sector, competition, innovation, consumer protection, and the availability of financial products and services; Require the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Comptroller of the Currency, the National Credit Union Administration, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to submit a report to Congress within a year after passage. This bill was in… 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-signing-of-u-s-iran-mou/ Ricketts Statement on Signing of U.S.-Iran MOU 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after the signing of the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU): “I am deeply grateful for our brave service women and men who have executed Operation Epic Fury. We will never forget those who lost their lives in defense of our freedom, including Nebraska’s own Noah Tietjens. Our military’s actions significantly degraded Iran’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles programs, as well as other military assets. A nation that chants ‘death to America’ can never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. I am hopeful that the MOU will lay the foundation for a lasting diplomatic solution. I will also be following what economic benefits Iran may be receiving from this deal and in what time frame. Nebraskans deserve to know how this MOU will impact our country. I look forward to the Administration providing more details in the days to come.” 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-unlock-aukus-bills-passing-committee/ Ricketts Celebrates UNLOCK AUKUS, Bills Passing Committee 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated passage of the UNLOCK AUKUS Act and other bills in the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act was previously introduced by Senators Ricketts and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to strengthen the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the U.K., and the U.S. (AUKUS). This legislation accelerates collaboration, innovation, and fielding of the advanced military capabilities needed to maintain the United States and our AUKUS partners’ collective technological edge. “The United States faces the most challenging threat environment since WWII,” said Ricketts. “In the Senate, I’m fighting to strengthen our national security and deterrence of Communist China. By strengthening our international partnerships and eliminating red tape, Nebraskans will be safer.” Ricketts-led bills passed by Foreign Relations Committee include: UNLOCK AUKUS Act (Unlocking Next-Generation Licensing and Opportunities for Collaborative Know-how for AUKUS Act) Introduced by Sens. Ricketts and Tim Kaine (D-VA) is the Democrat Co-Lead. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act would enhance collaboration between AUKUS partners on advanced systems such as guided missiles, collaborative combat aircraft, hypersonics, and other AUKUS projects. Energy Security Pacts Act Introduced by Sens. Ricketts and Chris Coons (D-DE) The Energy Security Pacts Act would allow for the designation of a Director of Energy Security Pacts within the State Department to coordinate 10-year, bilateral Energy Security Pacts with partner countries to strengthen critical mineral supply chains. U.S. Tech PATH Act (U.S. Technology Procurement and Access to Trusted Hardware Act) Introduced by Sens. Ricketts and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) The U.S. Tech PATH Act would create a U.S. Technology Procurement Program in the State Department to streamline partner countries’ procurement of American cyber and digital technology. Expanded Consular Fellow Act Introduced by Sens. Ricketts and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) The Expa… 1 2026-07-01T06:34:07Z 2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-discusses-making-housing-more-affordable-south-fork-fire/ VIDEO: Ricketts Discusses Making Housing More Affordable, South Fork Fire 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. This historic housing bill includes Senator Ricketts’ Streamlining Rural Housing Act and other priorities to make housing more affordable. “As you all know, Nebraska is the best place in the world to live,” said Ricketts. Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report ranked Omaha as the second-best city for recent college grads to live. This is great news. It also emphasizes the work we need to continue to do to increase housing stock. More homes mean housing is more affordable.” “Senate Republicans are fighting to make homeownership more attainable for all Nebraskans,” said Ricketts. “Cutting through bureaucratic red tape and increasing efficiency will increase housing stock and make housing more affordable. That’s why I am fighting to get the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act signed into law.” Senator Ricketts also thanked the firefighters combatting the South Fork Fire. “After a year of historic wildfires, the South Fork Fire has burned over 39,000 acres, with about 75% containment,” said Ricketts. “This week, Nebraska was able to secure a FEMA grant that should help with local efforts. I’ll keep supporting our firefighters and local authorities. My prayers are with them.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: “First off, thank you to the brave firefighters who continue keep Nebraskans safe. “After a year of already historic wildfires, the South Fork fire has burned over 39,000 acres with about 75% containment. “This week, Nebraska was able to secure a FEMA grant that should help with local efforts. “I’ll keep supporting our firefighters and local authorities. “My prayers are with them. “Together, Nebraskans will rebuild. “Second, on Iran: I appreciate the Trump administration’s continued efforts to negotiate a diplomatic solution with Iran. “It is important that the Straits of Hormuz remain open. “Subsequently, we should see the price of goo… 1 2026-07-01T06:34:07Z 2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=355E04EA-ACB2-43CD-AD66-3712245B81F8 Fischer Joins FOX News Sunday to Discuss Iran, National Security 2026-06-14 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined FOX News Sunday live with Shannon Bream to discuss the potential peace deal between the United States and Iran. Fischer’s exchanges below: BREAM: I want to go back to start with the Iran deal, because there are those out there who are skeptical across the political spectrum. John Heubusch writes about this. He was longtime director in the past of the Ronald Reagan Foundation and [has a] deep resume here on the hill. He says this, “Let's state the obvious: there is a difference between forcing Iran to sign a piece of paper and forcing Iran to change its nature. The first is diplomacy. The second is pure fantasy. The danger is not that Iran refuses to sign, the danger is that it signs and then does what it always does.” So, can we do a deal with Iran? FISCHER: We're going to find out. I'm not going to listen to the rumors. I want to see what kind of deal the president has made here. When he gets it signed, we'll know all the facts to it. But let's remember we have gone through 47 years of Iran being the state sponsor of terrorism, killing Americans. This is not a country that we wanted to see continue down that path. They're enriching uranium, they were on their way to getting a nuclear weapon. They had short, medium, and long-range ballistic missiles that could reach cities like London, Rome, and then it's a hop, skip, and a jump until it reaches the United States. I support the president in going in and trying to take them out and being successful. We don't want to see Iran continue to have control over the Strait of Hormuz, but we also want to make sure that they are not capable of getting a nuclear weapon, and that we can account for the enriched uranium that's there. Let's remember the president is negotiating now from a position of strength. Iran is weak. We have gone in, we've showed the strength of America, and now the president is able to negotiate from a position of strength this time.… 1 2026-06-15T06:52:46Z 2026-06-15T06:54:33Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3824D647-191E-47DA-B9FA-E0F9E6ACB94C Fischer, NE Delegation Request Swift Wildfire Assistance from USDA 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON –Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins on the immediate need for a wildfire disaster designation for Garden, Grant, Lincoln, and Morrill counties in Nebraska, following the fires this spring. Read the letter below: Dear Secretary Rollins: We write in support of the Nebraska Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) request for a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) wildfire disaster designation for Garden, Grant, Lincoln, and Morrill counties, following the devastating wildfires this spring. The Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby, and Minor Fires collectively burned over 800,000 acres across Nebraska, with the Morrill Fire burning over 640,000 acres alone. Extreme drought, high temperatures, and high winds created the perfect environment for mass destruction across central and western Nebraska. As it is two months following the fires, many producers are in need of additional help to recover and rebuild. We encourage you to designate the counties impacted by the spring fires in Nebraska as disaster areas to allow for emergency loans and provide additional assistance where needed. Additionally, our offices request clarification on eligibility under the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP). We have heard that several Nebraskans have requested to apply for ECP following the spring wildfires but have been told they are ineligible due to being enrolled in the grassland Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). These producers are trying to receive additional assistance in rebuilding fences and other assets on land that burned from these unprecedented fires. ECP enrollment is set to close on June 26th, so a timely response would be appreciated or assurance that an extension would be allowed. We respectfully request your expedited review and prompt action to ensure Nebraska’s producers receive the immediate support needed to rebuild after the historic wi… 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=61A0BF87-B708-498D-AA52-4F9B912DCE0A Fischer Secures Key Provisions in NDAA to Bolster National Defense 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Provisions include language for Nuclear Deterrence, Spectrum, Golden Dome, Deterring China WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, secured key provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “As we face increasing threats around the globe, our men and women who make up our armed forces need our full support to carry out their missions safely and effectively,” Fischer said. “As a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I’m proud to advance critical provisions aimed at modernizing our nuclear deterrent, strengthening national defense, and supporting our men and women in uniform. We need to get this bill over the finish line, and I urge its swift passage through the Senate.” Key Budget Authorizations Secured by Fischer in the FY 2027 NDAA: $250 million for development of SLCM-N missile $150 million for development of SLCM-N warhead $100 million to support emplacement of a second AN/TPY-6 radar on Guam to provide 360-degree coverage $40 million for Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Key Provisions Secured by Fischer in the FY 2027 NDAA: Bolstering Our Nuclear Deterrent: Authorizing development of two additional theater-range nuclear capabilities Requiring a revised strategy for deterring multiple nuclear-armed adversaries Modifying the strategy to sustain Minuteman III ICBMs until Sentinel emplacement Fencing funding for the Secretary of the Air Force until the acquisition strategy for the Airborne Command Post capability has been delivered Authorizing the establishment of public-private partnerships for nuclear effects testing Directing a report on the force structure and production strategy for the B-21 aircraft Requiring briefings on autonomous or remotely piloted aircraft incursions in or around nuclear weapons related areas Protecting Defense Spectrum: Requiring notifications regarding any relocation of Department systems out … 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FF01ABFB-2DDD-4169-AAA4-C80FDDFAA0E8 Fischer Secures Major Wins for Nebraska, Offutt Air Force Base in NDAA 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper $160 million authorized to benefit Offutt Air Force Base, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), Lincoln Air National Guard Base WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, announced key provisions secured for Nebraska and Offutt Air Force Base in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “Nebraska plays a central role in our national security,” Fischer said. “This NDAA strongly supports the missions of Strategic Command, the 55th Wing, the 557th Weather Wing, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and the Nebraska National Guard during this process. We’re investing in our military capabilities like never before, and I’m proud to bring a piece of that home to our state.” Fischer secured authorization for critical investments for Offutt Air Force Base and Lincoln Air National Guard Base: $69 million for the Defense POW/MIA Laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base $40 million for DPAA $15 million for the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) supply storage facility at Offutt Air Force Base $11.2 million to support the design of STRATCOM’s Base and Operation Mobility Center on Offutt Air Force Base $10 million for STRATCOM’s Nuclear Command, Control, Communications (NC3) Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) $10 million for STRATCOM’s NC3 network sensor demonstration $4 million for the planning and design of a parking apron at Lincoln Air National Guard Base $1.5 million for the design to replace the vehicle search area at Offutt Air Force Base Fischer secured several provisions aimed at supporting missions at Offutt Air Force Base and improving military health readiness: Required space weather to be integrated into space domain awareness doctrine and operations Required quarterly reports on sustainment funding and spare parts for the RC-135 fleet Established a program for the safe, long-range aerial transport of servicemembers infected by a high-c… 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-kaine-introduce-bill-to-bolster-aukus-cooperation/ Ricketts, Kaine Introduce Bill to Bolster AUKUS Cooperation 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), senior members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Unlocking Next-Generation Licensing and Opportunities for Collaborative Know-how for AUKUS (UNLOCK AUKUS) Act. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act would enable technologies that are currently controlled under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) to be eligible for transfer under the AUKUS license-free environment. This would enhance collaboration between AUKUS partners on advanced systems such as guided weapons, collaborative combat aircraft, hypersonics, and other AUKUS Pillar II projects. “The United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom face the most challenging threat environment since WWII. As we approach the 5th anniversary of AUKUS, we need to cut through any remaining red tape to streamline defense collaboration,” said Senator Ricketts. “The UNLOCK AUKUS Act would accelerate collaboration, innovation, and fielding of the advanced military capabilities needed by AUKUS partners to maintain our collective, technological edge.” “The AUKUS partnership is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific and deterring an increasingly emboldened China,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Ricketts in introducing this bipartisan legislation to bolster the partnership by streamlining the transfer of key technologies to improve our joint capabilities.” The UNLOCK AUKUS Act would: Enable eligible MTCR- related items that are not registered on the Excluded Technology List (ETL) or Government-to-Government List to benefit from the AUKUS license-free environment. Establish a secure, predictable pathway for the transfer of goods and technology controlled by the MTCR for AUKUS partners within the trusted community of AUKUS Authorized Users. Maintain full compliance with non-proliferation commitments under the MTCR. BACKGROUND. The license-free environment established under AUKUS has enabled more than a thousand companies to engage in deeper… 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=14CA0EF2-EF94-4D09-9A72-E382D9F42DF9 ICYMI: Fischer Joins “Mornings with Maria” to Talk Reconciliation, FISA 2026-06-10 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined “Mornings with Maria” live on FOX Business with host Cheryl Casone to discuss the budget reconciliation bill to fund Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This legislation was signed into law by the president today. Fischer also discussed the possibility of a third Republican reconciliation bill and renewing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is set to expire this Friday. Fischer is a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairs the Strategic Forces Subcommittee. She also sits on the Senate Appropriations Committee tasked with funding all functions of the federal government. ### 1 2026-06-11T06:38:38Z 2026-06-11T06:41:07Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-fence-act-to-support-nebraska-farmers-and-ranchers/ Ricketts Introduces FENCE Act to Support Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers 2026-06-09 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced the Fencing Eligibility for New Conservation Equipment (FENCE) Act. The legislation would authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to include virtual fencing as another option for farmers and ranchers under the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP). Including virtual fencing in this program would provide American farmers and ranchers with greater flexibility to rebuild and recover. “Nebraska’s ranchers are the best in the world. They’ve shown it this year in response to this spring’s devastating fires across our state,” said Senator Ricketts. “Ranchers recently shared with me that one-size-fits-all policies are hindering their ability to rebuild. The FENCE Act encouragesUSDA to continue finding new ways to support Nebraska’s recovery efforts.” “As a kid, I helped repair fences on our small calf-cow operation, and I know exactly how time consuming it is. As a sportsman, I’ve also seen how built infrastructure can dramatically alter wildlife migration corridors,” said Senator Heinrich. “My FENCE Act ensures producers in New Mexico and across the country can access federal funding for virtual fencing technology, helping them manage livestock more efficiently while also restoring the landscapes wildlife rely on.” “When the Senate passed my Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act in March, I said that flexibility is my top priority in improving disaster assistance. The FENCE Act is no different. This legislation opens the door for producers to use new technology, like virtual fencing, to replace their damaged or lost fence lines after disasters strike. This would be a great opportunity for farmers and ranchers to seize if it makes sense for their operation,” said Senator Fischer. “Colorado ranchers have endured years of challenges, particularly as wildfires grow more frequent across the West,” said Senator Bennet. “We need to give farmers and ranchers the tools to navigate ch… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=365C4B24-BEC9-41DD-AC1E-7D6518CCE2A2 Fischer Celebrates Senate Passage of Bill Awarding Congressional Gold Medal to North Platte Canteen 2026-06-08 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the individuals who volunteered or contributed to the North Platte Canteen during World War II. “This is the highest honor Congress can bestow upon civilians of this country, and everyone from the North Platte Canteen deserves it,” Fischer said. “The Canteen was a beacon of hope for soldiers during such a troubling and uncertain time. Over 55,000 people sustained this effort for over four years, and every soldier that passed through saw the very best of what Nebraska has to offer. I thank my colleagues for understanding the significance of the North Platte Canteen, and for working with me to give them the recognition they deserve." James Griffin, Director of the Lincoln County Historical Museum, said, “We are so excited to learn that the United States Senate has passed the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act today! This is well-deserved recognition for the 55,000 volunteers who served food to 6 million soldiers, sailors, and marines during World War II. The true effects of their selfless giving can't be quantified, but to the ordinary soldier who experienced the North Platte Canteen, they were nonetheless real. As real as bullets, tanks, and ships—and when the going got tough, it was the Canteen that buoyed their spirits. This bill would not have passed without the tireless efforts of Senator Deb Fischer. To her we want to say thank you—thank you on behalf of every volunteer of the North Platte Canteen and every member of the armed forces who visited the Canteen.” Brandon Kelliher, Mayor of North Platte, NE, said, “The Senate passage of the North Platte Canteen Congressional Medal Act is a proud and historic moment for our community, our region and our nation. This recognition honors the extraordinary generosity, patriotism, and unwavering spirit of the thousands of volunteers who showed America what service truly means. The legacy of the North Platte Canteen… 1 2026-06-09T06:27:37Z 2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CF11B195-3A42-4C6F-99C2-ACC5DDC75748 Fischer Statement on Senate Passage of Secure America Act 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 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-NE) released the following statement after she voted for and the U.S. Senate passed the Secure America Act: "Today, the Senate delivered historic, multi-year funding for our Border Patrol and ICE agents. At a critical moment for national security, this bill blocks Democrats' efforts to defund border security and locks in the record-low border crossings achieved under the Trump administration. I’m proud to advance this legislation, which will protect public safety and strengthen law enforcement.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2026/6/fischer-statement-on-senate-passage-of-secure-america-act 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-efforts-to-pass-year-round-e15-combat-communist-china/ Ricketts Highlights Efforts to Pass Year-round E15, Combat Communist China 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss his efforts to counter Communist China and make sure the U.S. leads in the AI race. Ricketts highlighted his Secure and Feasible Exports (SAFE) of Chips Act and Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act, which would limit sales of advanced AI chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment to Communist China. Ricketts also discussed his work to secure year-round E15. “We’ve got to win the AI race with Communist China,” said Ricketts. “If we do things that hamper that innovation, we’re going to lose, and that will end up in a world where Communist China dominates the AI race, and that’s going to have a bad impact on so many factors that impact everyday life. So, what we want to do is make sure that we win, and that means encouraging American innovation.” “Last time I filled up with E10, I saved 55 cents a gallon, said Ricketts. “With E15, you would save even more. It cleans up the environment, so it’s great for the environment, and it would help our farmers and ranchers by creating more demand. We’ve got a bill to make this permanent.” 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-bill-to-fund-border-patrol-and-ice-passes-senate/ Ricketts Issues Statement After Bill to Fund Border Patrol and ICE Passes Senate 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement after the Senate passed legislation to fund U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) : “This effort has always been about protecting Americans and strengthening our national security. The initial bill only included funding for Border Patrol and ICE. Several amendments that would not strengthen our national security were presented. I voted against those. I voted for final passage of the initial legislation, which will fund our Border Patrol and ICE. These law enforcement officers work hard to keep our nation safe and they deserve our support. 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-on-combatting-communist-china-in-the-ai-race/ VIDEO: Ricketts on Combatting Communist China in the AI Race 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work to counter Communist China and ensure American dominance in artificial intelligence in a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing. Ricketts highlighted his Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen U.S. export controls to ensure adversaries cannot buy “chokepoint” semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME) technology from the United States or our partners that they cannot build themselves. “A world where Communist China is dominant in AI is very bad for the United States and for the entire world,” said Ricketts. “That’s why it’s critical that us and our allies cannot lose this race. Semiconductor supply chains, particularly semiconductor manufacturing equipment — SMEs — are critical to winning this competition.” Watch the video here. 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-securing-americas-next-250-years/ VIDEO: Securing America’s Next 250 Years 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper On Wednesday, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his efforts to help secure the next 250 years of American safety and prosperity. This includes attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singaporewhere he had conversations about deterring Communist China. “Our values have inspired generations of Americans and secured our role as the global technology, economic, and military leader. We have a lot to celebrate. We also need to consider what it will take to secure the next 250 years,” said Ricketts. “One of the most important tasks will be deterring Communist China. China is without a doubt the greatest existential threat to America and Nebraska. Communist China seeks to infiltrate our country and undermine our people, values, and way of life. We cannot let this happen if we want our nation and the world to thrive for centuries to come.” Ricketts also highlighted the importance of funding Border Patrol and ICE to protect Nebraskans and our national security. This morning, the Senate passed the Secure America Act, legislation to fund Border Patrol and ICE. Ricketts’ statement on the vote can be found here. Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Last week, I had the privilege to attend a ceremony to honor those who gave their last full measure of devotion to our great nation. “I’m grateful to American Legion Post One in Omaha for hosting the Memorial Day ceremony to honor our fallen at Forest Lawn Cemetery. “Memorial Day this year was special, as we also celebrate America’s 250th birthday. “Throughout our country’s history, Nebraskans have laid down their lives to defend our freedoms. “We honor all of our heroic Nebraskans who lost their lives in service to our country. “We also express our gratitude to their loved ones for their sacrifice. “We are the home of the free because of the brave. “As we celebrate America’s birthday, we reflect on what has led to 250 years of success. “From our founding, we’ve affirmed that our people have the ri… 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C8EA95BB-E457-4913-8137-5AB4032FF59C Fischer, Senate Colleagues in Wall Street Journal: E15 Is a Net Positive 2026-06-03 2026 2026-06 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: In theWall Street Journal, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) in setting the record straight on how year-round E15 will lower gas prices and boost our economy. Read the full piecehere or below. Regarding your editorial “An Ethanol Extortion Play” (May 11): When we talk with our constituents, we hear about high gas and diesel prices. We have a solution that will bring down fuel prices for Americans: E15 fuel, 15% ethanol, 85% gasoline. Legislation allowing year-round, nationwide sales of E15 has bipartisan support in the House and Senate. Opponents, the most vocal of which are a handful of oil refineries, are trying to stop it. Your editorial mirrors their misguided talking points. Expanding E15 availability lowers gas prices by 20 to 40 cents per gallon on average. That could mean around $400 per year in savings for a U.S. household—precious dollars that could be spent on other needs. E15 has been in the marketplace by presidential waiver for eight years. In that time, not one refinery has closed because of E15 availability. And, for all the talk of smog worries, data from Growth Energy shows E15 reduces smog-forming pollutants. Likewise, despite concerns voiced in some quarters, existing fuel infrastructure can be used for E15, just as it can for the E10 fuel Americans usually buy. The market has spoken: E15 is a net positive. We know E15 will lower prices at the pump, and we’re committed to providing affordable options for families. Securing year-round, nationwide E15 is at the forefront of our agenda. 1 2026-06-04T06:38:12Z 2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BA4F054A-C794-4E5E-87B8-E68284D900C1 Fischer, Bennet Introduce Resolution Supporting Mental Health in Ag 2026-05-26 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating May 29, 2026, as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day. “Farmers, ranchers, and ag workers have some of the toughest jobs in the country,” Fischer said. “Right now, a struggling farm economy is making life even harder – and it weighs heavily on the minds of those who feed and fuel our nation. This resolution designates May 29th as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day and sheds light on the resources available for those in need. I thank my colleagues for joining this bipartisan, bicameral effort as we keep working to ease the strain in farm country.” “Colorado farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers face unprecedented challenges from severe drought to increased costs that can take a toll on their mental health,” Bennet said.“I’ve consistently worked to expand access to affordable, reliable mental health care for all Coloradans and am grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to designate May 29th as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day. Providing visibility and awareness to address these challenges is essential for progress.” The resolution is cosponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tina Smith (D-MN), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE). U.S. Representatives Mike Bost (IL-12) and Kim Schrier (WA-08) introduced a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. “Our farmers are proud, salt of the Earth people, but they face tremendous pressures in a tough industry,” Bost said. “The stress that… 1 2026-05-27T06:38:34Z 2026-05-27T06:40:17Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-working-for-nebraska-farmers-and-ranchers/ VIDEO: Ricketts Working for Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers 2026-05-22 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work fighting for Nebraska farmers and ranchers. Ricketts highlighted his resolution designating May as Renewable Fuels Month and his support for year-round E15. “Nebraska is a national leader in biofuels production, making 2.2 billion gallons each year. This homegrown energy saves consumers money at the pump. It helps farmers get better prices for their corn and soybeans, and it’s good for our environment,” said Ricketts. “Our biofuels are a win for Nebraska and America.” Ricketts also discussed the MARKET Act, legislation that would require the Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Trade Representative to look at new markets for Nebraska ag products. The bill would also require the Secretary of Agriculture to provide recommendations to mitigate threats and trade barriers from foreign adversaries like Communist China. “The Market Act is important because Communist China has demonstrated time and time again that it is not a reliable trade partner,” said Ricketts. “We need to explore new markets to prevent Nebraska farmers and ranchers from being beholden to Communist China. I look forward to working with my colleagues to support this effort. I’m proud to do my part to support Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers, and I will continue to be their voice here in the US Senate.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Before I begin, thank you to all the brave first responders who quickly helped during the storms that hit Nebraska this week. “Susanne and I are praying for all those who were impacted by those storms. “When I was governor, we dealt with storms and floods and other disasters. “Nebraska has always rebuilt together then, and I am confident the same will be true this time around as well. “With that, let’s go ahead and continue the call. “Today I introduced a resolution designating May as Renewable Fuels Month. “Nebraska is a national leader in biofuels productio… 1 2026-06-27T20:01:11Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-resolution-designating-may-as-renewable-fuels-month/ Ricketts Introduces Resolution Designating May as Renewable Fuels Month 2026-05-21 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a bipartisan resolution to designate May 2026 as Renewable Fuels Month. The resolution highlights the critical role renewable fuels, like ethanol and biodiesel, play in lowering fuel prices for consumers, unleashing American energy independence, protecting the environment, and supporting rural communities. Original cosponsors include Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Jerry Moran (R-KS). “Renewable fuels are a win for Nebraska and a win for America,” said Senator Ricketts. “They save consumers money at the pump, are good for the environment, and help farmers get better prices for their corn and soybeans. Renewable fuels also strengthen American energy independence. I am proud to lead this resolution on behalf of Nebraska farmers and ranchers.” U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (R-IA-03) introduced a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. “For more than a decade, Iowa farmers and biofuel producers were told to wait — wait for another waiver, another study, or another Congress to act,” said Representative Nunn. “This year, we stopped waiting and started delivering. The House passed year-round, nationwide E15, bringing Congress closer than ever to making permanent access to higher biofuel blends the law of the land. Iowa’s renewable fuels industry has earned that certainty, and this bicameral resolution recognizes the farmers, producers, and innovators who made Iowa the nation’s leader in homegrown energy.” The resolution is endorsed by Renewable Fuels Nebraska, Renewable Fuels Association, Clean Fuels Alliance, National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA), Growth Energy, and Fuels America. Kurt Kovarik, VP of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels Alliance America said, “Clean Fuels thanks Senator Ricketts and applauds his resolution designating May 2026 Renewable Fuels Month. There’s no better t… 1 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-secures-passage-of-renewable-fuels-month-resolution-on-senate-floor/ VIDEO: Ricketts Secures Passage of Renewable Fuels Month Resolution on Senate Floor 2026-05-21 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) called a voice vote on the Senate floor to pass his Renewable Fuels Month resolution. The resolution highlights the critical role renewable fuels, like ethanol and biodiesel, play in lowering fuel prices for consumers, unleashing American energy independence, supporting rural communities, and protecting the environment. “Renewable fuels are great for consumers to help save you money at the pump.” said Ricketts. “Last time I filled up with a 10% blend of ethanol, I saved 55 cents a gallon at my local grocery store. My congressman has told me that he fills up with E15 is able to save $1 a gallon. It’s also great for cleaning up the environment, reduces carbon emissions and particulate emissions, NOx emissions. And then, of course, it’s great for our farmers and ranchers.” “Renewable fuels are part of an American First Energy dominance strategy. They are great for our country,” said Ricketts. “To that end, I would want to make May Renewable Fuels Month, as I did in Nebraska. I made that proclamation when I was Governor. So, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to consideration of S.Res.747 which was submitted earlier today.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT Senator Ricketts: “Mr. President, I rise today to talk about the benefits of renewable fuels. “My state of Nebraska is a leader in renewable fuels. “We’ve got 24 ethanol plants, for example, that create 2.2 billion gallons of ethanol, and that, according to Renewable Fuels Association, has allowed us to avoid importing about 640 million barrels of foreign oil. “Renewable fuels are great for consumers to help save you money at the pump. “Last time I filled up with a 10% blend of ethanol, I saved 55 cents a gallon at my local grocery store. “My congressman has told me that he fills up with E15 is able to save $1 a gallon. “It’s also great for cleaning up the environment, reduces carbon emissions and particulate emissions, NOx emissions. “And then, of course, it’s great for our farmer… 1 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-on-the-senate-floor-proud-of-nebraska-farmers-and-ranchers/ Ricketts on the Senate Floor: Proud of Nebraska Farmers and Ranchers 2026-05-20 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) expressed his support for Nebraska farmers and ranchers and highlighted Nebraska’s leadership in beef and renewable fuels. May is Beef Month and Renewable Fuels Month. Senator Ricketts also discussed the MARKET Act, legislation he introduced today to identify new export markets for American ag products and ensure our farmers and ranchers are not beholden to Communist China. “Last week the Senate passed my resolution to proclaim May as Beef Month throughout the entire country, and again, this is our leading industry in Nebraska, the beef industry,” said Ricketts. “We are the leading state for exporting beef, $1.7 billion worth. We’re a leader in the categories that describe beef. In fact, we’ve got over 6 million head of cattle. We’ve got the three highest beef-producing counties in the country, in Nebraska. We’re very proud of our beef industry, and of course it’s the best-tasting beef in the entire world…It’s also Renewable Fuels Month, and Nebraska is again a leader in renewable fuels — 2.2 billion gallons. Not only is this important for creating jobs in our small towns and rural communities, but this is one of the ways that consumers can save money at the pump.” “Communist China, at the end of the day, is a bad trading partner. We need to make sure we hold them accountable for the commitments they make, and I expect this administration will do just that,” said Ricketts. “They have a track record of doing that. In addition, we need to look at diversifying our export markets. That is why I am introducing the MARKET Act. The MARKET Act would instruct the US Department of Agriculture and the US Trade Representative to look at ways that we can mitigate our dependence on Communist China and look for new markets.” Watch the video HERE. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Mr. President, I am proud to represent the great state of Nebraska. “Agriculture is our number one industry in Nebraska, and I’m also proud to represent our farmers an… 1 2026-05-21T06:28:16Z 2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-market-act-to-protect-agriculture-exports-from-communist-china/ Ricketts Introduces MARKET Act to Protect Agriculture Exports from Communist China 2026-05-19 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Pete Ricketts R000618 www.ricketts.senate.gov ricketts https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum= scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Moving Away from Risk to Key Export Targets (MARKET) Act. This legislation would protect American agricultural exports from Communist China’s unfair trade practices and determine alternative markets for American agricultural exports. “Nebraska farmers and ranchers feed the country and fuel the world. But Communist China threatens this,” said Senator Ricketts. “Relying on one major buyer carries risks, which is why we must develop new markets for agricultural commodities. The MARKET ACT prevents Nebraska farmers and ranchers from being beholden to Communist China.” “U.S. agriculture is extremely vulnerable to trade disruptions, a fact which soybean farmers know all too well,” said Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association and Ohio soybean farmer. “Soybeans are the largest exported commodity in the U.S., and the biggest global market for soybeans is China. Unfortunately, we have seen how strong markets like China take decades to build but can disappear overnight when trade tensions flare up. ASA thanks Senator Ricketts for his leadership in introducing the MARKET Act to ensure U.S. soybeans remain competitive in global export markets by enhancing the work of USDA and USTR on agriculture trade.” The MARKET Act would: Require the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to conduct an annual assessment determining market access for commodities displaced by a potential trade dispute with foreign adversaries like Communist China; Commodities in the assessment include soybeans, corn, beef, chicken, pork, tree nuts, sorghum, cotton, and dairy. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to provide recommendations that mitigate potential threats from China, including legislative and regulatory actions that reduce barriers to agricultural exports in markets outside of China. BACKGROUND Nebraska is the nation’s fifth largest agricultural exporter, with nearly $8 billion in agr… 1 2026-05-20T06:27:31Z 2026-05-20T06:28:54Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=691DECE3-0E36-4427-AECB-B130BFD6453A Fischer in Omaha World-Herald: I recently got back from China. Here's how I advocated for Nebraska. 2026-05-18 2026 2026-05 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: In the Omaha World-Herald, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) detailed her recent official trip to China, during which she advocated for market access and the removal of non-tariff barriers for Nebraska farmers and ranchers. Read the full piece here or key excerpts below. “Last week, I returned from an official congressional delegation trip to China. Four of my Senate colleagues and I traveled to Beijing and Shanghai to foster productive relationships with foreign leaders and advocate for American — and Nebraskan — interests. We met with several top Chinese officials: Premier Li Qiang, National People's Congress Chairman Zhao Leji and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. “During these meetings, we talked about curbing the flow of fentanyl precursors into the United States, stability in the Strait of Hormuz, the Iranian foreign minister’s recent visit to China, supply chain security, rare earth minerals, artificial intelligence, and the basic importance of keeping direct lines of communication open between our two governments. “But let me tell you what was most on my mind while in Asia: Nebraska. That’s why we brought up market access and non-tariff barriers for Nebraska farmers and ranchers who are being shut out of one of the largest consumer markets on earth. “The Chinese beef market — the biggest in the world outside the United States — has been closed to American producers for over a year. Foreign Minister Yi told us that China has the demand for beef, and the United States can provide it. Now, they need to follow through. … “We also need to see more progress on stopping the flow of fentanyl. Premier Li has been open to working on this issue, and we made sure he knew how serious of a priority this is for us. Chinese authorities are beginning to cooperate more meaningfully to disrupt the pipeline that sends precursor chemicals from China to Mexico and ultimately into American communities. It is not enough yet. But it is movement, and we will keep pushing.” ### 1 2026-05-19T06:31:01Z 2026-05-19T06:32:40Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F1A0E260-D9B2-4B15-94DF-B4A531560894 Fischer Addresses Offutt Infrastructure Projects, POW/MIA Lab 2026-05-15 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned Department of Defense officials on the status of flood recovery projects and the failure to request funding for a new laboratory for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) at Offutt Air Force Base. Download video of Fischer’s questioning here Download audio of Fischer’s questioning here Fischer’s questioning on Offutt infrastructure: FISCHER: General Bell, I appreciated our conversation yesterday on the importance of completing that flood recovery project that we have at Offutt. We have airmen and civilians that are working out of a building originally built as a bomber factory in World War II. As new facilities are being constructed and are being outfitted, do you have an estimate for when these new facilities are going to be completed? BELL: Senator Fischer, thank you for that question. Yes, of course, the floods that took place there were disastrous. The national disaster recovery plan for Offutt had seven different MILCON projects that were part of them. Four of them are complete. Three more are still in work with an estimated completion of September of [20]28 and I can certainly give you more details on those. Fischer’s questioning on POW/MIA lab: FISCHER: Mr. Marks, I'm very disappointed that the department has chosen not to include a MILCON request for a new laboratory for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. The DPAA’s current laboratory at Offutt is housed in a World War II bomber factory that needs to be demolished. This agency has a sacred mission, and that's to account for missing service members in part of a solemn commitment to this country, and that it makes to service members willing to give their lives for the defense of our country. And failing to prioritize the construction of the agency's new lab is really at odds with that commitment. Mr. Marks, since the DPAA is a defense wide agency, it has a unique military construction prioritization. Will you commit to working with my… 1 2026-05-16T06:05:00Z 2026-05-16T06:06:37Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=272F9F5B-80C7-4796-9832-55168FA17CBD Fischer Honors Nebraska Law Enforcement During National Police Week 2026-05-14 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NE Deb Fischer F000463 www.fischer.senate.gov fischer https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases scraper Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved a resolution, cosponsored by Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), recognizing National Police Week, which also honors fallen Nebraska State Patrol Trooper Kyle McAcy. “Last year, we mourned the loss of Nebraska State Patrol Trooper Kyle McAcy, who served our communities for a decade,” Fischer said. “I was proud to cosponsor this Senate-passed resolution honoring his service and recognizing National Police Week. To Nebraska’s men and women in blue: Thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to our people and state.” Fischer’s Work with Nebraska’s Law Enforcement: Federal investments As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Fischer has secured millions of dollars to invest in Nebraska’s law enforcement. This includes upgrades to emergency communications and information systems and access to body cameras. Click here for more information on the funding Fischer secured this year. With federal funding Fischer secured in 2024, the Omaha Police Department was able to procure a new helicopter, now used by their Air Wing. Click here for more information, and click here to read more in the Omaha World-Herald. Legislation In 2024, Fischer’s Recruit and Retain Actwas signed into law, which provides law enforcement across the country with resources to combat staffing shortages. Fischer also recently joined her colleagues in introducing the Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant Program Reauthorization Act, to reauthorize the nationwide law enforcement program that uses evidence-based and data-driven approaches to reduce violent crime. Additionally, Fischer cosponsored the Protect and Serve Act, which would give federal prosecutors more tools to go after those who deliberately target law enforcement officers by creating a federal crime to knowingly cause, or attempt to cause, bodily injury to a law enforcement officer. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2026/5/fischer-honors-nebraska-law-enforcement-during-national-police-week 1 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z

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