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://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=580,BACON VOTES IN FAVOR OF NDAA,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. -Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) released the following statement after voting in favor of the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act: ""Last night I voted in favor of the Defense Bill that gives us the best deterrence capabilities against China and Russia, and invests in cyber, stealth, and a strong Navy. My measure that initiates making UNMC a national hub for pandemic readiness is also in the bill. Peace through strength is a conservative value and this bill delivers it.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=579,REP. BACON CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2020,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement in observance of Christmas Day: “Merry Christmas! It is true what they say—it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Time to celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones. However, this year will look different than most. The coronavirus has turned our nation upside down, and along the way, we’ve lost many friends and family, and my heart hurts for those who have suffered. On top of that, we’ve not been able to go visit some in our families, and many are lonely. “That is why, this year, it is my hope that we keep the faith to move forward through these times of distress, and to remember the true meaning and gift of Christmas. “One of my favorite things about the holiday season is seeing how excited children get; especially on Christmas morning. They just can’t wait to open the many presents under the tree. I remember one early Christmas morning around 6:00 a.m., while Angie and I tried to sleep peacefully, I heard my children wide awake, tearing into the wrapping paper a few rooms away. They told us they just couldn’t wait any longer! “Of course, I was no different at their age. I remember peeking through the stairwell as my mom wrapped presents until the early morning hours. I miss those Christmases 50 years ago when we would open presents in the morning, then one set of grandparents would visit and we’d open more presents, and then we would go to our other grandparents’ house and open even more. “Like many families, we also enjoyed our classic Christmas dinner where the warm side dishes, ham, and turkey scents filled the entire house. Even today, Angie and I, grandparents to six little ones, enjoy cooking the big feast, just like my parents did. I will cherish these memories forever. “This year, however, will not be like the rest. There may not be a large crowd gathered, many presents under the tree, or a large feast prepared, but there will be the Christmas spirit and lots of love. “With all of the celebrations, it is easy to forget that the true gift of Christmas was not purchased from a store. It was a person. God loves us so much that He sent His son Jesus Christ to be the best gift we could ever receive. He was love and life all in one. Despite the trials, tribulations, and journey to Bethlehem nearly 2,000 years ago, Mary and Joseph were a on quest to bring Salvation to this world, and that is what we honor on Christmas. My favorite Christmas carol is “O Holy Night” and I love the special words, “The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger; In all our trials born to be our friend.” “So, whether you’re gathering with a small, intimate group, or meeting virtually, it is my hope that you create new memories of smiles and excitement for years to come. “As always, I wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and faith-filled Christmas. May God Bless you all.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4D7CFB77-893D-44B2-B0C8-A8BB479B54B9,Senate Passes COVID Relief Package with Fischer’s Support,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed a package including additional COVID reliefand annual government funding: This legislation will bring some relief to families and people who have been hit hard by this virus. It will send help to our schools, hospitals, and small businesses. It includes provisions I fought for, including an increase in assistance for people who are food insecure, relief for agriculture, and support for our local airports through this tough time. In March, Congress was able to work to quickly pass critical pandemic relief. While it took too long to respond and provide this latest assistance, it is important we were finally able to pass this bill. It proves we can still work together for the American people. More information: The relief package includes some of Senator Fischer's key priorities and pieces of legislation, including: A temporary 15% increase in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help struggling families afford food after Senator Fischer called for its inclusion $13 billion for ag producers, including cow/calf producers and feeders who faced reduced prices as well pork producers who were forced to depopulate their herds during the pandemic. Biofuels producers are also eligible for payments The AIR Act, which will provide Nebraska airports with greater certainty as they plan for future infrastructure products The PIPES Act, which will reauthorize the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration's (PHMSA) pipeline safety programs, ensure states have the resources they need for pipeline safety, examine new safety technology, and reform and update regulations A five-year extension of the paid family leave tax credit, the U.S.'s first ever nationwide paid family leave policy This extension means businesses will be able to take advantage of this program and offer paid family leave to their employees who are caring for their families while juggling workplace responsibilities. TheAmerican COMPETE Act, which will advance American competitiveness in emerging next-gen technologies TheRailroad Employee Equality and Fairness (REEF) Act, which helps railroaders during the pandemic who have lost their jobs or missed work with an illness receive the unemployment and sickness benefits they deserve. $15 million to speed implementation of the medical surge capacity Senator Fischer introduced in the defense authorization bill, enhancing civilian-military partnerships to improve federal pandemic response and offering universities like UNMC the chance to participate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7F4E7439-E758-4713-A048-24BB104B5F33,Senator Fischer Pitches Offutt as SPACECOM Headquarters,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, helped present a final pitch for Offutt Air Force Base to serve as the location for U.S. SPACECOM's headquarters. I was proud to join Team Nebraska in making the case to Air Force leadership that Offutt should serve as the new home for Space Command. The patriotic men and women of Offutt as well as its strong support from the surrounding community make it an excellent candidate for such a critical mission,said Senator Fischer. Last month, Offutt Air Force Base was named as one of six finalists to host SPACECOM's headquarters. Senator Fischer was joined in today's pitch by Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, University of Nebraska President Ted Carter, 55th Wing Commander Col. Gavin P. Marks, Bellevue Mayor Rusty Hike, and Omaha Public Power District President & CEO Timothy J. Burke.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F5E2F7E5-6151-4A50-BCB9-B0E11C942B29,"Senator Fischer’s AIR Act Passes Congress, Providing Relief for NE Airports",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after her bipartisan AIR Act was included in COVID relief passed by Congress yesterday. The AIR Act will provide airports with greater certainty in planning future infrastructure projects: The outbreak of COVID-19 led to significantly fewer flights out of many Nebraska airports, which put them at risk of receiving far less federal infrastructure formula funding. As such, I am pleased that my AIR Act was included in the COVID relief package that recently passed Congress. It will provide Nebraska airports with the certainty they need to plan for future projects,said Senator Fischer. As airports in Nebraska continue to deal with the significant negative impact on aviation from the COVID-19 pandemic, this bill, including provisions from the AIR Act introduced by Senator Fischer, provides important stability for critical federal funding and welcome relief for airports, including Eppley Airfield, during this period of continued uncertainty,said Dave Roth, Executive Director of the Omaha Airport Authority which oversees Eppley Airfield (OMA). This legislation is vital to small airports across the county who depend on the million dollar AIP appropriation from the FAA. This money allows Western Nebraska Regional Airport to continue to keep up with all the safety requirements required by the FAA for commercial service airports. Without this money, airports like WNRA would not be able to continue the high level of safety that is key to the nationwide air transportation network. Congratulations, Senator Fischer, on getting this legislation passed and thank you so much for all you do for WNRA and all the other airports in Nebraska. We could not keep our current levels of service without all your efforts,said Raul Aguallo, Director of the Western Nebraska Regional Airport in Scottsbluff. The City of Kearney, similar to may airports has seen reduced passenger traffic and revenue related to the Covid pandemic and this important legislation provides much needed financial assistance moving forward to ensure airports are prepared for future increased passenger demand,said Michael Morgan, City Manager of Kearney. Airports continue to struggle as the Covid 19 virus persists. Protecting our future Federal funding despite our historic low passenger levels is paramount. Senator Fischer's leadership in protecting future capital investments for Nebraska's airports is very well received at the Central Nebraska Regional Airport. Her proposed Airport Infrastructure Readiness Act of 2020' was included in the stimulus plan approved by congress last night. We appreciate her leadership in protecting future federal grants for airports in Nebraska,said Michael Olson, Executive Director of the Hall County Airport Authority in Grand Island. Like so many businesses impacted by unprecedented declines in both demand and revenue as a result of COVID 19, the Lincoln Airport continues to look for ways to serve the needs of our patrons and community while simultaneously seeking to provide employment security for our team. I sincerely appreciate Sen. Fischer's efforts in helping to represent airports and the larger aviation community through the provision of vital revenue stability aimed at protecting both jobs and critical infrastructure,said from David Haring, Executive Director of the Lincoln Airport Authority. More information: The Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) provides funding to airports for projects related to aircraft operations, such as runways, taxiways, and project planning. AIP funding for primary airports is based on the total number of enplanements (also known as boardings) at the airport. The AIR Act will require FAA to calculate AIP funding for FY 2022 and FY 2023 based on either 2018 or 2019 enplanement numbers, rather than 2020 and 2021 enplanement numbers which are expected to be significantly lower because of COVID-19.This will provide stability to primary airports in Nebraska regarding what they can expect for AIP funding over the next couple of years as they plan projects.The AIR Act also waives the benefit cost analysis for airports with contract towers, like the Central Nebraska Regional Airport, for FY 2020 and FY 2021. The full text is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=575,RELIEF COMING TO AMERICANS AS PART OF PACKAGE NEGOTIATED BY BACON AND PROBLEM SOLVERS,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and the Problem Solvers Caucus led the way in providing relief to Americans who are hurting because of COVID. The Bipartisan Emergency COVID relief Act of 2020 consists of $892billion of emergency assistance for American families, workers, and small businesses and uses $560billion in previously unspent CARES Act money. Republicans stayed united and focused on targeted relief to small businesses, making Operation Warp Speed vaccines available, and reopening school and the economy and this package delivers on those goals. The final package does not include bailouts for states who were in financial trouble before COVID, checks for illegal immigrants, and federal prisoner release. “I’m proud to be a part of the Problem Solvers Caucus that broke the logjam on this COVID supplemental,” said Rep. Bacon. “Our mission is to break the gridlock and we succeeded here, and Americans are better off for the efforts. The bill we voted on today was initiated by the Problem Solvers over a month ago.” “There is real relief in the package, and I am especially pleased that our live entertainment venues will be able to receive assistance as they have been significantly hurt by lockdowns and other restrictions,” added Rep. Bacon. “I advocated for Omaha entertainment venue operators and am pleased to deliver these results.” In addition to the $15 billion for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums, other highlights include: COVID Relief: Extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and adds deductibility for PPP expenses; gives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for a second draw PPP loan, includes 501(c)(6) organizations, and codifies federal rules that ensure churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for PPP loans Reopening America through the allocation of $20 billion for purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it; $8 billion for vaccine distribution; $20 billion to assist states with testing; $20 billion distribution from an existing provider relief fund Ends CARES Act emergency powers for the Federal Reserve rescinds $429 billion in unused funds provided by the CARES Act for the Federal Reserve’s emergency lending facilities and terminates these facilities to ensure that Democrats cannot use these funds to bail out poorly managed blue states Stimulus checks -- $600 for both adults and dependents with safeguards to prohibit illegal aliens from receiving payment Provide unemployed individuals an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks from December 26, 2020-March 14, 2021and extends and phases-out PUA, which is a temporary federal program covering self-employed and gig workers, to March 14 (after which no new applicants) through April 5, 2021 $10 billion for grants to childcare centers to help providers safely reopen $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning that also includes $2.75 billion in designated funds for private K through 12 education $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for individuals who lost their source of income during the pandemic and extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 $45 billion for airlines, highways, transit, airports, Amtrak, intercity buses transportation Increases SNAP benefits by 15% for six months but does not expand eligibility $13 billion to support our farmers and the agriculture sector. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9D8CDF43-AB21-45A3-AABF-1633FCD4AA6E,Bipartisan BUILD Act Passes Senate,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Would Help Ensure Non-profits, Habitat for Humanity Can Build Homes for People in Need WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statements after the Building up Independent Lives and Dreams (BUILD) Act passed the U.S. Senate. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would allow nonprofits to once again use forms that are less complex when they are issuing 0% interest loans. This will help ensure the organizations can continue to make these loans to borrowers. Every family deserves a place to call home, and non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity provide a vital service helping toensurethat happens. Unfortunately, complicated mortgage loan forms have made doing so more difficult. The BUILD Actwillenablegroups like Habitat for Humanity to help even more Americans in need,said Senator Fischer. Habitat for Humanity and other nonprofit organizations offer help when the need is dire and families are struggling to put a roof over their heads especially in tough times like these. The BUILD Act will ensure groups like Habitat for Humanity are not constricted by overly burdensome regulations, so they can get help where it's needed, fast. I'm glad to see the Senate pass our bipartisan legislation, and I hope the House will take action at once so these nonprofits are able to continue providing a vital service to families across Maryland and our country,said Senator Van Hollen. We are grateful for Senator Fischer for leading the way on the BUILD Act. She is a true partner to Habitat for Humanity. Senator Fischer's work has removed government barriers that aren't applicable to non-profit organizations that provide loans to families who don't fit into a traditional lending model,said Amanda Brewer, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha CEO. More information on the BUILD Act: Rules require all mortgage lenders who make five or more loans per year to fill out complex and expensive disclosure forms designed to protect consumers. These forms replaced simpler ones that had existed for years. Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) issues 0% interest mortgages to its clients, who are often the families receiving Habitat homes. The goal of these loans is not just cost savings, it is to help families build credit and learn financial responsibility. Because the new forms are longer, more complicated, and expensive to complete, most volunteers are not able complete them. The BUILD Act would allow nonprofits to use the old forms when issuing 0% interest loans, even if they make more than 5 mortgages. Staff and volunteers are familiar with these forms and they still have the adequate consumer protections needed for non-interest-bearing loans. Click hereto read bill text.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=574,BACON AND PROBLEM SOLVERS LEAD WAY TO PROVIDE RELIEF FOR AMERICANS,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) announced tonight that the House will vote tomorrow on the Bipartisan Emergency COVID relief Act of 2020. It consists of $900 billion of emergency assistance for American families, workers and small businesses. “I am proud of the work the Problem Solvers Caucus, that I am a part of, did to break the gridlock on the COVID supplemental and bring relief to all Americans. Our group of 50 House and eight Senate members, half Republican and half Democrat, broke the logjam with our $908 billion bipartisan plan introduced earlier this month. It served as the framework for the final plan we will be voting on tomorrow.” Details of the legislation will be released tomorrow. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=286B0CC3-BFBE-4A22-853D-38594D6A71FC,Fischer on Cyber Breach of National Nuclear Security Administration,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the chairman of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement today after learning that the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) was affected by a cyberattack: WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the chairman of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement today after learning that the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) was affected by a cyberattack: I have great confidence in the safety and security of our nuclear weapons. Nevertheless, I'm troubled by reports that hackers accessed the National Nuclear Security Administration's network. Our nuclear deterrent is the bedrock of our national security. The NNSA's infrastructure and computer systems play a vital role and must be protected. Thisreportreinforces the need to modernize our nuclear enterprise in orderto ensure it remains safe, secure, and effectivein the face ofevolving threats. As the chairman of the subcommittee that oversees our nuclear forces, I have requested a briefing from the Department of Energy as soon as possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=55CCAD65-66F7-4FC0-B1A6-808398576E6D,Senator Fischer Introduces Bipartisan American COMPETE Act,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), members of the Senate Commerce Committee, today introduced the AmericanCOMPETEAct, which would take steps to advance American global competitiveness in emergent next-generation technologies: In order to strengthen our national security and grow our economy, the U.S. must remain a leader in deploying emergent technologies. That means generating research and innovation in areas like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. The American COMPETE Act would help maintain America's competitive edge and ensure we continue to lead in these key technology sectors,said Senator Fischer. Arizona leads the way in developing and deploying innovative technologies supporting the jobs of the future. Our bipartisan bill boosts these technologies while harnessing their abilities to grow the economy and protect seniors from scams,said Senator Sinema. More information: The American COMPETE Act is a companion to legislation has passed the House of Representatives, which was sponsored by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) It would direct the Department of Commerce and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct studies and submit reports on technologies including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, quantum computing, blockchain, advanced materials, unmanned delivery services, and 3-D printing. The studies include requirements to survey each industry, as well as recommendations to help grow the economy and implement the technology. Full text of the legislation is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A22E0365-29A6-47D6-865D-74AB18F2F7B4,Fischer Announces Lincoln Office Relocation,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) today announced the relocation of her Lincoln, Nebraska office. The new address and contact information can be found below. Senator Fischer's Lincoln Office: 1248 OStreet Suite #1111 Lincoln, NE 68508 Phone: (402) 441-4600 Fax: (402) 476-8753 Senator Fischer also has state offices in Omaha, Kearney, and Scottsbluff with staff available to assist Nebraskans with federal casework and other issues at the federal level.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=571,Provision Renaming Bases Included in FY21 NDAA,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed by Congress this week includes a process to renames military installations named after Confederate soldiers; the provision is similar to legislation drafted by Congressmen Don Bacon (NE-02), a retired brigadier general and nearly 30-year Air Force veteran, and Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), House Armed Services Vice Chair and 30-year Army veteran. The provision forms the National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations, composed of individuals appointed by service secretaries as well as members of Congress. The independent commission will review and make recommendations for renaming installations and department property which have designations not in line with the values of this country or the mission of the United States military. Military leaders, active-duty troops, veterans, civil rights organizations, and every day Americans have long called for changing the names of these installations. Recent instances of racial violence and racism have underscored the immediate need for change, and Reps. Bacon and Brown have been champions in making this a reality. “Our military bases should bear the names of America’s war heroes who went above and beyond to answer the call of duty, and who represent the best ideals of our Republic, such as Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients, or other national heroes,” said Rep. Bacon. “Right now, many of our military bases are named after Confederate leaders who betrayed their Constitutional oath and caused the death of over 600,000 people because of slavery. I thank my colleague Congressman Brown for his leadership in working across the aisle to reach consensus. This is the way we come together and move our country forward.” “Who our military honors and reflects our values. We cannot ask young servicemembers to live, train and raise their families on bases honoring men who betrayed their country to keep Black men, women and children in bondage,” said Vice Chair Anthony Brown. “The United States does not lack for heroes we should honor and whose examples can serve as inspirations. For our values and military readiness, we will get this done. I want to thank my colleague Congressman Bacon for his support and advocacy on this important and historic change.” The U.S. Army currently has 10 bases and facilities named after leaders of the Confederacy. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=572,For Country Caucus Statement on NDAA,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Tuesday, For Country Caucus Chairs U.S. Reps. Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) issued the following statement urging the president to sign the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. The House and Senate both adopted the bipartisan final NDAA conference report. “As members of the bipartisan For Country Caucus, comprised of veterans who have served in our nation’s military, we call on the president to sign the NDAA before the end of the 116th Congress. Our government has a Constitutional responsibility to ensure that our national defense is funded and that the men and women in uniform have the resources they need to keep our country safe. For decades, Congress and the executive branch of the United States have consistently worked in a bipartisan manner to write, pass, and sign the annual NDAA into law and this year should be no different.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A3F30EEC-0903-4A2C-8B88-CA9B22DA44E7,Congress Passes Final FY 2021 Defense Authorization Bill,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement today after the U.S. Senate voted in favor of the fiscal year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which now heads to the president's desk: Congress has united in a bipartisan manner to provide for our national security and give our service members a well-deserved pay raise. This bill will continue rebuilding and modernizing our military through strategic investments while also supporting both service members and their families. Provisions in the FY21 NDAA -Provides a total of $740.5 billion in funding to fulfill the requirements of the National Defense Strategy. -Supports our troops with the requested 3 percent pay raise the second straight year of a pay raise above 3 percent. -Continues the effort to rebuild our military capacity by investing in the next generation of ships, planes, tanks, and weapons. -Improves the lives and livelihoods of military families by helping military spouses find and keep good jobs, guaranteeing access to quality, flexible child care and education, and ensuring families are living in healthy, safe housing. -Supports Senator Fischer's top priority of modernizing and sustaining our nuclear triad to serve as a strong deterrent to potential adversaries. -Protects our troops and supports military readiness by ensuring our troops have adequate diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities, and PPE, and supporting the whole-of-government response to the COVID-19 pandemic. -Includes a version of Senator Fischer's language to make reaching at least 386 operation squadrons the policy of the U.S. Air Force. -Includes Fischer provision to implement a pilot program on civilian and military partnerships that will enhance medical surge capacity and improve federal response to pandemics and other threats. This initiative will also give institutions with established expertise in these areas, such as the University of Nebraska Medical Center, the opportunity to participate. -Provides significant investment for the 55th Wing, authorizing numerous modernization initiatives for the RC-135 and other fixed-wing ISR platforms headquartered at Offutt totaling nearly $200 million. -Authorizes $9.3 to construct a new National Guard vehicle maintenance facility in North Platte and authorizes millions in investment to support National Guard modernization priorities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-congratulates-sallie-and-alan-atkins-their-introduction-nebraska,Smith Congratulates Sallie and Alan Atkins on their Introduction to the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), released the following statement after Sallie and Al Atkins were inducted into the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame on December 4, 2020. Sallie and Al were innovators on their ranch near Halsey, Nebraska, where they raised commercial Angus crossbred cattle and served their community and state in many leading roles in the agriculture industry. Sallie previously served as Agriculture Director in Smith's office, where she led engagement efforts on statewide agriculture issues and served as the liaison for Third District producers, agriculture groups, and other stakeholders. Sallie has more than 30 years of experience in Nebraska agriculture, including having served as regional director of membership for the Nebraska Farm Bureau. She has also served as executive director and chairman of the Nebraska Beef Council, vice president of Nebraska Cattlemen, and board chairman of the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council. Additionally, she has been active in Nebraska 4-H and FFA. Her work on the Nebraska State Fair earned her the 2011 Nebraska Volunteer of the Year award. ""Sallie and Al have been staples of Nebraska agriculture for a long time,"" said Smith. ""I have had the pleasure of visiting their ‘AL Ranch.' It is an impressive operation. Few Nebraskans have had the impact on Nebraska agricultural that Sallie and Al have, and I couldn't think of a more fitting recognition than the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame. I thank them for all they have done for our great state."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=570,BACON CALLS 2021 NDAA A ‘WIN’,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) joined his House colleagues in adopting the conference report to accompany the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 by a veto-proof majority vote of 335 to 78. The report is the product of the NDAA Conference Committee, a select group of House Members and Senators who meet to reconcile differences in the defense bills passed by each chamber of Congress. Rep. Bacon was appointed to the NDAA conference committee for the fourth consecutive year. “For sixty consecutive years, Congress has passed the NDAA on a bipartisan basis for one simple reason: that politics must never stand between the American people and the security of the United States,” said Rep. Bacon. “This record of bipartisan unity is unrivaled in our history and a testament to what we can do when we come together to ensure that the needs of the nation are met. As a conferee, I can proudly say this conference report wisely balances the differences between each chamber to produce a bill that truly puts America’s security first.” The 2021 NDAA: Authorizes $740 billion for national defense including significant investments in critical emerging technology areas like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and biotechnology. Fully funds modernization of the nuclear weapons enterprise to replace aging systems and reverse the dangerous decline in the effectiveness and reliability of America’s nuclear deterrent. Continues improvements in military readiness which began in 2018. Authorizes a 3% pay increase and requires actions to improve childcare and support for military families with special needs. Directs the Pentagon to establish emergency medical surge partnerships with federal, state, local, universities and private health care providers with selection of the first two candidate locations by March 2021. Establishes a national commission to rename federal installations and property named after confederate officers within three years. Requires all branches of the armed forces to implement a “Safe to Report” policy applicable to allegations of sexual assault. Establishes requirements for the redeployment of US forces from Germany. Makes improvements to wind energy siting procedures for projects adjacent to military installations. This year’s NDAA also includes numerous legislative provisions introduced by Rep. Bacon that support Baltic security; strengthen the military professional military education enterprise; restrict the use of Russian fuel for the new Army medical center in Europe; extend the prohibition on RC-135 aircraft retirement; and require the Air Force to assess the possible use of OC-135 aircraft for other Department of Defense missions. “This defense legislation provides our nation and service members the tools necessary to defend the American people and to ensure our future prosperity as a nation,” added Rep. Bacon. “Once again, this year’s NDAA is a win for the country, the state of Nebraska, and our local economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D13F577-BB25-4C66-B64A-D6EE323708A6,Fischer Helps Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Americans’ Data Privacy,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. ?U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and CatherineCortezMasto(D-Nev.) today introduced legislation to advance emerging data privacy technologies, which enable the economic benefits of data analysis while protecting Americans' personal data using mathematical techniques that obscure or anonymize identifying information. The?Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act?would require the National Science Foundation (NSF) to promote research into privacy-enhancing technologies (PET)?and direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop resources for the integration of PETs into public and private sector data use. Our country relies on large-scale data analysis in everything from agriculture to transportation to pandemic response. While these datasets are critically important, it must be collected in ways that protect Americans' privacy. This bipartisan legislation will help keep Americans' personal information secure,said Senator Fischer. More information: The?Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act? would Require the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research into PETs, including: oFundamental research on PET technologies. oFundamental research into the mathematics that underlie PETs. oFundamental research into technologies that promote data minimization principles. Facilitate research in coordination with other relevant agencies. Integrate this mission with the NSF's Computer and Network Security Program.?? Require the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to work with?the?academic, public, and private sectors to develop resources for the integration of PET into business and governmental applications, including working with NIH and CDC to increase responsible public health research. Senator Fischer has been a leader on data privacy and has a record of working across the aisle policies to protect consumers' data. Last year, Senator Fischer joined Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) to introduce theDETOUR Act, which would protect consumers from manipulative online user interfaces known as dark patterns. She also joined other Commerce Committee leaders to introducelegislationproviding Americans with more transparency over the collection and use of their personal data. The bill has been endorsed by Microsoft. Full text of the legislation is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=9144533D-0BC8-4346-B3AD-A32F4EA9375C,*MEDIA ADVISORY* Fischer to Chair Commerce Subcommittee Hearing on Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will hold a hearing titled,The Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine, at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 10, 2020.The hearing will examine transportation and logistics plans for ensuring COVID-19 vaccines are delivered across the country. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss supply chain issues within the transportation network and ongoing coordination in preparation to distribute the vaccine, as well as the near and long-term outlooks for vaccine distribution. Witnesses: Dr. Rachel Levine, Secretary of Health for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and President of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officers Mr. Richard Smith, Regional President of the Americas and Executive Vice President, FedEx Express Mr. Wesley Wheeler, President of Global Healthcare, United Parcel Service EVENT: Fischer to chair Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety hearing on The Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine TIME: THURSDAY , December 10, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. ET/8:30 a.m. CT/ 7:30 a.m. MT 253 Russell Senate Office Building Click hereto watch the hearing live",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-richard-everett,Smith Statement on Passing of Richard Everett,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the passing of Richard Everett of Runza Restaurants. ""There is hardly anything more identifiably Nebraskan than Runza. Richard Everett carried forward his mother's entrepreneurial spirit while providing Nebraskans with high quality restaurant options and cities across our state with many a community gathering place."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=568,BACON 2020 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION,2020-11-26,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb.— Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement in observance of Thanksgiving Day, which will be celebrated on November 26, 2020: “On this Thanksgiving, I reflect on the many blessings and freedoms we have today, and praise God that we live in the greatest country in the world. While this year’s Thanksgiving may look different compared to previous holidays, one thing remains true: no matter where you reside or who you are with, our family, faith, and freedoms remain intact. “This holiday is special to me and my family, as it is for many Americans. Thanksgiving was my mom’s favorite holiday of the year. She loved to cook the traditional Thanksgiving meal and also enjoyed adding some of our favorite Hungarian dishes. For the fruit portion she would put together pears, pineapples, and cherries in a way that each small plate looked like a turkey. All the kids and grandkids loved that. Even though she passed away 15 years ago, her spirit remains strong within our household. We will always miss her and continue to celebrate her traditions. “Every year, I look to the words of President Abraham Lincoln when he gave his 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation. He recognized a torn nation due to civil war and was quick to acknowledge the “blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies,”and recognized that those blessings were “gracious gifts of the Most High God.” President Lincoln encouraged us to turn to our faith, despite the many trials and tribulations that come our way. These timeless words, spoken 157 years ago by one of our nation’s greatest leaders, still ring true today. “On this day, and every day, I thank our nation’s law enforcement, first responders, and military. We salute them for defending our nation and sacrificing their time with their loved ones in order to protect, care for, and serve ours. It is because of them that we live in this great country that values freedom, opportunity, and equality under the law. “I also thank our medical professionals in Nebraska and across the United States who are working day and night, and who are constantly on the frontlines of this global pandemic. They continue to answer the call to care for the injured and sick, and for that we owe them a debt of gratitude. It is my hope that we remain cautiously optimistic as new medical developments arise. “As always, my prayers are with you and your families. I am thankful to have the opportunity to represent you. I wish you all a very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winner,Smith Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today announced the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for the Third District of Nebraska. The winning app will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on www.House.Gov. The winning app, titled ""Quick Mental Math,"" was created by Andy Vu, a junior at Kearney High School. According to Andy, he was inspired to create his app for his brother. During Coronavirus quarantine, he noticed his brother spending time learning math skills and using a lot of paper. He created Quick Mental Math to help his brother learn and do so through an environmentally friendly, convenient approach. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-winners-excellence-innovation-and-adaptation-recognition,Smith Announces Winners of Excellence in Innovation and Adaptation Recognition,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today honored nine individuals and businesses for receiving the Innovation and Adaptation Recognition. The award was created to acknowledge the contribution of individuals, organizations, and those who are working every day to improve and help their communities in the current environment. The winners will be recognized by Smith before the U.S. House of Representatives. ""I'm proud to honor the recipients of the Innovation and Adaptation Recognition. Nebraskans know our communities grow when individuals step up: helping their neighbors, being involved, and creating opportunity,"" Smith said. ""To all Nebraskans who work tirelessly to create thriving communities, I will continue to support your efforts and pursue policies to get the federal government out of the way and empower your success."" Winners Billy Estes is the Executive Director of the Midwest Theater of Scottsbluff. Midwest Theater's programming, which includes live performances, orchestras, and concerts, makes an important contribution to the cultural and social experiences of Nebraska's panhandle. When the Coronavirus pandemic reached western Nebraska, under the guidance of Mr. Estes, the Midwest Theater partnered with the Legacy of the Plains Museum to create the Skyview Drive-in Movie Theater. As the pandemic progressed, this venture proved so popular they outgrew their location and had to move to larger accommodations. Thanks to the creativity and leadership of Mr. Estes, in spite of the pandemic, the Midwest Theater has continued to thrive throughout 2020. Grand Central Foods of York is owned by the Warren Thomas family. Mr. Thomas prides himself on his commitment to the York community. In ""normal"" times, Warren and the Grand Central Team are the first to ask where they can help with a project or how can they partner on events. The selflessness shown by everyone at Grand Central is a testament to the example of the ownership. Within a few days of the pandemic's arrival to York, Warren purchased a second grocery delivery van, and expanded his service to the entire community. Because Warren believes in positive reinforcement, he encouraged his customers to wear a mask while in his store by offering a 5 percent discount on their purchases. He is an active member of many community groups, and his passion and commitment to his community is unmatched. Alyssa Cochnar of Crete is a leader of Gold Star Martial Arts of Crete and Seward. At 26 years old, she is already a 5th degree black belt, chief instructor, and co-owner of the martial arts facility. When directed health measures forced Gold Star to close in-person training classes, she spearheaded the process of creating online modules for her students to continue their training independently. Before long, she began offering Zoom Classes to provide her students with another safe and flexible option to continue their training and explore expanded experiences to encourage healthy eating habits and socialization while social distancing. I commend her positive attitude and commitment to an enriching educational experience for all her students, regardless of their experience level. Bryce Jensen is the Director of the World Theatre of Kearney. His adaptability, especially during the pandemic, demonstrates his commitment to his community. Though the organization he operates, the World Theatre, was closed due to the pandemic, his outside of the box thinking inspired him to create, through strategic community collaborations, a World Theatre drive-in. Not only would this ensure the World Theatre could still bring respite to many during these trying times, but it restored a drive-in movie experience to the Kearney region, reminding many of the happy memories of their youth. Kirk Zeller grew up in the community of Ravenna, Nebraska. After high school, he attended university and later worked in the medical field in Japan. Kirk returned to the United States, first living in California before returning to his hometown of Ravenna to raise his family. Since returning to Ravenna he has turned the former Carnegie library into an entrepreneurship center, purchased a downtown building and renovated the upper story apartments, and recently directed a movie in Ravenna and Los Angeles which premiered at the Kearney World Theatre's drive-in, all while working on bringing new medical products to the market. He is a great story of returning to small hometown Nebraska and reinvesting in his community. Dick Cochran of Kearney founded the nonprofit Hot Meals USA in October 2017. By February 2018, he signed a memorandum of understanding with the American Red Cross to call on him for assistance in wildfires, floods, tornadoes and other disasters. Every time Dick and Hot Meals USA are called upon, no less than 150 volunteers have supported the program. Since their inception, the policy has been to feed anyone, no questions asked. In just over three years, they have provided more than 155,000 meals across the country. John McCoy is the CEO of Orthman Manufacturing of Lexington. He embraced the opportunity to help feed families that come from a poverty background in the Lexington region. When he first brought in Hot Meals USA to the community, his business, Orthman Manufacturing, partnered with the Lexington Community Foundation and others to provide over 1,000 hot meals on a weekly basis to families. He then made feeding the community a priority as he and his employees took the lead to distribute USDA food boxes. When schools reopened in August, John was there for the community again. He donated 3,700 masks to Lexington Public Schools to make sure no student was unprepared for their school experience. John's actions represent his commitment to all members of the Lexington community. Anthony May of Hastings is an entrepreneur. When the pandemic forced the taproom of Steeple Brewery, which Anthony co-owns to close, he quickly responded. Collaborating with Wave Pizza Company, the brewery's restaurant partner, he developed a community delivery program, which eventually offered their products to 21 communities in south-central Nebraska. This innovative program ensured many Nebraskans, whose communities either do not have a grocery or now lacked a local place to eat due to the pandemic, had ready access to an easy-to-use food delivery program. Matt Dennis and Michael Stepp are more than small town business owners; they are master story tellers with a dream. What began as two friends making copper mugs in an old shop has turned into an opportunity to reshape the meaning of community. When they purchased the building they now call Handlebend, their goal was to create a community of small businesses under one roof and welcome the community with open arms to come and enjoy a mule, coffee, or gather and with friends and family. Though the Coronavirus pandemic has caused the Handlebend community to adapt their approach, the dreams of these men to create an innovative experience for the O'Neill community continue. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=567,Bacon Announces Offutt Selected as Finalist for New Space Command HQ,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced that the U.S. Air Force has informed him that Offutt Air Force Base has been selected as one of the six finalists to be home to the United States Space Command. “As one of the earliest advocates for the Space Command, I applaud this announcement,” said Rep Bacon, a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Space Force Caucus. “America’s national security and economic prosperity depend on our access to space and this reliance will only increase over time. It’s great to see the Pentagon recognize that Nebraska and Offutt Air Force Base are ideal locations for the missions that matter most.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=566,BACON NAMED TO NDAA CONFERENCE COMMITTEE FOR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) was named by the House of Representatives as a conferee to the fiscal year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference committee. A conference committee resolves the differences between Senate and House versions of the same bill, and this is Rep. Bacon’s fourth consecutive appointment. Rep. Bacon previously served on the FY18, FY19, and FY20 NDAA conference committees. “I want to thank Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy for selecting me as a conferee to the NDAA conference committee as this is one of Congress’ most important constitutional responsibilities,” said Rep. Bacon. “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft bi-partisan, defense legislation that restores America’s military readiness.” To do this, Rep. Bacon believes in modernizing nuclear deterrence, including the TRIAD and replacing 400 ICBMs. With 20 percent of the United States Air Force’s budget going to non-Air Force related programs, Rep. Bacon is committed to creating more transparency and informing wise investment of taxpayer dollars. He also believes we need to be prepared for future pandemics by improving medical surge capacity and making our nation’s top health care facilities such as UNMC a global leader. Another top priority of his is to focus on reconstruction efforts at Offutt Air Force Base which is a top employer for Nebraska’s Second District. This will strengthen the base to be more resilient than it was prior to the 2019 spring floods. “I am grateful for this opportunity and believe we must protect our service members and equip them with the necessary resources and assistance,” added Rep. Bacon. “I plan to work with the Senate and do everything in my power to get this to the President’s desk.” “The experience Don brings to the conference committee is truly unparalleled. He served three decades in the Air Force, served multiple overseas tours, rose to the branch’s highest ranks, and earned numerous decorations for his leadership. We are grateful for his service. Since coming to Congress, he has championed a stronger military and fought to empower troops and their families. Don understands America is worth fighting for and never forgets the sacrifices associated with service. Based on his distinguished record, Don will deliver a strong NDAA to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law,” said Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AF9DC6DE-F6BD-48AB-ABC8-5C44978C3DBE,Fischer Commemorates Veterans Day 2020,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer released the following statement in commemoration of Veterans Day: Veterans Day is a time for all Americans to express our deep gratitude for the men and women who selflessly served our nation. It is a time to show appreciation for those who have fought to protect the freedoms that make this country great. I encourage every Nebraskan to find the time to thank a veteran for his or her service.Veterans Day is a time for all Americans to express our deep gratitude for the men and women who selflessly served our nation. It is a time to show appreciation for those who have fought to protect the freedoms that make this country great. I encourage every Nebraskan to find the time to thank a veteran for his or her service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=31D7221E-D0DC-4D53-943D-061FD6543B27,Fischer Joins Bipartisan Bill to End Cut to Railroad Unemployment and Sickness Benefits,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, joined theRailroad Employee Equality and Fairness Act, which would end the sequester on the Railroad Retirement Board's (RRB) Unemployment Insurance Account. Like many Americans, railroaders are facing significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges are worsened by a harmful reduction of their regular unemployment and sickness benefits no other industry faces. This bipartisan legislation rights that wrong and makes sure railroaders receive these critical benefits they deserve in full,said Senator Fischer. More information: TheRailroad Employee Equality and Fairness Actwas introduced by Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) Railroad unemployment and sickness benefits are funded solely by railroads' and railroad workers' contributions. The Budget Control Act of 2011 and subsequent implementation mandates require railroad unemployment and sickness benefits to be reduced by a certain percentage each year. All other regular unemployment benefits are exempt from sequestration. Without this legislation, sequestration will likely result in a 5.7 percent reduction in railroad unemployment and sickness benefits through fiscal year 2030. This is particularly concerning during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) received 35,030 unemployment claims. As of September 2020, the RRB has received 133,899 claims, nearly a fourfold increase.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=565,Bacon Says We Must Defend Constitution in Election Process,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. - Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued an updated statement concerning the 2020 Presidential Elections: “Going forward, our guiding light must be to defend and enforce the Constitution and uphold our rule of law. To support that, we must count all of the submitted legal votes; expand transparency and allow both sides to monitor ballot-counting activity; respect the will of the voters; respect our legal processes to sort out disputes; hold accountable anyone who breaks the law, and be calm and respectful to each other.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hold-virtual-small-business-and-community-roundtable-series,Smith to Hold Virtual Small Business and Community Roundtable Series,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will host a Virtual Small Business and Community Roundtable series, with online sessions each morning, November 9, 10, 12, and 13. Those interested in attending must pre-register for each session individually at the links provided below. The Virtual Small Business and Community Roundtables will provide Third District constituents an opportunity to share their thoughts with the panelists while hearing from Smith and his special guests about the latest innovative small business ideas and policy. In addition to Smith, officials such as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Ag. Services Ted McKinney, Nebraska SBA District Director Leon Milobar, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Senior Community Development Advisor Dell Gines, and a representative of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will join in the discussion on the following dates. Creating a Healthy Community Roundtable Monday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: Michelle Wineinger, Rural Health Coordinator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS); Leslie Marsh, CEO, Lexington Regional Health Center; Jim Ulrich, CEO, York General Health Care Services Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VGP3thi6QZicvTNKYfMWaw Growing a Small Business Roundtable Tuesday, November 10 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: Dell Gines, Senior Community Development Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City-Omaha Branch; Janell Anderson Ehrke, CEO, GROW Nebraska Foundation; Andrew Vrbas, CEO, Pacha Soap; Kevin Griffith, CEO, Amplifi Capital Registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AkYACu_oTZOOjxD92FZdkw ​ Developing Your Local Economy and Workforce Roundtable Thursday, November 12 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: Leon Milobar, Nebraska District Director, Small Business Administration; Starr Lehl, Economic Development Director, City of Scottsbluff; Oscar Gomez, Assistant City Administrator, City of South Sioux City Registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h-b_s38BQhSu8XBYQrYZzw ​ Innovating Opportunity Through Trade Roundtable Friday, November 13 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: The Honorable Ted McKinney, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Services; Norm Krug, Founder/CEO, Preferred Popcorn; Kirk Zeller, DBA, Founder, Silicon Prairie Center Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_R_kwq7JfRuWiFuKRQVSlfg ​ For more information about these events, please contact Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smiths-bill-protecting-seniors-included-package-fighting-covid-19,Smith’s Bill Protecting Seniors Included in Package Fighting COVID-19,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after his bill, the Reducing Unnecessary Senior Hospitalization (RUSH) Act, was included in the Commitment to Defeat the Virus and Keep America Healthy Act (H.R. 14), a package of bipartisan provisions designed to aid Americans in addressing the impact of COVID-19 by promoting policies which incentivize innovation and supports healthy workplaces. The RUSH Act, introduced by Smith in March, brings much needed technological innovation to Medicare through expanded access to telehealth. The transfer of a skilled nursing facility resident to the emergency room has always been complicated and expensive, carrying serious risks to patients already dealing with complex health needs. The COVID pandemic dramatically increased this risk as a trip to the hospital now also carries a serious risk of COVID exposure and subsequent infection. This language pairs telehealth technologies with trained onsite providers in skilled nursing facilities to safely treat certain patients in place, such as those experiencing falls, delirium, infections, or adverse medication interaction, rather than transferring them to a hospital. In addition to reducing the risk of COVID exposure, treatment in place can provide for quicker diagnoses and treatment and avoids costly ambulance trips. ""During COVID, seniors have taken extra steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. Avoiding unnecessary trips and allowing them to be treated in place will help tremendously. I am grateful this critical language to protect our seniors has been included in this package."" Smith is a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, which has jurisdiction over both the RUSH Act and H.R. 14. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=563,Bacon Has History of Combatting Military Sexual Assault,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – When Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) took on the assignment of Commander for Ramstein Air Base in Germany in 2008, he knew he would have to tackle head-on the high number of sexual assault allegations at the base. He immediately instituted a program to address the crimes, and it was later ranked by the Air Force as the number one sexual assault response program. Rep. Bacon continues to combat military sexual assault through his legislative work with Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) and as a member of the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors. In February of 2020, Rep. Bacon teamed with Rep. Speier to introduce bipartisan legislation to establish a “Safe to Report” policy across the military. This legislation would empower survivors of sexual violence to report these incidents by ensuring that they will not be charged with minor included offenses such as underage drinking or violating curfew, unless aggravating circumstances exist. Rep. Bacon was inspired by an Airman stationed at Offutt Air Force Base who had reached out to him during his first term to discuss the punishment she received for underage drinking, when she reported being the victim of sexual assault. “During my first year in the House, a constituent reached out to share with me how she had been sexually assaulted by a fellow Airman and had received a collateral misconduct charge for drinking while a minor,” said Rep. Bacon. “I was outraged to hear that she had been re-victimized and offered to reach out to the new base commander for her, to ask him to review the case. He agreed it was an improper charge and rescinded it.” The legislation, H.R. 5738, was amended into the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which passed the House in July and is now being reconciled with the companion bill in the Senate. As a member of the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, Rep. Bacon was also vocal about the need for this policy. In 2018 the Academy instituted a similar directive to encourage sexual assault reporting by reducing the fear of retaliation and ostracism for victims of criminal misconduct. After extensive discussions with Academy leadership, Rep. Bacon believed this policy should be standardized across the armed forces. Previous pieces of legislation tackling military sexual assault co-sponsored by Rep. Bacon include H.R. 4203, the Combat Online Predators Act, H.R. 1035, the Extending Justice for Sex Crime Victims Act of 2017, H.R. 909, the Pet and Women Safety Act of 2017, and H.R. 2052, the PRIVATE Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=562,Office of Rep. Bacon Responds to Misleading Article By the Intercept,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Congressman Don Bacon’s (NE-02) Communications Director, Danielle Jensen, released the following statement in regard to the misleading article released by The Intercept, concerning his use of Double Bogey Strategies for official communication pieces: “We retained the services of a small minority-owned business to produce crisis communications in accordance with House Franking and Ethics, in order to share information related to the pandemic with constituents of the 2nd District. No taxpayer dollars were used for campaign-related activities. And the vendor offered the lowest, most competitive price. House Administration says it is an acceptable activity to use these types of vendors, and these materials were reviewed and approved by House Franking. This is yellow journalism.” Furthermore, the House Committee Administration also released a statement: “The official communications paid for by Rep. Bacon’s MRA funds were approved by the bipartisan Communications Standards Commission, were not campaign related, and did not break any rules. The member handbook, which governs members’ official spending, allows offices to contract with outside vendors to communicate on issues related to their official work,” said Ashley Phelps with the Committee on House Administration Minority Office. It should be noted that according to the most recent comparative numbers from the last year, Rep. Bacon’s office was in the bottom 10 percent when it came to spending money on Franking among all Republican Member offices. In addition, his total spending on Franking has been below average since he arrived in Congress. This information is all publicly attainable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=561,BACON DEFENDS OUR MILITARY AND THEIR FAMILIES,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb.— Since elected to Congress in 2017, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) and retired Air Force Brigadier General, has championed legislation to benefit our nation’s military and Gold Star Families. In 2018, Rep. Bacon’s first bill to pass the House of Representatives and become law, H.R. 3897, the Gold Star Family Support and Installation Access Act of 2017, was amended as Section 626 of the FY19 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill ensures families of service members killed during active duty can access military installations, memorial services, and any other on-installation services and benefits to which they are entitled. Rep. Bacon also helped deliver paid parental leave in 2019 for federal workers through H.R. 6275, the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act of 2018, which was included as Section 7602 of the FY20 NDAA and became law on December 20, 2019. This provision provides 12 weeks of paid parental leave to all federal employees during the 12-month period following a child's birth or placement for adoption or foster care. H.R. 6275 is effective with respect to any birth or placement occurring after October 1, 2020. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 included a bipartisan provision to close a long-standing loophole that replaced tax rates on income from trusts and estates with the parent’s tax rate. When Rep. Bacon learned that this change to the “Kiddie Tax” also hurt Gold Star families, he quickly worked across the aisle to repeal this tax increase for military families by enacting a retroactive fix in the FY20 bipartisan Appropriations Act. “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-lead of the For Country Caucus, protecting our armed forces, federal workers, and Gold Star Families has been one of my top priorities,” said Rep. Bacon. “We’ve made real progress eliminating the Widow Tax and Kiddie Tax, providing parental leave for federal workers, and improving access to our bases for surviving military families. Cutting through the bureaucracy is never easy but I’m pleased by what we’ve been able to accomplish in a relatively short time.” “After serving nearly 30 years in the Air Force, I know first-hand the many sacrifices our Gold Star families and spouses have made while their loved ones have fought and continue to fight so that we keep our freedoms and rights that have today,” added Rep. Bacon. “They should be guaranteed those same protections and privileges that their family members gave to us. It is the least we can do, and I will continue to fight for them.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DA71D7E2-70B7-4A5F-A0E7-F86017EF6E02,Fischer Votes to Confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, released the following statement after voting to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to serve as an Associate Justice on the United States Supreme Court: During the confirmation process, Judge Barrett made it clear that she has the judicial temperament, respect for rule of law, and adherence to the Constitution necessary to serve on our highest court. I was pleased to vote for such an accomplished person, and I am confident that she will be loyal to the Constitution as an Associate Justice. The Senate voted in favor of Judge Barrett's confirmation by a vote of 52-48.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3F9223F3-A7A5-4853-97E1-D7DA2B2D07C2,Fischer Statement on Passing of Senator David Karnes,2020-10-25,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer released the following statement following the passing of former U.S. Senator David Karnes (R-Neb.): Nebraskans admired Senator Karnes' dedicated service and his commitment to our state and his community. I always appreciated his support and was honored to have him escort me on the floor of the U.S. Senate when I was sworn in for my first term. I will miss conversations with my good friend. My condolences go out to his wife Kris, his children, and his family as they mourn this difficult loss.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=559,BACON DELIVERS RESULTS THROUGH THE ADOPTION OF 10 BILLS INTO LAW,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – During his time in Congress, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has seen 10 of the bills he has introduced pass: six through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA); two through report language; one through the CARES Act; and one stand-alone bill. 1. H.R.5553 — 115th Congress (2017-208) Loya-Sears Warrior Transition Assistance Reform Act of 2018 was amended and incorporated as Section 552 of H.R. 5515 (FY19 NDAA). 2. H.R.3897 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Gold Star Family Support and Installation Access Act of 2017 was amended and incorporated as Section 626 of H.R. 5515 (FY19 NDAA). 3. H.R.4754 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Change Order Transparency for Federal Contractors Act was amended and incorporated as Section 855 of H.R. 5515 (FY19 NDAA). 4. H.R.5522 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Readiness Act of 2018 was amended and incorporated as Section 1053 of H.R. 5515 (FY19 NDAA). 5. H.R.5680 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Taiwan Defense Assessment Commission Act of 2018 was amended and incorporated as Section 1257 of H.R. 5515 (FY19 NDAA). 6. H.R.3201 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Maritime Administration Authorization and Enhancement Act for Fiscal Year 2018 was amended and incorporated as Sections 3501, 3505, 3509, 3510, 3511, 3512, and 3513 of H.R. 2810 (FY18 NDAA). 7. H.R.5528 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Speed Warrior Outcome Research Diagnosis and Detection (SWORDD) Act of 2018 was incorporated on pp 132-133 of HRPT 115-676 (FY19 HASC NDAA Report). 8. H.R.5482 — 115th Congress (2017-2018) Military Biodefense Readiness and Protection Act of 2018 was incorporated on pp 128-129 of HRPT 115-676 (FY19 HASC NDAA Report). 9. H.R.4982 — 116th Congress (2019-2020) Health Care Workforce Protection Act of 2019 was incorporated into H.R. 748 – CARES Act. 10. H.R.504 — 116th Congress (2019-2020) DHS Field Engagement Accountability Act became law on March 2, 2020. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=560,BACON CHAMPIONS FOR LOCAL FUNDING IN NE-02 THROUGH LEGISLATION,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has been instrumental in providing direct relief to Nebraska’s Second District by supporting critical legislation such as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the Paycheck Protection Program, and the Flexibility for Localities and Eligibility Expansion (FLEX) Act of 2020. Last November, Reps. Don Bacon, Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Jim Langevin (RI-02) introduced H.R. 4982, the Health Care Workforce Protection Act to ensure our nation was prepared in the wake of a global pandemic. This bill was included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and will cover all NIOSH-certified masks under the PREP Act. “In nearly every public health emergency with an airborne hazard, the CDC urges the use of these respirators in order to keep workers safe,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m glad to see my bill included in the CARES Act, which provides the much-needed relief for Nebraska families and businesses as we work together to fight the virus, protect our workforce, and sustain our economy that was rapidly growing prior to this pandemic.” Rep. Bacon is also a cosponsor of H.R. 7010, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 which amends the Small Business Act and the CARES Act to provide greater flexibility to small businesses by extending the duration of the PPP, increasing loan coverage, and allowing greater flexibility in forgiveness and repayment. “The Paycheck Protection Program has saved nearly 51 million jobs by keeping many small businesses solvent during COVID,” said Rep. Bacon. “We want to ensure America’s small businesses are given every chance to survive this pandemic and are able to remain open without fear of closing or losing revenue.” After talking with local mayors and the League of Municipalities, Congressman Bacon introduced H.R. 6652 the Flexibility for Localities and Eligibility Expansion (FLEX) Act of 2020; bipartisan legislation allowing additional flexibility for state and local governments to access previously approved federal relief funds to offset lost revenue due to the health emergency from COVID-19. “Our municipalities are losing revenue sources and we need to help them just like we have helped small businesses, farmers and healthcare systems,” said Rep. Bacon. “The FLEX Act provides cities and towns the much-need assistance and flexibility to access CARES Act funding, money that has already been appropriated but redirected to keep our first responders, firefighters, and essential workers employed.” For more information about the FLEX Act, read our news release here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=558,"Rush, Bacon Introduce Legislation To Honor Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley",2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) introduced legislation that would award a Congressional Gold Medal to Mamie Till-Mobley, the mother of Emmett Till and a tireless fighter for civil rights and racial justice. The Congressional Gold Medal is awarded as a national acknowledgment of renowned persons, institutions, or events. “Emmett Till’s death brought the unvarnished, brutal truth of racism to the forefront, largely because of Mamie Till-Mobley’s brave decision to hold an open-casket funeral for her son. Mamie Till-Mobley’s courage during the most trying time of her life galvanized the civil rights movement and helped put America on the path to becoming a fairer and more just country,” said Rush. “When the photo from Emmett Till’s funeral ran in Jet, I will never forget how my mother gathered us around the coffee table and told us ‘That’s why I brought my boys out of the South.’ I thank Representative Bacon for joining me in this effort in supporting Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley’s legacy.” “It is fitting that this medal be commissioned so our nation recognizes the horrendous lynching of Emmet Till and the legacy made by his mother Mamie Till-Mobley, in her noble quest for justice for her son. We can never and must never forget his story, and the stories of the over 4,700 victims of lynching who experienced racial terror in this country. This is a meaningful step in the right direction of addressing our past, acknowledging mistakes, and using those lessons to better ourselves and our country,” said Bacon. Mamie Till-Mobley’s legacy is further felt through the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act, which was signed into law in 2007 with the backing of the Emmett Till Justice Campaign, which she cofounded. This legislation ensured that those who committed heinous, racially motivated attacks like the one on her son would be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=557,Bacon Has Shown Support of DACA and TPS During His Term,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. - Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has long advocated for Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients, while also pushing for immigration reform. One of seven Republicans to vote in favor of H.R. 6, theAmerican Dream and Promise Act, Rep. Bacon issued a statement following the vote in June of 2019: “While this bill has bad flaws, I voted for it because we cannot continue to leave our DACA youth, as well as TPS and DED recipients in ‘no man’s land.’ For too many years, DACA and TPS have been addressed through presidential action. Congress has to take responsibility to force the legislative process. “I believe we can be compassionate to these individuals and responsible for the security of our borders at the same time. Congress needs to be able to compromise and improve our border security, find permanent pathway for DACA and TPS, and a revamped system to process asylum seekers in a more efficient manner and reform our immigration system. Since arriving in Congress, I have voted multiple times for acomprehensive approach to immigration reform, and a compassionate solution for DACA and TPS.” In September 2019, Rep. Bacon touredtwo El Paso-area holding facilities with Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO). One was a Border Patrol facility where people usually are held for under 24 hours, and the other was an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility where people spend months awaiting an asylum hearing. Bacon saw first-hand the need for faster hearings, as well as the need for more Border Patrol agents and other items needed for security. “We need to ensure the safety of those who are waiting to have their asylum hearing, while also speeding up the process,” said Rep. Bacon. “This includes adding more courts and personnel to handle the asylum cases. At the same time, we need to secure our border and solidify our immigration process so that our systems are not still overwhelmed in 20, 30 even 40 years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=553,BACON IS LEADING THE FIGHT AGAINST ANTI-SEMITISM,2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Since being sworn in, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has worked extensively to combat many forms of hate, to include the evil of anti-Semitism. Two key efforts in this cause have been his support for legislation providing educational resources to teach about the Holocaust and the fight against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions Movement targeting Israel. On May 29, 2020, the President signed H.R. 943, the Never Again Education Act into law. This is a bipartisan bill that provides our nation’s teachers with additional resources and training to teach our children the important lessons of the Holocaust and the consequences of intolerance and hate. At the time of its passage, Rep. Bacon issued the following statement: “The Never Again Education Act will provide the fundamental resources, education, and training for teachers and students and will encourage us to live in a world that respects religion, race, and human life. Anti-Semitism is increasing in our country, and as a lead cosponsor for the GOP side, we must remember that the fight against this kind of hatred is an American endeavor and does not belong to Republicans or Democrats. As we recently commemorated the seventy-fifth anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, one of the darkest chapters in human history, I thank the Senate for passing this vital legislation, and I am grateful to be a cosponsor and work alongside Rep. Maloney to push this bill through Congress. We must never forget so that “never again” will be the reality."" Leaders from Omaha’s Jewish community also commented on the passage. “The Institute for Holocaust Education is very appreciative to Congressman Bacon and his staff for assisting in moving the Never Again Education Act into law,” said Scott Littky, Executive Director of the Institute for Holocaust Education. “The lessons learned from the Holocaust are still very relevant today and can be used to make our world a better place."" Along with his work to support education on the Holocaust, Rep. Bacon has worked to protect Israel from the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement which is a direct attack on Israel and its existence and supported H. Res 246 as a part of it. Furthermore, he condemned a first ever ‘blacklist’ of companies who have ties to Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria. Rep. Bacon issued a statement at the time, condemning it as a bigoted act: “The UNHRC’s bigoted database of companies who provide services to those living in the Israeli communities located in Judea and Samaria is a perfect picture of irony. While they target Israel, they ignore businesses in the world’s other disputed territories. This blacklist is a roadmap for those who support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement (BDS) against Israel, and only encourages a harmful pattern of condemnation.” Rep. Bacon will continue to be a friend and ally to Israel in the coming years. “Israel is the only true democracy in the Middle East and is a true ally to the United States,” he said. “We must continue to show our support and we must call out anti-Semitic attacks that cloak themselves in movements such as the BDS effort.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=12D925F7-45A7-4F76-A199-89D62178CC84,Fischer Calls on EPA to Modernize Rulemaking for Biogenic Carbon Emissions,2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined her colleagues in calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to modernize its rulemaking for biogenic carbon emissions. Read the full letter from Senator Fischer and her colleagues to the EPAhere. The EPA needs to recognize that biogenic carbon emissions from ag feedstocks are not the same as carbon emissions from fossil fuels. Doing so will spur agribusiness investment in renewable fuels. A more modern rulemaking on this issue is critical for rural America,said Senator Fischer. Senator Fischer has been a leader on ensuring regulatory certainty on biogenic carbon emissions for agriculture. Last November, Senator Fischerleda bipartisan group of her colleagues in calling on the EPA to provide clarity on biogenic carbon emissions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=554,BACON FIGHTS RACIAL INEQUALITY WITH LEGISLATION,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – During this Congressional session, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) was approached by constituents in his district to research and find legislation that would address racial inequality and injustices. In addition to identifying bills to support, Rep. Bacon took the initiative to introduce some of his own. Rep. Bacon introduced H.R. 3536, the Justice for Victims of Lynching Act, which amends the United States Code to criminalize lynching and enhance sentencing under existing federal hate crime statutes. It mirrors the language of S. 488, introduced by Sen. Kamala Harris in the Senate, and passed with bipartisan support on February 14, 2019. “The entire language of my bill was then amended into H.R. 35, the Emmett Till Antilynching Act which passed the House earlier this year with a 410-4 vote,” said Rep. Bacon. “Omaha has a gruesome history with the lynching’s of Will Brown and George Smith, who were both murdered at the hands of angry lawless mobs in Omaha. This is the closest any anti-lynching legislation has ever come to becoming law. As the 116th Congress comes to an end, I urge the Senate to bring this bill to a vote.” In June, Rep. Bacon joined Rep. Anthony G. Brown (MD-04) to introduce H.R. 7155, bipartisan legislation to form the National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations, which will make recommendations to rename military bases named after Confederate leaders. “With the recent events of racial violence and racism within our country, we need to start acknowledging our history in order to create a better future,” said Rep. Bacon. “We owe this to ourselves, our military, our veterans, and to every American who will answer the call. Now is the time to embrace our values, ‘that all men are created equal and endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights.’ It’s only right that our installations bear the names of military heroes who represent the best ideals of our Republic.” Rep. Bacon has also been a strong supporter of economic opportunity zones and has worked with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to push for more mixed-income housing developments in North Omaha. In 2019, Omaha was one of four cities nationwide to receive $25 million under HUD’s ""Choice Neighborhoods"" grant program. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1789BF41-59E6-4CF0-852D-281993896A9A,Fischer Attends Celebration of Lincoln South Beltway,2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Click herefor more photos andherefor the livestream. LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, joined the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDoT) and Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts in celebrating the Lincoln South Beltway. What we have been able to do with the Lincoln South Beltway should serve as a model for future projects. If we can consistently reduce the amount of time it takes to finish construction, we can keep saving Nebraska taxpayers money. This is the biggest project NDOT has undertaken, but your years of hard work to get to this point have prepared you well. Completing this beltway will make our friends and family here in Lincoln safer. It will also make it easier for Lincoln residents to get their goods and services to market. This is the kind of infrastructure investment that will move Nebraska forward,said Senator Fischer in her remarks. More information: The Lincoln South Beltway project creates a new east-west expressway located south of Lincoln in Lancaster County. The four-lane expressway will divert freight traffic from the local transportation network which will increase safety and mobility. The beltway is anticipated to be opening for traffic in May 2023 and completed in 2024. Senator Fischer worked closely with Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao as well as Nebraska state and local leaders to obtain the highly competitive $25 million BUILD grant (previously known as a TIGER grant) in 2018 used to construct the beltway. Read more about that granthere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1A8567BA-FD65-411C-8527-3C7DDC5D8E7B,Jefferson County Receives $2.6 Million for Flood-Resistant Roadways,2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, released the following statement after the United States Department of Commerce announced a $2.6 million grant for Jefferson County, Nebraska: I am pleased that Jefferson County has received this federal grant. This investment in the county's roadways will help protect our businesses from the impact of future flooding. It will make the community more resilient and help attract more businesses to the area. More Information: This funding provided through the United States Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration will build flood-resistant roadway infrastructure and support business growth in Jefferson County. The EDA's grant will be matched with more than $652,000 in state and local investment and expecting to create 30 jobs and spur $29.5 million in private investment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1D0E9193-25AB-46C8-AAEA-C1BF248A5F94,Valentine Receives $1.9 Million Federal Grant to Combat Severe Weather,2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after the United States Department of Commerce announced a $1.9 million grantfor stormwater infrastructure improvements in Valentine, Nebraska: Valentine was severely impacted by last year's severe weather, disrupting the local economy. These stormwater infrastructure improvements will protect Valentine's businesses against the risks of future storms. More Information: This funding provided through the United States Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) will create stormwater infrastructure improvements to protect Valentine businesses from flooding. This project was made possible by planning led by the Central Nebraska Economic Development District. The EDA's grant will be matched with nearly $1.4 million in local investments.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-signs-police-pledge-oppose-defunding-police,Smith Signs Police Pledge to Oppose Defunding Police,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) signed the ""Police Pledge,"" (attached) standing with our nation's law enforcement officers. Smith signed the pledge to demonstrate his opposition to ""defund the police"" movements and his support for law enforcement officers who work every day to keep our communities safe for all Americans. ""Police officers and sheriff's deputies put their lives on the line every day in order to protect us. We owe it to them to provide them with the resources necessary to do their jobs safely and securely. I stand with our law enforcement officers and will not turn my back on those who keep us safe."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=551,BACON RECEIVES 2020 FUELING GROWTH AWARD,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) has been awarded the 2020 Fueling Growth Award from Growth Energy, the leading biofuel trade association in the United States. The association’s mission is to represent and support the ethanol industry which is responsible for feeding and fueling America through energy independence, economic advancement, and creating a safer and healthier environment for all Americans. This award is exclusively reserved for Congressional champions who have supported the biofuels industry and advocated for Growth Energy’s top priorities in 2020, including renewable fuels such as ethanol and consumer choice at the pump. “I have long supported the ethanol and biofuels industry and believe energy independence is necessary for the future of American jobs in both rural and urban communities,” said Rep. Bacon. “As the second largest producer of ethanol in the country, Nebraska is greatly affected by changes to the RFS Program and the environmental advancements of our time. I thank Growth Energy for this award, and I will continue to be an advocate and push for meaningful legislation and solutions that benefit our environment and provide a sustainable clean energy source.” “During a tumultuous year for the biofuels industry, Congressman Bacon has consistently advocated for our ethanol producers and farming communities alike,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Nebraska’s biofuels industry is fortunate to have Congressman Bacon in their corner, and we are proud to present him with another Fueling Growth Award.” Congressman Bacon is also a recipient of the 2020 U.S. Wind Champion Award, 2019 Fueling Growth Award, and American Energy Alliance’s 2018 American Energy Champion. During his time in Congress, he has sought to champion policies that harness the power of renewables, expand carbon capture, and reduce carbon emissions. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=552,Bacon A NO Vote on Partisan HEROES Act,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 925, the HEROES Act 2.0, a partisan bill that will not even get to first base in the Senate. “Congress has the opportunity to provide direct relief and assistance to our restaurants and playhouses, transportation industry, hospitals, and frontline workers. This extremely partisan $2.2 trillion bill is detrimental to our communities because it defunds state and local law enforcement by removing $600 million from the original HEROES Act; funds intended to hire and train potential officers. “Full of poison pills, this bill mandates a blanket release for federal prisoners to include felons; enforces a federal government takeover of our states’ elections 33 days before November 4; and much more. A COVID relief bill is also not the place to tackle immigration and marijuana policies. “This is simply an opportunity for House Democrats to throw in their last-minute wishes before November. As a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, I urge my House colleagues reexamine our “March to Common Ground” framework and come together to agree on a smaller package that actually helps reopen businesses, pushes for a safe and effective vaccine, and ensures our hospitals and medical care centers are well-equipped and supplied with the necessary PPE to care for our citizens. “There is much Republicans and Democrats agree on to help us recover from COVID. We should have passed the items we agreed on versus holding America’s economy hostage to the Speaker’s liberal wish list."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BC496010-4580-4154-8BA3-F164630DB9F4,Fischer Meets with Judge Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) today met with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Trump's nominee to serve as the next Associate Justice on the Supreme Court. Fischer released the following statement after the meeting: Judge Barrett is an extraordinary individual and a distinguished jurist. At our meeting today, she said her judicial philosophy is to stick to the text of the Constitution. She follows the law where it leads no matter where it lands. It is inspiring to have such a strong and accomplished woman before the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=930B6FB3-2DDC-471F-ACAF-38A06825B9C7,What They Are Saying: Senator Fischer’s HAULS Act,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the subcommittee on Transportation and Safety,introducedthe Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act to increase safety and flexibility for the transport of agriculture and livestock products. Nebraska plays an integral role in the U.S. beef production chain as a top state for commercial cattle slaughter, all cattle on feed, commercial red meat production, and livestock cash receipts. Unfortunately, current federal regulations fail to account for the intricacies involved with hauling live animals. The HAULS Act would help mitigate situations where a hauler is forced to choose between compliance with federal law or the health and welfare of the livestock on board. Nebraska Cattlemen sincerely thanks Senator Deb Fischer for her commitment to delivering needed regulatory flexibility for livestock haulers by helping facilitate longer hauls that are inherent to cattle production in our state,said Ken Herz, president of Nebraska Cattlemen. Going back to her days in the Nebraska Legislature, Senator Fischer has been a long-time champion of a common-sense approach to transportation rules and regulations. The HAULS Act provides needed regulatory relief to our nation's farmers, ranchers, and ag haulers. We appreciate the introduction of this important piece of legislation, and we stand ready to work with Senator Fischer to ensure it becomes law,said Stephen D. Nelson, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. Farmers and ranchers must be able to get their crops and livestock to market efficiently and safely. The HAULS Act modernizes trucking regulations to meet the needs of our members. I applaud Senator Fischer for her leadership on this important issue and I look forward to working with her to get the HAULS Act enacted into law,said Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation. ""For years livestock haulers and producers were unduly burdened with Hours Of Service regulations that do not take into account the unique difficulties that these drivers face every day. The COVID-19 pandemic has only further illustrated how important it is to allow these drivers to quickly and safely reach their destinations, and in turn keep grocery store shelves stocked with beef. Thank you to Senator Fischer for her continued work and recognition of the needs of our producers and haulers,said National Cattlemen's Beef Association president Marty Smith. Nebraska Grain and Feed Association thanks Senator Deb Fischer for her leadership and introduction of these three important incremental changes in the Senate Bill 4720, Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act of 2020. For Nebraska, the addition of feed ingredients, such as soybean meal and distillers grains, to the agricultural products definition benefits the transport of agricultural products providing more consistency and efficiency which benefits the consumer. The Association supports these changes and believes these changes will help the seasonal transportation spikes of food, fiber and other agricultural supplies,said Kristi Block, Executive Vice President of Nebraska Grain and Feed Association. America's sheep producers rely on safe and efficient transportation to get livestock from the farms and ranches across the country to the limited geographic areas where they can be processed.Senator Fischer's legislation allows producers like myself to continue to keep the supply of fresh American lamb running, while ensuring the safety and welfare of our sheep and lambs during transport. The American Sheep Industry Association thanks Senator Fischer for her efforts to promote American agriculture,said Benny Cox, President of the American Sheep Industry Association. AFTC applauds Senator Fischer on her introduction of the HAULS Act of 2020. This language provides the ag community with continued flexibility during the busiest times of the year, while expanding uniformity and clarity for the transportation of our nation's ag products,said Jon Samson, Executive Director of the Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference. The LMA sincerely thanks Sen. Fischer for her continued partnership in the arena of livestock transportation, which has been further advanced by the introduction of the HAULS Act. LMA member markets and the farmers and ranchers they serve desperately need long-term and meaningful relief from the one-size-fits-all rules that apply to transportation of livestock. The HAULS Act goes a long way toward achieving that help,said Larry Schnell, Livestock Marketing Association President. By expanding the agricultural exemption to trucking hours-of-service rules, Sen. Fischer's HAULS Act of 2020 would greatly increase the rules' usefulness for agricultural haulers across the country. Moreover, the bill's addition of feed ingredients would make more agricultural products, such as soybean meal and distillers grains, eligible for the agricultural exemption and create more consistent trucking rules. NGFA commends Sen. Fischer for her leadership, and urges that her bill be incorporated into a reauthorization of the FAST Act,said Randy Gordon, president and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F11E2127-6AAF-4206-B6F7-77234D343BFE,Fischer Votes in Favor of Keeping Government Open,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after voting in favor of a continuing resolution (CR) to continue funding the government and avert a shutdown: I am pleased that through bipartisan cooperation Congress was able to reach an agreement to keep government open. During this process, I worked to ensure that this CR replenishes funding for the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). That funding is critical for our farmers. Importantly, this legislation also includes resources for important food aid and nutrition programs. Earlier this month, Senator Fischer called on Congress to immediately reimburse the CCC. See her full remarkshere. This legislation, which now heads to President Trump's desk, will keep the government funded through December 11.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3DE0A0AF-2EA1-40E1-B194-D6ADA5342AD5,Fischer Introduces Legislation for the Safe Transport of Ag and Livestock Products,2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, released the following statement today after introducing the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act: Ag and livestock haulers are essential to ensuring Nebraska food and fuel make it across the country. Their vital work has been further highlighted by their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am proud to introduce the HAULS Act, which builds on my previous work to ensure ag and livestock haulers can continue feeding our nation,said Senator Fischer. Nebraska plays an integral role in the U.S. beef production chain as a top state for commercial cattle slaughter, all cattle on feed, commercial red meat production, and livestock cash receipts. Unfortunately, current federal regulations fail to account for the intricacies involved with hauling live animals. The HAULS Act would help mitigate situations where a hauler is forced to choose between compliance with federal law or the health and welfare of the livestock on board. Nebraska Cattlemen sincerely thanks Senator Deb Fischer for her commitment to delivering needed regulatory flexibility for livestock haulers by helping facilitate longer hauls that are inherent to cattle production in our state,said Ken Herz, president of Nebraska Cattlemen. Going back to her days in the Nebraska Legislature, Senator Fischer has been a long-time champion of a common-sense approach to transportation rules and regulations. The HAULS Act provides needed regulatory relief to our nation's farmers, ranchers, and ag haulers. We appreciate the introduction of this important piece of legislation, and we stand ready to work with Senator Fischer to ensure it becomes law,said Stephen D. Nelson, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. ""For years livestock haulers and producers were unduly burdened with Hours Of Service regulations that do not take into account the unique difficulties that these drivers face every day. The COVID-19 pandemic has only further illustrated how important it is to allow these drivers to quickly and safely reach their destinations, and in turn keep grocery store shelves stocked with beef. Thank you to Senator Fischer for her continued work and recognition of the needs of our producers and haulers,said National Cattlemen's Beef Association president Marty Smith. AFTC applauds Senator Fischer on her introduction of the HAULS Act of 2020. This language provides the ag community with continued flexibility during the busiest times of the year, while expanding uniformity and clarity for the transportation of our nation's ag products,said Jon Samson, Executive Director of the Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference. Nebraska Grain and Feed Association thanks Senator Deb Fischer for her leadership and introduction of these three important incremental changes in the Senate Bill 4720, Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act of 2020. For Nebraska, the addition of feed ingredients, such as soybean meal and distillers grains, to the agricultural products definition benefits the transport of agricultural products providing more consistency and efficiency which benefits the consumer. The Association supports these changes and believes these changes will help the seasonal transportation spikes of food, fiber and other agricultural supplies,said Kristi Block, Executive Vice President of Nebraska Grain and Feed Association. More information: The HAULS Act would: Eliminate the requirement that ag and livestock hours-of-service (HOS) exemptions only apply during state designated planting and harvesting seasons Amend and clarify the definition of agricultural commodities based on feedback provided by agriculture and livestock organizations Authorize a 150 air-mile exemption from HOS requirements on the destination side of a haul for ag and livestock haulers Full text of the legislation is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5E62F618-516D-4BCE-B581-21FD229F7337,Fischer Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett,2020-09-26,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after President Trump announced he is nominating Judge Amy Coney Barrett for the U.S. Supreme Court: ""I am encouraged that President Trump has announced Judge Amy Coney Barrett as his nominee to serve as the next Justice on the Supreme Court. As a young mother on the 7th circuit court with a history clerking for Justice Scalia, she is a brilliant choice. In the coming days, I look forward to meeting with Judge Barrett in person and reviewing her record carefully."" Judge Amy Coney Barrett currently serves as a Judge for the Seventh Circuit. Previously, she clerked for Judge Laurence Silberman on the D.C. Circuit and Justice Scalia on the Supreme Court. At the age of 30, she was hired as a professor at Notre Dame Law School. For six years, she sat on the Advisory Committee on Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure on the recommendation of Chief Justice Roberts.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B5A1D537-66A8-4EAC-A6A1-EB518C5C7652,Fischer Visits Camp Ashland for Reconstruction Ceremony,2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ASHLAND, NEB. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, visited the Nebraska National Guard's Camp Ashland training siteand delivered remarkstoday ahead of its ceremonial groundbreaking to begin rebuilding following last year's flooding. Click hereto download photos of Senator Fischer's visit. Over the years, countless men and women have trained at Camp Ashland. I was proud to make sure there was appropriate funding to rebuild this historic facility after last year's terrible flooding. I look forward to the day that Camp Ashland is back and better than ever and that day is coming very soon,said Senator Fischer. More information: Following efforts of Sen. Fischer and the Nebraska delegation, Congress appropriated $60 million, fully meeting the National Guard's request for funds to restore Camp Ashland in response to the 2019 flooding. This includes funding for new barracks, classrooms, administrative buildings as well as repairs of existing buildings and structures. Once the rebuild is complete, the Department of Defense has committed to funding the remaining requirements for furniture and equipment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F7F5B01F-63C0-450C-8431-8B3FDC53A60F,Fischer Statement on Passing of Judge Laurie Smith Camp,2020-09-24,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement following the passing of Laurie Smith Camp, the former Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska: Today Nebraska lost one of its finest citizens. Judge Smith Camp was a friend and a well-respected jurist. I appreciated her counsel on the three vacancies on Nebraska's federal courts we worked to fill. I am saddened by her passing and send my deepest condolences to her family. Judge Smith Camp served as Chief Judge for the District of Nebraska from December 1, 2011 to November 1, 2018. She assumedsenior statuson December 1, 2018.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=54C02516-8851-494E-BFF6-ACE5C3B53D19,Fischer Highlights Data Privacy Legislation at Senate Commerce Hearing,2020-09-23,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Click hereto viewthe video WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned The Honorable William Kovacic, a former chairman and commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, about effective implementation of a national data privacy framework. Senator Fischer is an original cosponsor of the Setting an American Framework to Ensure Data Access, Transparency, and Accountability (SAFE DATA) Act to establish a nation standard for consumer data privacy and allow Americans more control over their personal data. This bill includes Senator Fischer's bipartisanDETOUR Act, which would protect against deceptive and misleading online user interfaces. Full Transcript: Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a monumental challenge from health care and economic perspectives. It also has further exposed vulnerabilities on a variety of related policies. Notably, the rollout of contact-tracing efforts has been difficult given the fragmented state of data privacy. I've heard from hundreds of Nebraskans worried about how their personal information will be protected. For this reason, I was proud to help introduce the COVID-19 Consumer Data Protection Act that Chairman Wicker led. This important legislation also gives momentum to broader privacy efforts. Senator Fischer: Mr. Kovacic, in your testimony, you stressed the need for the coherent implementation of a data privacy framework among federal agencies, and considering state authorities. Does the current lack of coherence create an imbalance between foreign regulators and American companies trying to compete in the global economy? Does it also affect our country's innovative process? Mr. Kovacic: The short answer, Senator, is that it does impede our efforts to work effectively in an international setting. Our state and federal regulators do work together, they cooperate in important ways, but that cooperation is not nearly as deep and complete as it could be. And the absence of the cooperation means that the conversation among the relevant participants is not as extensive. It means that we don't draw upon the experience of the bodies like we might otherwise and it means that we don't build a consensus across these bodies about what should be the content of our policies so that if you ask foreign observers, What is US privacy law, it's very difficult for them to answer that question in less than many pages because it's such a fragmented system. Where it exists, it can be very powerful, but it is not comprehensive and in order to give a good answer, you have an answer by reference to a welter of different decision-makers. So I do think that the lack of a more coherent framework for formulating policy and implementing it denies us an important level of coherence here in the United States, but it really gets in the way of our efforts to shape global standards and it causes us to be dismissed as not having an effective system. Senator Fischer: So what I'm hearing from you is that not only is it difficult within the United States and I believe it's going to become more and more fragmented if we do not step up soon and be able to work together on this. We are also basically being dismissed by foreign governments, by innovators, and companies overseas because we don't have a policy. A real policy in place. Would you agree? Mr. Kovacic: I think that's unmistakably correct. There is a chance, put it this way, if we do not adopt a national privacy law of our own, that reflects the deliberations of this committee, those who have thought about it a lot, we will get a national privacy policy, it will be called the GDPR, that will be it, we'll have one. Supplemented by the CCPA, with all the thoughtful work that's been done there. But do we want our national privacy policy to be the product of a decision made by a thoughtful foreign government, very thoughtful state but without the contribution of the national legislature to formulate our own distinctive collective judgement about these issues? Senator Fischer: Thank you. I also was glad to join Chairman Wicker and other members of this committing in introducing the SAFE DATA Act last week. The bill would enhance the FTC's central role in implementing and enforcing core privacy principles. Do you believe such clarification could contribute to our discussions in moving forward so we could have something done on the federal level? Mr. Kovacic: I think it will give us a voice again in this international arena that we have not had in the way that we should. It's a great step in the right direction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=54CD9DA6-21C1-4C52-86F3-5852B803971B,Senator Fischer Introduces Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2020,2020-09-22,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today introduced the Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2020. The legislation would restore transparencyand accountabilityin the cattle market by establishing regional negotiated cash minimums and equipping producers with more market information. The past few years have been very difficult for producers, due to tough conditions and big market disruptions such as the Holcomb plant fire and the outbreak of COVID-19. My legislation seeks to bring transparency and accountability to the cattle market. It will ensure there are a sufficient number of cash transactions to facilitate price discovery, and equip producers with more price information to assist them with their marketing decisions,said Senator Fischer. Ken Herz, President of Nebraska Cattlemen, released the following statement: Cattle market transparency specifically, fed cattle market price discovery - has been a headline issue for Nebraska Cattlemen members over the majority of the past decade. Items in Senator Fischer's bill such as the cattle contract library and clarification of USDA-LMR confidentiality guidelines to avoid non-reporting of USDA-LMR collected data on a regional and national basis will aid in increasing cattle market transparency for all producers. Additionally, directing USDA-AMS to establish regionally negotiated cash plus negotiated grid marketing volume minimum thresholds will enhance price discovery goals and commitments for the betterment of all cattle producers. We sincerely thank Senator Fisher for her work on this important issue to Nebraska Cattlemen members. Steve Nelson, President of the Nebraska Farm Bureau, released the following statement: On behalf of our farm and ranch members I want to thank Senator Fischer for her dedication and commitment to Nebraska beef producers. Senator Fischer's Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2020 is a positive step forward in identifying actions to address concerns and challenges surrounding cattle markets. Many of the areas identified in Senator Fischer's legislation match up with recommendations offered by the Nebraska Farm Bureau's Cattle Markets Task Force. We look forward to working with Senator Fischer to enact change in cattle markets that will lead to positive outcomes for our state's beef producers. More information: This summer, the U.S. Department of Agricultureconcluded its investigationinto potential market manipulation in the cattle industry following a fire at a Tyson Foods plant in Holcomb, Kansas, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Following that investigation, Senator Fischer committed to introducing legislation to resolve ongoing challenges in the cattle market. The Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2020 will: Establish regional mandatory minimum thresholds of negotiated cash trades to enable price discovery in cattle marketing regions. It requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish regionally sufficient levels of negotiated cash trade, seek public comment on those levels, then implement. Require USDA to create and maintain a library of marketing contracts between packers and producers, and require packers to supply this information to USDA. Make clear that all information should be reported in a manner that ensures confidentiality, and note, Nothing in this section permits the Secretary, or any officer or employee of the Secretary, to withhold from the public the information [required to be reported under LMR]. Mandate that a packer report the number of cattle scheduled to be delivered for slaughter each day for the next 14 days. This requirement already exists for the swine industry. For more information on these provisions, clickhere. Full text of the bill is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E9B95758-4035-42E6-966E-0D4EC1BA4E65,Fischer Statement on Supreme Court Vacancy,2020-09-22,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court seat vacancy following the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: As the Senate considers the way forward following the death of Justice Ginsburg, I believe it is important to take into account a full view of history. The Senate has rarely confirmed Supreme Court nominees during years when both the Senate and presidency were controlled by different parties, as we saw in 2016. However, since 1796 during election years of unified government between the Senate and the president, there have been 17 successful Supreme Court confirmations. Accordingly, voting on President Trump's nominee is what thepeople who elected him in 2016, along with an enhanced Senate majority in both 2016 and 2018, expect us to do. It is also whatDemocrat leaders have said they would do if they were in our position. As such, once President Trump makes a nomination, I look forward to engaging in the process and evaluating the nominee on the basis of their qualifications, temperament, understanding of the Constitution, and commitment to the rule of law. More information: Under circumstances like what we face currently, where the Senate and White House are led by the same party, both Republicans and Democrats have routinely chosen to confirm Supreme Court Justices in election years and during lame-duck sessions. To date, there have been17 confirmationswhen the party of the president and Senate aligned.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=2A9AA0EC-1878-4D28-9589-1F6613862673,"Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Consumer Data Privacy Legislation",2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joinedChairmanRoger Wicker (R-Miss) andSenators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.)today in introducing theSetting an American Framework to Ensure Data Access, Transparency, and Accountability (SAFE DATA) Act. The legislation would provide Americans with more choice and control over their data and direct businesses to be more transparent and accountable for their data practices. The billincludes theDETOUR Act,bipartisan legislation Senator Fischer introduced with Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) that would ban manipulative user interfaces known as dark patterns. As COVID-19 has shifted social and economic activitiesto the internet, it is more important than ever thatallAmericans have transparency and control regarding their personal data,said Senator Fischer.I am proud to cosponsor this legislation, which would create a comprehensive federal data privacy frameworkthat restores consumer trust and sets guardrails for responsible data use.The bill also includes my bipartisan DETOUR Act with Senator Warner to protect consumers against deceptive user interfacesonlineknown as dark patterns.' As COVID-19 increases activity online and opportunities to misuse personal data continue to surge, it is time to pass a uniform, national privacy law,said Senator Wicker.More than ever, we need to stop bad actors and restore consumers' trust in the internet marketplace. Today I am introducing a bill that would provide all Americans with baseline protections and more transparency, choice, and control over their data. It would also strengthen the FTC's ability to hold businesses accountable when using data for nefarious purposes. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation so that we can instill confidence in consumers and in the long-term sustainability of our digital economy. TheSAFE DATA Actwould: Provide Americans with more choice and control over their data by: Requiring businesses to allow consumers to access, correct, delete, or port their data; Prohibiting businesses from processing or transferring consumers' sensitive data without their consent; Prohibiting businesses from denying consumers products or services for exercising their privacy rights; Minimizing the amount of consumer data businesses can collect, process, and retain; Limiting secondary uses of consumer data without their consent; Establishing uniform data protections across the country enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general; Direct businesses to be more transparent and accountable for their data practices by: Requiring businesses to disclose a privacy policy to consumers detailing their data collection, processing, and transfer activities, and notify consumers of any material changes to those activities; Requiring businesses to conduct privacy impact assessments of data processing activities that may present a heightened risk of harm to consumers; Requiring businesses to secure consumers' data and maintain internal controls and reporting structures to assess data privacy risks to consumers; and Requiring online platforms to be transparent about their use of secret algorithms. Strengthen the FTC's ability to respond to potentially harmful changes in technology and hold businesses accountable for misusing consumers' data by: Authorizing the FTC to develop new rules to expand categories of sensitive data; Requiring the FTC to share any information with the appropriate Executive or State agency if it obtains information that a business has processed or transferred consumer data in a way that violates Federal anti-discrimination laws; Requiring the FTC to maintain a data broker registry; Expanding the FTC's authority to oversee the data use practices of common carriers and nonprofit organizations; and Restoring the FTC's authority to obtain monetary remedies for consumers. Clickhereto read the bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7DFF7E4D-862F-4F78-8170-EF0C18D3C48D,Senator Fischer’s Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg,2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement following the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: I mourn the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and join all Americans in recognizing her dedicated 27 years of service on the Supreme Court.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=87E49070-2C39-46B2-8BB0-CA4780699E66,DoT Announces $4.5 Million Grant for Nebraska-Kansas-Colorado Railway Project,2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DoT) announced a $4.5 million grant for improvements to the Nebraska,Kansas, andColorado Railway (NKCR)in western Nebraska and eastern Colorado: Today's grant will improve an important freight rail line between Nebraska and Colorado, which is welcome news for our state's communities, ag producers, and businesses. I thank Transportation Secretary Chao for this significant grant benefitting the Heartland. More information from DoT: Funding for the grant comes from the FY 20 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program. The project, which includes a private sector funding match, will install approximately 42,595 ties, 15,990 tons of ballast, and resurface 562,848 track feet on the NKCR in western Nebraska and eastern Colorado.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F6C30ADC-E200-4DCE-A170-2574ACA0F228,Susan B. Anthony List Gives Sasse Perfect Pro-Life Rating,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a proud advocate for life, issued the following statement after receiving a perfect A rating by theSusan B. Anthony List National Pro-Life Scorecard. I am honored to have the chance to work hard day-in-and-day-out tofight in Washington for the most vulnerable among us. These babies deserve a voice and a fighting chance at life. Melissa and I have put in a lot of hours advocating alongside these proud pro-lifers and are exhilarated to see the growth this movement has had the past few years - and we hope that momentum continues in Nebraska and nationwide. We have a whole lot of work left to do and I am honored to receive this rating from such a respected pro-life organization. Background: SBA List is a network of nearly a million pro-life Americans nationwide, dedicated to ending abortionby electing national leaders and advocating for laws that save lives, with a special calling to promote pro-life women leaders.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/1011-pure-nebraska-fortenberry-ag-fairs-rescue-act,1011 Pure Nebraska: Fortenberry on Ag Fairs Rescue Act,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,1011 Pure Nebraska: Fortenberry on Ag Fairs Rescue Act,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C5970D9C-66F1-40B0-9826-7B3B01E208A1,Fischer Statement on Additional COVID Relief for Ag Producers,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Agriculture Committee, released the following statement tonight after President Donald Trump announced an additional $13 billion in relief funding for agriculture producers who have suffered continued losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic: Throughout this pandemic, ag producers in the Heartland have worked tirelessly to keep food on our tables. But with low commodity prices, the lowest cash receipts in a decade, and supply chain disruptions, times are tough for agriculture. I appreciate President Trump looking out for rural America and providing this relief for our food heroes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F490A148-6C05-4F9E-BD44-A53B260D950B,Fischer Calls for Funding of Commodity Credit Corporation,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Click to view the videohere WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, called on Congress to immediately reimburse the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). CCC provides mandatory funding for some of the Farm Bill's most important provisions. Notably, it funds safety net programs that provide farm payments when crop prices or revenues decline for major commodity crops. The Trump administration has called for a replenishment of its borrowing authority to cover the programs and payments funded by CCC as required by law. Senator Fischer's remarks as prepared for delivery are below: Mr. President, I want to thank my colleague from North Dakota for allowing me to speak on behalf of the thousands of farmers and ranchers in Nebraska. In 2018, Nebraska generated around $21.3 billion in agricultural cash receipts Agriculture and Ag Processing accounts for 9.4 of the state's GDP. The agricultural production complex accounts for approximately one-quarter of our GDP and workforce. By these measures, agriculture plays a greater role in Nebraska's economy than it does in the economy of any other U.S. state. When agriculture suffers, Nebraska suffers, and over the last several years, our farmers and ranchers have done their fair share of suffering. As my colleague mentioned, USDA's most recent farm income projections forecast that cash receipts will be at their lowest level in more than a decade. As a rancher, I know how difficult it is to plan for the future when you are facing so many factors that are out of your control: Low commodity prices, retaliatory tariffs, natural disasters, and a global pandemic Nebraska's farmers and ranchers have maintained patience in these tough times they deserve to know without a doubt that, amidst all of the unpredictability they are experiencing, Congress will hold up our end of the bargain. For decades, the Commodity Credit Corporation has been routinely replenished to fund programs that are integral to the farm safety net. Producers count on programs like Agriculture Risk Coverage, Price Loss Coverage, Marketing Assistance Loans, conservation programs, and others. For PLC alone, U.S. farmers are expected to receive $4.7 billion in October. Of that total, Nebraska farmers are anticipating $180 million in program payments. Without immediate CCC reimbursement, these payments and programs would be significantly delayed, jeopardizing farms and across the country. In Nebraska there are nearly 46,000 farms and ranches. More than 40 agriculture and commodity groups wrote congressional leadership this week with a very clear message: Blocking the inclusion of CCC reimbursement in a CR would hurt farmers and ranchers. We must come together to fund the programs that weRepublicans and Democrats alike-- have voted for in countless Farm Bills. Our farmers and ranchers rely on these programs now more than ever. Congress must keep its commitment these hardworking men and women. I urge my colleagues in the House and Senate not to allow politics to stand in the way of upholding our commitment to the hardworking men and women who work tirelessly day in and day out to keep food on our tables. Our producers aren't just thinking about themselves they are planning for the future generations that will proudly carry on their lives' work and continue feeding our world. Let's make sure to fund the programs that ensure they can to do just that.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7F54F826-5F90-4285-8411-C1140FAB2E49,Sasse Statement on DOJ Cybercrime Indictments,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after seven international cyber defendants were charged with computer hacking crimes affected more than 100 companies in the U.S. and abroad.""These indictments show that the Chinese Communist Party will turn a blind eye to cybercrime if reckless hacking ultimately benefits Beijing. Chairman Xi continues to provide a license to these criminals to hack and steal at will. As this case demonstrates, it will take international partnership and cooperation to stop Beijing sanctioned cybercrime.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CE903510-6218-466E-B6B1-DF7DF54EAEA5,Sasse Urges Big Ten to Allow Local Decisions on Fans,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"??U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, who in August was thefirst federal officialto urgethe Big Ten to play football, issued the following statement urging the Big Ten to reverse its blanket prohibition on fan attendance and instead let local communities follow local public health requirements. ?? The Big Ten followed the science for players, they should follow the science for fans. Local communities should make decisions about attendance based on public health conditions on the ground. This is a fluid situation and what works in Lincoln might not be right for Ann Arbor, and it might vary month to month. The Big Ten should embrace local, data-based decisions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D027615D-6D35-4307-B962-1F107E019211,Sasse Statement on Big Ten Football,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, who in August was thefirst federal official to urgethe Big Ten to play football, released the following statement after the Big Ten announced football is back. The Big Ten's presidents, chancellors, and the return to competition task force' deserve credit for reevaluating and concluding that we can responsibly bring back football. We need to keep working to beat this nasty virus, but today's decision is a good signpost that, with prudent practices and rigorous testing regimes, we can keep moving back toward normal.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=547,Bacon Cosponsors Legislation to Enhance Training and Programs in Cybersecurity and Transportation Workforce,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced he has agreed to be a cosponsor on two bills that each deal with training and programs in career and technical education (CTE) fields. The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act, H.R. 1592, would create a pilot program within the Department of Education to award competitive grants to education-employer partnerships for the development, implementation, and/or expansion of postsecondary CTE programs that integrate cybersecurity education into curricula preparing students for careers in critical infrastructure sectors. The bill would also ensure that workers in training for jobs in these industries are prepared for today’s cyber threats. The Transportation Workforce Centers of Excellence Act of 2020, H.R. 6032, would provide $50 million over five years in competitive grants to strengthen education and training programs in targeted industries. Grants will be disbursed to Centers of Excellence in Transportation Workforce Training, which will consist of consortia of high-performing two-year colleges. The bill authorizes investments to develop career pathways that lead to credentials in transportation-related industries that could range from manufacturing to operation, design and engineering of infrastructure. The legislation prioritizes providing on-the-job training and work-based learning, developing dual enrollment programs to train high school students, promoting training related to new technologies and outreach and career counseling to increase participation in the transportation sector. It also promotes partnership and collaboration among employers, state agencies, and other community partners to address training needs. “People have lost their jobs during this pandemic, businesses are closing, and we need to look at ways to grow the pool of workers for the cybersecurity and transportation workforces as they are both growing industries,” said Rep. Bacon. “These bills not only expand training and programs, but they place on emphasis on programs that are offering remote training for those who may not be able to attend in person.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=548,BACON COSPONSORS TWO CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION TRAINING BILLS,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) recently agreed to be a cosponsor of two Career and Technical Education (CTE) training bills introduced in the House of Representatives. H.R. 898, the Skills Investment Act of 2019, enhances the Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, which are tax advantaged savings accounts for educational expenses. American workers can use those accounts to pay for skills-based learning, career training, and workforce development. Workers can make tax-free payments and withdrawals for eligible expenses. This is similar to a health savings account, but for educational expenses. In addition, both workers and employers will receive tax credits for contributions to the accounts. H.R. 7032, the Skills Renewal Act, creates a flexible Skills Training Credit in the amount of $4,000 per person which may be applied to cover the cost of a wide range of training programs that build skills expected to be in high demand by employers in the coming months. The refundable tax credit may be applied to the cost of training programs located anywhere along the postsecondary pipeline, including apprenticeships, stackable credentials, certificate programs, and traditional two and four-year programs. To maximize participation by workers currently living under shelter-in-place orders, distance learning programs will be expressly included. The Skills Training credit will be made available to anyone who has lost their job as a result of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, and the credit may be applied to the cost of training programs any time in 2020 or 2021. “Many Nebraskans have lost their job due to the coronavirus pandemic, drastically affecting our U.S. economy and the livelihoods of thousands of Americans,” said Rep. Bacon. “Our workforce is in desperate need of technical training and education programs to rehire and enhance workers’ skillsets. As a strong supporter of our state’s labor workers, manufacturing industry, small businesses, and essential personnel, these two bills will help rebuild, restore, and reopen our economy safely and effectively.” Rep. Bacon is also a member of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus, a bipartisan group of Members committed to supporting, educating, and promoting CTE programs and well-paying, family-sustaining jobs. These fields include, but are not limited to, STEM disciplines, nursing, allied health, construction, information technology, energy, cybersecurity, sustainability, and other areas that keep our nation competitive in the global economy. A copy of the text for H.R. 898 and H.R. 7032 can be found on Congress.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rural-radio-fortenberry-signs-bill-help-ag-fairs,Rural Radio: Fortenberry Signs onto Bill to Help Ag Fairs,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,Rural Radio: Fortenberry Signs onto Bill to Help Ag Fairs,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0342D634-A159-4578-997F-480A91626BBE,Sasse Statement on NU DOD Contract Extension,2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after the Department of Defense renewed a $92 million contract with National Strategic Research Institute, a university-affiliated research center.?? America's warfighters depend on the University of Nebraska and Nebraskans get the job done. When the Department of Defense gets a tough assignment, the National Strategic Research Institute gets to work. This extension is good news for our military and our state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=546,Bacon and Problem Solvers Caucus Unveil the “March to Common Ground” Framework to Help Break Gridlock,2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and his 49 colleagues on the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus – 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans – unveiled the “March To Common Ground” framework to help break the gridlock on the latest COVID-19 relief package and encourage negotiators to get back to the table. The 50-member bipartisan Caucus developed and came together in support of the framework after extensive listening to constituents and outreach to stakeholders over the past six weeks. While Nebraska and Omaha have fared better than most of the country, the economic recovery has been uneven among certain segments of our community and they are hurting. Some of those areas include the live entertainment industry and venues, transportation including busing, childcare centers, small business and non-profits, and agriculture. The package also includes direct assistance to individuals and families. “The ‘my way or the highway’ D.C. philosophy is hurting our country. Our system of government designed by James Madison requires consensus building and compromise, which are four-letter words in today’s environment,” said Rep. Bacon. “The work of the Problem Solvers today provides hope that Congress can come together across the aisle and solve the most pressing issues our country is facing.” The full framework can found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FFE9A203-79F4-43B1-A9A9-FE2541DCB079,Fischer Statement on Abraham Accords,2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement following today's Abraham Accords signing ceremony, which normalized diplomatic relationships between Israel and the UAE and Bahrain: Today's pacts represent a historic step toward a more peaceful Middle East. Normalizing relations between Israel, the UAE and Bahrain will help bring closer these three important U.S. partners in the region. It will increase their linkages and opportunities, particularly in the face of growing Iranian aggression. I thank President Trump and his administration for their leadership on this issue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-applauds-presidents-decisive-commitment-biofuels,Smith Applauds President’s Decisive Commitment to Biofuels,2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied 54 Small Refinery Exemption (SRE) petitions for past compliance years. Earlier this year, the 10th Circuit Court ruled SREs must be issued continuously under the Renewable Fuel Standard. ""Today's decision by Administrator Wheeler is a landslide victory for Nebraska agriculture producers and for consumers around the nation. In a year marked by uncertainty, I thank the President for his leadership in providing opportunity for the biofuels industry to meet its full potential. I look forward to working with the administration on sound energy policy which benefits our hard-working farmers and producers."" Smith, a champion of the biofuels industry and a member of the Biofuels Caucus, has led the charge for pro-ethanol policies. In July, Smith joined Biofuels Caucus colleagues in writing to President Trump asking Trump reject these SREs in accordance with the law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/always-ready-always-there,"Always Ready, Always There",2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"From the advent of our republic, through the American revolution until now, Americans have joined together to defend our borders and our freedoms, and to help each other in times of greatest need. While most Americans now most closely associate military service with active duty troops in our Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, the nearly half-million men and women who comprise the National Guard across the fifty states and several U.S. territories stand always ready to be called up to provide national defense or meet any disaster occurring within our borders. In Nebraska we have seen firsthand how quickly and well the National Guard can respond to domestic disasters. After the devastation from the 2019 bomb cyclone, President Trump quickly declared a federal disaster and sent in the National Guard. Their reassuring presence gave solace to many Nebraskans and provided hope that we would recover. Their relief efforts and quick action saved lives and helped us begin to rebuild. In the aftermath of the storms and flooding, I was able to survey the damage, and the incredible efforts of the Guardsmen with Major General Daryl Bohac, the Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard. Though the destruction was extensive, the clean-up started right away. I am impressed with his professionalism, capability, and dedication the National Guard brought to this crisis. During the pandemic, the National Guard has shown once again their commitment to service. Their mission has included distributing food, test kits, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other crucial resources for fighting this virus. The CARES Act passed earlier this year provided key funding to supplement their efforts. In Congress, I am working to ensure the National Guard receives support equal to the care they give our country. For this reason, I have cosponsored the TRICARE Reserve Select Improvement Act (H.R. 613). This legislation would expand Tricare Reserve Select eligibility to federal employees, including those in the National Guard, who are currently prohibited from accessing it. I also voted in favor of the National Guard and Reservists Debt Relief Extension Act which was signed into law by President Trump last year and provided an important extension of provisions which help National Guard servicemembers and Reservists who experience certain financial difficulties following their service on active duty or in homeland defense deployments. I thank those who make sacrifices on behalf of our country in the National Guard including the 4,600 brave men and women in the Nebraska National Guard. The men and women in the National Guard uniform have made it their duty to be ""Always Ready, Always There!"" This motto rings as true now as it ever.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-applauds-president-s-decisive-commitment-biofuels,Smith Applauds Presidents Decisive Commitment to Biofuels,2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied 54 Small Refinery Exemption (SRE) petitions for past compliance years. Earlier this year, the 10th Circuit Court ruled SREs must be issued continuously under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Today's decision by Administrator Wheeler is a landslide victory for Nebraska agriculture producers and for consumers around the nation. In a year marked by uncertainty, I thank the President for his leadership in providing opportunity for the biofuels industry to meet its full potential. I look forward to working with the administration on sound energy policy which benefits our hard-working farmers and producers. Smith, a champion of the biofuels industry and a member of the Biofuels Caucus, has led the charge for pro-ethanol policies. In July, Smith joined Biofuels Caucus colleagues in writing to President Trump asking Trump reject these SREs in accordance with the law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C19C87DF-0DF6-4F62-BAA6-19BE526ED851,Fischer Statement on Trump Administration’s Rejection of “Gap” Year SREs,2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after EPA Administrator Wheeler announced that the Trump Administration will reject 54 gap small refinery exemptions: President Trump and the administration made the right decision in rejecting these 54 gap' small refinery exemptions. Farmers and ethanol producers across the Heartland now have more certainty because of this important decision. In a tough year for biofuels producers, it's encouraging to see this commitment to rural America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C166C011-C396-4B5F-9AAC-0E0BB99B8B68,Sasse Statement on 19th Anniversary of September 11th Attacks,2020-09-11,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement on the 19th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks.Al-Qaeda attacked our country nineteen years ago, murdering thousands of innocents and inflicting pain that is with us to this day. Americans responded to these violent cowards with bravery and strength.In the stairwells of the World Trade Center, in the halls of the Pentagon, in the cabin of Flight 93, and in the mountains of Afghanistan, Americans fought back. Evil will always be a part of this world, and Americans will always meet it with courage.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-farm-future,Fort Report: Farm of the Future,2020-09-11,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, the Ag Secretary came to town. I invited Sonny Perdue to learn how we in Nebraska are pioneering what I call the Farm of the Future. Large-scale production agriculture remains the mainstay of the Cornhusker Statewe feed America, we feed the world. We are also, however, pioneering new forms of small-scale niche agriculture that marry hi-tech with hi-touch to connect the farmer to the family, the rural to the urban, and the farm to the table. At a roundtable discussion at the Great Plains Beef campus in Lincoln last Friday, I introduced Secretary Perdue to a diverse range of Nebraska ag innovators. From farm-to-school leaders to direct-to-consumer pioneers, urban farms to precision ag, to dairy farms using robotics to expand yield at lower cost, the Farm of the Future is nimble, fast, yet intimate, allowing persons to know and appreciate the provenance of their food. With U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. Zemua Baptista, independent poultry producer raising over two million birds a year for sale to Costco, with Sarah Smith, local foods consultant at the Nebraska Department of Education, and organizer of the annual Farm-to-School Crunch-Off, which Nebraska won last year. With University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, Ag Secretary Perdue, and (to left of Chancellor Green), Steve Wellman, Director, Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Alex McKiernan, Co-owner, Robinette Farms, producer of certified organic greens and microgreens. Joe Brugger, who, with his brother Matt, run Upstream Farms, a farm-to-table pioneer. From left: Doug Bartek (corn and soybean farmer), Sarah Smith (Nebraska Department of Education), Tim Rinne (Co-founder, Hawley Hamlet Neighborhood Garden), Alex McKiernan (Co-owner, Robinette Farms), Dan Lambe (President, Arbor Day Foundation), Brant Burkey (Co-founder, RealmFive Agriculture). I am so honored that the Secretary of Agriculture took time out of his busy schedule to visit us here in the Heartland. What we are doing in Farm Country is the very essence of America. We are a community that cares, that works hard, that produces something intimate and elementalour nation's food.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/fence-post-fortenberry-and-ag-secretary-sonny-purdue-tour-unl-discuss-food,"The Fence Post: Fortenberry and Ag Secretary Sonny Purdue tour UNL, discuss food innovation",2020-09-11,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, Neb. The future of U.S. agriculture is dependent upon research, innovation and collaboration, which together will lead to increased agricultural efficiency and sustainability, as well as development of foods designed to improve human health, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said Sept. 4 during a visit to Nebraska Innovation Campus. It's universities like this that make that happen, Perdue said. Perdue made the comments during a morning panel discussion. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, Rep. Jeff Fortenberry and University of NebraskaLincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green joined Perdue for the panel, which was moderated by Mike Boehm, NU vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for the university's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The panel discussion followed a tour of the Food Processing Center and Greenhouse Innovation Center, where the panelists heard from leading Husker researchers about their work. During the discussion, Perdue described the USDA's Agricultural Innovation Agenda, which calls for the United States to increase agricultural production by 40% while cutting its environmental footprint in half by 2050. Research at Nebraska and elsewhere is already moving the United States closer to this goal, Perdue said. There's a great ecosystem of innovation across this country, he said. But to increase both production and sustainability, government entities, universities, private companies and others engaged in research must work together, Perdue said. Ricketts added that producers must be able to incorporate that research into their own operations. As an example, Ricketts cited plant imaging technology used in in the Greenhouse Innovation Center that had been retrofitted for use in a test field at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center near Mead. That's real-world stuff, Ricketts said. What works in the lab, it has to work in the field. Additionally, Fortenberry said, rural communities across the nation must have access to broadband. Expanded broadband access will expand access to precision agriculture techniques. It will give producers and other rural residents the opportunity to work and take classes remotely and to access telemedicine and other services, he said. Urban Americans are increasingly interested in understanding rural America, Fortenberry said. They want to know who grows their vegetables and produces their milk. This interest provides an opportunity for established farmers to diversify by adding a few acres of fruits and vegetables, and for young farmers without much land to begin their own operations. People want to know where their food comes from, Fortenberry said. At the same time, Fortenberry called for the development of the Farm of the Future, where researchers can experiment with cutting-edge technology and precision techniques to drive efficiency and sustainability. Green said the Farm of the Future should be based at Nebraska. The university has a long history of agricultural innovation that started with Charles Bessey, a renowned botanist, administrator and architect of the Hatch Act. That spirit of innovation continues today, Green said. We were in (agriculture) at the beginning, and it's been our core ever since, he said. The university houses the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, a world leader in the study of red meat animals. It is also home to the National Drought Mitigation Center, which helps producers, cities, states and other entities plan for and manage drought conditions, and allows producers affected by drought to access aid programs. These programs, both of which are partnerships with government agencies and other entities, have helped establish Nebraska as a leader in agricultural research that consistently ranks among the top 50 agricultural universities worldwide. Innovation and collaboration have made America's agricultural industry a worldwide leader, Perdue said, and they'll continue to lead to discoveries that change the way people think about food. Perdue specifically cited Nebraska's Food for Health program, in which researchers are studying the relationships between specific foods and the gut microbiome. This is part of a larger field of study in which food is viewed as medicine or therapy, which Perdue said he finds particularly interesting. It is a field that was unimaginable only a few years ago, and Perdue said he was looking forward to watching new breakthroughs in American agriculture unfold. There are amazing things coming that we can't even dream about, he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B9D30816-DDCD-4344-9C79-35B53A51BF64,Fischer Statement Commemorating 9/11 Anniversary,2020-09-11,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today on the 19th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack: On the 19th anniversary of one of the darkest days in our nation's history, we come together to pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. We also honor the brave first responders, many of whom gave their own lives to save others.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=34B8B0FB-6477-4BB9-8ED6-E6EF4673194F,Sasse Statement on Microsofts Warning of Election Interference,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement regarding a warning from Microsoft that China and Russia were working to hack both political parties ahead of the 2020 election. ?? Microsoft's warning is consistent with the Intelligence Community's long-standing assessments: China and Russia want to sow distrust ahead of the 2020 election. In Beijing, Chairman Xi wants Biden to win; in Moscow, Vladimir Putin wants Trump to win; both of these miserable SOBs have the same goal of turning Americans against each other. The United States needs to make it clear that China and Russia will face severe consequences for hacks and disinformation campaigns. Chinese communists and Russian oligarchs don't get to vote in America's elections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=80FCC12A-01A0-4BB4-8336-EDA894E67FFE,Blair to Receive $7.56 Million BUILD Grant for New Bypass Construction,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Transportation and Safety subcommittee, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DoT) announced a $7.56 million grant for the city of Blair, Nebraska, to construct a new bypass: It was a pleasure working with DoT to deliver this important infrastructure grant to the community of Blair. The Blair South Bypass is a vital project to address the city's congestion and traffic safety. This has been a priority of mine, too, which is why I wrote in support of Blair's application. The new bypass will serve as a much needed connection for regional traffic, improve safety, and foster continued economic development in the area. More information: BUILD grants are competitive grants used for the planning and construction of surface transportation projects that are of local or regional significance. This project will construct a new connection between US 75 and the US 30 in Blair, Nebraska, to bypass the community's existing downtown. The proposed corridor will be a three-lane section, configured as a ""Super 2"" with passing lanes constructed in the uphill direction to reduce conflicts between passenger vehicles and trucks. The project will also construct a bicycle and pedestrian trail adjacent to the new roadway.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/agriculture-close,Agriculture Up Close,2020-09-08,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"There is no doubt Nebraska is an agricultural powerhouse. In 2019, despite our small size in population, Nebraska was the sixth largest agriculture exporter in the nation. Our state's agriculture has a real impact on our nation and beyond. It should come as no surprise the Chief Agriculture Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Gregg Doud, had an interest in seeing the remarkable process of agriculture up close. This week, Governor Pete Ricketts and I had the privilege of touring several agricultural sites around the panhandle with Ambassador Doud so he could experience firsthand how our producers are faring and what more can be done. Ambassador Doud also recently attended my 2020 Agriculture Summit and I am thankful for his enthusiasm and his pragmatic approach toward negotiating fair trade agreements with our allies and partners. Historically, while the U.S. has worked toward opening trade for the benefit of consumers and producers everywhere, we have faced an uphill battle with uneven playing fields, tariffs, and other non-tariff trade barriers. Fortunately, President Trump has been working tirelessly to break down these obstacles. The administration recognizes a thriving American agriculture sector must extend beyond the U.S. marketplace with access to international markets. While Nebraska is known for products like corn, beef, and soybeans; western Nebraska is also a leader in other key products like dry edible beans and sugar beets. We annually produce more than 1 billion servings of dry beans and the equivalent of 440 million five pound bags of sugar beets. These products face unique trade challenges, which Ambassador Doud was able to experience firsthand. His visit included the beginning of dry bean harvest and operations as well as sugar beet harvest. For my part in Congress and on the Ways and Means Committee, I am focused on identifying new opportunities for Nebraska agriculture. We received a recent win when Taiwan announced they will begin easing restrictions on U.S. beef and pork. This announcement is on top of last year's preliminary trade deal with Japan and recent positive signs about China fulfilling its commitments to purchase U.S. ag products. Trade negotiations with partners such as the United Kingdom and Kenya are ongoing as well. I was proud to showcase western Nebraska, and am appreciative of the hard work done by Governor Ricketts and Ambassador Doud for our agriculture sector. Nebraska producers deserve allies in their corner, and I will continue to advocate for them at home and in Washington. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A0314776-BC3F-4D32-9C77-605E80210874,Sasse Statement on Death of Mario Herrera,2020-09-07,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse released the following statement after the death of Lincoln Police Officer Mario Herrera. We mourn the death of Lincoln Police Officer Mario Herrera. Our hearts break for his family, and we join Nebraskans united in prayer for his family. This tragedy reminds us of the risks and sacrifice members of law enforcement make across our state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-labor-day-0,Fort Report: Labor Day,2020-09-04,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"At its core, Labor Day is about the honor and dignity of work. Work makes us whole. Work releases our creative possibilities. Work provides for our means. Sometimes it can be menial. Sometimes it can be lofty. But it all has meaning. That's why we stop and pause and give ourselves a rest and have a special holiday to honor all those who labor. Happy Labor Day to you and your family.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D0709A5A-F2CC-4688-8F18-91BC90186453,Fischer Statement on Labor Day,2020-09-04,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement in commemoration of Labor Day: Each year on Labor Day, we honor all of the hardworking men and women in Nebraska and across the country. This year, I am especially grateful for the health care workers, first responders, grocery store employees, truckers, ag workers, and more who have all shown such commitment to helping us get through this pandemic. I wish you all a safe and happy Labor Day weekend.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-participates-western-nebraska-ag-tour-governor-ricketts-and-amb-gregg,Smith Participates in Western Nebraska Ag Tour with Governor Ricketts and Amb. Gregg Doud,2020-09-03,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Scottsbluff, Nebraska – Governor Pete Ricketts, Ambassador Gregg Doud, Chief Agriculture Negotiator, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) participated in a tour of agriculture locations in Western Nebraska today, highlighting the importance of agriculture and trade to Nebraska. The locations visited and events attended were: a roundtable discussion with the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission, a facility tour of New Alliance Bean Co., Western Sugar, and a Dry Bean Harvest Demo. ""I join Governor Ricketts in welcoming Ambassador Doud back to Nebraska. Agriculture is the number one trade constituency in the United States because of men and women across the country like the producers we met with today. Ambassador Doud has been hard at work alongside President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer, and I appreciate him taking the opportunity to discuss firsthand his work opening markets for Nebraska products around the world."" Ambassador Doud also recently joined as a special guest for Smith's 2020 Virtual Agriculture Summit where they discussed trade policy and the future of American agriculture. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-participates-western-nebraska-ag-tour-governor-ricketts-and-amb-gregg,Smith Participates in Western Nebraska Ag Tour with Governor Ricketts and Amb. Gregg Doud,2020-09-03,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Scottsbluff, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, Ambassador Gregg Doud, Chief Agriculture Negotiator, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) participated in a tour of agriculture locations in Western Nebraska today, highlighting the importance of agriculture and trade to Nebraska. The locations visited and events attended were: a roundtable discussion with the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission, a facility tour of New Alliance Bean Co., Western Sugar, and a Dry Bean Harvest Demo. I join Governor Ricketts in welcoming Ambassador Doud back to Nebraska. Agriculture is the number one trade constituency in the United States because of men and women across the country like the producers we met with today. Ambassador Doud has been hard at work alongside President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer, and I appreciate him taking the opportunity to discuss firsthand his work opening markets for Nebraska products around the world. Ambassador Doud also recently joined as a special guest for Smith's 2020 Virtual Agriculture Summit where they discussed trade policy and the future of American agriculture. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-alert-fortenberry-honor-fallen-wwii-service-members-they-are-returned,MEDIA ALERT: Fortenberry to Honor Fallen WWII Service Members as they are Returned to Offutt Air Force Base for Identification,2020-09-03,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"(LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today in advance of the honorable carry ceremony for the remains of twenty-five WWII service members who will be returned to Offutt Air Force Base for identification. The ceremony will be held Friday, September 4, at 5:30 PM, at Offutt Air Force Base. ""The work to identify and properly bury the remains of those lost to war is a solemn commitment of our nation. These twenty-five service members who served in WWII are finally coming home and their remains will be capably and respectfully identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) facility at Offutt Air Force Base. I am grateful for the meticulous efforts of the DPAA and the professional staff who treat our war dead with the utmost dignity, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is a Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. His district in Congress is home to Offutt Air Force Base, the DPAA, and U.S. Strategic Command. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-reminder-fortenberry-hosts-farm-future-event-tomorrow-usda-secretary-sonny,MEDIA REMINDER: Fortenberry Hosts Farm of the Future Event Tomorrow with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and Nebraska Ag Entrepreneurs,2020-09-03,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"(LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is hosting a Farm of the Future event tomorrow, Friday, September 4, from 11:30 AM to 12:40 PM, with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and Nebraska Ag Entrepreneurs. It will be held at the Great Plains Beef Building, 4851 N 84th St, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Social distancing and mask-wearing are required. ""I invited USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to Lincoln to learn how Nebraskans are pioneering the Farm of the Futureconnecting the farmer to the family, the urban to the rural, and the farm to the table. From farm-to-school leaders to direct-to-consumer pioneers, urban farms to precise ag, feedlot operators deploying advanced tech to track livestock health to dairy farmers using robotics to expand yield at lower cost, the Farm of the Future is nimble, fast, yet intimate, allowing persons to know and appreciate the provenance of their food, Fortenberry said,. ""I am so honored that Secretary Perdue is taking took time out of his busy schedule to visit us here in the Heartland. What we are doing in Farm Country is the very essence of America. We are a community that cares, that works hard, that produces something intimate and elementalour nation's food, Fortenberry added. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-alert-fortenberry-announces-farm-future-event-usda-secretary-sonny-perdue,MEDIA ALERT: Fortenberry Announces Farm of the Future Event with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and Nebraska Ag Entrepreneurs,2020-09-02,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"(LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) today announced a Farm of the Future event he is hosting Friday, September 4, from 11:30 AM to 12:40 PM, with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and Nebraska Ag Entrepreneurs. It will be held at the Great Plains Beef Building, 4851 N 84th St, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Social distancing and mask-wearing are required. ""I invited USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to Lincoln to learn how Nebraskans are pioneering the Farm of the Futureconnecting the farmer to the family, the urban to the rural, and the farm to the table. From farm-to-school leaders to direct-to-consumer pioneers, urban farms to precise ag, feedlot operators deploying advanced tech to track livestock health to dairy farmers using robotics to expand yield at lower cost, the Farm of the Future is nimble, fast, yet intimate, allowing persons to know and appreciate the provenance of their food, Fortenberry said,. ""I am so honored that Secretary Perdue is taking took time out of his busy schedule to visit us here in the Heartland. What we are doing in Farm Country is the very essence of America. We are a community that cares, that works hard, that produces something intimate and elementalour nation's food, Fortenberry added. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A01F189A-C241-4CCF-807A-77AA64787E33,Nebraska to Receive $62 Million FEMA Grant to Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic,2020-09-02,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced amore than$62 million grant for Nebraska in response to the outbreak out of COVID-19: FEMA is able to offer our state this significant grant as a result of the disaster declaration that President Trump issued for Nebraska in April. I appreciate the president responding to Nebraska's needs and ensuring we are able to access this funding. These resources will directly benefit the health and safety of Nebraskans. More information: On April 4, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, President Trump declared that a major disaster exists in Nebraska, enabling federal funding for emergency protective measures. This award provides $62,490,887 in federal funding to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for those protective measures. In response to the outbreak of COVID-19, NEMA acquired and staged medical supplies, along with medical equipment for current and future distribution including respirators, N95 masks, medical gloves, surgical masks, medical gowns, face shields, goggles, head covers, disinfectant wipes, and shoe covers; disinfects for the enhanced facilities; provided disease testing and diagnosis associated with the management, control, and reduction of immediate threats to public health and safety.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E656DDBC-BD71-4F62-88C7-9E181EE6C707,Kearney Regional Airport Receives $3.2 Million for Taxiway Reconstruction,2020-09-01,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DoT) announced a $3.2 million grant to support the reconstruction of the taxiway at Kearney Regional Airport: This announcement from DoT represents another critical investment in Nebraska's airport infrastructure. Reconstructing the airport's taxiway will help enable more travel, keeping Nebraskans connected with the rest of the country,said Senator Fischer. This grant will go toward a $6.7 million project to reconstruct Kearney's taxiway. Kearney's airport recently completed reconstruction work on its runway.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C96233CE-5198-4ED6-B8A3-C0947A9CE478,"Fischer Applauds Taiwan Agreement Removing Barriers on American Beef, Pork",2020-08-31,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after Taiwan agreed to remove barriers that limited the export of U.S. beef and pork to the country: Taiwan is an important market for our state, and the deal between our countries represents another critical trade victory. It will boost exports of Nebraska beef and pork to Taiwan. I will continue to support agreements that expand market access for Nebraska's world-class products. More information: Taiwan will accept imports of cattle under 30 months old at slaughter. For pork, the country has agreed to international standards for ractopamine residues, having already accepted those standards for beef. These measures will take effect on January 1, 2021. The U.S. exported $568 million worth of beef to Taiwan last year and $30.3 million worth of pork. Taiwan is the 7thlargest market for Nebraska beef.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6E044488-949F-4F9C-9939-E0F3B52D70D6,Sasse Statement on Trade with Taiwan,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a long-time advocate for Nebraska trade and member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement after Taiwan's President announced a proposal to open up Taiwan's market to American beef and pork products. This is great news. Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are among the hardest workers in the world and they deserve to sell their products across the globe. More Nebraska beef and pork are about to be served at dinner tables all across Taiwan and they will keep coming back for more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/importance-usps-rural-america,The Importance of USPS to Rural America,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"In rural America we understand the importance of postal mail to connecting our republic. Sites across Nebraska's Third District on the Pony Express Historic Trail commemorate the value of this service back to our earliest days as a territory and state. However, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has been in the news more than usual lately for two reasons its financial troubles and the increase in mail-in voting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our founders recognized the importance of postal mail to uniting our country by including the establishment of post offices and postal roads in our constitution. The post office is vital to commerce across America regardless of population and universal mail service keeps rural households connected. The USPS has been facing financial challenges for some time. In 2019, USPS reported net losses for the 13th year in a row long before the COVID-19 pandemic. Reform is necessary to address these shortfalls and ensure USPS can meet continued changes in mail demand from flat mailers to package delivery. Because the loss of universal service would be so detrimental to Nebraska, I have worked to include language in previous postal reform proposals which would limit rural closures and ensure the postal service continued to offer in-person services to communities where cuts were unavoidable. One financial strain on the agency has been the requirement to prefund retiree health and pension benefits. Although USPS would still be in the red without this mandate, it has intensified its financial difficulties. Earlier this year, the House even voted to repeal this burdensome requirement. Last Saturday, the House met to consider legislation brought forward by Speaker Pelosi which would have provided $25 billion in funding to the postal service while prohibiting the Postmaster General from making any changes to the current operations of USPS.I voted against this bill because USPS has still not accessed a $10 billion credit line made available earlier this year as part of the CARES Act, and because the prohibition on changes was so restrictive it would have prevented operational adjustments even in the face of events such as natural disasters. I appreciate Postmaster General DeJoy's recognition for the need for reforms and his willingness to be flexible as we navigate elections during a time where social distancing is encouraged. This reality makes the recent politicization of USPS by Speaker Pelosi even more frustrating for rural America. While the USPS needs reform, I also agree we must ensure it is capable of handling the influx of mail expected as record numbers of Americans vote by mail this November. The integrity of our elections is paramount. Americans who feel unsafe going to the polls in November should have other options, but mailing millions of ballots to Americans who did not request them is an invitation for abuse. Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen provided an ideal model for allowing vote-by-mail when he chose to send ballot request documents not ballots to every registered Nebraskan. By doing so, he ensured only those who wanted and expected ballots would receive them while limiting the threat of lost or stolen ballots changing the outcome of our elections. In contrast, Speaker Pelosi's HEROES Act would require states to mail ballots directly to every voter in a national emergency like COVID-19. Americans, regardless of their views, will quickly lose faith in our system when they see images of hundreds of blank ballots stacked up in an apartment building mail room somewhere, waiting to be lost, stolen, or go uncounted. Any postal reform considered by Congress must guarantee continued and long-term access to mail delivery for rural areas like Nebraska. We should focus on USPS' challenges such as these rather than focusing on trying to undermine the President using USPS as a weapon. I will continue working on responsible solutions with rural America in mind and ensure the Postal Service upholds its original mission to serve all Americans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-fair,Fort Report: The Fair,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"Throughout summer but mainly around this time until Labor Day, farmers, ranchers, and families from across our state gather for one of our best traditions: the annual county fairs. With the greatest concentration of blue jeans and cowboy boots outside of a Garth Brooks concert, Nebraska's and America's ag fairs showcase Farm Country in all its variety. The idea of the fair in America began in 1841 in Syracuse, New York to promote state agriculture through competitive exhibitions of livestock and displays of farm products. The Nebraska State Fair began in September 1859 when we were still the Nebraska Territory. It was held in various locales until 1901 when it was moved to the Lancaster County Fairgrounds in Lincoln, and then moved again in 2008 to Grand Island. About 2,000 state and county fairs are held annually in North America. These iconic events continue to exhibit the equipment and animals associated with agriculture and animal husbandry. Growing up, the fair was a chance for a wannabe farmer and 4-H member like myself to display skills in livestock competition or have fun with a spin on the Tilt-A-Whirl, or just lose money trying to win a stuffed animal. All the while gorging on corn dogs and soda pop. Fairs encourage and develop the next generation of America's farmers and ranchers. Agricultural producers in Rural America represent less than 1% of the total U.S. population, yet they feed America and help feed the world. The average age of the American farmer is 57 years old, making it imperative for us to engage and encourage young people to pursue careers in ag. By cultivating a passion for agriculture in students and supporting beginning farmers and ranchers, fairs help build what I call the Farm of the Future, a mix of large-scale production ag and small-scale niche farming that's already expanding our Farm Family here in Nebraskaconnecting the urban to the rural, the farmer to the family, and the farm to the table. Fairs, like so many other industries in the U.S., have suffered tremendous financial loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each year, agricultural fairs contribute nearly five billion dollars and thousands of jobs to the US economy. With two-thirds of our nation's state fairs canceled this year, the loss in revenue in this year alone exceeds three billion dollars. While the Nebraska State Fair will continue this year, albeit in significantly truncated form, I was proud to lead the effort behind theAg Fairs Rescue Actin the House to provide some relief to state, county, and local fairs. Speaking of Farm Country, I had the chance this week to visit Lowell Mueller's fifth-generation, family-run dairy operation out near Hooper to discuss the importance of the National Dairy Check-Off Program. I then stopped in at the Barreras family farm near Blair. They are building inclusive community and keeping food local while living the small-farm dream. A healthy society has healthy entertainment venues. The disruption of fairs as a part of our late summer routine is another blow to our desire for community. I am as eager as you are to fight past this COVID moment. Perhaps it can remind us of just how precious these important traditions like the fair have been to our well-beingeven the corn dog. Sincerely, Congressman Jeff Fortenberry",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/ketv-fortenberry-secures-stop-uscis-furloughs,KETV: Fortenberry Secures Stop to USCIS Furloughs,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,KETV: Fortenberry Secures Stop to USCIS Furloughs,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5AABC503-F866-462B-AD47-1B2BD6E1189A,Fischer Statement on CARES Act Funding to Support Northeast Nebraska Economic Development,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,,,legacy,"LINCOLN, NEB. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced a combined $2.6 million in CARES Act COVID-19 relief funding to support Northeast Nebraska's economic development, small businesses, and entrepreneurs: This week's announcements from the EDA represent critical investments in the Heartland. These resources, which were approved by Congress, will bring relief to Nebraska communities. They will benefit our state's small businesses, which employ nearly half of Nebraskans. This funding will also boost local economies and support their sustained recoveries.said Senator Fischer. More information: Earlier this week, the EDA announced $1.6 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grants to four EDA Economic Development District organizations across Nebraska, including $400,000 for the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District, to update economic development plans and fortify programs to assist communities in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. This includes boosting the region's economy, supporting workforce needs, and online business development. Read more about those grantshere. Today, the EDA also announced $2.2 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District, Norfolk, Nebraska, to capitalize and administer a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) that will provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic in Nebraska.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z