February 2023

I am always working to ensure that federal policies make sense for communities in Nebraska. Nebraskans know all too well that rules crafted by career bureaucrats rarely benefit us — in fact, they often harm us.

Families, schools, and teachers do a lot to support Nebraska kids, but sometimes they need more. That is where mentors fill the gap. They provide guidance, a hand on the shoulder, a source of support, and more. Nebraska has many such programs. Unfortunately, the need for mentors far outnumbers those who are available.

Last week concluded all-day committee hearings and this week the legislature begins debate on the legislative bills that have been kicked out of their respective committees. This week, I would like to highlight Senator Briese’s LB 685 as I have received many emails and phone calls from constituents in regard to this bill, expressing the need to “stand up for the little guys.” With this said, let me be clear: “I hear you.” LB 685 would boost the fees for “games of skill” machines to $1,000 per machine and impose a 20% tax on the net proceeds.

This week, as the nation listened and watched, President Biden gave the second State of the Union address of his presidency. Over the last year the American people have struggled under historic inflation, rising crime rates, and severe economic uncertainty.