By Nebraska State Senator Tanya Storer
Capitol Conversations: From Pasture to Policy
This week at the Capitol has been a busy one, with significant discussions taking place in both committees I am on, Transportation & Telecommunications and the Judiciary Committee. Some of the more significant bills heard in T & T revolved around ATVs/UTVs and the ability to register them for highway use outside a village or corporate limits, as well as a bill to allow them to be operated after sunset and before sunrise specifically for the use of snow removal. Judiciary heard a wide array of bills including the regulation versus the banning of both Delta 8 and Kratom, both currently legal to sell and consume in Nebraska, but unregulated, including no age limits to purchase. These are somewhat complicated issues that will have a direct impact on the health and safety of our citizens, particularly for our youth.
Here’s an update on the key bills I’ve introduced and the progress we’re making in the legislature.
Supporting Rural Tourism: LB 294
On January 29, I brought before the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee LB 294, which aims to enhance funding opportunities for local communities through the County Visitors Improvement Fund. Currently, counties can award grants based on lodging tax revenue with a 1% annual limit per project. This 1% restriction limits the opportunities for our smaller rural counties with fewer lodging taxes in a given year. . LB 294 allows counties to award grants of either 1% of the lodging tax rate or up to $5000, whichever is greater. This change will help smaller counties with limited resources make improvements to their local tourism infrastructure, enhancing the visitor experience and promoting economic development
Defending Parental Rights in Social Media: LB 383
On February 6, the Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing for LB 383, a bill that I introduced to give parents greater control over their children’s social media use. LB 383 empowers parents to take charge of their children’s online activity, shifting authority away from large tech companies like TikTok and Facebook.
Protecting Nebraska’s Livestock: LB 665
Nebraska’s agriculture industry is vital to our economy, and it’s crucial that we take steps to safeguard it from external threats. LB 665 addresses concerns about foreign adversaries’ surveillance capabilities regarding Nebraska’s livestock herds. This bill aims to protect the industry from potential security risks, ensuring that our producers and food supply remain secure. As agriculture is the backbone of Nebraska, LB 665 is a step in the right direction toward defending our agricultural assets and maintaining the integrity of our state’s food supply. LB 665 will be heard before the Ag Committee on February 11. I encourage you to reach out to my office with any questions.
Looking Ahead
Each of these bills represents my commitment to protecting Nebraska’s industries, supporting rural communities, and enhancing public safety. The work we’re doing in the legislature is essential to ensuring that Nebraska remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. As these bills move forward, I will continue advocating for policies that reflect the needs of our communities and help grow our economy.
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback.
Stay Connected:
● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TanyaStorerForLegislature
● Email: tstorer@leg.ne.gov
● Phone: (402) 471-2628
Respectfully,
Senator Storer