AGP Executive Report

Education & Local Pride: UNL named Adam Patrick Messman of Rensselaer to the spring Deans’ List for 2025-26, joining more than 6,200 Nebraska students statewide. Workforce & Training: Gov. Jim Pillen and Omaha leaders announced Nebraska’s Workforce Pell Grant program at MCC, expanding Pell to short-term, noncredit workforce training like CDL, phlebotomy, pharmacy tech, and CompTIA+—with tuition expected to be fully covered for eligible students. Veterans & Taxes: After a First Alert 6 investigation, Sarpy County approved disabled veteran motor vehicle tax/fee exemptions and processed refunds for veterans who missed the January deadline. North Omaha Development: Omaha Inland Port Authority unveiled plans for an innovation district near 30th and Ames, backed by a $30 million state grant, aiming to bring jobs and training without displacing residents. Public Safety & Accountability: Dodge County board members will consider an “emergency” personnel/legal matter after Sheriff Dustin Weitzel pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Community & Events: UNL and the International Quilt Museum plan a free July 18 open house celebrating community stories.

Nebraska Politics & Elections: Nebraska’s 3rd District nonpartisan candidate Macey Budke says she’ll miss the signature threshold and is switching to a write-in campaign, arguing it’s a logistics problem without party infrastructure. Congressional Campaigns: Pete Buttigieg is set to campaign in Omaha for Denise Powell in Nebraska’s CD2 on July 14. Courts & Food Policy: A federal judge struck down USDA SNAP food restriction waivers, including approvals affecting Nebraska, saying the agency exceeded its authority under federal procedures. Public Safety: A Douglas County deputy was fired after a cyber tip tied his iCloud to potential child sexual abuse material; he’s appealing. Agriculture & Conservation: USDA accepted 2.2 million acres into the 2026 Conservation Reserve Program, with Nebraska among the top states for accepted acres. Business & Industry: Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern filed the first responses to the Surface Transportation Board on their merger, addressing terminal and related railroad entities. Local Life & Education: UNL and Southeast Community College recognized area students on dean’s lists and with spring degrees. Travel & Health: Orkin released its 2026 bed bug “worst cities” list, with Lincoln ranked among the least-stressed cities.

CFP Path for Huskers: UNL finance students can now complete a CFP Board Registered Program inside their undergraduate degree, cutting the wait to pursue CFP® certification. Election Rules Fight: A campaign called “Respect Nebraska Voters” submitted 186,000+ signatures for a constitutional change that would require a four-fifths vote to amend or repeal voter-approved initiatives and tighten initiative procedures. Wildfire Recovery Dollars: President Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Nebraska spring wildfires, covering Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill counties, with nearly $9.7 million aimed at roads and electrical infrastructure. Drone Safety After Injuries: Norfolk’s Big Bang Boom fireworks incident is under investigation after a child was injured by a drone; findings will go to the FAA. Online Scam Warning: BBB says a fake “Infinity Auctions” website is tricking vehicle buyers nationwide using a phony Rapid City address and copied photos. Ag Investment: FNBO announced nearly $40,000 in donations supporting Nebraska FFA programs and local chapters. Sports Betting Ballot Push: Two initiatives to legalize online sports betting filed signatures and move toward review.

Nebraska Medical Cannabis: Gov. Jim Pillen and AG Mike Hilgers approved new medical cannabis rules, limiting products to non-smoked options (no edibles, no vaping/smoking) and capping THC per dose, with statewide dispensaries set at 12. Election Law Fight: Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen says he’s “baffled” by an RNC lawsuit challenging a provision allowing certain U.S. citizens living abroad to register and vote in one Nebraska county. Abortion Ballot Setback: A proposed Nebraska constitutional total abortion ban won’t reach the November ballot after failing to submit enough signatures. Public Safety—Drones: A child was injured after being struck by a drone at a fireworks event in Madison County; authorities say the FAA has exclusive control over airspace rules. Blood Supply Alert: Vitalant is urging donations after O-positive and O-negative supplies dropped, with drives planned across South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska. Local Crime: Grand Island police report a serious downtown assault and a Tractor Supply theft of two riding lawn mowers. Omaha Development: The Omaha Inland Port Authority’s “innovation district” is moving forward with a $30M state-grant-backed first phase near 30th and Ames.

Closed-Primary Politics: A new analysis says voters in closed-primary states often get stuck with a nominee chosen by a small slice of party members, leaving many general-election voters with weak choices. Water & Energy: A USGS-backed warning highlights Ogallala Aquifer depletion, while a “No to AI data centers” push targets western Nebraska’s Lincoln County and nearby areas over water use and fossil-fueled power demand. Public Safety & Courts: A Nebraska man accused in a plot to kill the president allegedly signaled a shift toward violence in private messages, raising questions about how online radicalization turns into action. Local Government: Seward County is among Nebraska communities moving toward data-center moratoriums as state law speeds permitting and limits local power. Animal Health: Nebraska Humane Society warns mosquitoes can be deadly for pets, especially through heartworm risk. Weather & Community: Heat and wildfire conditions forced some Fourth of July fireworks cancellations across the West, with Nebraska watching closely. Sports & Nebraska: Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley is named the World-Herald Boys Athlete of the Year after a standout multi-sport run.

Nebraska Data Centers: Seward County is joining a growing list of Nebraska communities putting moratoriums on data centers, citing gaps in local rules as state law speeds approvals and limits public power districts’ ability to seize facilities. Public Safety & Weather: July 4 celebrations across the region were disrupted by extreme heat and storms, with some fireworks canceled as wildfire danger and record temperatures raised health risks. Health Watch: The Nebraska Humane Society is warning pet owners that mosquitoes can spread deadly heartworm, urging year-round prevention and vet checks. Local Sports Spotlight: Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley was named the Omaha World-Herald Boys Athlete of the Year after a standout multi-sport run that helped deliver a state basketball title. Community & History: Stuhr Museum in Grand Island hosted a major “United We Celebrate” festival for America’s 250th birthday, bringing performances, history activities, and a community fireworks show. Tech & Space: A report says SpaceX is charging Starlink customers “demand surcharges” in high-demand areas, raising new questions about service strain and customer support.

Heat & Safety: A record-setting heat wave is blamed for at least 25 deaths across the country, with Nebraska-area celebrations and outdoor plans feeling the strain as heat alerts stay in effect. Holiday Disruptions: In Washington, D.C., extreme heat and storms canceled the National Independence Day Parade and delayed National Mall events before celebrations resumed later. Nebraska Politics & Watchdogs: An op-ed argues Nebraska’s government fraud concerns hit everyday wallets, while another column pushes for tighter oversight of no-bid contracts and public spending. Food & Agriculture: USDA export numbers show mixed movement for beef and pork, and a weekly protein report flags heat stress risks for poultry. Local Spotlight: Gov. Jim Pillen designated Seward as “Nebraska’s Official 4th of July City,” and Hall County’s Stuhr Museum hosted a major “United We Celebrate” festival for America’s 250th. Public Health/Community: A teen search at Wehrspann Lake ended with the body recovered, underscoring boating safety reminders.

Wildfire heat hits July 4 plans: Western communities are canceling or restricting fireworks as drought and active wildfires keep fire-weather conditions high, with Utah and parts of Colorado taking action. Boating safety in Nebraska: A teen’s body was recovered after a multi-day search at Wehrspann Lake following a canoe accident in Sarpy County. Nebraska traffic tech: NDOT District 4 is installing 19 ITS camera towers to feed the 511 system, with work expected to finish in November 2026. Homelessness housing expansion: North Platte’s Connection will open six new duplexes in August as part of its $14.5 million “Thriving Connections” project. Local history on I-80: Nebraska rededicated the “Crossing the Plains” limestone sculpture at a York rest area for America’s 250th birthday. Data center pushback: More Nebraska counties are weighing or adopting moratoriums as residents raise concerns about water and power impacts. Public safety dogs: Nebraska State Patrol added two certified K9s to its service dog unit, stationed in Kearney and North Platte. AI learning in Omaha: UNO’s AI conference sold out again, drawing entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and educators focused on using the tech responsibly.

Traffic & Tech: Nebraska Dept. of Transportation will install 19 ITS camera towers across District 4, with work starting June 22 and expected completion in November 2026. Housing & Homelessness: North Platte’s Connection will open six new family duplexes in August as part of its $14.5 million “Thriving Connections” expansion. AI in Nebraska: UNO’s AI conference sold out again, growing from 300 to 400 attendees, as local businesses and educators look at practical, responsible uses. Local Government & Growth: More counties are weighing data-center moratoriums in Nebraska and Iowa, with residents citing water and power impacts. Voting Rights: Respect Nebraska Voters turned in more than 186,000 signatures for a ballot measure to raise the threshold for changing voter-approved laws. Public Safety & Weather: Western Nebraska remains in severe drought, and several counties have banned fireworks as wildfire risk stays high. Community & Culture: Nebraska rededicated the “Crossing the Plains” bicentennial sculpture at a York I-80 rest area for America’s 250th birthday. Sports & Loss: Jim Walden, WSU’s Hall of Fame coach who led the Cougars to their first bowl in 50 years, died at 88.

Nebraska Wildfire & Drought Watch: Western Nebraska remains in severe drought, with countywide fireworks bans in parts of the Panhandle and firefighters battling the Log Road Fire near Harrison, reported at about 1,500 acres and still 0% contained. Public Safety & Courts: A York woman was arrested after a high-speed pursuit that included driving on the wrong side of the road and through a park with kids present before the vehicle was found abandoned. SNAP Food Rules: Nebraska’s neighbors are seeing SNAP “healthy” restrictions challenged—Iowa must again let recipients buy soda and candy after a federal court ruling vacated the waiver. Agriculture & Tech: As labor shortages persist, agricultural drones are gaining traction across U.S. farms, with Nebraska producers watching the shift toward more automated, precision fieldwork. State Politics & Ballot Access: Organizers submitted hundreds of thousands of signatures to put online sports betting on Nebraska’s November 2026 ballot, with election officials now reviewing county submissions. Business & Ethics: BBB Midwest Plains named Riekes Equipment a 2026 Torch Award for Ethics winner. National Spotlight: A new WalletHub ranking puts Nebraska 17th for patriotism, highlighting strong civics education and volunteer rates.

Wildfire Recovery: President Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Nebraska’s March–April Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby and Minor fires, covering Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill counties; the state estimates damage at about $9.69 million, with FEMA public-assistance help for road and public power repairs. Ongoing Fire Response: The Log Road Fire near Harrison is about 1,526 acres and 21% contained, with no evacuations or reported structure losses as crews strengthen containment lines. Ballot Access & Democracy: Campaigners submitted more than 186,500 signatures for “Respect Nebraska Voters,” a constitutional amendment that would raise the vote threshold to change voter-approved laws from 33 to 40 senators. State Government: Nebraska State Treasurer Joey Spelberg is urging residents to search for unclaimed property as the program has returned roughly $260 million since it began. Local Economy: Bellevue’s REACH campus is set to bring an estimated $125 million economic boost and 150 jobs, tying national defense, UNL education pathways, and private industry. Health & Food Policy: Nebraska is lifting SNAP restrictions on soda and energy drinks after a court ruling, with retailers updating systems before the change takes effect. Education & Service: UNL students earned Peace Corps Prep certificates, bringing the Nebraska total to 33 since 2021. Weather Watch: Eastern Nebraska faces an increased severe-storm risk Friday, including damaging winds and large hail, as July 4 plans ramp up.

Ag & Trade: Nebraska Corn Growers president Michael Dibbern blasted Bayer’s petition seeking duties on Chinese glyphosate, calling it a threat to farmers’ bottom lines and warning it mirrors past fertilizer duty moves that drove up costs. Disaster Response: Gov. Jim Pillen declared an emergency for Morrill County after the June 8 storm, and asked FEMA for a 30-day extension to finish damage assessments. Digital Advertising: AG Brenna Bird won a major case aimed at stopping the “Big Six” from using so-called brand-safety rules to suppress competition and free speech in digital ads. Water & Courts: The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear Nebraska’s dispute with Colorado over South Platte water and the Perkins County canal, a fight that could shape irrigation access for years. Health Policy: Nebraska’s medical marijuana program cleared another hurdle as Gov. Pillen approved permanent regulations. Workforce & Business: Nebraska opened applications for a Workforce Retention & Attraction Grant, and Scooter’s Coffee broke ground on a $40M Nebraska distribution facility. Community & Safety: Holiday heat and smoke pushed Lincoln to expand cooling options, while boaters got reminders ahead of the July 4 weekend.

Cybersecurity: A large password-spray campaign tied to LSHIY LLC hit Microsoft 365, with researchers reporting 81 million login attempts and at least 78 confirmed account compromises across 64 organizations. Local Infrastructure: Omaha crews begin work on a South Omaha plaza project, backed by a $25 million state grant, with new public space features and replacement parking plans. Public Safety: Seward County investigators identified two juveniles behind TikTok threat videos involving Centennial Public Schools; the account is banned and no active threat was found. Health Watch: Lincoln health officials detected the rare Jamestown Canyon virus in local mosquitoes, urging residents to keep protecting themselves from bites. Fire Update: The Log Road Fire near Harrison remains at about 1,500 acres with 0% containment; Gov. Pillen issued a disaster declaration and the National Guard is supporting water drops. Nebraska Policy: Gov. Pillen approved permanent medical marijuana regulations after AG Hilgers signed off, setting the rules for registered cannabis establishments. Community & Economy: Lake Mac Casino in Ogallala added live table games ahead of the 2026 racing weekend.

Nebraska Agriculture: UNL ag economist Brad Lubben says today’s high input costs mean farmers may need to rethink risk management, since forward pricing and “rules of thumb” fertilizer rates can break down when crop-to-input price relationships shift. Regional Economy: Creighton’s Mid-America Business Conditions Index rose above growth-neutral for a fifth straight month, with manufacturing improving slowly even as job losses remain weak. Holiday Planning: Nebraska State Historical Society sites will offer free admission Saturday, July 4, with activities at places like Chimney Rock, the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln, and the Norris House in McCook. Education & Youth: Nebraska Educators Rising students and leaders attended the national conference in Portland, Oregon, with thousands of participants focused on leadership and classroom advocacy. Cybersecurity: A password-spray campaign hit Microsoft Azure CLI sign-ins, compromising dozens of accounts across many organizations. Public Safety: Nebraska State Patrol checked alcohol sales at Nebraskaland Days in Lincoln County; two businesses sold to a minor, for an 83% compliance rate. Local Governance: MAPA is seeking public comment on transportation projects for federal funding, covering FY 2027–2032.

Nebraska Cannabis Rules: Nebraska AG Mike Hilgers signed off that the Medical Cannabis Commission’s regulations are constitutional, clearing the way for Gov. Jim Pillen to review before temporary rules expire July 15. Trans Sports & Ballot Drive: After the U.S. Supreme Court upheld state bans on transgender girls and women in sports, Nebraska’s Fairness for Girls initiative turned in 211,000 signatures—an all-time high—aiming to enshrine the policy in the state constitution. Immigration Courtroom Fallout: A Lincoln immigration lawyer said Nebraskans are celebrating the Supreme Court’s birthright citizenship ruling, while GOP leaders criticized it and warned of future legislative fights. Rural Health Watch: Rural hospitals are bracing for “seismic” Medicaid changes, with Medicaid cuts expected to hit facilities that rely on the program for a big share of revenue. Local Economy: Omaha’s Airport Business Park is landing its first major tenant: Pacific Engineering Inc., planning 150 jobs. Fire Safety: CHI Health urged Nebraskans to be careful with July 4 fireworks, noting burn injuries are common and the state’s burn unit is ready. Community Calendar: Cornhusker State Games registration deadline is Wednesday for July 9–19 events across Omaha and Lincoln.

Agriculture & Energy: Rural Nebraskans are looking at agrivoltaics—dual-use solar that can grow crops, graze livestock, and add pollinator habitat—so solar development doesn’t have to mean taking land out of production. State Courts & Health Care: Three Nebraska mothers are challenging the state’s ban on nurse midwives assisting in home births, arguing it violates constitutional protections for religious freedom and personal childbirth decisions. Local Economy: Omaha’s airport business park cleared a major milestone with Pacific Engineering landing as the first major tenant, targeting 150 jobs over five years. Higher Education Policy: The Trump administration finalized new federal student-loan rules that tie colleges’ eligibility to how much graduates earn after school. Nebraska Medicine Governance: UNL Regents approved a temporary governance setup for Nebraska Medicine starting July 1, with equal voting representation from UNL and the Omaha Community Foundation. Public Safety: AAA is launching its “Tow to Go” program for Independence Day, offering a free ride for impaired drivers and their vehicles across Nebraska and nearby areas. Weather: A dangerous heat wave is building across much of the Heartland ahead of July 4, with officials urging precautions.