This past week was rooted in the agricultural innovation that drives our state forward as well as legislative action that protects our way of life. It’s a privilege to share some of the highlights from the Capitol and back home in the district.

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend the 2025 AgTech Connect Conference at UNL’s Innovation Campus. Imagine a room buzzing with producers, tech startups, investors, and industry leaders, all focused on the future of agriculture in the Midwest. From showcases of groundbreaking startups to candid discussions with farmers about their real-world challenges, it was a powerful reminder of how collaboration and innovation are key to advancing our agricultural sector. Connecting with so many dedicated individuals who are shaping the future of food and farming was truly invaluable.

This week also saw the signing of two crucial bills that directly reflect priorities I’ve championed: Government accountability and transparency, and keeping my promise to protect Nebraska from petri dish protein. On July 16, Governor Pillen signed LB660, a comprehensive package aimed at boosting transparency and efficiency in state government. I’m particularly proud that my own bill, LB664, was included in this package. This legislation modernizes how the public can engage in agency rulemaking, making it easier to submit comments and legal challenges in your county of residence, reducing travel burdens, and ensuring that agencies genuinely respond to public feedback. Nebraska is a large state and justice should not depend on your zip code. LB660 as a whole is a big step towards a more fiscally responsible and trustworthy government.

On Thursday, July 17, I joined Governor Pillen along with Director Vinton, Sen. Barry DeKay and Sen. Dan McKeon, in O’Neill where the Governor signed LB246 into law, which bans the manufacture, distribution, and sale of lab-grown meat in Nebraska. As a lifelong rancher, I believe wholeheartedly that agriculture is the backbone of our state. While I typically favor regulation over outright bans, the reality is that lab-grown meat currently lacks sufficient safety data, with federal approvals relying heavily on company-funded research. We simply don’t know the long-term health or environmental impacts of these synthetic proteins. LB246 is about protecting Nebraska agriculture, our producers, and the safety of our food supply. I am proud to stand behind Nebraska, the Beef State!

Serving this region continues to be both a privilege and a profound responsibility. Every visit, every conversation, deepens my understanding of the challenges and strengths within our communities. Your ideas, concerns, and perspectives are not just welcome— they are absolutely crucial in guiding our collaborative efforts to build a stronger Nebraska. Please don't hesitate to reach out.

Respectfully, Senator Storer