I hope the Labor Day holiday brings you all a well-deserved break. It is a chance to celebrate the contributions of hardworking Nebraskans across our state, so cheers to you. Whether you spend time with family and friends, enjoy local events, or simply relax, I wish you a happy and safe Labor Day.

This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development (BILLD) in Madison, Wisconsin, alongside 38 other legislators from the Midwest and Canada. The institute offered training focused on policy development that should prove helpful to Nebraskans. Sessions covered how legislatures can maintain strength under pressure, how courts interpret the laws we pass, and the crucial balance between process and politics in statehouses across the Nation. I look forward to applying the skills and insights gained in Madison to my work on behalf of Nebraska.

On Monday, August 25th, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen held a signing ceremony for LB 530, a new criminal justice initiative. This legislative package introduces reforms for juvenile offenders, including provisions that allow for the detention of children as young as 11 in limited, but necessary circumstances. Additionally, it grants law enforcement access to sealed records related to juvenile gun crimes and imposes stricter penalties for offenses involving fentanyl. I support this legislation because it provides the tools necessary to address the growing trend of serious offenses committed by younger youth, strengthens public safety, and ensures that our justice system can respond effectively to the most serious cases while working toward rehabilitation where appropriate.

Finally, I want to send my best wishes to all the students, teachers, and school staff of District 43 as they begin a new school year. Our kids and community are our future, and it’s important that we continue to provide support and encouragement.

Thanks for letting me represent you! Your thoughts are really important, and I always want to hear them. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions, concerns, or ideas. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Facebook: Tanya Storer for Legislature; Email: tstorer@ leg.ne.gov; Phone: (402) 471-2628.

Respectfully, Senator Storer