Although the session has adjourned, work at the Capitol continues through interim studies. These studies allow senators and committees to take a deeper look at issues that may lead to legislation in future sessions. Any senator or committee can introduce a study resolution, which is then assigned by the Executive Board to the appropriate standing committee or, in some cases, to a select interim committee if the issue falls outside a standing committee’s jurisdiction.

Committee chairs then prioritize the studies assigned to them.

By December 1, standing and select interim committees submit their reports to the Executive Board. The research conducted through these studies helps build a strong foundation for informed policymaking. This year, I introduced three interim studies that have each been assigned to various committees, along with a zoning-related study that will involve ongoing collaboration with stakeholders. My office will be assisting with the research for each of these studies. In upcoming editions of this newsletter, I will provide additional context and detail on each of these studies and the policy questions they seek to explore.

It was another eventful week in the district. On Saturday, June 14, I had the honor of presenting a framed Legislative Resolution to Marvel Mills at Brookestone View in Broken Bow. Her husband, Wayne Mills, was honored by the Nebraska Legislature with LR 274 — recognizing his receipt of the “Celebrating 80 Years of Victory” World War II medal. Wayne received the medal in April as part of the state’s initiative to honor living WWII veterans for their service and sacrifice. A decorated veteran, Wayne fought in the Battle of the Bulge, was wounded in combat, and served honorably in Europe before returning home to farm and serve his community. I was saddened that I could not present the resolution to Wayne himself, as he passed away peacefully earlier that same week. His life and legacy reflect the quiet strength and service of a generation that gave so much, both at home and abroad.

On Tuesday, I traveled to Rushville to attend the Sheridan County Board of Commissioners meeting.

On Wednesday, I traveled to Bassett to attend the Ranch Expo where I was able to sit in on a landowner/ producer round table discussion regarding resilient soil health and water management. This was led by the area Natural Resource Districts as part of the work resulting from LB 925, known as the Resilient Soils and Water Quality Act, passed in 2022. It was great visiting with Nebraska Farm Bureau members at their Member Event that evening as well. The Bassett Ranch Expo has a long standing tradition of bringing together services and products from across the state for ranchers to “shop” and provides a welcome late spring outing for neighbors to get together after a season of calving, branding and planting.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent District 43 and appreciate the chance to connect with constituents throughout the interim. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to share your thoughts on legislation, raise a concern, or ask a question. Your input plays a vital role in shaping my work at the Capitol and helps guide the decisions I make. I look forward to hearing from you and continuing our work together in the months ahead.

Respectfully, Senator Storer