August has arrived quickly, and I continue preparing for interim hearings and early discussions about potential legislation for the 2026 session. These hearings are a critical part of understanding the challenges Nebraskans face and shaping effective, responsive policy. This week, I want to highlight LR152, an interim study focused on the real costs Nebraskans incur when complying with state regulations. Whenever a state agency proposes a new rule or amends an existing one, it’s required to provide a fiscal impact statement estimating potential costs to state agencies, political subdivisions, and the public. However a closer look reveals that these statements often claim “no impact” or list the effect on the regulated public as “indeterminate.” I would argue that every regulation/ rule comes with a cost. LR152 raises important questions: Are those estimates accurate? Are businesses and individuals taking on significant compliance costs that aren’t being measured—costs like new reporting requirements or additional education and certification to qualify for a license? The study also asks whether the current process for evaluating these impacts provides enough transparency and accountability. As rules and regulations gave continued to grow, so have concerns about their hidden financial effects. Through LR152, lawmakers hope to better understand those burdens and determine whether stronger legislative oversight is warranted and ultimately a deeper look at eliminating unwarranted regulation. A hearing for LR152 is scheduled for October 3.

Beyond legislative work, this week included several community engagements. On Monday, July 28, I attended the 55th Annual Free Pit BBQ at the Custer County Fairgrounds in Broken Bow. The meal is funded entirely by local donations and serves around 2000 community members each year. It is a true example of commitment to community and giving back!

On Wednesday, July 30, I attended a lunch at the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory as part of the 2025 IANR Roads Scholar Tour. This event brought together new faculty from the University of Nebraska’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), along with university leadership. The laboratory, located right here in our district, plays a vital role in Nebraska’s agricultural research and extension mission. I always welcome the opportunity to help Nebraskans learn more about both the opportunities and challenges here in western Nebraska, and this group was anxious to understand the issues. Later in the week was a meet and greet at BrewBakers in Arnold, followed by a wonderful tour of Arnold with members of the Rotary Club, including the beautiful community run theatre, rv park and museum, which is in progress.

Once again, it is encouraging to see communities like Arnold and Broken Bow, taking pride in their town, problem solving with the future in mind and giving back through volunteerism to make it all happen. True American spirit! I value these opportunities to engage directly with Nebraskans across the district.

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