Issues Important to Nebraskans

Broadband Expansion - There are several new funding streams coming from the Federal government. The State recently received approval from the U.S. Treasury for our plan to use $87.7 million from the Capital Projects Fund for broadband infrastructure.

We’re also receiving funds from three programs under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act:
The Broadband Equity, Access, & Deployment Program. The State has requested $5 million to plan and will receive at least $100 million to implement broadband projects in unserved and underserved areas.
Digital Equity Grants. The State will receive at least $7 million to ensure Nebraskans across the state have the resources they need to be digitally literate and have access to electronic devices.
Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grants. Internet service providers and public power districts can apply for these funds to construct, improve, or acquire broadband infrastructure that does not directly connect to an end-user location such as a household or school (towers, fiber, etc.).
There are a lot of moving pieces as we manage these programs. However, we’re ahead of the game in Nebraska. Unlike many other states, the Legislature has already passed the legislative framework and built the operational processes to manage grant applications and distribute awards.

Expansion of Safe Transportation of Petroleum and Electricity - The Nebraska Economy relies heavily on economical electricity and petroleum to produce the crops and run our industrial base. Safe and affordable expansion of energy transportation is a high priority, and I will be a strong voice in support of safe and responsible expansion to support growth.

Enforcing of the current laws on Public Transportation - Currently Nebraska has a growing problem of Illegal Charter Buses, Party Buses and Limo operators. The Public Service Commission has become far too lax in its duty to Nebraskans in allowing this problem to grow. The threat to the Public is that these folks have no State Authority and thus not the proper insurance. The Legal Transportation Companies that properly follow the rules for mandatory licensing, insurance and inspections are at a financial disadvantage in competing with these illegal operators.
There are several very important issues upcoming regarding Railroad safety. I strongly support two man rail crews in the cabs of locomotives. Redundancy is a critical factor in safety. I will be a knowledgeable voice on the Commission for ALL Transportation entities across Nebraska.

Effective Management of the Commissions budget - As an elected servant of the taxpayers of Nebraska, I will use my management experience and explore opportunities to save dollars and most effectively spend the taxpayers' dollars wisely. I will make an immediate positive impact on the Nebraska Public Service Commission.