Nebraska Farm Bureau Advances Priorities, Protects Ag Interests at Capitol

Nebraska Farm Bureau Advances Priorities, Protects Ag Interests at Capitol

Nebraska farmers and ranchers saw meaningful policy victories this legislative session, thanks in large part to the advocacy of Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB). From protecting property tax relief to preserving the state's livestock brand system and strengthening agricultural data privacy,the organization delivered results that reinforce the value of membership.

Despite a challenging budget environment, one of the most significant outcomes was the protection of property tax credits. As lawmakers worked through significant cuts, Farm Bureau ensured that relief for property taxpayers, including farmers and ranchers, remained intact and positioned to grow.

"This session proved how critical it is to have a strong,unified voice for agriculture at the Capitol," said Bruce Rieker, senior director of state legislative affairs. "Even in a tight budget year, we were able to protect key priorities and advance policies that will benefit farm and ranch families for years to come."

Livestock producers also benefited from Farm Bureau's leadership on updates to the Livestock Brand Act under LB 1187. The organization successfully opposed efforts to make the brand inspection program voluntary, preserving a system critical to protecting livestock ownership and preventing theft. The bill includes practical updates such as a modest increase in inspection fees and streamlined travel charges to ensure long-term sustainability of the program.

"A strong brand inspection system is foundational to Nebraska's cattle industry," Rieker said. "Maintaining its integrity was a top priority for our members, and we're pleased to have delivered."

Another major win came with the passage of LB 525,establishing clear protection for agricultural data. The law ensures farmers and ranchers retain ownership and control of their operational data, requiring companies to obtain written consent before accessing or using it. It also prohibits the sale of raw data without producer approval and mandates strong security standards for those handling sensitive information.

"In today's digital agriculture landscape, data is just as valuable as land or equipment," Rieker said. "This law puts control where it belongs, with the producer, and provides peace of mind in an increasingly data-driven industry."

In addition, LB 663 was signed into law, bringing greater consistency and accountability to local zoning decisions. The measure requires training for county officials involved in zoning, helping ensure decisions are based on sound legal understanding and fairness.

NEFB helped to ensure that more working families can afford quality child care and stay in the workforce by advocating for LB 304, which eliminates the end date for Nebraska's participation in the federal Child Care Subsidy program. Without it, eligibility would have dropped later this year,cutting off thousands of Nebraskans from the child care they rely on to go to work and provide for their families.

Farm Bureau also played defense this session, by raising the alarm on a proposal that would have merged the Legislature's Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. The bill raised concerns about weakening agriculture's voice in policy making, and ultimately, no action was taken.

"These outcomes don't happen by accident," Rieker said."They are the result of engaged members, clear policy direction, and consistent advocacy. That's the value of being part of Nebraska Farm Bureau."

From advancing proactive legislation to stopping harmful proposals, this session underscored the NEFB's role as a leading voice for Nebraska agriculture, delivering results that matter on the farm and ranch.

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