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Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012
Nebraskans need tax relief (02/10/12)
Throughout our nation, citizens are focused on one issue -- the economy. One of the best ways to help hard-working, middle class citizens and spur economic development is through tax relief. This year, Nebraska is not the only state focused on tax relief. Kansas, Oklahoma, Idaho, Ohio, Maine, and New Jersey are all debating income-tax cuts this year...
Nebraska Business Hall of Fame (02/03/12)
We have a bold and strategic vision to make Nebraska the ideal place to create jobs and grow a business, the best place to obtain an education for students of all ages, and the perfect place to raise a family. We've made fundamental investments in education and the economic vitality of our state and as a result Nebraska has made significant progress and we have consistently ranked in the top 10 as a business-friendly state...
Growing Nebraska's economy (01/27/12)
We are fortunate in Nebraska to have one of the strongest economies in the country. Our unemployment rate is 4.1% while the national average is more than double at 8.5%. Nebraska is recognized nationally as a top state in which to do business and we continue to grow and create jobs in our state...
E-File this tax season (01/23/12)
It is time to begin thinking about filing your tax returns for tax year 2011 and I want to encourage every Nebraskan to consider filing their individual income taxes electronically. E-filing is a convenient and secure way to file state and federal taxes. I also want to encourage taxpayers who are making state income tax payments, including estimated income tax, to use the state's electronic payment program located at www.revenue.ne.gov...
Middle class tax relief (01/13/12)
I'm proud of you and our citizens for your input, your insight and your leadership. Every day I am proud to be the Governor of this great State and as I enter my eighth year as Governor of Nebraska, I am more determined than ever to keep Nebraska moving forward and to address the key challenges of today...
2011 in review (12/30/11)
The new year presents the opportunity to reflect upon the important issues that have been addressed during the past year. In 2011, Nebraska has been able to build upon the momentum we were experiencing regarding job creation, education, public safety and growing Nebraska's innovation economy...
Keeping Nebraskans safe (12/16/11)
Beginning January 1, Nebraska will have a new drunk driving law that forces offenders to choose an administrative license revocation hearing or apply for an ignition interlock permit. Through the passage of LB 667, we have found a way to ensure public safety with effective monitoring of individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), by allowing them to install an ignition lock device in their vehicles. ...
Reading assessment results (12/08/11)
The State of Nebraska began statewide reading assessments two years ago so that parents, citizens, school boards, superintendents, principals, teachers and elected officials could compare results from one district to another. This data can be very helpful in improving both student and school academic achievement performance...
Common sense solution (11/23/11)
The special session of the Nebraska Legislature is over and Nebraska now has an oil pipeline siting process. I signed LB 1 and LB 4 into law on Tuesday, Nov. 22. LB 4 will address the circumstances that exist regarding the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline. The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality will now work with the U.S. Department of State to develop a Memorandum of Understanding on how to move forward...
A safe holiday season (11/18/11)
My wife and I recently attended the Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) news conference to kick off their annual "Tie One On for Safety" campaign. The purpose of this campaign is for citizens to tie a red ribbon on their car antenna as a commitment to prevent drunk driving. I appreciate the work of MADD and all of our safety partners who encourage every Nebraskan to celebrate the holiday season by staying safe and sober...
Honoring our veterans (11/04/11)
Veterans Day is November 11th and it is an opportunity to honor and remember those who have served our state and our country in uniform. As we observe Veterans Day, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our veterans for their service. We're proud of these men and women and their families for what they have done for us...
Protecting Nebraska's natural resources (10/28/11)
For several months now, our state has had an ongoing conversation and discussion about the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline, currently planned to cross Nebraska's most precious water resource, the Ogallala Aquifer. As you can imagine, Nebraskans have very strong opinions on this issue, and I appreciate Nebraskans willingness to share their opinions with me...
Nebraska Internship Program (10/14/11)
Today, I am providing you with information on another program from the Talent and Innovation Initiative. The Nebraska Internship Program (InternNE) is an important component of Nebraska's strategic economic plan and is designed to enhance technology and innovation, and assure a technology-focused workforce for Nebraska companies...
2011 leaders in Workplace Wellness (09/30/11)
Recently, we recognized several Nebraska employers for their efforts to promote wellness at work. In 2008, we developed an award to highlight successful workplace wellness programs. Now in its fourth year, the Governor's Excellence in Wellness Awards will honor 28 winners this year...
A salute to Nebraska's National Guard (09/19/11)
This past week we observed the 10-year anniversary of the 9-11 attacks. Prior to the start of the "Guardians of Freedom" airshow, the names of 14 Nebraska Army National Guard Soldiers were read followed by a moment of silence. These were active duty individuals who died of either combat or non-combat related injuries since 9-11...
The world comes to Nebraska (09/09/11)
Nebraska is open for business and ready to meet and exceed the expectations of anyone interested in doing business throughout our state. As Governor, I have focused on international trade, direct investment and the creation of new export opportunities. That was our focus for Nebraska's second Reverse Trade Mission...
State technology update (09/02/11)
One of my key priorities is to develop a more efficient government through greater use of technology. I want to highlight several successful technology projects that have helped Nebraskans access their state government in a more efficient manner. Our goal is to provide improved access, increased accountability, greater efficiency and lower costs...
Nebraska ranks high nationally (08/26/11)
Our state is receiving national attention for the sound and responsible fiscal policies that have put Nebraska in better shape than most of America. Our numbers and rankings are a strong indication that we are on the right track. Nebraska has the second lowest unemployment rate in America at 4.1%...
Back to school (08/12/11)
It's "back to school" time. Whether you are an educator, parent of a school age child or a student yourself, you are keenly aware that summer vacation is about to come to an end. We have made it a priority to invest in Nebraska's young people by strengthening Nebraska's education system and growing educational opportunities...
Celebrating the agriculture outlook (08/08/11)
The headline on the front page of the July 11, 2011, Time magazine was intriguing: "Want to Make More Than a Banker? Become A Farmer!" I was very proud of our state when I read the story and found Nebraskan John Willoughby and his farm as the photo backdrop for the piece. The article featured a discussion on the profitability of agriculture, and talked about what that has meant for our state...
Enjoy Nebraska's county fairs (07/18/11)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Summer is a great time to connect with the fairs and festivals held across our state. Nebraska's county fairs offer an outstanding opportunity to showcase the best of our state and highlight the agricultural heritage, achievements and talents of Nebraska producers, youth and hobbyists...
Get to know the Nebraska Board of Parole (07/08/11)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: I would like to introduce another one of Nebraska's state agencies, the Board of Parole. While it is a small agency, it plays an important role in our criminal justice system. The Board of Parole was established in Nebraska more than 40 years ago and is headed by Chairperson Esther L. ...
Bringing the world to Nebraska (07/01/11)
In two months, Nebraska will be hosting international business leaders and trade partners from several nations as they travel to our state for Nebraska's second Reverse Trade Mission. This event presents an opportunity to bring the world to Nebraska...
Nebraska adopting new drunk driving laws (06/20/11)
This week I want to highlight two measures approved during the 2011 legislative session to update Nebraska's drunk driving laws. Both bills represent a common sense approach to dealing with the challenges presented by motorists who choose to drive drunk...
Flood update (06/13/11)
I want to share an update on the flood situation that is threatening many communities across our state. Communities along the Missouri River, from Niobrara, to South Sioux City, Blair, Fort Calhoun, Omaha, Bellevue, Plattsmouth, Nebraska City, all the way to Falls City and Rulo, are being affected...
Talent & Innovation Initiative now law (06/07/11)
One of the most important accomplishments of the recently concluded 2011 legislative session was the passage of several bills focused on creating new momentum for developing and attracting businesses rooted in technology and innovation. The Legislature gave unanimous support to four proposals that I proposed as part of our Talent & Innovation Initiative. ...
Get out and explore Nebraska with 2011 Passport (05/26/11)
This is a good time to make plans to explore Nebraska, and the 2011 Nebraska Passport is a good way to get started. The passport program highlights Nebraska's unique attractions and offers travelers a range of activities and places to visit during peak summer travel season...
Buckle up for safety (05/19/11)
With Memorial Day approaching and the start of the summer travel season, I want to urge every single Nebraskan to buckle up every time you get into a vehicle. Whether we are running an errand, picking up kids from school, commuting to or from work, or heading out for a family vacation, we have a responsibility to buckle our seat belt and ensure our passengers do the same each time we get in a car or truck...
Advancing college access and success in Nebraska (05/16/11)
I was pleased to join a number of education leaders and others interested in creating opportunities for more Nebraska students to pursue higher education at the Nebraska College Access Summit. We want to provide our kids the best education that we can and prepare them to compete in a knowledge-based, technology driven, global, free-market economy. ...
Recognizing outstanding student performance (05/06/11)
In the Class of 2011, 16 Nebraska students earned a perfect ACT score and one earned a perfect SAT score. They represent Nebraska's best and brightest young people. Nebraska's Commissioner of Education, Dr. Roger Breed, and I hosted ceremonies to recognize these graduating high school seniors...
Get to know the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services (04/29/11)
I want to highlight the work done by the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services (DAS), which plays an important role in organizing and maintaining the resources of state government. The department serves as a central point of contact supporting the work of state agencies...
Honoring conservation (04/22/11)
I was very pleased to join with the Nebraska Cattlemen and the Sand County Foundation in announcing the recipient of the 2011 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award ahead of Earth Day. The award is presented to private landowners who practice responsible land stewardship and management. It recognizes the important role private landowners play in caring for the land, water and wildlife in our state. It honors a commitment to stewardship...
New business mentorship efforts (04/15/11)
Recently, I joined with business and development officials from the public and private sector in announcing a new partnership created to help strengthen Nebraska small businesses and startup enterprises through mentorship. This mentorship effort is aimed at creating a new generation of homegrown business success stories in Nebraska...
Promoting Nebraska's outdoor adventures (04/08/11)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Six years ago we began a new event designed to help a growing segment of small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed in our state. Tourism is a leading industry in Nebraska and holds significant potential for additional growth, particularly in the sector of the tour and travel industry known as agri- and eco-tourism...
April is Donate Life Month (04/04/11)
I want to highlight an important cause this week. April is Donate Life Month, which presents an opportunity to reflect on one of the most selfless gifts a person and a family can give... life. Donate Life Month is a national observance that helps increase awareness of the potential for organ, cornea and tissue donations to save lives...
Reading assessment results (03/25/11)
This past year, Nebraska schools began to administer statewide reading tests. For the first time ever, Nebraskans will be able to compare their school district with other districts in the state. Known as the Nebraska State Accountability (NeSA) Reading Assessment, it was taken by students in grades three through three through eight and high school juniors. I want to focus on the results of our high schools...
Get to know the office of the Chief Information Officer (03/14/11)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: I want to highlight the work done by the Office of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) on behalf of state government. This agency is responsible for deploying technology that helps state agencies take advantage of premier information technology (IT), communications and online services. Their work requires close collaboration with all agencies of state government, the University of Nebraska and other educational organizations, and technology providers across Nebraska...
Agriculture conference highlights opportunities (03/04/11)
This week I joined with farmers, ranchers, agribusiness leaders, and policy makers to celebrate the accomplishments and future outlook for Nebraska agriculture. The Governor's Ag Conference is one of my favorite annual agriculture events because it serves as a venue for frank discussion and dialogue about how our state's number one industry has fared in the past year and what we can look forward to in the coming year...
Nebraska Advantage progress report (02/28/11)
Five years ago, a new package of economic incentives known as the Nebraska Advantage went into effect that has helped attract outstanding new business opportunities to Nebraska while helping existing businesses expand. We worked closely with the Legislature to develop and pass legislation creating the Nebraska Advantage, which was the first comprehensive update to Nebraska's economic incentives since the mid 1980's. Our goal was to stimulate statewide economic development and job creation...
A new wireless radio network for first responders (02/21/11)
I'm pleased to share the news that Nebraska has accomplished a goal that we have been working toward for more than a decade -- to build a new statewide wireless radio system to enhance public safety. I was excited to celebrate the final piece of this new state wireless radio network recently with first responders from a number of state agencies. ...
Invitation to attend 2011 Governor's Ag Conference (02/07/11)
I want to invite agricultural producers and those connected to Nebraska's agriculture industry to take part in our 23rd annual Governor's Ag Conference. The conference will be held Tuesday and Wednesday, March 1 and 2 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Kearney. ...
A commitment to education (01/31/11)
I want to focus this week on several proposals aimed at strengthening education in Nebraska. These proposals are focused on creating new opportunities for students and accelerating Nebraska's potential to attract research and development projects. I have recommended directing $8.5 million to the development of a virtual high school for Nebraska students. ...
The talent and innovation initiative (01/24/11)
I want to highlight a series of legislative proposals designed to advance business innovation and workforce recruitment efforts in Nebraska. The four legislative bills making up my Talent and Innovation Initiative were introduced in the Nebraska Legislature last week as part of my budget recommendations...
Setting priorities in a new budget (01/17/11)
I want to share with you details of the budget recommendations for FY 2012 and 13. I recently proposed a balanced budget without raising taxes. Additionally, I've proposed several job and education-related investments aimed at enhancing Nebraska's economic momentum...
Nebraska recognized for workplace wellness (01/07/11)
We have good news to share about the state's wellness program. This year, the State of Nebraska will receive the Well Workplace Award presented by the Wellness Council of America for its wellness program for state employees. Nebraska is one of only two state governments to win the award...
Merry Christmas and happy holidays (12/23/10)
As Nebraskans prepare to celebrate the holidays with family and friends, I want to acknowledge a special group of families in our state. More than 1,000 Nebraska National Guard personnel are among those serving our nation this Christmas overseas. I ask Nebraskans to please keep all of those serving in the armed forces in their thoughts this holiday season, in particular the families of soldiers with the 192nd Military Police Detachment providing security in Iraq, the 67th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade serving in Iraq, and Charlie company of the 2-135th General Support Aviation Battalion who will soon be providing aerial evacuation and medical attention for troops in Iraq.. ...
An invitation to celebrate Nebraska (12/17/10)
Sally and I recently announced our preliminary plans for the 2011 Inauguration. I want to extend a personal invitation to all Nebraskans to be part of our Inaugural celebrations. For this inauguration, we are creating the opportunity for more Nebraskans to take part in the celebration by holding four Inaugural events in Scottsbluff-Gering, Grand Island, Lincoln, and Omaha in early January...
Road safety progress (12/10/10)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: I want to focus this week on road safety. Regardless of whether it is the daily commute to and from work or school, or a special trip to visit friends and relatives, the message of road safety is particularly important during this time of year. Accidents are a reality on our nation's roadways. The potential for getting into an accident exists even when we take the proper precautions and do all the right things...
An update on state and national education initiatives (11/26/10)
Today I want to provide an update on Nebraska's P-16 Initiative that is working to strengthen our education system in Nebraska from preschool through high school and four years of college. I serve as chair of the P-16 Initiative with four key state education leaders serving as co-chairs, including: State Sen. ...
2010 leaders in parental involvement (11/19/10)
This week, two Nebraska school districts were recognized as leaders for their efforts to engage parents in their child's education. The Blair Community Schools and the Gothenburg Public School District were honored as the 2010 recipients of the Governor's Education Initiative Award for Parental Involvement...
Employment services for Nebraska veterans (11/12/10)
Having recently marked Veterans Day, I want to highlight one area of support state government provides to veterans and military personnel in Nebraska. One of the responsibilities of the Nebraska Department of Labor is working with veterans and military personnel transitioning to the civilian workforce access training and employment opportunities...
Get to know the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs (11/10/10)
With Veterans Day approaching, I want to focus this week on an agency that works closely with veterans in our state. The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs serves over 150,000 military veterans each year in our state. The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs assists veterans and their families in acquiring the state and federal benefits they are entitled to through their service in the U.S. ...
Global dry bean promotions help Nebraska farmers (11/01/10)
Dear Friends: Nebraska businesses operate in a global marketplace. In 2009 Nebraska companies exported $4.8 billion in products, with businesses in Canada, Mexico, Japan and China our leading customers. When I traveled to Asia in 2007, I was amazed by the opportunities for our state's businesses. I came away convinced that with targeted outreach and collaboration, Nebraska could continue to increase its share of the global marketplace...
Statewide radio network nearing completion (10/22/10)
This week I was joined by state emergency personnel and officials with the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) to mark the completion of the third phase of a new wireless radio network being built in our state. The statewide wireless radio project involves numerous state public safety agencies and NPPD, the state's largest power provider. ...
The value of parent-teacher conferences (10/15/10)
I want to encourage parents to attend their children's parent-teacher conferences. Many schools hold parent-teacher conferences early the fall, typically during the month of October. One of the most important things we can do for our children is to attend these meetings...
Harvest time in Nebraska (10/11/10)
The fall harvest season is in full swing and Nebraska's farm families are putting in long hours to bring in what is expected to be record and near-record crops for many commodities. I had an opportunity to visit with many producers recently when I spent a day last month at Husker Harvest Days. The event is a tradition for many Nebraska farmers and ranchers. It attracts producers and exhibitors from across the country...
Go visit college (10/07/10)
The leaders of the Nebraska P-16 Initiative are promoting the value of a college campus visit as a way to encourage Nebraska students to attend college. I chair the P-16 Initiative and my co-chairs are J.B. Milliken, President of the University of Nebraska; Commissioner of Education, Dr. Roger Breed; state Senator Greg Adams, Chairman of the Education Committee; and Liz Koop, President and CEO of EducationQuest Foundation...
An update on the Nebraska Advantage (09/27/10)
I want to share an update on an initiative that has been an outstanding asset to our business development efforts in the last few years. I worked with the Legislature to develop the Nebraska Advantage in 2005. It was the first comprehensive update to Nebraska's business incentives program since the 1980s...
A roadmap for Nebraska's future economic growth (09/20/10)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Recently we unveiled the findings of a study that provided a detailed look at Nebraska's business climate. The report was compiled by the country's foremost researchers of innovation and research. The study recommended strategies to capitalize on existing resources in our state...
Economic development partners: The Nebraska Diplomats (09/13/10)
I want to highlight an organization that plays an important role in our business recruitment efforts here in Nebraska. The Nebraska Diplomats is the largest economic development organization in Nebraska with more than 375 business and community leaders from across the state...
Nebraska State Fair: A grand affair begins in Grand Island (08/27/10)
The new Nebraska State Fair is off and running in Grand Island. We celebrate a historic milestone for our state as the 2010 State Fair opens in a brand new location with new facilities and a community ready to roll out the welcome mat. This year's celebration marks the 141st Nebraska State Fair...
Medicaid costs to soar under federal health care law (08/20/10)
Since the passage of the federal health care law, I have been concerned about the cost of this law and in particular its impact on the State of Nebraska in future years. We recently asked an expert, independent firm to assess the provisions of the law. The results of their analysis are staggering...
Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance (08/09/10)
From 1941 through 1945, our nation was engaged in the most expansive war this world has ever known. Nebraskans were called to duty so that our country would never experience the devastation that war had brought to Europe and Asia. On the home front, military bases were constructed in several communities throughout our state so that young men and women could be trained in the military skills necessary to defeat the tyranny we faced in World War II...
An Outstanding Example of Health Information Technology (08/01/10)
I was in Hastings this week to offer my congratulations to Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital on joining the Nebraska Health Information Initiative -- better known as NeHII -- earlier this year. NeHII is a statewide health information exchange connecting electronic medical records and allowing participating medical providers to access that data quickly and securely...
Enjoy your county fair (07/23/10)
LINCOLN, Nebraska -- Nebraska fairs and festivals showcase the best of Nebraska. Every summer Nebraskans have the opportunity to join together for fun and fellowship as they celebrate our state's agricultural heritage and achievements at county fairs all across Nebraska...
Historic Nebraska National Guard mobilizations (07/16/10)
This week I want to spotlight a very special group of Nebraskans: the men and women of the Nebraska Army and Air National Guard. We are in the midst of a very busy and demanding period of time for the Nebraska National Guard. Over the next 12 to 24 months, the men and women of our Nebraska National Guard will be writing another historic chapter to their already impressive legacy of service to their state and nation as they mobilize and deploy again overseas in support of the United States of America.. ...
2010 National Special Olympics in Nebraska (07/11/10)
Nebraska will make history this summer by hosting the largest sporting event ever held in our state. We have been honored to host the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games, July 18-23 in Lincoln. The week-long event showcases the Special Olympics movement with 13 sporting competitions and programs in health, wellness and education. ...
Update on wind development in Nebraska (07/02/10)
Nebraska has a rich history with wind energy. Nebraskans have been pioneering wind energy since the late 1800s when homesteaders settled the rugged prairie landscape by harnessing the wind to pump water for their homes and livestock. Thousands of windmills still decorate the rolling hills of Nebraska's rangelands and stand in testimony to the legacy of wind energy in Nebraska...
The Republican River Basin Task Force (06/25/10)
Water is the issue of the decade. It is an absolutely critical issue for our state because of the impact water has on agriculture and economic development. There is increasing competition for water and yet our supply has not increased. The water issue is complex, complicated and challenging. It is very important that all parties work together for the overall best interests of Nebraska...
Get to know the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (06/18/10)
Over the last year, I have shared columns with you about the work of state agencies. This is the twelfth column in the "Get to Know" sequence. This week's article is about an agency that is essential in our response to challenges we face in emergency scenarios...
Cornhusker Boys and Girls State (06/11/10)
I want to highlight a great tradition that takes place each year in June in our capital city as hundreds of our state's most distinguished young leaders meet on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus for an exercise in democracy. The annual meeting of Cornhusker Boys State and Cornhusker Girls State were held this week. These programs are sponsored by The American Legion to provide young leaders with the first hand experience of forming and governing in a democracy...
Conservation efforts in Nebraska (06/07/10)
This spring I had the pleasure of meeting a family that is helping conserve the wide open spaces, ranch and farm land that are part of Nebraska's natural resources. Each year, the Nebraska Cattlemen join with the Sand County Foundation in honoring the work of a private landowner involved in caring for the land, water and wildlife in this state. ...
Expanding access to virtual education (05/28/10)
One of the most important investments Nebraskans can make in themselves is to increase their level of education. Jobs are increasingly requiring education beyond high school, and as a state we must be able to offer prospective employers a well-educated workforce. We have an obligation to prepare our students for the challenges of the knowledge-based, technology-driven economy...
Saluting Nebraska's National Guard on Memorial Day (05/24/10)
As we observe Memorial Day this year, I would like to ask all Nebraskans to take a moment reflect upon the sacrifices made by the men and women of our Nebraska National Guard, and the excellent work they are doing on our behalf. This is historically a time to remember and honor the sacrifices of our state's fallen service members...
Saluting Nebraska's National Guard on Memorial Day (05/21/10)
As we observe Memorial Day this year, I would like to ask all Nebraskans to take a moment reflect upon the sacrifices made by the men and women of our Nebraska National Guard, and the excellent work they are doing on our behalf. This is historically a time to remember and honor the sacrifices of our state's fallen service members...
Recognizing outstanding Nebraska students (05/19/10)
I want to highlight the accomplishments of some students I've had the pleasure of meeting during special events this week. They represent some of the outstanding young people in our state who have distinguished themselves both in and out of the classroom...
Recognizing outstanding Nebraska students (05/14/10)
I want to highlight the accomplishments of some students I've had the pleasure of meeting during special events this week. They represent some of the outstanding young people in our state who have distinguished themselves both in and out of the classroom...
Biotech industry growing in Nebraska (05/07/10)
I was joined this week by University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken in a recruitment visit that was part of the 2010 BIO International Convention held in Chicago. A growing segment of our economy consists of specialized companies in the biosciences field. These are the high tech, research-driven fields producing biofuels, pharmaceuticals and vaccines for humans and animals, robotics, and testing equipment used in research labs around the world...
Renew your drivers license online (04/30/10)
I am pleased to share with you the latest online service offered by state government. Nebraskans can now renew their driver license online through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Anyone who meets certain eligibility requirements can renew their driver license, motorcycle license or state ID card once every 10 years. ...
Crime Commission (04/27/10)
The Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice was established in 1969. Better known as the Nebraska Crime Commission, it is lead by Mike Behm and today serves as an umbrella agency for criminal justice programs in the state. The main responsibilities of the Crime Commission include overseeing the training of Nebraska's law enforcement officers and administering state and federal grants for criminal justice and crime victims programs. ...
Get to know the Nebraska Crime Commission (04/23/10)
The Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice was established in 1969. Better known as the Nebraska Crime Commission, it is lead by Mike Behm and today serves as an umbrella agency for criminal justice programs in the state. The main responsibilities of the Crime Commission include overseeing the training of Nebraska's law enforcement officers and administering state and federal grants for criminal justice and crime victims programs. ...
2010 legislative session concludes (04/16/10)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: The 2010 legislative session concluded this week at the State Capitol and I want to highlight some of the progress and accomplishments achieved in the last few months. We are in an exceptional and enviable position in comparison to other states. ...
Nebraska moving up in national rankings (04/09/10)
This week, I want to highlight some of the areas where Nebraska's continued success is generating national attention for our cities and the state. Nebraska moved up in the most recent Forbes scoring of the 'Best States for Business.' The low cost of doing business and the quality of life factors increased Nebraska's ranking to ninth in 2009...
Get to know the Nebraska DMV (04/05/10)
For many Nebraskans, two of the most important functions of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) involve maintaining driver records and vehicle records in Nebraska. The department is responsible for issuing licenses and maintaining records for all drivers, in addition to commercial truck drivers and individuals seeking a state ID card...
Be counted in 2010 census (03/29/10)
I am writing this week to encourage Nebraskans to be counted in the 2010 Census by taking a few minutes to complete the Census questionnaires sent to you recently. Mandated by the U.S. Constitution and conducted once every 10 years, the Census is an important tool that tracks changes in our state and U.S population. In addition to counting households, it provides the basic data that helps cities and states assess current and future needs...
Nebraska technology accomplishments (03/22/10)
I want to highlight several successful projects launched in the last year that have helped more Nebraskans access their state government and put more efficient operations in place for state workers. Our goal is to provide improved access, increased accountability and transparency, while also resulting in greater efficiency and lower costs...
The value of agriculture (03/15/10)
In recognition of the agriculture industry's contributions to our state, I am declaring March 14 to 20 as Nebraska Ag Week. A strong rural background is the foundation of our state and a rich mix of natural resources helped establish Nebraska as a strong agricultural state...
Report from Governor's Ag Conference (03/08/10)
At the 22nd Annual Governor's Ag Conference, several presenters from Nebraska and other states offered insight about the future of the agriculture. Speakers included Darci Vetter, a native Nebraskan who serves as a Deputy Undersecretary with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Her comments provided an update on federal efforts to expand trade opportunities in 2010 by focusing on three free trade agreements ready for approval by President Obama and Congress...
The value of Nebraska's state colleges (03/01/10)
This week, I'd like to highlight the work of our Nebraska State College System. These colleges offer a great value in higher education. The system consists of three colleges located in Chadron, Peru and Wayne. The Nebraska State College System began in 1861, the same year as Nebraska was admitted to the Union, as a resource to prepare teachers for their careers in the classroom. ...
Get to know the Nebraska Department of Roads (02/22/10)
This week, I'd like to share information with you about the Nebraska Department of Roads and what the department does for you and our state. The Department of Roads provides a valuable service to citizens and thousands of travelers each day in Nebraska...
E-file your taxes (02/12/10)
By now, you should have received your 2009 tax information. I want to encourage Nebraskans to file their individual income taxes electronically this year. Electronic filing, better known as e-filing, is convenient and secure. This option provides a speedy refund, reduces the risk of errors and offers confirmation that your return has been filed and received...
Be a part of Governor's Ag Conference (02/08/10)
Be Part of Governor's Ag Conference By Governor Dave Heineman February 5, 2010 Dear Fellow Nebraskans: I want to share a preview of what you can expect at the 2010 Governor's Ag Conference. The 22nd annual conference will be held March 3- 4 in Kearney. The theme of the event is "Nebraska Agriculture: Your Industry. Your Story. Your Future."...
Nebraska's Gold Star families (02/01/10)
Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Recently I had the honor of presenting the first Gold Star Family license plates to two families that lost sons while serving in Iraq. These Gold Star parents were instrumental in creating a license plate to remember Nebraska's fallen heroes...
A vision for strengthening education (01/25/10)
Nebraska was among 40 states to recently submit an application to the U.S. Department of Education for a portion of the federal Race to the Top funding available to help states advance academic learning. Nebraska's proposal was developed by my office along with Commissioner of Education, Dr. ...
Three priorities for 2010 (01/20/10)
As we enter a new decade, we have the opportunity to reflect on accomplishments made in the last few years and take our first steps toward new endeavors. In my State of the State address, I said that we have worked hard these past few years to position Nebraska as an attractive place to live and do business...
Get to know the division of public health (01/11/10)
One of the key responsibilities of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is to help ensure our state's nearly 1.8 million people are safe and healthy. This is the mission of the Division of Public Health. The efforts of public health experts over the last century have added 30 years to the life of Nebraskans. In 1900, the average age at death was 48. Today the average life expectancy has reached 78...
Get to know the Division of Veterans Homes (12/24/09)
Providing quality care and services for Nebraska's veterans is the top priority of the Division of Veterans Homes. Nebraska operates four homes in communities across the state providing a comfortable place for many of our national heroes to call home...
Online services (12/18/09)
Providing services that help residents and businesses access the services they need is a central part of Nebraska's digital online strategy. The state website, Nebraska.gov, provides a vast array of information and online services, which offer added convenience for users and help state agencies work more efficiently...
VINE marks 10 years in Nebraska (12/14/09)
Ten years ago this week, a new service launched in Nebraska aimed at providing peace of mind for the victims of violent crime. Launched in 1999, VINE, which stands for Victim Information and Notification Everyday, alerts Nebraskans to changes in an offender's custody status 24 hours a day, via telephone or email...
209 leaders in parental involvement (12/04/09)
Recently the Nebraska Association of School Board and I honored four school districts with the 2009 Governor's Education Initiative Award for Parental Involvement. The Cozad, Kearney, Millard, and Sutherland Public School Districts were recognized for efforts to engage parents in daily school activities and their child's education...
Gov. Dave Heineman
State Issues