March 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 45 support for modernizing operations and modifying fees for the Nebraska Brand Committee. NC supports LB1187 to increase certain brand fees and opposes LB1258, which would repeal mandatory brand inspection in the inspection area of Nebraska. LB1187 was introduced by Agriculture Committee Chairman Barry DeKay (Niobrara), and LB1258 was introduced by Sen. Ben Hansen (Blair). These bills were heard in the Agriculture Committee on Feb. 17. LB1038 SCHOOL FUNDING AND PROPERTY TAX PROVISIONS NC has taken a neutral stance on LB1038, a wide ranging proposal that would restructure school funding formulas, adjust levy limits and eliminate several existing property tax credit mechanisms. While NC appreciates the Legislature’s continued focus on long term property tax reform, the organization remains concerned about removing established tax credits that producers have heavily relied on to see specific property tax relief. NC maintains that any school finance reform must preserve the relief provided by historic tax credits and avoid any potential shift of additional burden onto agricultural landowners. LB1038 was introduced by Education Committee Vice Chairwoman Jana Hughes (Seward) and was heard in the Education Committee on Feb. 2, where NC testified alongside the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. LB761 NDWEE PERMITTING AND WELL FEES NC has adopted a neutral position on LB761, which proposes adjustments to water well registration fees and updates funding mechanisms for the state’s livestock permitting programs. While recognizing the inflationary pressures facing state agencies and the need to maintain functional, well funded environmental programs at the state level, NC encouraged the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment (NDWEE) to pursue more moderate adjustments to livestock waste control and well registration fees. The organization remains committed to working with both the Legislature and NDWEE to identify a balanced compromise that supports environmental stewardship without placing excessive financial strain on producers. LB761 was introduced by Natural Resources Committee Chairman Tom Brandt (Plymouth), and NC was represented in the committee hearing on Jan. 21. Nebraska Cattlemen looks forward to continued collaboration with senators, committee staff and stakeholders as these bills advance through the legislative process. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for policies that strengthen Nebraska’s beef industry, support rural communities and protect the long term vitality of the state’s agricultural economy. ~NC~
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