34 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN September 2025 POLICY Nebraska Cattleman 1/4 page, black & white August 2022 Briggs Cattle Co. NC Policy Adoption Process MATTHEW MELCHOR | NC DIRECTOR OF STATE GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS The Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) policy process is a tremendously valuable grassroots system – one that is created, shaped and voted on by NC members. This democratic approach ensures that the organization’s policy positions are firmly rooted in the real-world experiences of Nebraska beef producers. The policies developed through this process serve as the foundation for NC staff and leadership when determining stances on legislation. These positions guide advocacy efforts with elected officials across Nebraska at both the state legislature and the congressional delegation in Washington, D.C. By relying on member-driven input, NC ensures that its voice in the policy arena is both authentic and representative of the cattle industry’s diverse needs, voted on by producers themselves. Nebraska Cattlemen has six standing policy committees, each dedicated to specific areas of concern: Animal Health and Nutrition, Brand and Property Rights, Education and Research, Marketing and Commerce, Natural Resources and Environment, and Taxation. Each committee is composed of NC members who focus on their respective topic areas and anticipate bills that may arise in the upcoming legislative session. These committees are where the first discussions about policy direction take place. They review, amend or introduce new policies to reflect the evolving beliefs and priorities of NC members. This gives association staff clear, actionable direction when engaging with lawmakers and regulatory agencies. The policy process begins with an idea, often sparked by a challenge or opportunity identified by a producer within the NC membership. This idea is then developed into a resolution or policy statement. Members may write the language themselves or work collaboratively with NC staff to shape the wording. When staff assists in drafting, the process is iterative. Drafts are shared back and forth until the language accurately reflects the member’s intent. Once finalized, the proposed policy can be introduced in one of three ways: at the NC Annual Convention (where most policy recommendations are made) or at the NC Midyear meeting. Interim policies may also be crafted and adopted by the NC Board of Directors. During the annual convention and midyear meeting, each of the six standing policy committees hosts a session that any NC member can attend. These meetings are led by the committee chair, vice chair, chair-elect and the NC staff liaison. They often include guest speakers from relevant organizations or agencies who provide updates and answer members’ questions. Following these presentations, the committee turns its attention to policy proposals. Each policy is discussed, and members may vote to approve, amend or defer it. Policies adopted at the annual convention become part of NC’s official platform for the upcoming legislative session. Those adopted at midyear are considered interim and must be reaffirmed or rejected at that year’s annual convention. CONTINUED ON PAGE 36
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