AGP Executive Report

Data Centers & Water Use: Google says its Nebraska data centers used about 732 million gallons of water in 2025, fueling local worries about future builds as drought tightens supplies. Ag Policy & Markets: The Senate farm bill draft moves forward, but Nebraska Farm Bureau says key issues still need work before a real five-year deal. Farm Progress & Inputs: UNL Extension reports Western bean cutworm trapping results for the Panhandle and southwest Nebraska, urging scouting and timing—not moth counts alone. Nebraska Business in Biofuels: Ag Processing Inc. (AGP) in David City shipped the first-ever U.S. unit train of soybean oil, aiming to strengthen renewable fuels supply chains. Local Education & Workforce: Nebraska’s READ Nebraska Grant Program is open for applications, supporting proven mentoring for elementary reading and eligible professional growth. Public Safety & Health: Medicaid reimbursements for Planned Parenthood-type clinics are set to resume after a one-year ban expired, but states still decide how to implement. Sports: Huskers’ Andi Jackson and Bergen Reilly will represent Nebraska at Big Ten Media Day Aug. 3 in Chicago.

Housing & Policy: Nebraska politicians and housing advocates say a new federal housing law co-authored by Rep. Mike Flood could boost home supply, though experts warn benefits will take years to reach communities. Public Safety & Politics: The Nebraska Fraternal Order of Police endorsed Sen. Pete Ricketts over Dan Osborn, arguing Ricketts backs resources that keep officers safe. State & Community Support: An Omaha nonprofit, Guiding Grace, is partnering with Nebraska’s DHHS to mentor families and help people transition off public assistance, including job, housing, and SNAP support. Education & Careers: Four UNL students and a recent alumna earned competitive language-learning fellowships, including Critical Language Scholarships and Boren Awards, for intensive study abroad. Agriculture & Local Economy: Midway Co-op is running a summer internship program for Kansas State agronomy students, including Nebraska’s Morgan Ourada, to build the next generation of rural ag professionals. Health & Animals: Nebraska Humane Society vets are urging pet owners to keep rabies vaccinations up to date as wildlife contact rises. Telecom Growth: Rightfiber, formed from a merger of Ritter Communications and Great Plains Communications, says it’s already targeting expansion in rural and small-town markets. Local Events & Culture: WinnaVegas Casino Resort is donating $200,000 to support the 160th Annual Winnebago Homecoming Celebration in Winnebago.

USDA “Product of USA” Push: Secretary Brooke Rollins says 10 more meat and poultry companies are adopting the USDA label, aiming to help shoppers spot products born, raised, harvested and processed in the U.S. Public Safety & Health: Nebraska Humane Society urges pet owners to keep rabies vaccines current as wildlife contact rises, noting how quarantines work after bites. Nebraska Weather: Lincoln-area forecasts warn of hot, dry conditions with heat index values near 100 degrees late in the week. Local Crime Watch: Authorities are investigating an early-morning burglary at the Lodge Bar in Tryon, with suspects described and a vehicle identified. Sports (Nebraska): Two Husker pitchers were drafted in the MLB first weekend—Ty Horn to the Reds and Carson Jasa to the Cubs—continuing a strong run for Nebraska baseball. Federal Courts/Politics: A new indictment details alleged roles in the thwarted UFC Freedom 250 White House drone-and-sniper plot.

Nebraska Politics & Public Safety: Nebraska AG Anne Lopez joined a multistate push urging the FCC to tighten rules that block scammers from using legitimate phone numbers for robocalls, after Americans lost nearly $2 billion to scams. Local Crime: Deputies are investigating an early-morning burglary at the Lodge Bar in Tryon, with suspects described as two masked men and a white SUV with blacked-out plates. U.S. Security: Federal prosecutors say eight men were indicted in a thwarted drone-and-sniper plot tied to the White House UFC Freedom 250 event, with the case spanning multiple states including Nebraska. Nebraska Weather: A hot, dry stretch is settling in across Nebraska, with heat index values near 100 degrees late in the week. Sports (Nebraska): Two Husker pitchers were drafted in the MLB’s third round—Ty Horn and Carson Jasa—continuing Nebraska’s strong pipeline under Will Bolt. National/Local Media: DirecTV and E.W. Scripps ended a five-week carriage dispute, restoring 54 local stations to subscribers.

White House Security: Federal prosecutors unveiled new details in the thwarted “UFC Freedom 250” drone-and-sniper plot, indicting eight men on murder and terrorism conspiracy charges and saying the plan targeted Trump and other high-profile figures. Nebraska Immigration Detention: Nebraska ICE detainees at the McCook center described fear, wildfire smoke, and prayer inside the facility. Nebraska Courts & Policy: Nebraska AG Mike Hilgers discussed recent work in Grand Island, including medical cannabis commission regulations and lawsuits involving major social media companies. State Budget & Taxes: Gov. Jim Pillen pushed more income tax cuts as critics warned Nebraska’s budget shortfall is worsening. Agriculture & Safety: Grain bin accidents remain deadly, with one farmer hoping his family’s story helps prevent more tragedies. Economy & Jobs: A Creighton survey found food processing jobs kept falling in the region, with Nebraska taking the hardest hit. Water & Tech: A report says Google data centers in Nebraska used about 732 million gallons of water in 2025, renewing debate over future expansion. Health & Community: Nebraska’s AI Institute is pooling research across campuses, aiming to coordinate efforts without killing local innovation.

U.S. Justice Update: Federal prosecutors indicted eight men on murder and terrorism conspiracy charges tied to a thwarted drone-and-sniper plan targeting the White House UFC Freedom 250 event, with the plot reportedly starting in May and law enforcement learning of it June 10. Nebraska Politics & Budgets: Gov. Jim Pillen is pushing more income tax cuts while warning of fiscal strain, as Nebraska faces a projected $600M-plus shortfall; meanwhile, Pillen’s memo orders state agencies to cut spending and freeze most hiring, and UN leaders are responding to the budget-cut request. Education: Cave Creek Unified’s new superintendent, Dr. Nicole Regan, was selected for an exclusive Sept. 2-4 leadership summit at UN Medical Center. Public Safety: Nebraska Humane Society says a man was cited after a warrant led to confiscation of 79 animals from an Elkhorn residence, including a zebra and an emu. Agriculture & Food: A Creighton survey finds food processing jobs keep falling in the region, with Nebraska taking nearly half the losses. Health & Services: Proposed federal grant rule changes could disrupt how tribes manage and retain federal funding, with a July 13 comment deadline.

White House UFC Plot: A federal grand jury indicted eight men on murder and terrorism conspiracy charges tied to a thwarted drone-and-sniper attack planned for the June 14 UFC event on the White House lawn, with prosecutors saying the group amassed weapons, explosives, drones, and communications gear and aimed to force an evacuation before shooting at people fleeing. Nebraska Courts: Nebraska will ask the 8th Circuit to lift a block on its Parental Rights in Social Media Act (LB 383), arguing for age verification and parental consent for under-18 accounts after a judge cited First Amendment concerns. Animal Welfare: The Nebraska Humane Society seized about 60 animals from an Elkhorn property, including zebra, emu, alpacas, and other livestock, saying many were improperly cared for and will be placed with partner organizations. Public Safety: Kearney police renewed calls for safer behavior around e-scooters and e-bikes, focusing on rider helmet use and driver awareness at turns and crosswalks. Agriculture & Food Prices: USDA cut its U.S. wheat crop estimate again, while beef prices hit new highs as cattle herds shrink and demand stays strong. State Economy: Creighton’s report finds the rural economy expanding but uneven, with food processing job losses and trade still soft. Broadband: Mimosa and Viaero reported a rural fixed-wireless deployment clearing a 6 GHz AFC subscriber threshold, a potential boost for Nebraska’s BEAD buildout planning. Sports & Nebraska Recruiting: Nebraska offered 2028 OL Jaxen Cepeda, and LOVB Nebraska announced Jordan Larson will return for the 2026-27 season.

White House UFC Plot: A federal grand jury indicted eight men on murder and terrorism conspiracy charges tied to a thwarted drone-and-sniper attack planned for the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House, with prosecutors saying the group amassed weapons, explosives, drones and gear starting in May; one defendant has Nebraska ties. Nebraska Health Policy: Omaha-area ABA providers say new state rules are tightening Medicaid access, including limits on hours without prior authorization and changes that affect billing when services are delivered at school. Medicaid Work Requirements: Montana’s early start on Medicaid “community engagement” work rules highlights looming coverage risks for other states, including Nebraska’s broader debate over system gaps. State Budget Pressure: Gov. Jim Pillen’s memo orders at least 5% spending cuts and a hiring freeze for many vacancies, drawing warnings from public employees about service impacts. Water Rights: The U.S. Supreme Court will hear Nebraska’s case accusing Colorado of violating the 1923 South Platte River compact. Local Development: Gretna approved an agreement to move forward on the 192nd Street I-80 interchange, with local funds fronted and state reimbursement planned. Animal Welfare: Nebraska Humane Society seized about 60 animals from a West Omaha home, including a zebra, after an anonymous tip. Business & Community: Fonner Park in Grand Island was named 2026 Business of the Year.

State Budget Crunch: Gov. Jim Pillen ordered more Nebraska spending cuts and a hiring freeze after the state paid out $307 million more in tax refunds than expected, directing agencies to reduce travel, hiring, tech upgrades, and equipment purchases and to submit monthly cash-flow projections. Public Safety & Animals: The Nebraska Humane Society confiscated about 60 animals from a West Omaha/Elkhorn-area residence, including a zebra, emu, alpacas and other livestock, citing emaciation and poor living conditions. Consumer Protection: Nebraska Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a multistate $45 million settlement with Block Inc. over deceptive Cash App practices, including misleading users about safety and fraud protections. Healthcare Policy: Prairie County Medicaid recipients could be hit by new work requirements starting July 1, with a grace period through September and exemptions for certain groups. Food Assistance Rules: A federal SNAP ruling is forcing retailers in West Virginia (and similar states) to reverse changes that would have blocked sugary drinks for SNAP purchases. Tech & Industry: Nebraska drone maker Drone Amplified says the FAA cleared its MONTIS avalanche-control drone for U.S. commercial operations, creating a safer way to trigger controlled avalanches.

State Budget Crunch: Gov. Jim Pillen issued a memo ordering Nebraska agencies to cut spending, including at least a 5% reduction in monthly allotments, tighter controls on hiring and position refills, and monthly compliance reports starting July 31. Wildfire Relief for Producers: The USDA approved a Secretarial Disaster Declaration for Nebraska wildfire areas, opening Farm Service Agency emergency loan help for farmers in multiple primary and contiguous counties. Cash App Fraud Settlement: Nebraska AG Mike Hilgers announced a $45 million multistate settlement with Block over Cash App’s alleged fraud failures; Nebraska’s share is about $379,620. Robocall Crackdown Push: Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota attorneys general joined a national push urging the FCC to tighten rules so scammers can’t access legitimate phone numbers. Ranching Support & Training: Nebraska Extension’s Ranch Practicum continues hands-on education for regional producers, while the Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition launched free post-wildfire stewardship consultations. Omaha Immigration Court Changes: “Mega master” hearings are reshaping Omaha immigration proceedings, with critics saying rushed notice increases deportations in absentia. Community Development: Construction has started on Plaza de la Raza in South Omaha, a $25M cultural gathering space slated for completion in fall 2027.

Cash App crackdown in Nebraska: Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers joined a 46-state deal with Block, Inc. over Cash App misleading users about fraud protection; Nebraska’s share is about $379,619.99, with Block also required to change practices and provide better customer support. State election rules and ballot fights: Six states will vote in 2026 on measures tying voting eligibility to citizenship, continuing a post-2018 trend. Nebraska workforce boost: Gov. Jim Pillen and partners launched the Workforce Pell Grant Program at Metro Community College, aiming to fund short, job-focused training (as fast as 8–15 weeks) across multiple community colleges. Public safety and consumer protection: Iowa AG Brenna Bird and other attorneys general urged the FCC to tighten rules that keep scammers from using legitimate phone numbers for robocalls. Local politics and parties: Nebraska is seeing new pushes for official political party status, with signature deadlines looming. Sports: Nebraska softball coach Rhonda Revelle signed an extension through 2031 after a record 2026 season. Business & community: Auburn residents weighed how to spend a $300,000 downtown revitalization TIF, while the Sandhills Open Road Challenge highlights rural tourism and local economic impact.

Education & Local Pride: UNL named Adam Patrick Messman of Rensselaer to the spring Deans’ List for 2025-26, joining more than 6,200 Nebraska students statewide. Workforce & Training: Gov. Jim Pillen and Omaha leaders announced Nebraska’s Workforce Pell Grant program at MCC, expanding Pell to short-term, noncredit workforce training like CDL, phlebotomy, pharmacy tech, and CompTIA+—with tuition expected to be fully covered for eligible students. Veterans & Taxes: After a First Alert 6 investigation, Sarpy County approved disabled veteran motor vehicle tax/fee exemptions and processed refunds for veterans who missed the January deadline. North Omaha Development: Omaha Inland Port Authority unveiled plans for an innovation district near 30th and Ames, backed by a $30 million state grant, aiming to bring jobs and training without displacing residents. Public Safety & Accountability: Dodge County board members will consider an “emergency” personnel/legal matter after Sheriff Dustin Weitzel pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Community & Events: UNL and the International Quilt Museum plan a free July 18 open house celebrating community stories.

Nebraska Politics & Elections: Nebraska’s 3rd District nonpartisan candidate Macey Budke says she’ll miss the signature threshold and is switching to a write-in campaign, arguing it’s a logistics problem without party infrastructure. Congressional Campaigns: Pete Buttigieg is set to campaign in Omaha for Denise Powell in Nebraska’s CD2 on July 14. Courts & Food Policy: A federal judge struck down USDA SNAP food restriction waivers, including approvals affecting Nebraska, saying the agency exceeded its authority under federal procedures. Public Safety: A Douglas County deputy was fired after a cyber tip tied his iCloud to potential child sexual abuse material; he’s appealing. Agriculture & Conservation: USDA accepted 2.2 million acres into the 2026 Conservation Reserve Program, with Nebraska among the top states for accepted acres. Business & Industry: Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern filed the first responses to the Surface Transportation Board on their merger, addressing terminal and related railroad entities. Local Life & Education: UNL and Southeast Community College recognized area students on dean’s lists and with spring degrees. Travel & Health: Orkin released its 2026 bed bug “worst cities” list, with Lincoln ranked among the least-stressed cities.

CFP Path for Huskers: UNL finance students can now complete a CFP Board Registered Program inside their undergraduate degree, cutting the wait to pursue CFP® certification. Election Rules Fight: A campaign called “Respect Nebraska Voters” submitted 186,000+ signatures for a constitutional change that would require a four-fifths vote to amend or repeal voter-approved initiatives and tighten initiative procedures. Wildfire Recovery Dollars: President Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Nebraska spring wildfires, covering Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill counties, with nearly $9.7 million aimed at roads and electrical infrastructure. Drone Safety After Injuries: Norfolk’s Big Bang Boom fireworks incident is under investigation after a child was injured by a drone; findings will go to the FAA. Online Scam Warning: BBB says a fake “Infinity Auctions” website is tricking vehicle buyers nationwide using a phony Rapid City address and copied photos. Ag Investment: FNBO announced nearly $40,000 in donations supporting Nebraska FFA programs and local chapters. Sports Betting Ballot Push: Two initiatives to legalize online sports betting filed signatures and move toward review.

Nebraska Medical Cannabis: Gov. Jim Pillen and AG Mike Hilgers approved new medical cannabis rules, limiting products to non-smoked options (no edibles, no vaping/smoking) and capping THC per dose, with statewide dispensaries set at 12. Election Law Fight: Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen says he’s “baffled” by an RNC lawsuit challenging a provision allowing certain U.S. citizens living abroad to register and vote in one Nebraska county. Abortion Ballot Setback: A proposed Nebraska constitutional total abortion ban won’t reach the November ballot after failing to submit enough signatures. Public Safety—Drones: A child was injured after being struck by a drone at a fireworks event in Madison County; authorities say the FAA has exclusive control over airspace rules. Blood Supply Alert: Vitalant is urging donations after O-positive and O-negative supplies dropped, with drives planned across South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska. Local Crime: Grand Island police report a serious downtown assault and a Tractor Supply theft of two riding lawn mowers. Omaha Development: The Omaha Inland Port Authority’s “innovation district” is moving forward with a $30M state-grant-backed first phase near 30th and Ames.

Closed-Primary Politics: A new analysis says voters in closed-primary states often get stuck with a nominee chosen by a small slice of party members, leaving many general-election voters with weak choices. Water & Energy: A USGS-backed warning highlights Ogallala Aquifer depletion, while a “No to AI data centers” push targets western Nebraska’s Lincoln County and nearby areas over water use and fossil-fueled power demand. Public Safety & Courts: A Nebraska man accused in a plot to kill the president allegedly signaled a shift toward violence in private messages, raising questions about how online radicalization turns into action. Local Government: Seward County is among Nebraska communities moving toward data-center moratoriums as state law speeds permitting and limits local power. Animal Health: Nebraska Humane Society warns mosquitoes can be deadly for pets, especially through heartworm risk. Weather & Community: Heat and wildfire conditions forced some Fourth of July fireworks cancellations across the West, with Nebraska watching closely. Sports & Nebraska: Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley is named the World-Herald Boys Athlete of the Year after a standout multi-sport run.