The Issues That Concern Us
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Water |
Water is the number one issue facing southwest Nebraska. Kansas recently sued Nebraska and won a significant victory. Because of this, Nebraska must meet a 2007 deadline. The State of Nebraska has done the area no favors by withholding information and negotiating a deal that will cause this area difficulties for years to come.
Rather than shutting off many of the irrigation wells that power the area's economy, I will work to bring additional water into the area. If we do not do this, then our taxes will go up, jobs will leave the area and fewer people will live here. I will work in cooperation with the local Natural Resource Districts to develop policies that will protect our communities and provide the economic base for us to build a strong and diversified economy. |
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Economy |
Out-Migration: Our young people leave the area mostly because of a lack of jobs. In order to keep our youth, we must create opportunities.
Agriculture is the foundation for our economy. We must protect agriculture while bringing new jobs into the area.
I will introduce and support economic incentive legislation. This includes venture capital funds for rural Nebraska. Technology now permits many jobs to be in rural areas.
I will work to move as many State jobs as possible to rural communities. |
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Family |
I believe life begins at conception. It is the duty of the State to protect life, from conception to its natural end. I will work to provide a good environment for every child in the State. This means stable homes with a mother and a father. A stable home is the foundation of a good education. I will sponsor legislation that will support stable homes. |
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Education |
I have seven children. Most of my children have excelled in school. One is a star athlete. Another has done very well academically. Another has Downs Syndrome. Because of this wide range in personal experience with the educational system, I understand the unique needs each child has. I have great respect for the educational system and will work to assure the schools have the resources they need to meet each child's needs. One of the biggest challenges the schools face is the large fluctuations in State aid that they receive each year. I will work to assure the schools a stable revenue stream that will, in turn, help them provide a stable environment. |
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Taxes |
As each of us knows, Nebraska has some of the highest taxes in the nation. I believe Nebraska has a duty to provide for the safety of its citizens, assure a good educational system, and maintain good roads. Most of these taxes are under the control of local boards. Most of the money the State controls goes to Education, Assistance to Individuals, and Corrections. The biggest increase in spending, about $100 million, went to Medicaid. The only way the State can have a meaningful reduction in taxes is to address the efficiencies of what we spend on education and aid to individuals. I believe each of us wants to make sure we have a strong educational system and want to help those in need. But, we want that money spent wisely and for it to help people get back on their feet -- not for it to be a lifetime handout. |
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