Nebraska Cattlemen Announces Policy Priorities

LINCOLN, NEB. (Feb. 3, 2026) – The Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) Board of Directors announced its policy priorities for the second half of the 109^th Legislature following the review of over 70 bills and constitutional amendments by the NC Legislative Committee.

LB977 – Motorists Encountering Livestock on Roadways

NC strongly supports LB977, which aims to protect producers and livestock on state roadways by requiring drivers to yield. Specifically, this bill would update the definition of “vulnerable road user” to include livestock handlers, requiring motor vehicles to yield when encountering livestock being led, herded, or driven. Nebraska Cattlemen views LB977 as a commonsense safety measure which will protect producers, motorists, and livestock—especially in rural areas where transporting animals on roadways is an essential part of daily agricultural operations.

LB814 – Valuation of Agricultural and Horticultural Land

NC supports LB814, which would reduce agricultural and horticultural land value for property tax purposes from 75% to 50% and provide direct property tax relief to producers across the state. LB814 is a meaningful step toward a more stable and equitable property tax framework for agricultural producers, who continue to shoulder a disproportionate share of the state’s tax burden.

Multiple Bills – Modifications to Nebraska Brand Statutes

NC reaffirmed its position to oppose voluntary statewide brand inspection and to support the Nebraska Brand Committee as a standalone entity. Additionally, NC reaffirmed its 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.

LB1038 – School Funding and Property Tax Provisions

Nebraska Cattlemen is closely monitoring LB1038, which aims to 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 is opposed to removing existing property tax credits without limiting school spending or property tax growth. NC believes school finance reforms must preserve the relief provided by historic tax credits without further increasing the tax burden on agricultural landowners. 

LB761 – NDWEE Permitting and Well Fees

NC is neutral on LB761, which proposes adjustments to water well registration fees and updates funding mechanisms for several environmental programs. While NC recognizes inflationary costs and the importance of ensuring environmental programs remain functional and adequately funded at the state level, NC encouraged the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (NDWEE) to adjust fees related to livestock waste control and well registration fees at a more moderate level. NC is dedicated to finding a compromise with the Legislature and NDWEE. 

Nebraska Cattlemen looks forward to working with senators and stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen Nebraska’s beef industry and protect the state’s rural economy.