Daily NET Radio news and features on a wide variety of topics that affect Lincoln, Omaha, and all of Nebraska. Updated weekdays.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 17, include: Gov. Jim Pillen vetoes multiple bills as lawmakers weigh possible overrides, Nebraska prison officials reverse policy limiting Native American religious access after federal lawsuit, proposed federal cuts to USDA funding raise concerns among Nebraska agriculture leaders, new research highlights local resistance to large-scale energy projects in Nebraska, Omaha's new Central Library opens this weekend, Big Ten announces its first women's volleyball conference tournament.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 16, include: mail-in voting remains vital in rural Nebraska as county clerks work to counter misinformation and reassure voters about ballot security, former law enforcement leader Tom Casady joins new PAC criticizing federal actions, state auditor warns of steep decline in employee health fund, Capitol security focus grows as threats increase, Gov. Jim Pillen suggests change to filibuster rules, state launches cancer trends dashboard, food prices expected to rise amid global pressures.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 15, include: effort to legalize online sports betting in Nebraska is drawing major funding from online casinos, new poll shows Democratic candidate Lynn Walz trailing Gov. Jim Pillen by five points in governor's race, complaint alleges Senate candidate Dan Osborn improperly used restricted funds for campaign staffing, two Native American inmates are suing Nebraska prison officials over restricted access to religious space, Nebraska Cattlemen raises $1.3 million to support ranchers impacted by March wildfires, Lincoln debuts largest skate park, Lancaster County hosts students for County Government Day to promote civic engagement.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 14, include: Nebraska Legislature this session changed law to allow suspensions of prekindergarten to second graders for violent behavior, Nebraska voters have begun casting ballots early in person at county election offices ahead of May 12 primary, foreign money is now banned from Nebraska ballot initiatives after lawmakers closed contribution loopholes, boxing champion Terence "Bud" Crawford found guilty of careless driving in Douglas County court, health officials recommend extending RSV antibody use through April as cases continue despite decline, fewer newly arrived refugees are participating in Lincoln-Lancaster health programs following federal policy shift, Nebraska men's basketball standout Pryce Sandfort will return for senior season after record-setting year.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 11, include: man convicted of killing four people in Laurel has been sentenced to death, Alliance is struggling to draw people in and keep them there, state officials roll out plan to move and support health care workers in rural areas, lawmakers pass bill on retroactive Medicaid coverage requirements, UNL students compose music to celebrate campus library anniversaries, Nebraska student nearly achieves perfect March Madness bracket.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 10, include: Nebraska community colleges report nearly 5% increase in trade school enrollment, lawmakers debate proposed 2.5% property tax cap, Goodwill to shut down Grand Island behavioral health services, Lincoln downtown central library project clears another design step, Polk County homicide suspect dies following earlier assault and shooting, legislative session leaving behind proposals including measure aimed at helping refugees access benefits.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 9, include: Wesley Absher identified in Polk County murder and assault case, Lincoln police report six fatal drug overdoses in past two weeks despite overall decline, 19-year-old UNL student will be sworn in to lead student government after DUI plea, Lincoln begins outreach on $35 million O Street redevelopment project, Eaton announces new Bellevue facility with 200 jobs planned, man convicted of killing four people in Cedar County awaits decision on whether he will receive death penalty or multiple life sentences.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 8, include: Nebraska's federal delegation largely backs President Trump's pressure on Iran despite concerns about his rhetoric, Gov. Jim Pillen signs budget bills without vetoes, UNL Faculty Senate withdraws no-confidence vote and introduces new resolution, Omaha Supernovas fire head coach Luka Slabe with six games left, Omaha coffee shop is creating opportunity and support for young adults aged out of Nebraska's foster care system.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 7, include: Gen Z candidates are trying to change long hours and low pay for state legislative seats, county election offices are sending early mail-in ballots ahead of Nebraska's primary, UNL basketball coach Fred Hoiberg looks to add talent after award-winning season, efforts expand to restore and protect American prairies.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 6, include: groundwater levels declined across much of Nebraska between spring 2024 and 2025, fire departments continue to withhold burn permits despite lifted statewide ban, Jordan Larson closes historic volleyball career in Omaha, Fred Hoiberg named AP national coach of year, University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks input on "Our Bold Path Forward," Nebraska teen dies after flu complications.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 3, include: crowded and closely watched 2nd District House race draws national attention, lawmakers advance oversight for emergency no-bid state contracts, federal appeals court ruling makes it harder for Nebraska detainees to challenge detention, proposed Environmental Trust Fund amendment fails to move forward, Gretna students appeal removal of anti-ICE cartoon, drought conditions worsen across Nebraska despite recent rain, woodland mice spread across Plains.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 2, include: lawmakers passed key budget bills, wildfires continue to impact cattle herd expansion, federal SNAP changes affect immigrant access to food aid, Lincoln updates sidewalk cafe rules under Project O Street, DHHS finalizes developmental disabilities program changes, medical cannabis bill advances in Legislature, debate continues over data center regulation and resources, closer look at work behind Nebraska's primary elections.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, April 1, include: investigation into $2.5 million contract awarded by Gov. Jim Pillen's administration could take months according to Lincoln Police, Nebraska Supreme Court hears arguments over release of state's full voter registration file to federal government, Nebraska seeks advisory board members for rural health care funding implementation, new community resource worker launches at Lincoln's downtown library through nonprofit partnership, Lincoln Haymarket businesses report low foot traffic ahead of Nebraska spring football game.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 31, include: Union Pacific plans new locomotive to honor President Trump for America's 250th anniversary, local airports step up support for TSA workers during shutdown, University of Nebraska to lease Sidney Cabela's campus space, Huskers volleyball headed to Wrigley Field, new technology explores cattle stress and behavior.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 30, include: cities across Nebraska joined national No Kings Day protests, court dismisses lawsuit against Governor Jim Pillen's ICE facility in McCook, officials highlight mental health resources as western and central Nebraska fires continue, warm and dry weather extends allergy season with high pollen levels, fertilizer prices rise 30 percent amid tensions in Persian Gulf, Senator Pete Ricketts introduces PLOT Act on foreign land ownership.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 27, include: fast-moving wildfires in western Nebraska have scorched tens of thousands of acres and prompted evacuations, as officials extend a burn ban and expand disaster declarations, more Nebraska cities plan participation in upcoming ‘No Kings' protests, Lincoln police report declining crime overall but rising violent incidents, student-designed mission patches from Omaha will head to space this summer, inspectors raise concerns over medical parole use in Nebraska prisons, debate continues over holding back third graders with reading deficiencies.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 26, include: Senator John Cavanaugh filed a complaint over proposed hemp and THC regulations, arguing the Nebraska Department of Agriculture lacks authority to ban those products from food, smoke from Kansas Flint Hills burns impacts eastern Nebraska air quality, Omaha City Council advances affordable housing resolution, Nebraska Arts Council awards more than $1 million in creative district grants, the Huskers prepare for Sweet 16 matchup against Iowa.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Mar. 25, include: Insight into Nebraska's Second District Congressional primary race, wildfires and forage concerns weigh on Nebraska land values, a deportation case could impact Kearney family and community, a new program targets student retention in Nebraska workforce, early spring leafout has been observed across the region, a watchdog group files complaint against Senate candidate Dan Osbourne.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 24, include: USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins toured wildfire damage in Nebraska and pledged full federal support for recovery efforts as the state awaits FEMA assistance, fires killed livestock, destroyed homes and left long-term impacts on grazing land, Nebraska immigration attorneys face growing demand amid surge in ICE arrests, Nebraska Supreme Court reinstates Cindy Burbank to primary ballot, U.S. Supreme Court to consider Roundup-related lawsuit, Nebraska faces Iowa in first-ever Sweet 16 matchup, and Creighton coach Greg McDermott retires after 16 seasons.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 23, include: Morrill and Cottonwood fires are nearing full containment, lawmakers eye $5 million from governor's emergency fund amid $471 million deficit, bill protecting doctors who recommend medical cannabis advances in legislature, Omaha's mayor outlines public-private partnership to transform city parks, statewide primary races preview, Nebraska men's basketball advances to Sweet 16 after historic win.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 20, include: the state's two largest wildfires are nearing containment while meteorologists warn little precipitation is expected until early April, Nebraska men's basketball wins its first NCAA tournament game, lawmakers revisit state budget after school funding debate stalls, opposition grows over proposed brand law changes, court keeps Senate candidate off ballot pending appeal, Grant prepares to open new nonprofit nursing home.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Mar. 19, include: wildfires have burned nearly 830,000 acres across Nebraska and firefighters are making progress on containment, Gov. Jim Pillen meets with Brady landowners to urges fire-related cost tracking and management between local and federal crews, court challenge filed after Cindy Burbank removed from ballot and Mark Martinez is placed back on ballot, lawmakers advance bill to tax skill games and eliminate exemptions, Omaha launches parking plan to support downtown businesses amid streetcar construction, new childcare center aims to ease shortages in east Omaha, Nebraska ag land values decline for second straight year, University of Nebraska lands $500M federal research contract, Sandhill crane migration timing shifts with milder winters, Husker men's basketball senior Sam Hoiberg on NCAA tournament.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Mar. 18, include: firefighters report improving conditions as crews battle four major wildfires across central and western Nebraska, Indianola fire chief talks about battling 'exploding' Eastern Red Cedar trees, farmers and ranchers face heavy losses as fires destroy grazing land, livestock and property, Brady Public Schools resumes classes as community supports wildfire recovery, Nebraska Athletics plans to donate spring football game ticket proceeds to wildfire relief, lawmakers debate proposed pay raise for governor and other state officials, senators approve bill granting maternity leave to certain correctional workers and state troopers, Douglas County sheriff candidate appeals removal from ballot to Nebraska Supreme Court.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 17, include: state leaders give major wildfire updates as hundreds of fire departments battle blazes across western Nebraska, agriculture leaders estimate thousands of cattle may be impacted by burned pastureland, Gov. Jim Pillen signs order to speed delivery of ag supplies to affected farms and ranches, meteorologists say colder weather helped slow fires but gusty winds could test containment, Nebraska men's basketball earn No. 4 seed in NCAA tournament and open play Thursday, Husker women also make field and face Richmond in play-in game, O'Neill is Irish capital of Nebraska and is also creating economic development name.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 16, include: Morrill Fire has now burned at least 570,000 acres across four western Nebraska counties and federal incident management team is taking command as state leaders seek FEMA assistance, family and friends remember 86-year-old woman killed in wildfire, fire departments statewide send personnel and equipment west, blizzard conditions cause multi-car crash that shuts down part of Interstate 80, Nebraska property owners caught in crosshairs of Perkins County Canal, Nebraska men and women both earn spots in the NCAA basketball tournament.

This is a Nebraska Update Special Report from the Nebraska Public Media Newsroom for March 14. Emergency crews are continuing to battle four large wildfires in Nebraska: the Morrill Fire in the Panhandle, the Cottonwood Fire in Lincoln and Dawson Counties, the Road 203 Fire near Halsey and the Anderson Bridge Fire west of Valentine. Several Nebraska officials briefed reporters Saturday morning at the Keith County fairgrounds and discussed the growth of the fires and uncertainty surrounding federal assistance.

This is a Nebraska Update Special Report from the Nebraska Public Media Newsroom for March 13. Emergency crews are continuing to battle four large wildfires in Nebraska: the Morrill Fire in the Panhandle, the Cottonwood Fire in Lincoln and Dawson Counties, the Road 203 Fire near Halsey and the Anderson Bridge Fire west of Valentine. One person has been killed since the wildfires broke out Thursday. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has issued a burn ban and a state of emergency for affected counties.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 13, include: Nebraska lawmakers continue closing state's budget gap after months of negotiations, legislative proposal to limit how public power districts spend money fails after debate over operational costs, agricultural leaders say U.S. war with Iran is increasing input costs for farmers, ethanol producers push for year-round E15 sales as gas prices rise, Nebraska joins multi-state investigation tied to alleged Medicaid fraud, Sen. Pete Ricketts calls for improvements at Omaha postal processing center after audit found major issues, University of Nebraska Medical Center joins federal effort to expand nutrition education in medical schools, Nebraska and Creighton basketball updates ahead of March Madness.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 12, include: University of Nebraska College of Law is closing its 28-year-old immigration clinic, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials face questions about Nebraska's Perkins County Canal project during public hearing in Colorado, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services opens applications for nearly $40 million in grants aimed at rural organizations, state senators weigh cuts and priorities as they work through $125 million budget deficit at the Capitol.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 11, include: Lincoln Police Department is now leading investigation into $2.5 million no-bid consulting contract awarded by Nebraska Department of Economic Development after Nebraska State Patrol stepped aside due to potential conflict of interest, lawmakers cut funding from Nebraska's tobacco prevention budget, senators keep $250,000 portion of Secretary of State's budget after debate over voter information shared with Department of Justice, advocates warn plan to quickly relocate Nebraska youth correctional facilities could disrupt education and resources for children in system, Nebraska Medicine begins construction on $99 million Farnam Health Center in Omaha, Sandhill cranes return to Platte River Valley during annual migration bringing boost to local economies, Nebraska-born World War II veteran becomes nation's oldest organ donor at age 100.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 10, include: Fairness for Girls group launched ballot initiative aimed at keeping transgender athletes out of women's public K-12/collegiate sports, EPIC Option petition effort to eliminate certain taxes is pausing again after organizers said they are not on track to gather enough signatures for 2026 ballot, team has begun excavating rare earth minerals at NioCorp's Elk Creek project in southeast Nebraska, Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled new driver's license design featuring state imagery and upgraded anti-counterfeiting security, Nebraska men's basketball coach Fred Hoiberg rewarded during historic season, former University of Nebraska system president Ted Carter has resigned as president of Ohio State University after disclosing inappropriate relationship.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 9, include: Legislature begins voting this week on appropriations in attempt to balance budget, Nebraska farmers and ranchers are preparing for potentially difficult summer after state recorded its warmest winter since Dust Bowl, Nebraska cattle producers are being warned about possible return of flesh-eating New World Screwworm pest, U.S. House is considering new Farm Bill, State Board of Education rejected two mental health grants aimed at recruiting and retaining school psychologists after 4-4 vote, SBOE also tied on whether to oppose bill that could require holding back third graders who are not proficient in reading.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Mar. 6, include: U.S. Drought Monitor says drought conditions worsened for fifth straight week nationwide with much of increase happening in Nebraska, Nebraska lawmakers delay proposal tied to former Husker coach Tom Osborne's Hall of Fame recognition, Scottsbluff couple enters 2026 race to challenge District 48 Sen. Brian Hardin, first class of medical students at UNMC's Kearney campus will begin this fall, several Nebraska girls basketball teams chase first or first-in-years state titles as tournament continues in Lincoln.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 5, include: federal judge grants attorney fees to immigrant who successfully sued government for wrongful detention, Sen. Pete Ricketts backs President Trump's strikes in Iran as Congress considers war powers measures, candidates in 2nd District House race split over U.S. actions in Iran, proposed cigarette tax hike fails to advance in the Legislature, Attorney General Mike Hilgers files lawsuit against Roblox.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 4, include: Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens of Bellevue identified as one of six U.S. service members killed during Operation Epic Fury, gas prices in Nebraska jump sharply following Middle East bombings, lawmakers debate proposed cigarette tax increase, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Faculty Senate to consider no-confidence motion, Regional West in Scottsbluff to be downgraded to Level Three trauma center, drought conditions may limit water use in North Platte River Valley, girls state basketball marks 50 years amid declining participation.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 3, include: Charles Herbster will not seek Republican nomination for governor after finishing second in 2022, Jacy Todd remains in Republican primary despite 24 misdemeanor convictions, homeless service providers including Stephen Center in Omaha report rising demand and facilities at capacity, NioCorp plans to begin work on Elk Creek critical minerals mine in southeast Nebraska by month's end, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is gathering public input on Lower Missouri River flood reduction plan, Omaha World-Herald will shut down press and move printing to Des Moines.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, March 2, include: Nebraska's elected officials support U.S. military strikes on Iran as tensions escalate and Gov. Jim Pillen calls for prayers for National Guard members, medical marijuana dispensary could soon open on Omaha reservation in northeast Nebraska, lawmakers face a new $175 million revenue shortfall as economic fallout from Lexington Tyson plant closure deepens, University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins White House roundtable on college sports reforms, immigration rights groups back bills to limit ICE activity in Nebraska, Boyd County hires new sheriff after sudden resignations leave law enforcement gap, Nebraska men's basketball sets single-season records with win over USC.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 27, include: medical marijuana advocates voiced frustration with commissioners overseeing new regulations, bill before lawmakers would make it felony for officers to sexually assault minors between 16 and 18, mother of one of two girls killed in last year's Fremont plant explosion has filed a negligence lawsuit as federal investigations continue, Omaha-area organizations will receive nearly $3 million in federal grants to support youth homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing, Boyd County supervisors will appoint a new sheriff after sheriff and staff resigned, Liz Sowers has been named first head coach of Nebraska women's flag football ahead of 2028 debut.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 26, include: Jacy Todd was convicted of 23 counts of official misconduct and one count of making a false statement under oath for illegally signing off on medical marijuana petition signatures, lawmakers introduce bill aimed at keeping Union Pacific based in Omaha as it seeks to acquire Norfolk Southern, Sen. Jane Raybould proposes requiring governor's office to negotiate in good faith with Nebraska tribes on tax compacts, bill seeks to change Nebraska Hall of Fame rules to allow consideration of former Husker coach Tom Osborne, Kearney voters will decide whether to create Good Life District to fund business and tourism development.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 25, include: Nebraska lawmakers gave first-round approval to bill restricting most guns at state capitol, legislative committee advanced bill granting doctors immunity for recommending medical marijuana though members doubt it will survive full vote, advocates urged lawmakers to require insurance coverage for eating disorder treatment as insurers warn of higher costs, State Board of Education halted learning community plan for Omaha-area districts, farmers report longer waits for USDA services following staff cuts last year.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 24, include: Nebraska Legislature spent second day debating Capitol security, lawmakers debated increasing workers compensation benefits from about two-thirds to 80% of regular pay, railroad bridge in west Lincoln collapsed after fire, fruit and vegetable growers face at least another month of waiting for $1 billion in USDA assistance, former Omaha Maverick Jake Guentzel helped Team USA defeat Canada 2-1 for Olympic gold.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 23, include: Nebraska's congressional delegation reacted after U.S. Supreme Court struck down many of President Donald Trump's tariffs, State Board of Education will vote on community achievement plan tied to $8.7 million in state aid for Omaha-area districts, Nebraska nonprofit turns to online resale to help fund its services, lawmakers consider bills expanding access to juvenile counsel and limiting shackling of youth in court, debate continues over installing metal detectors and restricting firearms at State Capitol.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 20, include: school districts across the country began replacing snow days with remote learning after COVID, Nebraska football opens spring practices, Omaha Public Schools officials say they can offset $50 million loss in state aid but will rely more heavily on taxpayers, lawmakers debate bill granting doctors immunity when recommending medical marijuana after voters approved it in 2024, proposal would require legislative approval of University of Nebraska's plan to take over Nebraska Medicine, former Nebraska first lady Susanne Shore announces run for University of Nebraska regent in District 4.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 19, include: Legislature continued debate on increasing penalties for trafficking fentanyl, bill would make camping in public a misdemeanor and withhold state funds from subdivisions that fail to enforce, former Sen. Ben Sasse shares update on his battle with pancreatic cancer, judge rules Omaha's rescinded gun ban challenge moot but allows ghost gun and bump stock ordinances to stand, Sheldon Museum of Art marks day of remembrance for children of Genoa U.S. Indian Industrial School, much of Nebraska faces dry conditions and possible winter weather impacts, proposal would require faster decisions on sports complex tax incentive applications.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 18, include: new technology is reshaping policing in Omaha as police department expands operations center and high-tech drone program, lawmakers consider LB966 to provide free school meals for reduced-price students, Visit Nebraska awards more than $800,000 in tourism grants, ranchers back higher livestock brand inspection fee caps, education committee hears immigration warrant requirement bill, Nebraska and Creighton players invited to national volleyball training program.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 17, include: National Weather Service issued particularly dangerous situation red flag warning and fire risk for parts of Nebraska, six House Republicans join Democrats in symbolic vote to roll back tariffs on Canada, Loup City teacher and student prepare for Young People's Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Nebraska men's basketball faces Iowa in Iowa City Tuesday night, Omaha's Valentine's Day weekend snow sculpting contest crowns winners despite 60-degree weather.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 16, include: billion-dollar opportunity to invest in rural health, record warmth is deepening drought and shrinking snowpack, online sports wagering petitions have been cleared for circulation, Omaha Police Officers Association warns of staffing shortage, Federal Reserve officials say financial stress is gradually building for Nebraska crop farmers, University of Nebraska-Lincoln marks Charter Day amid campus changes, two North Omaha leaders were honored during Black History Month celebration.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 13, include: Nebraska Legislature's Executive Board formally reprimanded Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh for taking down 250th birthday celebration photos at Capitol, Reading League is launching Nebraska chapter aimed at helping teachers implement evidence-based literacy instruction, University of Nebraska-Lincoln raised $3.6 million during its 24-hour "Glow Big Red" fundraiser.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 12, include: Secretary of State Bob Evnen plans to hand over sensitive voter data to U.S. Department of Justice, Democrat Jocelyn Brasher announces run for attorney general, Lincoln Public Schools faces backlash over LGBTQ student advocacy job posting, Shelby-Rising City Schools closes due to widespread illness, biofuel leaders eye shipping industry as potential growth market, Husker Athletics restores traditional spring football game.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 11, include: Gov. Jim Pillen announces partnership with Turning Point USA to create high school chapters statewide, proposed budget changes could shift youth populations at Nebraska's Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers, lawmakers consider new specialty license plates, Lied Center for Performing Arts begins major renovation and expansion project, OSHA fines Horizon Biofuels nearly $148,000 after deadly explosion in Fremont, Nebraska cattle groups push back on expanded imports of Argentine beef, proposed federal Clean Water Act revision draws mixed reaction from farm and conservation groups.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 10, include: University of Nebraska announces new AI Institute after system task force recommended campus-specific focuses ranging from health care to agriculture and rural enterprise, Gov. Jim Pillen defends $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract amid claims administration obstructed state audit, Common Cause plans to appeal ruling allowing Nebraska voter data to be shared with U.S. Department of Justice, No. 13 Purdue visits No. 7 Nebraska as men's basketball season enters final stretch.