Cornhusker State News

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, has announced that she has advanced more than $9 million in funding for several Nebraska safety initiatives. The funds are included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Act, which is pending consideration by the full Senate.

“Nebraska’s police officers and first responders work around the clock to keep our communities safe, which is why it’s important they have the tools at their disposal to carry out their duties effectively. I’m proud to champion efforts through the Appropriations Committee to bring federal dollars back to Nebraska to support our law enforcement, upgrade our emergency communication systems, and support child trafficking prevention efforts. I will always support our men and women in blue, and I look forward to seeing these important provisions advance through the legislative process,” Fischer said.

The projects that received funding include a $2 million allocation for implementing and assessing a Missing and Anti-Trafficking Youth Services Program at the University of Nebraska—Omaha. Otoe County will receive $2.7 million for system-wide upgrades of emergency communications infrastructure.

Thayer County was awarded $327,000 for improvements in emergency radio communications interoperability. The Nebraska State Patrol task force will benefit from $176,000 for technology upgrades supporting investigations related to child exploitation cases.

The Omaha Police Department is set to receive $1 million for public safety equipment enhancements. Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office secured $1.2 million aimed at acquiring new equipment including body-worn cameras.

Douglas County law enforcement agencies will obtain $639,000 dedicated to equipment and technology system upgrades. Beatrice’s Southeast Communications 911 Center was allocated $782,000 for emergency communications equipment improvements.

Additionally, Region 26 Council—which covers Thomas, Blaine, Loup, Garfield, Wheeler, Greeley, Valley, and Sherman Counties—will get $415,000 for fire, rescue, and law enforcement emergency communications equipment updates.