Cornhusker State News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) addressed Nebraska media this week to discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill, highlighting its impact on agriculture and local producers.

“Agriculture is the heart and soul of what we do in Nebraska,” said Ricketts. “Family farms, ranches, and agri-businesses are the backbone of communities across our state.  The One Big Beautiful Bill helps producers today and lays the foundation for strong agricultural growth tomorrow. It grows our economy at home and will help gain new markets abroad.”

During his remarks, Ricketts emphasized that over 80% of Nebraska’s farms are family-owned. He pointed out that the bill avoided a $2,400 tax increase for the average Nebraska family and made permanent changes to the Death Tax exemption, which will now rise with inflation. According to Ricketts, these provisions ensure that more farm assets can be passed down through generations rather than being taxed away.

He also discussed the significance of biofuels for both consumers and farmers in Nebraska. “Biofuels are a win for consumers who save money at the pump. It’s a win for the environment, because it helps clean up our environment, and it’s a win for our farmers and ranchers,” he said. Last year, Nebraskans reportedly saved $325 million using ethanol blends.

The bill includes support measures such as full expensing for property like tractors and heavy machinery, improved drought aid under federal programs, expanded Pell Grant eligibility to short-term job training fields such as welding or diesel technology, and an extension of benefits supporting beginning farmers from five years to ten years.

Ricketts highlighted international trade efforts during his time as governor by noting initiatives aimed at expanding overseas markets for Nebraska products: “When I was Governor, I led trade missions to places like Japan and Vietnam to build strong relationships between foreign importers and Nebraska producers.” The legislation increases funding for export promotion programs intended to boost demand abroad for commodities like beef, corn, and soybeans.

He concluded by stressing the importance of certainty in policy for agricultural communities: “Nebraska’s future depends on certainty for farmers, ranchers, and agri-business. The One Big Beautiful Bill supports agriculture today and protects the next generation of farmers and ranchers.”