Congress’ most basic responsibility is also one of its most important: funding the federal government. When Congress fails to do that job, the consequences reach beyond Washington — delaying services, creating uncertainty for families and businesses, and eroding trust in government.
That’s why I’m encouraged by the progress made by the Senate this week: we passed five additional government funding bills, bringing our total to 11 out of 12 funding bills now signed into law.
In addition to keeping the government open, passing funding bills is an opportunity to bring back Nebraska tax dollars we send to Washington every year. My team works closely with localities back home to ensure we get their input on how their federal tax money is spent. Because I value transparency, I list the community projects I’m advocating for here in Washington online at www.fischer.senate.gov.
In the Agriculture and Rural Development funding bill, I secured $16 million for the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service facility at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. It’s clear this investment will support research that benefits Nebraska producers and strengthens American agriculture.
In the Commerce, Justice, and Science funding bill, I secured over $7 million for radio communications and equipment upgrades for Nebraska law enforcement. Nearly a dozen counties reached out asking for help replacing outdated systems and gear. These upgrades will help officers communicate and respond faster, improving safety for both first responders and the communities they serve.
I also worked to secure $8.8 million in the Interior and Environment funding bill to upgrade aging water treatment plants and sewer systems in McCook, Greeley, Farwell, Gothenburg, Genoa, Shelby, Valparaiso, and Ong that were beginning to require costly repairs. These projects will help ensure safe drinking water and sustainable infrastructure for residents across these counties.
And after the EPA deemed the Santee Sioux Nation’s water source “not consumable,” I secured $8.25 million to deliver safe drinking water to the tribe, a necessity no community should be without.
Finally, in the Energy and Water Development bill, I secured $14.6 million to restore irrigation tunnels on the Gering–Fort Laramie Canal, after a catastrophic tunnel collapse left 55,000 acres of farmland without reliable irrigation. This investment will protect regional economic stability and reduce financial pressure on local farmers.
These projects reflect what I believe federal funding should do: invest in practical, local needs that improve daily life. It’s imperative that elected representatives continue to have influence over this process and not leave these decisions to unelected bureaucrats in Washington.
Just as important, bringing federal tax dollars back home provides relief to Nebraska taxpayers. Many of these projects would otherwise fall on local property taxes — shifting the burden onto families, farmers, and small businesses. When we can fund these priorities with the federal dollars Nebraskans already contribute, it’s a win for our communities and for responsible government.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.