Lincoln Journal Star. February 29, 2024.

Editorial: Veterans’ court expansion good for system and Nebraska

Nebraska appears to be on its way to joining a national movement to expand veterans’ access to problem-solving courts that would give judges the option to help connect individuals with treatment and other services rather than sending them into the criminal justice system.

That will be the outcome if the Legislature passes the Veterans Justice Act, brought to Nebraska by former Secretary of Defense and U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel, a member of the Council on Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission, a 15-member committee that, in 2022, examined veterans’ involvement in the criminal justice system.

The legislation, Hagel told the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee, was written in conjunction with the Department of Veterans Affairs, congressional leaders and the American Legislative Exchange Council to provide a template for states to take action to establish or expand veterans’ access to problem-solving courts.

As introduced by Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, the proposal would require each district and county court in the state to create a program to help avoid incarcerating veterans who suffer from the lingering effects of their service.

Veterans who are found eligible for the program would work with the court to develop a case plan that includes connecting them with service providers funded through the Veterans Administration that are specific to their needs.

A judge, rather than prosecutors, as is the case in the state’s other problem-solving courts, would determine whether a veteran qualifies for the program, and the victim of the veteran’s crime, if one exists, will be heard during the process.

“If a judge thinks that putting a particular veteran in a program would be unsafe for the public, this legislation lets the judge make the call,” Brewer told the committee: “These programs are not supposed to be a cake walk ... It’s not a permission slip to commit crimes, but a way to address those issues that are specific to veterans.”

The legislation, which would not interfere with existing veterans’ treatment courts operating in Lancaster County and the state’s other most populous areas, immediately received the support of the state’s criminal defense attorneys.

But the Nebraska County Attorneys Association raised questions about the measure that should be addressed before the bill is sent to the full Legislature, specifically whether the decision to place a veteran in the program should be made by a judge or prosecutors — the county attorneys naturally favor the latter — and, essentially, how the problem-solving courts would be operated and paid for, especially in less populous, rural counties.

Those issues should be addressed by the committee as it hones the quickly crafted bill, the latter perhaps by establishing regional veterans’ courts rather than requiring each district and county court to set up a program.

The bill then can be quickly sent to the full Legislature where Judiciary Chair Omaha Sen. Justin Wayne says he will work to pass this measure, which benefits veterans, the criminal justice system and all of Nebraska.

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McCook Gazette. March 1, 2024.

Editorial: Happy 157th birthday to Nebraska

Nebraska’s “honestly, it’s not for everyone” drew the nationwide attention it was designed for in 2019, but the reverse-psychology, self-deprecation had a predictably short shelf-life, becoming a thing of the past last month, despite possessing a modicum of truth.

Admittedly, our flyover status is tough to shake, but, with McCook’s nascent Creative District a good example, there’s plenty of reasons to be proud of ourself on this March 1, 2024, our 157th birthday.

First and foremost, Nebraska’s unique political landscape sets it apart, McCook’s own Sen. George Norris one of the prime movers. Our unicameral legislature and nonpartisan approach to governance, Nebraska exemplifies a commitment to effective representation and consensus-building.

In a time of political polarization, the state stands as a testament to the power of bipartisan cooperation, fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and respected.

Beyond our political system, Nebraska’s contributions to agriculture are unparalleled. Known as the breadbasket of the nation, Nebraska’s fertile plains have sustained generations of farmers and propelled the state to the forefront of agricultural innovation. From pioneering the use of irrigation techniques to embracing sustainable farming practices, Nebraskan farmers continue to feed the world while stewarding the land for future generations.

Moreover, Nebraska’s commitment to environmental stewardship is commendable. Despite its vast expanses of farmland, the state has made significant strides in conservation efforts, preserving natural habitats and wildlife. Initiatives such as the Arbor Day holiday, founded in Nebraska City, underscore the state’s dedication to environmental sustainability and tree conservation.

Nebraska’s rich cultural tapestry is another source of pride. From the indigenous tribes who have called the region home for thousands of years to the diverse communities that have shaped its identity, Nebraska celebrates its multicultural heritage. The state’s embrace of diversity is evident in its cities, where vibrant neighborhoods and cultural festivals such as McCook’s reborn German Heritage Days honoring the Germans from Russia that settled our region, showcase the richness of our immigrant roots.

Furthermore, Nebraska’s commitment to civil rights and social justice is worth applauding. From the activism of African American communities in Omaha to the bronze of Chief Standing Bear in the U.S. Capitol that stands as a testament to the resurgence of Native American pride and self-determination in the state, a battleground for progress and equality. Through grassroots organizing and advocacy, Nebraskans have worked tirelessly to confront systemic injustices and create a more inclusive society.

Nebraska’s future is bright with promise. As the state continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, its resilience and spirit of innovation will undoubtedly propel it forward. Whether in the halls of government, the fields of agriculture, or the streets of its vibrant cities, Nebraska’s legacy of excellence will endure for generations to come.

The Flatwater State stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to values. As we celebrate the accomplishments of this remarkable state, let us also rededicate ourselves to building a brighter future for all Nebraskans, united in purpose and bound by a shared love for the great Cornhusker State.

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