By U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

**Click here to download the audio recording of this week’s column**

I always look forward to traveling across Nebraska. Recently, I began the weeklong state work period in the panhandle visiting in many communities before making my way to Omaha. From Scottsbluff and North Platte to Kearney, Hastings, Geneva, and Crete, these local discussions are important for my work in the U.S. Senate.

This month, I brought the U.S. Senate to Scottsbluff, where I chaired a hearing of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation. It was the third field hearing that I have chaired in Nebraska and the focus was rural transportation. A panel of local experts representing the agriculture, rail, trucking, aviation, and highway sectors joined us. Each of these Nebraskans examined the recently-passed highway bill and how it will impact the regional economy.  

Our hearing also touched on the importance of aviation in western Nebraska. In April, the U.S. Senate passed legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration. It contained critical provisions for Scottsbluff and other community airports.

Transportation connects our local communities to the rest of Nebraska and the nation. I was proud to work on the highway bill in the Senate and fight for provisions that will strengthen transportation projects in rural Nebraska like the expressway system. Through our field hearing, we were able to hear directly from local stakeholders and learn more about the needs of Nebraska’s rural communities. The witness’ testimony provided me with greater insight on local perspectives and will continue to guide my work as Congress oversees the implementation of the new highway law. 

My time in Scottsbluff was only the beginning of a week filled with community discussions on a wide variety of subjects across the state. These casual forums are a great way for me to connect with Nebraskans and hear your concerns firsthand. 

At each stop, there was a common theme: Nebraskans are concerned about the economy and the barriers to progress. For example, in North Platte at the world’s largest freight rail yard, I heard from hardworking Union Pacific employees. They expressed concerns regarding the Federal Railroad Administration’s interference and mismanagement. This has led to the loss of an important safety-reporting program, referred to as the Confidential Close Call Reporting System. They are also worried about the “War on Coal” and the negative impact this has had on railroad jobs. 

In Kearney, a gentleman spoke about the federal government’s overreach and how they are forcing regulations into every sector of the economy. From the EPA's overreaching carbon emissions rules threatening reliable power plants to the Department of Labor’s new fiduciary rule targeting your family’s financial advisors, our federal government is out of control. For over three years, I have been working with my colleagues on solutions restoring power back to the local governments and communities through meaningful legislation. 

Despite these roadblocks, Nebraskans are making progress. During one of my visits, I toured the new Health Science Education Complex at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This impressive research and learning facility is using state-of-the-art technology and research to advance health care in Nebraska’s rural communities. I also visited Redline Specialty Pharmacy in Hastings. This family-owned business is paving the way in personalized medicine, but is trying to deal with rules and regulations hindering their growth. 

The many impressions I received during my time in Nebraska will continue to guide my work for you in the Senate. Throughout this year, I will continue to host these community coffees across Nebraska. As I announce new dates and locations, details will be posted on Facebook, Twitter, and my website. You can also read about them in your local papers. It is an honor to represent the great state of Nebraska and I hope you will continue to reach out with questions or concerns.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.