Legislature Dist. 2-24

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Candidate Responses for Legislative Districts 2-24; General Election, November 2006

	2006 General Election includes only even-numbered districts for State Legislators; Candidates are in District Order, then alpha by last name.
	For full text of questions, click here.

District 2

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Jerry O. Bond; State Legislature, District 2

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

I believe abortion is a moral issue. I defend the sanctity of life. I have been endorsed by Nebraska Right to Life. I would only support abortion in the very rare situations of a mother’s life being at risk.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

I will always strongly oppose public funds to be used for any purpose to support abortion.

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

We need to expand our advantage program and increase incentives for the value-added program to increase the profitability of agriculture. We also need to reduce the huge property tax burden upon our farmers and ranchers. The greatest way to reduce taxes upon rural Nebraskans is through economic development: expanding existing businesses and bringing in new businesses, creating jobs and cutting out burdensome regulations.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

I support a ban on cloning of human embryos

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

This may alleviate some of the overcrowding of our state-operated correctional facilities. Community-based corrections could possibly provide more successful and more cost-effective corrections for non-violent offenders.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Support

Education vouchers? Support

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Support

I believe all three would be very helpful to families so they can have greater choices of where they’d like to educate their children.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

We need to change the funding formula to benefit all Nebraska schoolchildren, K-12, regardless of where they live. Give the power back to the local school district, for the touch decisions.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

I believe we should not destroy human embryos for research. I can support research that does not compromise life.

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

I will seek legislation to support my view to protect life.

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

While providing these services, we need to ensure the safety of the public.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Support

This is wise. I believe this would help reduce abuse of the system and lower Medicaid costs to the state to benefit Nebraskans.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status? Oppose

There is a process already in place for people to become legal citizens of the United States of America. These laws should be abided by for citizenship and benefits. We need to stop paying for social services, education and healthcare for people who enter this country illegally. Controlling illegal immigration will cut soaring healthcare costs and Medicaid costs. It would benefit education, all businesses, agriculture, law enforcement, and threats of terrorism.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

The Defense of Marriage Act needs to remain in place. We need to provide excellent resources to married couples for social, spiritual, and financial support. Children benefit greatly by having an intact home with a stable marriage.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Support

The cost of living has gone up significantly since 1997; however we have to use caution to avoid job reductions.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

I have a three-part tax plan that includes: homestead exemption for those who have owned their home for 25 years and are age 65 and older; freeze property taxes for those who are 65 years old, but have not lived in their home for 25 years; pensions should not be taxed.

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Support

People have to be responsible for their actions. They should be strongly encouraged to work themselves out of the welfare system to become self-reliant.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Tax reduction

2. Local control of schools

3. Economic development/immigration

Please read my comments above to all of these issues to know where I stand.

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: Dave Pankonin; State Legislature, District 2

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

I am a pro life candidate who would vote to prohibit abortions with three limited exceptions: to prevent the death of the mother and in cases of forcible rape reported to law enforcement and in cases of incest.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

My family has been in the retail farm equipment business in District 2 since 1883. I personally have over 31 years of serving local farm families. With my active knowledge of production agriculture I would work to protect family farms and promote the sale of Nebraska products like ethanol.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

Although it should be used very sparingly I believe the majority of the public still favors the death penalty for some brutal and heinous crimes.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? No response

Education vouchers? Oppose

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? No response

I would want to know more about the specifics of the tax credits and their impact on state revenues. I could potentially support tax credits depending upon how the legislation is presented and its fiscal ramifications for all Nebraskans.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

1. Adequate funding; 2. Qualified teachers; 3. Emphasis on “values” in education. Our hometown of Louisville has started a very good “values” based education program this year.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

Need to know more before offering an opinion.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Support

We somehow need to slow the tremendous increase in health care spending and Medicaid spending need to be better controlled.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status? Oppose

Difficult issue but we should promote citizenship to have immigrants fully participate in our society. A national policy is needed to address this very tough issue.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

I think stable marriages that provide the proper home environment to raise children are important. As much as fiscally possible, public policy should support marriages and families with the tax code.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Oppose

I oppose raising the minimum wage above the federal law. Once the federal government raises the minimum wage then the Nebraska Legislature should consider it.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Support

We need to encourage personal responsibility in our society. Having additional children when a mother has reached the “cap” is not responsible behavior. We need policies to help people get off welfare and improve their families’ quality of life. For example with education and job training.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Healthcare related issues

2. Improvements to the state’s highways

3. Effective state spending and lower taxes if possible

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District 4

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Pete Pirsch; State Legislature, District 4

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

As a Catholic, it is important we as a society honor and protect all stages of life from the unborn stage through natural death. I am strongly pro-life and do not support exceptions due to incest or rape. I am proud to be the only candidate endorsed by both Nebraskans United for Life and Nebraska Right to Life.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

I am the only candidate who opposes considering a Medicaid Family Planning Waiver. The Medicaid Family Planning Waiver proposal is supported by Planned Parenthood and may lead to taxpayer money flowing to Planned Parenthood. The Medicaid Family Planning Wavier is opposed by the Nebraska Catholic Conference.

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

I am excited about pursuing many initiatives for economic development in rural Nebraska communities. Increased ethanol and biodiesel production, agri-tourism, value-added agricultural products, and manufacturing should be promoted.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

As a Catholic, I support the ban on such processes.

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

As a Criminal Prosecutor and as a Governor-appointed board member of the Nebraska Crime Commission, I have the expertise to help develop a system that holds non-violent offenders accountable for their actions, but in an extremely more cost-effective manner for the taxpayers. This system will also ensure that we are not releasing the most violently dangerous criminals back into our neighborhoods simply because our prisons are overpopulated.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

The death penalty should not be used except in extreme cases. We should focus on ensuring that those who receive sentences of life in prison actually serve those full life sentences.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? No response

Education vouchers? No response

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? No response

Many of my family members are educators, and I would consider exploring the use of any means to strengthen schools. The future health of the state depends upon our ability to educate children. Any measures designed to improve the educational system must be implemented in a manner that would not compromise the excellent quality of our public schools, must ensure that all special needs kids receive a top-notch education, and must be cost-effective for the taxpayer.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

Nebraska needs to ensure that educators are fairly compensated so that we can attract and retain the highest quality teachers. We also need to make sure that our educators have the tools and the authority necessary to run highly effective schools and classrooms.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

I support enacting a ban on research that involves destroying embryos.

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

I oppose changing Nebraska law in a manner that would allow physicians to give lethal drugs.

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

Implementing effective mental health services in a timely manner and in an accessible manner are concerns of mine. As a Criminal Prosecutor, I regularly see people who, because of untreated mental health issues, commit crimes and fill our jail cells at a great cost to the taxpayers. Preventative mental health measures are a much more cost-effective approach for the taxpayer, and lead to a higher quality of life for those afflicted with mental health problems.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model?

Everyone agrees steps must be taken to curb the unsustainable growth in Medicaid spending. Any changes in the Medicaid program designed to affect the cost of the program must be reviewed in light of two criteria. First, does the change meet the health care needs of the population being served? Secondly, are actual savings being realized with the change?

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status?

As a prosecutor, I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution and the laws of this land. To reward those who break the law by granting them drivers’ licenses and conferring upon them other benefits reserved for citizens seems to me to breed a contempt for our laws and may encourage further waves of illegal immigration. It is also disrespectful to those individuals who have taken the proper steps to immigrate to the U.S. lawfully. Certainly, in life or death types of instances, we have a moral and humanitarian duty to ensure that a life is not lost. But these proposals go well beyond that. I think the federal government needs to play a more active role in solving the problem.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

Marriage brings a much greater stability to developing children and to society. Family members, friends, religious leaders, counselors, and community organizations traditionally play a primary role in supporting a couple’s marriage. The state should not interfere with their ability to do so. Lowering taxes will help ease the stress levels of Nebraska families also.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage?

I want high-paying wages for all Nebraskans. In the Legislature I will help the state concentrate on helping people obtain higher wages through better education and job skills. I will also focus on attracting high-paying jobs to the state. I am concerned that too high of a minimum wage increase may result in workers having their employment terminated. I would want to know how much of an increase is specifically being proposed.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

I support preserving tax-exempt status.

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children?

I think we have to be careful that we are not punishing innocent children. However, we do need to promote and expect able-bodied parents to seek education and/or employment opportunities that will enable them to take care of their own families.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Tax relief

2. Protecting our families and neighborhoods from crime and drugs

3. Preserving a great quality of life for the next generation of Nebraskans

My mission in the Legislature is to lower taxes, especially property taxes. We are one of the highest taxed states in the U.S. High taxes are chasing people and businesses out of the state and making life hard for those of us who stay here. I will insist upon greater accountability in spending practices and more government transparency to eliminate waste and inefficiency to achieve lower taxes. As a Criminal Prosecutor and Governor-appointed member of the Nebraska Crime Commission, I will help lead the way in the legislature combating methamphetamines, safeguarding our children from predators, targeting sex offenders, protecting state funds, and ensuring the safety of our schools and neighborhoods. We need to ensure a high quality of life for our children by promoting the sanctity of life, ensuring quality education, reforming the foster care system, and promoting economic development that will allow opportunities for young people to remain in Nebraska.

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: Tony Sorrentino; State Legislature, District 4

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

Abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska, without exception.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

Initiatives that encourage economic growth (whether rural or urban) should be considered.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

I support a ban on human cloning.

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

Incarceration for many of these individuals has proved to be more harmful, than beneficial. Also, incarceration creates further issues with foster care for children left behind, and substantive state Medicaid issues.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

Certain crimes are so heinous in nature that consideration must be given to capital punishment. Such crimes might include the intentional, premeditated murder of an officer in the line of duty, and the rape/murder of a child.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Support

Education vouchers? Oppose

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Support

I do not believe that Catholic parents have an “expectation” of government subsidy in return for their investment in Catholic education…there is a much “higher” purpose. Vouchers would limit control over Catholic curriculum

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

A thorough review of the students’ needs, coupled with a thorough analysis of present school administrative systems.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system? No concerns.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Support

This was discussed at the Medicaid Reform Committee level, but not considered by the 2006 Legislature. This concept is still somewhat untested (Florida just adopted), but it is certainly the “eventual” method of Medicaid delivery.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status?

Checked Support

However, they must be legal immigrants, and are pursing citizenship in the United States. Illegal immigrants, who only pay taxes through fraudulent identification means, should not receive state benefits.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

I do not believe that the State should interfere with the relationships between husband/wife. Programs that prepare couples for marriage should be emphasized before marriage. The sake of children should be handled by law enforcement/social workers.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Oppose

Free enterprise is the best barometer of the adequacy of minimum wage.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Oppose

Implementing a “family cap” only hurts the children involved. While some may feel that the family cap also encourages abortion, that is just another reason to oppose such legislation.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. State Medicaid

2. Education (school districting and funding)

3. Foster care

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District 6

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Lynne Sarafian Anderson; State Legislature, District 6

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

I support the Nebraska law as it is currently written.

Using public funds for abortion? Support

Individuals who are covered for medical care by public funds should have coverage of appropriate (necessary for good health) medical care including procedures.

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

The state of Nebraska should support efforts to increase economic development in rural Nebraska. Alternative fuel development is underway. Tax incentives as well as support for research in this area should be supported. Agricultural research by our state colleges and universities should be fully funded.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Oppose

There is no current consensus of opinion as to what constitutes an embryos (sic). Some would contend this would ban some current infertility processes.

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

Our current system does not work. We need to work toward rehabilitation of offenders, so as many as possible can become contributing citizens. We can accomplish a lot for individuals and spend less than the $28,000/year that we spend for incarceration.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Support

It is a cost saving to Nebraska to replace the death penalty with a life sentence without parole.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Oppose

Education vouchers? Oppose

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Oppose

I support the excellent work that is done by private schools; however, public funds should be available for public schools.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

Funding for public schools should be supplied by Nebraska general funds. Property tax, as the school funding source, leads to inequality based on the economic status of the community. Property tax funding for schools leads to ill feelings between socio-economic groups.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Oppose

There needs to be ethical guidelines, but embryos are destroyed every day during infertility treatment and selection. The term as used in this question can refer to a few cells (less than 16) with no beating heart, brain or recognizable organ.

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

I am a more than 30-year advanced practice nurse. Medications that relieve pain and suffering should not be withheld if the individual requests them.

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

The proper treatment, diagnosis and research that should be available to the diseases that affect the brain and nervous system, as are currently available to other organ systems such as heart and blood vessels. Neb. needs community services as well as specialized services.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Oppose

This may be an option but there must be assurance of appropriate health insurance available for purchase prior to making this change.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status? Support

If individuals are residing in Nebraska, working and paying taxes, they should receive appropriate benefits. Relegating contributing persons to “underclass” status is short sighted cost savings to Nebraska.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

All families need support from their community and State to ensure a nurturing environment for the individual and family. Those provided services include but are not limited to good schools, good and affordable health care (including mental health services) and good, affordable health

care (sic).

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Support

Financial stress increases stress on individuals and families struggling to survive.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Oppose

The child should not be penalized for his/her birth. Each life should be valued and not be a source of shame, condemnation and increased financial hardship.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Work to ensure affordable, accessible health care for all.

2. Transition funding for education to state general funds

3. Support Nebraska efforts to becoming a leader in production and marketing of renewable energy.

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: John E. Nelson; State Legislature, District 6

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

Abortion should be prohibited except in those instances where the mother’s life is at risk.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

We need to encourage and provide financial/tax incentives for the development of agricultural related industries, such as ethanol plants, which will serve to create jobs, income and better markets for corn and other agricultural commodities.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

I oppose human cloning for any purpose.

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

I totally support moving toward community-based corrections, and would add drug court to the examples cited above. This policy should serve to reduce the huge cost incurred by our corrections system for facilities and incarceration.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

An accused found guilty by a jury of intentional, premeditated murder reaching the prescribed level of depravity should receive the death penalty. What purpose does mandatory restitution serve when a life has been taken? I believe that post-conviction appeals should be limited.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Support

Education vouchers? Oppose

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Support

I believe that tax credits are the best way to help parents choose the schools best suited for their children. However, I question offering tax credits to corporations for that purpose.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

We need to reform the present formula for allocation of state funds to our schools. Disparity in distribution among districts has contributed to our present situation.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

I continue to support biomedical research which uses adult stem cells and the use of existing stem cell lines as authorized by the presidential executive order.

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

Our mission should be to preserve life and to provide comfort and/or reduction of pain for the dying, but not by lethal drugs or lethal injections.

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

While I support this public-policy emphasis on community-based services, I am concerned that the medical care and supervision of patients/residents may be reduced in a group home setting.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Support

I believe that a “defined contribution” model is worth trying, and that it will contain or reduce the increasing cost of our present medical-assistance program.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status? Oppose

I do not support providing in-state tuition to illegal aliens. Except for truly emergency situations, I do not support access to basic public benefits for undocumented immigrants residing in Nebraska.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

“No fault” divorce is a major contributor to these costs. We should require counseling and mediation which emphasizes financial support and moral responsibility for the children. If the marriage is dissolved, adequate financial and educational safeguards should be imposed and enforced on behalf of the children.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Support

I would support a small increase in the minimum wage, one that will not cause employers to lay off employees in order to keep from increasing their prices for services or goods.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

All of these organizations, whose members and volunteers often provide time, money and services sacrificially, contribute greatly toward the well-being of Nebraska citizens and the fabric of our society. We should not tax them on the property they have purchased and maintain for these purposes.

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Support

I believe a cap is necessary because the present system appears to encourage the production of children by single mothers seeking additional cash and subsistence from the state.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Incentives promoting economic growth

2. Reform of our medical-assistance program

3. Emphasis on community-based corrections

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District 8

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Marc Kraft; State Legislature, District 8

Candidate did not respond.

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: Tom White; State Legislature, District 8

Candidate did not respond.

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District 10

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Mike Friend; State Legislature, District 10

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

Abortion should be banned, except to save the life of the mother. Cases such as a tubal pregnancy would be an example of this exception.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

1) Tax climate should be addressed. Poor tax climate, or confiscatory tax policy, hurts both rural and urban areas. 2) Ethanol production, and driving for more efficiencies in the production process, is an outstanding opportunity for rural Nebraska.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders? Support

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Oppose

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Support

Education vouchers? ?*

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Support

I am worried about government attaching “strings” to voucher initiatives. I would have to see the specific legislation in order to make an informed judgment.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

Initiatives and reforms that will empower the parents and teachers in the educational process.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

I believe LB 1083 has helped to move us in the appropriate direction with regard to behavioral health reform in Nebraska. This, however, is major reform. This means that much of what Nebraska is attempting to accomplish will take a significant amount of time.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model? Support

I believe this empowers (or potentially empowers) people to make more personalized health care decisions. It is currently in the form of a study and I believe we should continue pursuing this study.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status? Oppose (some)

Immigration status is not irrelevant, and some of the items listed should not be provided to undocumented immigrants, such as driving privileges, in-state tuition. Some services, like help for low-income pregnant women can be provided. But undocumented status must be dealt with first and foremost, in order to achieve proper legal authority to provide for all basic services.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

Government cannot change people’s hearts and minds. Government only provides guidelines. One of those guidelines is the legal idea of “no fault” divorce (probably an idea that made divorce more common in our society). But, overall, I do think we tend to over-hype government’s role in societal issues.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage?

Haven’t made a final determination yet. I have supported modest changes in the past, but I am concerned about exceeding, or bypassing, Federal standards. This could create unintended consequences for Nebraska.

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children?

This is also in study form. I would like to see what results have been produced from other states that have dealt with this issue in a similarly proposed manner.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Tax climate; tax and revenue efficiency

2. Bicameralism or legislative governmental makeup

3. Child welfare issues

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: Robert Wimberley; State Legislature, District 10

Candidate did not respond.

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District 12

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Steve Lathrop; State Legislature, District 12

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

Abortion should be prohibited except in cases of rape, incest or when the mother’s health is at risk.

Using public funds for abortion? Oppose

I would oppose funding to any organization whose purpose was performing abortions or counseling others to have abortions.

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

Economic incentives offered by the State must be broad enough to assist start-up businesses and expansion in smaller rural communities. Beyond that, the State must take the lead in expanding markets for Nebraska growth commodities.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Support

I oppose cloning because it is inconsistent with my pro life views.

Criminal Justice/Corrections

Emphasizing community-based corrections and greater use of probation and parole rather than incarceration for non-violent offenders?

Violent offenders should be incarcerated in all instances. Nevertheless, those non-violent individuals who show the potential to respond to drug and alcohol programs should be afforded the opportunity to rehabilitate through these programs. The result will be savings to the state and less recidivism.

Death Penalty

Repealing death penalty and replacing it with imprisonment for life without parole and with order of mandatory restitution? Support

Consistent with my faith, I am opposed to the death penalty. In its place, I would require mandatory life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Education

Education-expense tax credits? Oppose

Education vouchers? Oppose

K-12 Scholarship donation tax credits? Oppose

I attended Catholic schools, as did my children, because I wanted my faith integrated into my education. Government funding of Catholic schools would likely jeopardize the school’s freedom from government regulation.

Public policy reforms/initiatives most needed to promote even more effective elementary/secondary education system?

It is important that our public schools are properly funded. On the other hand, administrators in education must be accountable and provide efficient use of people’s property tax dollars.

Embryo Research

Enacting ban on research that destroys live human embryos for their stem cells? Support

I oppose the destruction of human embryos for biomedical research.

Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide

Legalizing voluntary, consent-based euthanasia and assisted suicide? Oppose

I would oppose any attempt to authorize the use of lethal drugs on terminally ill patients.

Health Care

Concerns about public policy emphasis on community-based services for implementing Nebraska’s behavioral health (mental illness, addictions) system?

The movement to community-based behavioral health care can, in many instances, result in better care and a savings to the state. Nevertheless, the state must have the facilities for the most severe cases in which inpatient care and/or confinement are necessary. It is also important to ensure that the savings realized by the movement to community-based services are spent on the mental health needs of Nebraskans.

Changing Medicaid policy from current “defined benefits” model to a “defined contributions” model?

I support efforts to contain skyrocketing costs in Nebraska’s Medicaid program. However, it is critical that any solution to the rising costs of Medicaid ensure that we preserve the dignity of each human being. No child should go without healthcare because of technicalities incorporated into the reform.

Immigrant Policy

Ensuring that (newly arrived) immigrants, who are employed, paying taxes and residing in Nebraska, have access to basic public benefits, regardless of immigration status?

I would extend government benefits/privileges to those immigrants on track to become U.S. citizens. To those who enter the country illegally and do not intend to become U.S. citizens, I would provide basic needs until they can be returned to their country of origin.

Marriage/Family Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to address social and public costs of failed marriages and to promote stable marriages?

There is little the State can do to slow the rate of divorce in this country. Perhaps more education in the high schools on the nature of a relationship that involves a lifetime commitment. Beyond that, the State must do a better job of enforcing support orders.

Minimum Wage

Increasing the state minimum wage? Support

Tax Policy

Preserving tax exemption for qualifying religious, educational and charitable property? Support

I support the continued tax-exempt status for property owned by a non-profit organization as long as they do not engage in for-profit (not including fundraising) or political activities.

Welfare Policy

“Family Cap/Child Exclusion”--precluding additional cash assistance for children born to mothers already receiving aid for dependent children? Oppose

If we view welfare as public assistance to those in transition, then a cap on benefits that ignores the basic needs of a family is not acceptable. Reasonable limitations in time and benefits are acceptable to encourage those who can work to find employment.

Personal Priorities

Priority public-policy issues to be pursued in upcoming Legislature?

1. Cutting property taxes

2. Quality education

3. Preserving the sanctity of life

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CANDIDATE’S NAME: Jean Stothert; State Legislature, District 12

Abortion

If Roe v. Wade were overturned, extent to which abortion should be prohibited in Nebraska?

I consider myself pro-life and I would work toward pro life goals as a state senator. My professional background as a nurse allowed me to work to save and prolong life. This has been my profession and I am proud of it. Abortion should be rare and allowed in cases of rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother. I strongly oppose abortion for the purposes of sex selection or birth control. I also support parental notification and a ban on partial birth abortion.

Using public funds for abortion?

In reference to paying for abortion, I believe poor women should not be denied legal medical services available to the wealthy. I do not support tax dollars being used to encourage abortion over abortion alternatives.

Agriculture/Rural Life

Public policy changes and/or initiatives to bring about greater economic development in rural communities?

Reduced tax burden on productive farm land. Greater use of ethanol and other renewable fuels. Targeted tax incentives for small business in rural areas.

Cloning

Enacting ban on cloning processes that create human embryos for any purpose? Checked Support

I do not support reproductive cloning. I do not oppose SCNT. With SCNT, the nucleus of an unfertilized egg is replaced with the nucleus from a somatic cell, such as a skin cell. It becomes a structure that looks similar to, but very different from a blastocyst—within it are embryonic stem cells—but they are unable to undergo the genetic programming that, after sexual reproduction, permits the development of a healthy baby. Because the cells produced by SCNT contain the patient’s own DNA, there is a strong possibility they will not be rejected after transplantation. I believe that the promise of this research is that patients could use their own cells to ward off serious diseases/illnesses—such as Alzheimer’s, Diabetes and Parkinson’s. Ultimately, I support research that is ethical and morally acceptable, and does not destroy human embryos.

Criminal Justice/Corrections