02/05/2026
Letter from Nebraska FOP President Conner:
Brothers and Sisters,
Next week, likely Thursday, LB1117 will be heard in the Revenue Committee. This bill proposes changes to our First Responder tuition waiver that would hurt our members and their families:
Requiring a strict 3.0 GPA (even during tough personal or professional times)
Capping eligibility at just 5 years and 120 credit hours—no flexibility for part-time students, major changers, or those who need extra time
And other restrictions that could make this hard-earned benefit much harder to use
This program has been a game-changer for recruiting and retaining law enforcement professionals in Nebraska. It helps keep experienced officers on the job and supports our families right here at home. We can't let these limits weaken it.
To make the strongest case possible, I need real stories from our members to share with the senators.
No names needed, just the impact this bill had on your members' families. Here are a few questions you can ask your members to find stories we can share with the committee.
Has a member moved from a bordering state (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, etc.) specifically to Nebraska to take advantage of this tuition benefit for themselves or their kids?
Has this benefit helped convince a member to stay in Nebraska law enforcement instead of leaving for another state or agency?
Has a member's son or daughter chosen to attend college in Nebraska (and stay in the state long-term) because of this waiver, even when they got accepted out of state?
Even one powerful story can make a big difference in the hearing room.
Also: Show up in force. We're asking every Lodge to send several representatives to the hearing. A strong turnout sends a clear message to the senators about how many Nebraska LE families this program touches and how important it is to our profession.
If you're able to attend, let me know so we can coordinate.
If you have questions, want help crafting a quick story, or need more details, don't hesitate to reach out by call, text, or email.
Let's protect this benefit for the next generation of officers and their families. Your voice matters!
Thanks for stepping up.
Fraternally,
Tony Conner
Anthony Conner
Nebraska State FOP President
(Note: To reach out to President Conner, please message FOP88, and a phone number will be shared with you, or email at [email protected].)
