Congratulate Dr. Byron Barksdale for earning the 2025 J.G. Elliot Award

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Jacobson

The resolution formally recognizes Dr. Byron Barksdale for earning the 2025 J.G. Elliot Award and commends his distinguished service in medicine and health programs in Nebraska.

Adopted

LR 263 – Comprehensive Summary

Type and Purpose

Type: Legislative Resolution (non-binding)

Title: Congratulate Dr. Byron Barksdale for earning the 2025 J.G. Elliot Award

Purpose: Official recognition by the Nebraska Legislature of Dr. Byron Barksdale’s receipt of the 2025 J.G. Elliot Award and acknowledgment of his contributions to medicine and health programs in Nebraska.

Background and Rationale (Whereas Clauses)

Dr. Byron Barksdale earned the 2025 J. G. Elliot Award, which honors individuals with significant contributions to medicine and health programs in Nebraska.

Roles and affiliations:

Consulting pathologist across Nebraska.
Owner of Pathology Services in North Platte, Nebraska.
Supporter of the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s pathology department.
Service to nineteen critical access hospitals in Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas.

Notable achievements and impact in North Platte and the region:

1981: Began work in North Platte; collaborated with the community to bring the first anesthesiologist to the area by 1983.
1985: Established what is now the Callahan Cancer Center.
2009: Created a certified stroke center.
After 28 years of advocacy, helped establish a hyperbaric chamber for treating carbon monoxide poisoning and specialized wounds.

Overall impact: Significant contributions to medicine and community health in Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas.

Provisions of the Resolution

The Legislature congratulates Dr. Byron Barksdale for earning the 2025 J. G. Elliot Award.

A copy of the resolution shall be sent to Dr. Byron Barksdale.

Procedural Timeline and Status

Introduced: May 20, 2025

Laid over: May 20, 2025

Adopted: May 27, 2025

Signed by President/Speaker: May 27, 2025

Current Status: Adopted

Session context: One Hundred Ninth Legislature, First Session

Sponsor: Jacobson (primary)

Who is Affected

Primary beneficiary: Dr. Byron Barksdale, in recognition of his career and achievements.

Broader impact: Highlights and publicizes contributions of medical professionals serving Nebraska and neighboring states; may elevate awareness of regional medical initiatives (e.g., Callahan Cancer Center, stroke care, hyperbaric medicine).

Key Takeaways

LR 263 is ceremonial and ceremonial-only; it does not enact policy or allocate funds.

It formally recognizes and commends Dr. Barksdale for distinguished service in medicine and health programs, tied to his receipt of the 2025 J.G. Elliot Award, and directs that the resolution be transmitted to him.