WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

LR 258

Interim study to examine a philanthropic endowment and location to host a week-long camp for certain children who live in low-income urban areas to learn about agriculture

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Christy Armendariz

LR 258 studies creating a philanthropic endowment and site to host a week-long agricultural camp for urban youth 9–12, boosting education and rural workforce readiness.

Notice of hearing for October 31, 2025
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LR 258

LR 258 — Interim Study: Philanthropic Endowment and Urban Camp for Agriculture Education

Overview

LR 258 is a concurrent resolution in the Nebraska Legislature proposing an interim study to explore the creation of a philanthropic endowment and a suitable location to host a week-long camp. The camp would target children aged 9 to 12 from low-income urban areas, offering experiences and learning opportunities related to agriculture and agricultural careers. The study aims to identify models, funding sources, curriculum options, and potential pilot locations to help address rural workforce needs.

  • Legislature: 109th, First Session
  • Introduced: May 15, 2025
  • Status: Notice of hearing scheduled for October 31, 2025
  • Primary sponsor: Armendariz; co-sponsor: Storer
  • Referred to: Executive Board (May 15, 2025) and then to the Agriculture Committee (May 19, 2025)
  • Type: Resolution (interim study, non-binding guidance)

Purpose and Intent

  • To examine whether a philanthropic endowment and a suitable site can support a week-long agricultural camp for urban youth.
  • To determine if exposure to agriculture can enhance educational outcomes, workforce readiness, and social development, with potential to address rural workforce issues.

Key Provisions and Focus Areas

The study would focus on, but is not limited to,:
1. Educational, workforce, and social benefits of exposing urban youth to agriculture through camp programs.
2. Identification of successful models or partnerships with universities, non-profits, or local farms and ranches in Nebraska or elsewhere.
3. Evaluation of curriculum development, accessibility, cultural inclusivity, and program delivery methods.
4. Exploration of funding options, including state support, federal grants, and private sector contributions.
5. Consideration of pilot program implementation in urban centers such as Omaha, Lincoln, or Grand Island.

Affected Parties and Potential Impacts

  • Target participants: Children ages 9–12 from low-income urban areas in Nebraska.
  • Potential partners: Universities, non-profit organizations, local farms and ranches, and other states’ programs.
  • Potential outcomes: Recommendations for program design, funding strategies, and pilot implementation plans; a possible framework for future funding or statutory action based on study findings.
  • Administrative impact: The Agriculture Committee would conduct the interim study and prepare a report with findings and recommendations for the Legislative Council or Legislature.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Designation: The Agriculture Committee is charged with conducting the interim study.
  • Reporting: A final report outlining findings and recommendations must be submitted to the Legislative Council or Legislature after the study concludes.
  • Hearing: Notice of hearing set for October 31, 2025 (the notice was issued on August 8, 2025).
  • Process: As a resolution, LR 258 does not create new law but directs an interim study that could inform future policy decisions or funding considerations.

Summary

LR 258 seeks to explore whether a philanthropic endowment and a dedicated site could support a week-long agricultural camp for urban youth, with the goal of promoting agricultural education and addressing rural workforce needs. The study would evaluate benefits, partnerships, curriculum and accessibility, funding sources, and urban pilot possibilities in Omaha, Lincoln, or Grand Island. The Agriculture Committee would conduct the study and report back with findings and recommendations. The resolution is scheduled for a hearing in late October 2025.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.