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LR 259

Interim study to examine the feasibility, benefits, and framework for establishing a high school agriculture student exchange program within Nebraska modeled after foreign student exchange programs

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

Authorizes an interim study to assess feasibility, structure, benefits, and funding options for a Nebraska high school agriculture student exchange program.

Referred to Education Committee
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Bill Summary · LR 259

Summary of LR 259 — Interim study on Nebraska high school agriculture student exchange program

Overview

LR 259 is a Legislative Resolution introduced on May 15, 2025 and referred to the Executive Board and then to the Education Committee. Sponsored primarily by Armendariz, the resolution designates an interim study to explore the feasibility, benefits, and framework for establishing a Nebraska high school agriculture student exchange program modeled after foreign student exchange programs. The study aims to foster cross-regional learning, cultural exchange, and greater appreciation for Nebraska’s agricultural heritage and rural life.

Purpose

  • Assess whether a high school agriculture student exchange program can be feasibly implemented in Nebraska.
  • Identify benefits to participating students, host communities, and Nebraska’s agricultural education system.
  • Explore how such a program could strengthen connections within Nebraska and with other agricultural regions.

Key provisions and topics to be examined

The study shall consider, but is not limited to, the following areas:
1. Feasibility and structure, including exchanges’ duration, potential school credit recognition, and housing arrangements.
2. Potential collaboration with:
- Local school districts
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension/Extension Service
- 4-H programs
- Future Farmers of America (FFA)
3. Benefits to student participants, host communities, and Nebraska’s agricultural education system.
4. Possible models, including:
- Urban-to-rural exchanges within Nebraska
- Interstate exchanges with other agricultural regions
5. Strategies to ensure participation from low-income urban areas.
6. Potential funding sources, including state appropriations, federal grants, and private sponsorships.

Process and timeline

  • The Education Committee is designated to conduct the interim study.
  • Upon completion, the committee must report findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature.
  • The resolution authorizes consultation with other standing committees, state agencies, and relevant stakeholders as part of the study.

Who is affected

  • Nebraska high school students participating in agriculture education (potentially from urban and rural areas).
  • School districts, local education agencies, and Nebraska’s agricultural education ecosystem (including 4-H, FFA, and university extension partners).
  • State-funded and private sources that may fund any pilot or expansion later, should the study support moving beyond a study.

Status

  • Introduced: May 15, 2025
  • Referred to Executive Board (May 15, 2025) and subsequently to the Education Committee (May 19, 2025)
  • Classified as a legislative resolution (not enacted law at this stage)

Sponsor

  • Primary sponsor: Armendariz

This LR 259 does not create a program yet; it authorizes an interim study to evaluate feasibility, structure, benefits, and funding options for a potential Nebraska high school agriculture student exchange program.

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

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