By Scout Nelson
Nebraska is strengthening protections for agriculture, public infrastructure, and communication systems through the ceremonial signing of LB 1096, a new state law designed to defend against foreign threats and biological risks. Governor Jim Pillen joined Senator Eliot Bostar, FBI officials, and national security leaders to highlight the law and its importance for Nebraska’s future.
The new law introduces stronger safeguards to protect the state's agriculture industry, energy and utility systems, communications networks, and public records from hostile foreign governments and organizations. State leaders say the measure helps improve Nebraska’s ability to respond to modern security challenges while protecting critical resources.
Governor Jim Pillen said the law is necessary because foreign governments continue to target important American industries and infrastructure.
“Let’s be blunt: nations like China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are actively probing American infrastructure every single day. The CCP has made no secret of its desire to undermine American agriculture and infiltrate our technological backbone,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska will not sit back and wait for crisis to happen. We are taking offensive action to secure our fields, our grids, and our networks right now.”
Senator Eliot Bostar said the legislation strengthens the protection of agriculture, utilities, communications, and financial systems while recognizing the support of government agencies and law enforcement.
Under the PLANT Act, the law creates tougher penalties for illegally bringing dangerous plant diseases or pests into Nebraska. More severe penalties apply if foreign funding, hidden origins, or major economic damage to agriculture are involved.
The legislation also prevents government agencies and critical infrastructure operators from giving hostile foreign organizations direct or remote access to important systems such as power grids, water treatment facilities, emergency communication networks, and telecommunications infrastructure.
In addition, Nebraska limits public access to sensitive technical records that could expose weaknesses in critical infrastructure. The law also requires communication providers to remove equipment made by prohibited foreign manufacturers from Nebraska communication towers by Nov. 8, 2026.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel emphasized that strong partnerships between government, law enforcement, industry, and universities remain essential to defending against cyberattacks and biological threats.
State Armor leaders praised the legislation as one of the strongest state-level security measures in the nation, saying it sets an example for other states to follow.
Governor Pillen said Nebraska will continue leading efforts to protect its agriculture, infrastructure, and citizens from future foreign threats.
“Homeland security starts at home,” Gov. Pillen added. “We will continue to be a national leader in protecting our state against foreign threats.”
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Nebraska, Government & Policy