Nebraska's senators weigh in on 'big, beautiful bill'

The near 1,000-page budget reconciliation bill, also called the "big beautiful bill," was passed by the U.S. Senate Tuesday.

Both of Nebraska’s senators, Pete Ricketts and Deb Fischer voted in favor of the bill. Both stated in press releases that the legislation will benefit Nebraskan families, saying it will help avoid tax hikes and the loss of tax credits. They both also praised the addition of an 80-hour a month work requirement for Medicaid eligibility.

Ricketts said in his press release that, “the One Big Beautiful Bill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver for Nebraska.”

Fischer focused more on national security and said, “last November, Americans spoke loud and clear: they want safer communities, lower energy costs, and real relief for working families. Today, the Senate delivered—blocking a $4 trillion tax hike and investing in border security to keep America safe.

The bill is controversial, as indicated by the 50-50 vote within the Senate, requiring Vice President JD Vance to break the tie. Those against the bill, like Nebraska Appleseed, said it will only further the national debt and take away health care and food support from Nebraskans. They also criticized the changes to Medicaid, saying that it will cause 110,000+ Nebraskans to lose Medicaid coverage.

The modified bill will be returned to the U.S. House of Representatives for them to either approve or to make further changes.