Supporting Those Who Serve: NSVFA’s Ongoing Work Across Nebraska

As the new year gains momentum and February quickly approaches, I feel it is a fitting time to reflect on where we are—and where we are headed together.

The strength of the NSVFA has always been rooted in unity. By working together, supporting one another, and sharing a common purpose, we continue to build a stronger future for volunteer fire and EMS services across Nebraska.

I would like to sincerely thank all NSVFA members who attended the Elected Officials Breakfast in Lincoln on January 20. This gathering was more than a meeting—it was an opportunity to engage directly with state legislators and clearly communicate the needs and concerns of firefighters and EMS providers from across the state. Your presence and participation ensured those voices were heard. A special thank you to the NSVFA Auxiliary for hosting this important event; your dedication and support are vital to our continued success.

On January 31, members of the NSVFA Executive Board, the NSVFA Fire Chiefs Association, and the NSVFA Legislative Committee met virtually to prepare for the upcoming legislative session. Together, we are focused on advocating effectively for the issues that matter most to our membership. One key piece of legislation we are supporting is LB400 (Workers’ Compensation – Firefighter Cancer), introduced by Senator Wordekemper. This bill would create a rebuttable presumption within the Nebraska Workers' Compensation Act treating cancer as an occupational disease for both volunteer and career firefighters. Floor debate on this bill is anticipated to be January 16, 2026.  

As the Nebraska Legislature progresses through its latest session, the NSVFA will keep a close eye on the bills moving through the Capitol. The NSVFA has always made monitoring legislative activity a priority and will continue to alert members to proposed policies that could affect funding, training, operations, and the overall wellbeing of volunteer firefighters. For many rural communities in Nebraska, volunteer fire departments are the backbone of emergency response. These men and women respond to structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, medical calls, and natural disasters—often with limited resources. The NSVFA’s vigilance in the legislative arena aims to ensure that lawmakers understand the unique challenges these departments face and that volunteers are supported through sound policy decisions.

Another important way we strengthen our organization is by recognizing excellence within our departments. I encourage you to nominate deserving members for the awards and scholarships offered by the NSVFA. These honors recognize dedication, service, and the true spirit of volunteerism. Awards will be presented during the opening ceremonies of the Nebraska State Fire School on May 15 at the Heartland Event Center in Grand Island. More information can be found at: https://www.nsvfa.org/awards-scholarships.

I truly cherish the time spent attending banquets and gatherings throughout the state. These moments allow us to reconnect with longtime friends, form new relationships, and learn more about the incredible work being done within your departments. The warmth and hospitality you extend reflect the heart of our fire service family, and I am grateful for each of you.

As always, if you have a meeting or event you would like me to attend, please reach out and I will make every effort to be there.

Please take note of the following upcoming events designed to educate, inspire, and empower our membership:

Fire Chief’s Leadership Symposium
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Holthus Convention Center – York, NE
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
This year’s featured speaker is Doug Cline. His presentation will focus on how many fire and EMS departments across the nation are struggling to find new volunteer members and retain their current members. The first half of his presentation will discuss the challenges of recruiting volunteers, presents valuable research collected as part of the NVFC’s Make Me A Firefighter campaign, and offers ideas to help overcome recruiting challenges. During the second half of his presentation, retention challenges, potential solutions, and the importance of leadership will be covered. Registration details are available at:
https://www.nsvfa.org/fire-chiefs-leadership-symposium

NSVFA Fire School Registration
Opens early March. Early registration is encouraged to secure preferred classes. Information is available at: https://www.nsvfa.org/nebraska-fire-school

NSVFA Fire School
May 15–17, 2026

As we continue moving forward, please remember that this is your association. Your voice, your ideas, and your involvement matter. If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions, I encourage you to reach out to me or any board member. We are here to serve you and to advocate on your behalf.

Until we meet again, stay safe and healthy.

BRENDA JENNY
President, Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association