Statement from Nebraska Cures on Governor Pillen’s proposed budget adjustments:
Today, the governor proposed budget adjustments that include eliminating the state’s $15 million investment in biomedical research. At a time when our state faces real health, workforce, and economic challenges, this would be a serious mistake.
Public investment in biomedical research is not a luxury—it is a proven driver of innovation, high-quality jobs, and improved health outcomes for Nebraskans. These dollars help attract federal research funding, retain top scientific talent, and support discoveries that lead to better treatments, stronger rural health systems, and long-term cost savings in health care.
Cutting biomedical research to address a budget shortfall undermines Nebraska’s ability to compete nationally and globally. It sends the wrong message to researchers, entrepreneurs, patients, and families who rely on a strong biomedical ecosystem to improve lives and strengthen our economy.
We urge state leaders to protect Nebraska’s investment in biomedical research. Short-term budget fixes should not come at the expense of long-term health, innovation, and economic growth. Nebraska’s future depends on smart, forward-looking investments—and biomedical research is one of them.