Research Note: How Changes in AI Regulation Could Affect Nebraska
A couple of weeks before Christmas, following the President’s recent executive order on artificial intelligence (AI), the Nebraska Examiner published an article examining the potential implications for Nebraska. While the precise impact of the order remains uncertain, the state’s recent legislative activity related to AI suggests the possibility of conflict between state and federal approaches.
The executive order establishes a task force to review and challenge state laws that the administration views as inconsistent with its policy of promoting U.S. global competitiveness in AI through minimal regulatory burdens. As a result, state-level AI regulations may face increased federal scrutiny. Crucially, all 50 states have recently introduced AI-related legislation, and Nebraska is among 38 states that have enacted laws regulating the technology. In Nebraska, LB383, introduced by Senator Brian Hardin, bans the creation of AI-generated child pornography. Additionally, LB371, introduced by Senator Wendy DeBoer, provides civil liability for sharing AI- or computer-generated intimate images without the consent of the individual depicted.
Both LB383 and LB371 passed during the most recent legislative session. Although they regulate the use of AI, Senator DeBoer has indicated that she does not believe these measures conflict with the executive order and has expressed confidence that LB371 will remain in effect. At the same time, several additional AI-related proposals are under consideration in the Nebraska Legislature. One such proposal, LB615, introduced by Senator John Cavanaugh, would prohibit the use of AI-generated political deepfakes to protect consumers. Legislation of this nature may be more likely to draw scrutiny from the federal task force.
As seen nationwide, reactions among Nebraska officials have been divided. Senator Cavanaugh criticized the executive order, stating that the President’s “ban on states regulating AI only serves billionaire tech CEOs.” In contrast, Governor Jim Pillen, one of 17 Republican governors who previously opposed congressional efforts to restrict state-level AI regulation, expressed support for the executive order. He stated that it “does not appear to be as sweeping or disruptive as some had feared,” and noted that the order explicitly preserves state authority to prohibit AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Despite these differing perspectives, the full effect of the executive order on Nebraska’s existing and proposed AI laws remains uncertain.
Sources:
- Salinas II, Juan. “How Does Trump’s AI Executive Order Impact Nebraska?” Nebraska Examiner, 12 Dec. 2025, nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/12/how-does-trumps-ai-executive-order-impact-nebraska/