Gov. Pillen Issues Emergency Proclamation to Facilitate Activation of National Guard

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen has issued an emergency proclamation that will facilitate activation of the Nebraska National Guard and deployment of additional state law enforcement resources in advance of planned protests across the United States, including in Nebraska this weekend. The protests have been promoted in the aftermath of recent operations carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The proclamation is a precautionary measure in reaction to recent instances of civil unrest across the country.

Under the Governor’s declared state of emergency, members of the Guard may be activated to assist local law enforcement should any demonstrations escalate, threatening people or property.  Nebraska National Guard members and Nebraska State troopers will be prepared to assist in any civil disturbance, and in particular, to secure the College World Series (CWS) and its surrounding areas. Under normal conditions, National Guard activation can take 12 to 24 hours. This proclamation shortens that time to ensure troop resources are available and standing by, as needed.

“Free speech will be respected and protected in Nebraska, but the lawlessness, chaos, and rioting seen in other cities in past weeks will not be tolerated here,” said Gov. Pillen. “I have taken the necessary steps to ensure we have the state resources necessary to promptly respond to disorder. Any person who poses a threat to life, health, or property will be arrested. Nebraskans across the state, as well as the thousands of visitors to Omaha for the College World Series, can rest assured that the State of Nebraska and our local partners have taken the appropriate steps to ensure security and order.”