Shay Smith
Non-partisanQ12 In what ways, if any, would you incorporate scientific evidence when developing or evaluating public policy? How would you weigh scientific evidence alongside economic, ethical, and policy preferences when making decisions?
“I welcome scientific evidence in all stages of the policy making process. Even in law school, I studied the ethics of genetic engineering because I know that peer-reviewed research can help guide strong policy decisions. As I consider what legislation to draft and prioritize, I’ll look at the data and the information available on relevant topics. Furthermore, as I consider interim study resolutions, I’ll seek out experienced researchers and other passionate subject matter experts to provide disciplined, well-sourced presentations and findings. We do better when we seek the best available evidence.”
Q13 What is your vision for science and research in the state over the next decade? What programs within state departments will you prioritize funding that relate to the state’s science strengths?
“Research performed or supported by the State is critical for effective administration of programs and prioritization of limited funding. Personally, because we are heavily dependent on agriculture, I would prioritize research that focuses on safely developing crops and livestock while minimizing threats to the public. Examples would include research that allows farmers to limit the use of nitrates or other water contaminants and the consumer safety work being done at the US Meat Animal Research Center. This and other research, like biomedical research through the University, provides not only a return on investment but a measurable positive impact on the health and well-being of Nebraskans and the world! I’d like Nebraska to be a beacon for well-resourced research.”
Q14 What opportunities, if any, do you see for partnerships between state government, universities, industry, and nonprofit organizations to strengthen scientific research?
“State departments and the University should work together whenever possible to provide Nebraska’s students and professionals the opportunity to engage in high-quality research while also providing the State measurable, usable evidence to help guide policy-making. Public-private partnerships (including both nonprofit and industry) also provide additional cost-savings and should be encouraged to give us more flexibility with limited funding available. My own family funded a scientific research cash award at Doane University in memory of my father-in-law. I believe that there’s endless opportunities for a stronger research community in Nebraska and I’d like to support measures that make that happen.”
Q15 Legislative appropriations for Nebraska’s public universities have not kept pace with inflation, and state universities are now being asked to further reduce their budgets (Peal, 2026). What role should the Legislature play in providing funding for higher education? What policies, if any, would you support to balance the state budget while also supporting Nebraska’s research capacity and student opportunities?
“Every dollar that the University must increase tuition is another reason for a student to choose a different institution. We need to keep Nebraska’s best and brightest here if we are going to work at the forefront of agriculture and biomedical research. The Legislature should do everything in its power to keep tuition affordable, keep our institutions well-funded and supported, and continue to make the University and other institutions across Nebraska attractive choices.”
Q16 What role do you believe science, research, innovation, and STEM workforce development should play in Nebraska’s economy, state revenues, and accountable investments in the infrastructure and services that improve quality of life?
“We have to prioritize science, including research, as we look to expand Nebraska’s economy and find new revenue streams to balance budgetary gaps. I support investing in cutting-edge research across Nebraska and in programs that help us develop a workforce that can rise to the challenges that arise. As technology evolves around us at rapid rates, training our students in research and innovation puts them ahead in the job search process. I am grateful for the work that industry has already put toward expanding Nebraska’s economy and the research landscape, and I view it’s a reasonable ask for the State to invest in other developments.”
Q17 Can you describe your approach to evaluating whether a policy is achieving its intended outcomes, and what evidence would prompt you to revise it?
“I believe the interim study process is a helpful tool in evaluating prior and future policies. Utilizing down-time from the typical hustle and bustle of the legislative session to dig into both hard data and soft evidence, including stories from those who have been impacted by the measures under consideration, is a smart way to make measured, well-researched and scientifically backed decisions on policy. I’d seek out this type of evidence throughout my term, but would prioritize taking interim studies seriously to get to the bottom of issues facing our state.”