Lincoln, NE— 1.11.19 — Today Senator Megan Hunt introduced LB169, legislation that increases access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Under current statute, an individual with three or more felony convictions for possession or use of controlled substances is ineligible to receive SNAP benefits. LB169 removes this restriction. The bill also allows people with three or more felony convictions for the use of a controlled substance to qualify for SNAP if they participate in a substance abuse program. The intent of the bill is to remove a major barrier to successful reintegration for formerly incarcerated people, while also reducing hunger for individuals and their families that are affected.

Lincoln, NE— 1.11.19 — Today Senator Megan Hunt introduced LB170, legislation that would exempt menstrual hygiene products such as pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and other comparable products from state sales and use taxes. Taxes on these products are often referred to as the “tampon tax.” People who menstruate are more likely to be low-income earners or experience homelessness, and for this population a tax on menstrual products can be burdensome or even prohibitive. This legislation would make menstrual products a little more accessible to those that need them.

Lincoln, NE— 1.11.19 — Today Senator Megan Hunt introduced LB164, legislation that would prohibit the sharing of sexual images or videos without the consent of the depicted individual, an act commonly referred to as nonconsensual pornography or “revenge porn.” Often times perpetrators are vengeful ex-partners or opportunistic hackers. Violation of the law would be a Class I misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class IV felony for any and all subsequent offenses. This would provide victims with a means for legal recourse and deter individuals from perpetrating the act. The bill is a part of Senator Hunt’s agenda to modernize Nebraska’s laws.

Ocasio-Cortez and Hunt devoted a substantial amount of their campaigning time to listening. Hunt posted on social media: “over the past 510 days, my priority has been listening to the people of District 8.” Yes, just listening. As Hunt shared on her blog the day after her successful first fun for elected office: “The thing about public service is that we don’t pick and choose who we care for. I have worked every day on this campaign to have a conversation with everyone I could have the privilege of representing” Listening is a key networking skill. It ensures you truly understand the audience you’re trying to reach. And by going to where your targeted audience hangout everyday (for Ocasio-Cortez and Hunt that involved heading into the community) you’re listening not only with your ears, but with all of your senses so you can truly “hear” what is being said. Read more at Forbes.com.

Dear friends and neighbors, We made history.

Omaha, NE – Megan Hunt declared victory in her bid to represent Legislative District 8 in the Nebraska Legislature. Speaking to a crowd of more than 150 at Bärchen Beer Garden in Benson, Hunt thanked her supports and emphasized the importance of community-driven campaigns. “I stand here because of this district’s dedication to the community and I want to thank the volunteers who took on leadership roles, knocked doors, and made this a collective effort.” Hunt said.

I’m not running because I think I have all the answers. None of my accomplishments were ever achieved alone, and in the next four years if I am elected, I will work eagerly with teams to share the credit for many successes. True greatness doesn’t come from one person, but it can flow through a person who has the skill to channel the greatness of others. I’m not running because I have the answers. I’m running because I know WE have the answers.

Amanda Rucker did this special interview with me for an episode of her podcast, Sorosis. We talked about my run for the legislature, my advice for other women interested in running, and how your mom is disappointed in you if you don't vote. Thanks for the conversation, Amanda! http://sorosiscoven.com/meganhunt