Stan Clouse

Stan Clouse is a current member of the Nebraska State Legislature, representing the 37th district. A nonpartisan politician, Clouse has been actively involved in local governance and community organizations in Nebraska for many years. He has a background in municipal leadership, having served as the Mayor of Kearney from 2006 until 2024. Clouse's legislative work encompasses various committees and focuses on a range of policy issues relevant to his constituents.

Early life and career

Stan Clouse was born on December 4, 1956, in Nebraska, where he spent his formative years. He completed his education at Brady Public Schools, graduating in 1975. Following his high school education, Clouse pursued further studies at Mid-Plains Community College, where he earned an associate degree in 1996. His educational background laid the foundation for his future career in public service and local governance.

Before entering the Nebraska State Legislature, Clouse held several significant positions within local government. He served on the Kearney City Council, contributing to the development and implementation of policies affecting the local community. His leadership experience culminated in his role as Mayor of Kearney, a position he held for nearly two decades, from 2006 to 2024. During his tenure as mayor, Clouse was involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and addressing local issues.

In addition to his political career, Clouse has been an active member of numerous organizations and community groups. His affiliations include the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, Gibbon Chamber of Commerce, and the Economic Development Council of Buffalo County. He has also participated in the University of Nebraska Medical Center Nursing Advisory Council and the League of Nebraska Municipalities Legislative Committee. Clouse's commitment to community service is further reflected in his past involvement with the Nebraska Department of Labor, the Nebraska Natural Resources Commission, and the North Platte Planning Commission. He has also contributed to charitable organizations, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska, and served on the Governor’s Task Force on Human Trafficking.

Clouse is married to LaVon Cole, and together they have two children. His family life and community engagement have played a significant role in shaping his perspectives and priorities as a public servant.

Legislative service

Stan Clouse has been serving in the Nebraska State Legislature since 2025, representing the 37th district, which includes Kearney, Nebraska's fourth-largest city, as well as the smaller towns of Gibbon and Shelton. The district is part of Buffalo County, and Clouse's representation reflects the interests and needs of a diverse constituency.

In the legislature, Clouse holds the position of Vice Chairperson on the Urban Affairs Committee. He is also a member of several other committees, including the General Affairs Committee, the Natural Resources Committee, the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax System Committee, and the Rural Broadband Task Force. His involvement in these committees allows him to engage with a wide range of issues affecting urban development, natural resources, taxation, and broadband access in rural areas.

Clouse's legislative activities have included introducing and voting on various bills that address key issues within his district and the state. For instance, he introduced Legislative Bill (LB) 354, which aimed to prohibit cities of the first class from receiving state aid from the Municipal Equalization Fund. Although this bill did not pass, it reflects Clouse's focus on fiscal responsibility and local governance.

In another instance, Clouse voted for Legislative Bill (LB) 287, which sought to regulate housing authorities and address issues related to bed bugs under the Nebraska Housing Agency Act. This bill was initially passed by the legislature but was later vetoed by the governor. Clouse was among the senators who switched their votes in an attempt to override the veto, although the effort ultimately failed.

Clouse has also been involved in legislation concerning public power districts and cryptocurrency mining operations. He voted in favor of Legislative Bill (LB) 526, which granted public power organizations the authority to require direct payments or letters of credit from cryptocurrency mining operations for significant infrastructure upgrades. This legislation reflects Clouse's engagement with emerging technologies and their implications for local infrastructure.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator, Stan Clouse has demonstrated a clear stance on various policy issues that resonate with his constituents. His positions on social issues, economic development, and education reflect his commitment to the values and priorities of the residents in his district.

Clouse has expressed opposition to expanding abortion rights and has taken a firm stance against allowing gender-affirming surgery for minors. He has also opposed the participation of trans students in sports that do not align with their gender assigned at birth. These positions indicate his alignment with certain conservative viewpoints on social issues.

In terms of education, Clouse supports school choice and has voted in favor of legislation aimed at regulating the use of electronic communication devices in schools. He voted for Legislative Bill (LB) 140, which allows school districts to prohibit cell phone use in K-12 schools, reflecting his focus on maintaining an effective learning environment.

On economic matters, Clouse has shown support for online gambling while opposing marijuana legalization. His legislative actions indicate a nuanced approach to economic development, balancing personal beliefs with the potential for economic growth in the state.

Clouse's involvement in government assistance programs has also been notable. His introduction of LB 354 aimed to address state aid distribution, highlighting his focus on local governance and fiscal management. Additionally, he voted for Legislative Bill (LB) 415, which exempts small businesses, minors, and temporary agricultural workers from receiving paid sick leave, reflecting his perspective on labor rights and business operations.

Overall, Stan Clouse's legislative service and policy focus are shaped by his extensive background in local governance and community involvement. His commitment to representing the interests of his constituents in the 37th district is evident in his participation in various legislative committees and his engagement with a wide range of policy issues. As he continues to serve in the Nebraska State Legislature, Clouse remains a significant figure in the ongoing discussions surrounding governance and public policy in Nebraska.