Bob Andersen

Bob Andersen is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Nebraska state senate, representing the 49th district. He is affiliated with the nonpartisan party and has been active in the Nebraska Legislature since his election. Andersen's legislative work encompasses various issues, reflecting his positions on social, economic, and public safety matters.

Early life and career

Bob Andersen was born on February 11, 1963, in Tiffin, Ohio. He completed his secondary education at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan, graduating in 1981. Following high school, Andersen joined the United States Air Force in 1982, where he served until 2003. His military career provided him with valuable experience and skills, which he later applied in civilian life.

After leaving the Air Force, Andersen pursued higher education. He earned an associate degree from the Community College of the U.S. Air Force and later graduated from Peru State College in 2002 with a bachelor's degree. His educational background has contributed to his expertise in various fields, particularly in defense and technical services.

In addition to his political career, Andersen is involved in community service through his non-profit organization, Defense Scientific and Technical Services. He also works as a Subject Matter Expert for a defense contractor, further emphasizing his commitment to service and expertise in defense-related matters. Andersen is a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and is active in several organizations, including the American Legion, the National Rifle Association, and 88 Tactical, a firearms training facility located in Sarpy County. He is married to Julie Andersen.

Legislative service

Andersen was elected to the Nebraska state senate, representing the 49th district, where he has been serving since defeating the incumbent State Senator Jen Day in the November 2024 election. His victory was marked by a narrow margin, reflecting a competitive race in the district. As a state senator, Andersen has taken on several roles within the Nebraska Legislature. As of 2025, he serves as the Vice Chairperson of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the General Affairs Committee, the Urban Affairs Committee, and the Homeland Security Policy Group.

The 49th district, which Andersen represents, encompasses the north-central portion of Sarpy County, including parts of the cities of La Vista and Papillion. This area is characterized by a mix of suburban and urban environments, influencing the legislative priorities and concerns of its residents. As a senator, Andersen's responsibilities include addressing the needs of his constituents and contributing to the legislative process in Nebraska.

Policy focus and district

Andersen's policy focus reflects a range of issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader state of Nebraska. He has taken clear stances on various social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, abortion, and marijuana legislation. He opposes the expansion of gender-affirming care for minors and has expressed his disapproval of transgender individuals participating in sports that do not align with their biological sex. Additionally, he has supported legislation aimed at limiting abortion rights and has voiced opposition to the legalization of recreational marijuana.

In the realm of education, Andersen advocates for school choice, promoting the idea that parents should have more options for their children's education, including access to charter schools. This position aligns with broader trends in educational reform that emphasize parental involvement and choice in schooling.

Andersen has also focused on government assistance programs, introducing Legislative Bill 656 (LB 656), which seeks to modify work requirements under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This bill aims to eliminate federal waivers based on regional unemployment rates. He has introduced another bill, Legislative Bill 379 (LB 379), which proposes changes to the maximum time limit for receiving cash assistance under the Welfare Reform Act. Both bills were still listed on general file as of July 2025.

In contrast, Andersen opposed Legislative Bill 319 (LB 319), which aimed to allow Nebraskans with felony convictions to apply for SNAP benefits. This bill passed in the Unicameral but was ultimately vetoed by Governor Jim Pillen.

Public safety is another area of focus for Andersen. He introduced Legislative Bill 657 (LB 657), known as the Ref's Act, which seeks to classify assaults on sports officials as felonies. This legislation aims to enhance protections for referees and address concerns about violence in sports. However, some opponents argue that existing laws already provide sufficient penalties for such acts.

Andersen has also expressed a desire to address property taxes, advocating for a cap on taxes for both residential and commercial properties. He is collaborating with Senator Kathleen Kauth to prioritize a draft constitutional amendment that would assess property value based on purchase price without subsequent increases.

In terms of voting legislation, Andersen added his name to Legislative Bill 3 (LB 3), which proposes changes to the selection process for presidential electors in Nebraska, aiming to eliminate the state's split electoral vote system. As of Summer 2025, this bill remains on general file.

Through his legislative service, Bob Andersen continues to engage with a variety of issues that impact his constituents and the state of Nebraska. His nonpartisan affiliation allows him to navigate the political landscape while focusing on the needs and concerns of the residents in his district.