# No-Bid Contract Controversy Unfolds | Lincoln News

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/lincoln-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7568434/no-bid-contract-controversy-unfolds-lincoln-news
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/lincoln-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7568434/no-bid-contract-controversy-unfolds-lincoln-news.md
Podcast: [Lincoln News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/lincoln-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7568434)
Published: 2026-09-19T03:27:11+00:00
Episode link: https://sources.thednn.ai/3cd735c63941a7c2
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/c0fe9a7a-bb7a-485b-a545-70ff6ba4fdd0.mp3
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Duration seconds: 128

## Resource

A controversial $2.5 million no-bid contract loomed as Julie Bushell aggressively pushed state lawmakers for funding to support her company’s nitrate sensor tech—despite top environmental officials calling the technology “developing and aspiring at best” and never sharing those concerns with the lawmaker backing the deal. While a million dollars was allocated, state scientists privately doubted the tech’s viability, and Bushell’s involvement in federal grant talks and perceived alignment with the governor’s office added layers of complexity. After the State Auditor flagged procedural violations, Lincoln police launched an investigation, prompting lawmakers to tighten no-bid contract rules. Bushell insists her work delivered value and rejects accusations of impropriety, while the governor’s office calls the scrutiny politically driven—though funds were never disbursed. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Sources: https://www.1011now.com/2026/09/18/records-raise-more-questions-about-influence-pillens-hand-picked-no-bid-contractor/ More coverage & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/3cd735c63941a7c2 Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

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