LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers are preparing to wrap up the current legislative session on April 17, according to Speaker John Arch of La Vista, who made the announcement Thursday afternoon.
While the Legislature had the option to end the session earlier, Arch chose to use the full 60-day schedule, allowing additional time for potential veto actions by the governor and for lawmakers to deliver farewell speeches before adjournment.
Lawmakers now have just two remaining days to meet. On Friday, senators are expected to take final votes on the last group of bills scheduled for consideration. Among the measures on final reading is Legislative Bill 1165, introduced by Senator Brad von Gillern, which aims to help Nebraska attract and retain major employers, including companies such as Union Pacific.
Speaker Arch expects the final round of voting to last between two and three hours.
Following those votes, Governor Jim Pillen will have the opportunity to sign approved legislation into law or issue vetoes. Lawmakers will then reconvene on April 17 after a brief recess to address any final matters. Senators completing their final year of service are also expected to deliver closing remarks.
Several priority bills from individual lawmakers will remain unaddressed this session, as much of the Legislature’s time was spent focusing on the state budget. Lawmakers engaged in extended debate over spending cuts and new revenue options to address a significant budget shortfall.
In the end, the Legislature approved a state budget that Governor Pillen allowed to stand without issuing any line-item vetoes.
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