Legislature adjourns sine die mid-biennium

The first session of the 109th Legislature adjourned sine die June 2, the 89th day of the scheduled 90-day session.

La Vista Sen. John Arch, Speaker of the Legislature, thanked senators for their hard work and long hours, especially the freshman class who are wrapping up their first legislative session.

“Now you know what it means to be a part of the Legislature — a very challenging and rewarding experience,” Arch said. “The days are long; the nights are longer. Debates are intense; emotions run high and relationships are tested.”

The Legislature passed a total of 322 bills this year, including measures amended into other proposals, Arch said, and he encouraged senators to consider the work left to do to make Nebraska an even better place to live.

The speaker urged members to use the interim to focus on constituent priorities and how best to work together across their differences when returning to the Capitol in January. He also offered a note of caution regarding the state’s fiscal situation ahead of the next legislative session.

“As I reflect on what I anticipate in 2026, I will predict that our biggest challenge next year will be our budget once again,” Arch said.

When crafting bills for next year, senators should keep in mind the state’s “uncertain” fiscal situation, he said, especially “notes of concern” involving economic models related to future revenue streams.

Gov. Jim Pillen, in his address to lawmakers, praised the “historically conservative budget package” passed this session, which he said lawmakers accomplished while still investing in education, property tax relief and safety.

Pillen thanked senators for their work on legislation to ban “fake meat,” protect young people from the harms of social media, improve the lives of teachers and reduce government inefficiency.

“I’m incredibly proud to partner with all of you on so many of these initiatives,” Pillen said.

The second session of the 109th Legislature is scheduled to convene Jan. 7, 2026.