Wednesday, Day 10, marked the final day to introduce legislation for the 109th Legislature, 2nd Session. As this is the second year of the 2025–2026 biennium, any bills not resolved during the 2025 session automatically carried over into 2026. Public hearings on introduced legislation began on Tuesday, January 20. In total, 545 legislative bills have been introduced this session.
Among these measures, I am proud to sponsor the following legislation. LB 1229 creates the Rural Health Transformation Fund to receive and manage federal funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under the Rural Health Transformation Program. LB 1230 updates laws governing mobile homes to reduce title barriers, clarify abandonment and disposal procedures, and better protect ownership and lien rights. LB 1231 authorizes the transfer of $26,000 in unused funds from the Panhandle Improvement Project Cash Fund to the Animal Damage Control Cash Fund for fiscal year 2026– 2027. Lastly, LB 1232 updates Nebraska’s Game Law by allowing the Game and Parks Commission to issue limited mountain lion hunting permits to qualifying landowners, leaseholders, and certain immediate family members, similar to existing provisions for deer, antelope, turkey, and elk.
OnThursday, January 22, Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Jeffrey Funke addressed the body for the State of the Judiciary, where he thanked Senators for continuing to fund the judicial branch despite ongoing budget pressures. He also recognized Nebraska judges for their dedication to public service while managing heavy caseloads and frequent criticism. In conclusion, he noted that over the years, when the three branches of government communicate well and appreciate the good work of each other, they are all successful.
