BEATRICE – The Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature congratulated his colleagues on completing the 90-day First Session of the 109th Legislature, a day ahead of schedule. He called the longer session challenging.


"The days are long....the nights are longer...debates are intense, emotions run high and relationships are tested. It has an impact on all of us, both physically and mentally. So, thank you for all of your hard work and the sacrifices you make, serving in this state. It's also difficult on our families, and I would like to thank them, as well...and to let them know that none of us could have the rare and profound opportunity to be part of this unicameral, without their love and support."


Arch said 736 bills and resolutions were introduced this session. A total of 209 bills were sent to the Governor for signature….along with a two-year budget that balances…..and a constitutional amendment that if approved by voters, would allow state lawmakers to serve three consecutive four-year-terms, rather than two.


Arch said 113 bills were amended into the 209 bills, making the count actually 322 measures that ended up passing.


"We also come to the end of the session with mixed emotions...grateful for the work accomplished, but disappointed we couldn't do more. We all experience that. But that is the motivation to return in January and pick up the work, where we left off. There is always more work to do and more opportunity to make Nebraska an even better state in which to live our lives and build our dreams. It was hard work this session, but you proved you can do the hard work. Next session will be no different."


Arch feels next year, the state’s budget may become an even larger challenge to deal with.
"As has been mentioned many times this year, our out-year numbers contain some notes of concern. There is considerable uncertainty in the world that could make accurately predicting our fiscal future, more difficult. This uncertainty should be in your mind as you think about bills, for next session. Keep our budget, in mind. Pay attention to what's happening in D.C. and the impact any action there, can have on state funds. Pay attention to the October revenue forecast. Before you draft bills with fiscal notes, please give these factors serious consideration."


Before adjournment, the Speaker credited the Capitol staff for their critical work in making the process work. That includes Clerk Brandon Metzler and his staff, legislative pages, the staff of the bill revisors office, the legislative fiscal office, the research division, accounting and budget, the newly created Office of Committee support and numerous others that help the legislature on a daily basis.


One forthcoming change will be combining the Performance Audit Division and the Office of Inspector Generals.


Arch also thanked the staff members of each senator, committee staff, legislative security and Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, who serves as President of the Legislature.