LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska lawmakers opened the first full week of the legislative session with a surge of new legislation and the start of floor debate, as Gov. Jim Pillen laid out his priorities for the state during his annual State of the State address.

According to a legislative update from State Sen. Paul Strommen, an additional 171 bills had been introduced by the end of the week, with bill introduction still underway. Wednesday marked the first day of debate on measures carried over from the previous session, signaling the Legislature’s transition from introductions to active consideration of proposals.

Lawmakers also welcomed former state senator Fred Meyer, who was appointed to represent Legislative District 41. Meyer previously served the district from November 2023 through the end of the term on Jan. 8.

On Thursday, Jim Pillen delivered his State of the State address, highlighting Nebraska’s economic growth, public safety efforts and fiscal position during the short legislative session. Pillen pointed to partnerships with the Trump administration that supported infrastructure projects, agriculture, energy production and workforce development, along with major federal investments and transportation improvements.

The governor emphasized maintaining low taxes, regulatory and tort reform, and creating incentives to attract and retain high-paying jobs. He also outlined tax relief efforts, spending reductions and a balanced budget aimed at strengthening state reserves while returning dollars to taxpayers.

Education was another focus, with Pillen calling for continued investment in K-12 schools, workforce development and higher education reforms centered on academic freedom, merit-based scholarships and opposition to ideological mandates. Additional priorities included protecting farm data privacy, addressing antisemitism, improving school safety and proposing changes to Nebraska’s Electoral College system.

Pillen closed the address by honoring Nebraska’s veterans and urging unity and principled leadership as the session continues.