LINCOLN, Neb. – With Day 70 of the Nebraska legislative session approaching, lawmakers are preparing to begin formal debate on the state’s two-year budget on April 29, according to District 47 Sen. Paul Strommen.

In a letter to constituents, Strommen said the Appropriations Committee has been meeting regularly during noon-hour sessions to shape a preliminary version of the budget. The fiscal office is currently finalizing those details, though the state has not yet reached a balanced budget, he said.

The state’s budget process involves both the Revenue Committee, which oversees how revenue is generated, and the Appropriations Committee, which determines how state funds are spent.

“This process begins between September and January when agencies submit requests to the Department of Administrative Services,” Strommen explained. “The Governor submits a formal budget proposal by January 15, and then the Appropriations Committee reviews it in partnership with the fiscal office.”

Public hearings on budget requests took place in March, with the finalized budget bills scheduled for introduction before the full Legislature by late April. The budget must be passed by Day 80 of the session, after which the Governor has five days to sign or veto the measure. A veto override requires a three-fifths majority in the Legislature.

Strommen also noted that the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board will meet April 25 to issue a revised economic forecast. A previous forecast in February projected a $165 million revenue increase.

Strommen encouraged residents to stay engaged and reach out with feedback. “Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our district and state,” he said.