LINCOLN – With just days remaining in the 90-day legislative session, State Sen. Paul Strommen of the 47th District is reflecting on his first year in office, highlighting his work on the Appropriations Committee and the advancement of his priority bill aimed at combating discrimination in schools.

Strommen, who was appointed to the influential budget-writing committee as a freshman senator, said the session has been both "challenging" and "rewarding" as lawmakers finalize their work before the June 9 adjournment date. “I’m proud of the progress we have made on behalf of our district,” Strommen said.

His priority legislation, LB 538, was advanced to General File this week by the Education Committee on a 5-2 vote. The bill would require K-12 schools and colleges to adopt policies and provide training to address and prevent discrimination.

As of early this week, 17 priority bills had been signed into law, with 21 more awaiting the governor’s signature. Lawmakers must pass all remaining bills by June 2—the 89th day of the session—to leave room for potential veto overrides, which could be addressed on June 9 if needed. Bills not passed or postponed will carry over to the 2026 session.

One override effort already fell short this week. Lawmakers failed to overturn a veto from Gov. Jim Pillen on legislation that would have ended Nebraska’s lifetime ban on SNAP eligibility for individuals with certain drug-related convictions. The final tally was 24-24-1, six votes shy of the 30 needed.

In a separate procedural vote, legislators on Thursday successfully moved to reconsider LB 258, a bill from Sen. Jane Raybould proposing a 1.5% annual increase to the state’s minimum wage beginning in 2027. The bill previously failed by two votes. Thursday’s motion to reconsider passed 33-16, potentially giving the proposal new life if a senator chooses to switch their vote.

Strommen encouraged constituents to stay engaged as the session closes. “Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our district and state,” he said.

Constituents can reach his office at (402) 471-2616 or by email at pstrommen@leg.ne.gov.