The 109th Nebraska Legislature concluded Friday, April 17, with two key outcomes: passing a balanced budget and upholding the Governor’s vetoes.

I was able to get 11 bills passed this session including LB 1195, which provides a direct benefit to counties across Nebraska. The bill originated with Custer County Sheriff Dan Osmond, who consulted with other sheriffs and county officials. State statute previously mandated “jail matron” requirements and strict rules for female inmate supervision. These rules did not align with current staffing or training standards. Obsolete language created administrative burdens and increased costs for local budgets.

LB 1195 updates the law, repealing old mandates while maintaining safety and professional jail standards. It includes updated rules for cross-gender supervision. This reform, driven by input from county leaders, improves government operations and controls expenses and was signed into law last week.

The session's final day involved a key constitutional duty. Governor Jim Pillen vetoed five bills Thursday and the Legislature considered four veto override motions Friday. The Nebraska Constitution requires 30 votes (a three-fifths majority) to override a veto, a high threshold designed for careful review of the Governor’s objections.

I initially supported two of these bills, but after reviewing the Governor’s veto messages and reasoning, I supported the Governor's veto. My focus is on fiscal responsibility and the practicality of the legislation. The Legislature sustained all five vetoes, reflecting the system of checks and balances.

Our duty remains to enact policy that is practical, fiscally sound, and responsive to the needs of Nebraska communities. I look forward to discussing additional legislation passed this year with you in the upcoming weeks and its effect on Nebraskans. With the 109th session Sine Die, I look forward to spending more time at home and visiting the communities of the 43rd district.

Respectfully, Senator Tanya Storer