LINCOLN, NE –Governor Jim Pillen is thanking the many partners, sponsors, volunteers and staff who made Nebraska’s pavilion at the Great American State Fair a success. The fair, which concludes today, was a signature event of the national Freedom250 celebration.

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is directing that state agencies, boards and commissions do their part in reducing state spending, to ensure that Nebraska taxpayers continue to receive the benefit of reduced income tax rates and investments into property tax relief. In fiscal year (FY) 2026, the State paid out $307 million more in refunds than was anticipated. That represents cash directed back into the pockets of Nebraskans, but efforts must continue to close the gap in state revenue.

LINCOLN, NE — On Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen joined Metropolitan Community College, the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL), the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), employers, and student trainees to announce the launch of Nebraska's Workforce Pell Grant Program. The program allows federal Pell Grant funding to be used for short-term job training programs leading to high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand occupations across the state. Metropolitan Community College is the first institution in Nebraska to establish Workforce Pell programs, offering programs in CDL, CompTIA Tech + with Google IT Support, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician.

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is announcing federal financial loan assistance to help Nebraska farmers and producers impacted by major wildfires in March and April. The request he submitted last month for a Secretarial Disaster Declaration has been approved by the USDA.  In addition to four primary counties, the declaration also covers 17 additional counties.

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is joining state partners in reminding Nebraskans about activities still available for celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

LINCOLN, NE – This Friday marks the deadline for student-athletes to enter the 2026 Patriot Games, an event sponsored by The White House in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Governor Jim Pillen is encouraging Nebraskans, ages of 14 – 17, to apply for this national competition.

LINCOLN, NE – A new report gives clear indication as to why Nebraska is “open for business.” Nebraska’s economic vitality is in the top tier of states, based on the Index of State Economic Momentum.

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Mark L. Kovarik as county court judge in the 12th Judicial District. That district includes Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties.

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced the issuance of a federal disaster declaration by President Donald Trump for damage that resulted in several counties due to the Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby and Minor fires March 12 – April 2.

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is taking two key actions to provide relief in the aftermath of a severe storm system that caused damage in central and western Nebraska. Tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flash flooding resulted in widespread destruction to public power, roads, and other infrastructure. One of the most significantly impacted areas was Morrill County.