Press Releases
Gov. Pillen Issues Memo Directing Further Reductions in State Spending; Outlines Processes to Ensure Compliance
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… read more
Nebraska Launches Workforce Pell Grant Program to Expand Short-Term Training Access for Workers
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… read more
Gov. Pillen Secures Federal Loan Assistance for Farmers and Producers Impacted by Wildfires
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.
Gov. Pillen Reminds Nebraskans About Upcoming and Ongoing 250th Activities
LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is joining state partners in reminding Nebraskans about activities still available for celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
Gov. Pillen Encourages Nebraska Student-Athletes to Participate in the Patriot Games
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.
Gov. Pillen: New Report Indicates Why Nebraska Is Open For Business
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.
Gov. Pillen Appoints Kovarik as County Court Judge in 12th Judicial District
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.
President Trump Approves Federal Disaster Declaration for Devastating Fires
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.
Gov. Pillen Issues Disaster for Morrill County; Requests Extension for June 8 Damage Assessments
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.
Gov. Pillen Unveils Quilt and Framed Declaration of Independence to be Displayed Through July
LINCOLN, NE -- Flanked by members of the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as others, Governor Jim Pillen unveiled objects that will be on display in the State Capitol through the end of the month to mark America’s 250th anniversary. A large homemade quilt and a framed life-sized reproduction of the Declaration of Independence will be available for viewing in the reception area of the Governor’s office. Additionally, more than a dozen Quilts of Valor are on display… read more