Gov. Pillen Expresses Appreciation and Highlights Conservative State Budget for Nebraskans

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Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Expresses Appreciation and Highlights Conservative State Budget for Nebraskans

LINCOLN, NE -- Today, Governor Jim Pillen expressed his appreciation to the Appropriations Committee, Chairman Robert Clements, and the Nebraska Legislature for passing incredibly conservative budget adjustments to balance the state budget and reduce government spending.

LB1071 includes $418 million in spending cuts and LB1072 includes $251 million from over a hundred different funds, putting idle cash to work for Nebraska taxpayers. These bills also provide investments in Medicaid, child welfare, the Lincoln Regional Center, and law enforcement incentives resulting in a net General Fund spending reduction of $279 million this biennium.

"This budget package reflects incredible progress for common sense fiscal conservatism," said Gov. Pillen. "We are on track to deliver $3.6 billion in property tax relief this biennium and reduce income tax rates to 3.99% in 2027."

Gov. Pillen also thanked state agencies for doing their part to reduce government spending. Cabinet members were directed to develop reduction proposals in early June of last year. That work helped resolve $627 million in biennial budget variance.

"We have made extraordinary progress with this year's budget reductions. That has taken significant collaboration with lawmakers and time spent by leadership to understand the many issues and opportunities within their agencies to make the right decision for Nebraskans," added Gov. Pillen.

"I congratulate the Legislature on what has been accomplished. There's still work to be done in the coming weeks to finish the job. We will keep working to meet the expectations of Nebraskans -- reducing government spending, investing in our kids, and lowering property taxes."