Nebraska lawmakers reflect on 2025 session, look ahead to 2026

LINCOLN — After a labor-dominated 89-day legislative session, Nebraska lawmakers are looking ahead to a little time off to reset before coming back for a 60-day session in January.

The Nebraska Examiner invited all 49 senators to review the most recent legislative session. All responded, with one declining to participate at this time. The collection of reflections, in lawmakers’ own words, is available below or see the full project in its own tab here.

Among the responses, lawmakers described the 2025 session as a “mixed bag,” “very successful,” “deeply disappointing,” “highly productive” or “decent.” Some early priorities identified for 2026 include the state budget, property taxes and economic development.

While the Legislature will conduct interim studies and hold hearings this summer and fall, official action is on pause — at least for a while — after state lawmakers adjourned June 2. No plans have been announced for a special session. Some laws took effect immediately during the session. Others will be enacted this fall, most on Sept. 3, or later on.

Lawmakers are expected to return for the 2026 session beginning Jan. 7.