2026 Nebraska Legislative Session Update

The Second Regular Session of 109th Nebraska Legislature convened on January 7, 2026. Because this is the second regular session, it is a short session (60 legislative days). This means that any bills passed last session are still live and potentially in play. Bill introduction for the second session concluded on January 21, 2026.The Legislature will adjourn sine die (adjourned with no planned date for resumption) by April 17, 2026. Any bill or resolution not passed at the end of this session expires.

The APA Nebraska Legislative Committee tracks introduced bills meeting the chapter priorities and impactful to the work of planners. Visit APA Nebraska’s 2026 Legislative Session webpage for the most up to date information on bills we are tracking. 

Here’s a brief refresher on how ideas transform into state law. Because Nebraska is the only state in the nation with a Unicameral (one-house) legislature, our process is designed with unique checks and balances that invite public participation at every turn.

1. The Introduction

Every bill begins as an idea from a senator, a citizen, or an organization. During the first 10 days of the session, senators formally introduce these bills. Unlike many other states, Nebraska law requires that each bill focuses on only one subject.

2. The Public Hearing (The "People's House")

Nebraska is unique in its commitment to transparency: every bill introduced is guaranteed a public hearing. This is your opportunity to voice your support or opposition directly to the legislative committee overseeing the bill.

3. The Three Stages of Debate

To ensure careful deliberation without a second chamber (like a House or Senate), a bill must pass three distinct rounds of voting by the full body of 49 senators:

• General File: The first and most critical stage where the most debate and compromise occur.

• Select File: A second chance for senators to refine the bill and add amendments.

• Final Reading: The last vote. By law, the bill must be read aloud in its entirety before a final vote is taken (unless a supermajority votes to waive the reading).

4. Technical Review (E&R)

Between each stage of debate, bills undergo "Enrollment and Review." This is a technical "check-up" to ensure the grammar is correct and the legal language is precise before moving forward.

5. The Governor’s Desk

Once a bill passes its Final Reading, it is sent to the Governor. The Governor has five days to sign it into law, let it become law without a signature, or veto it. If a veto occurs, the Legislature can override it with 30 votes.

When does it take effect?

Most laws go into effect three calendar months after the Legislature adjourns for the year. However, if a bill is passed with an "Emergency Clause," it becomes law the very next day.

Stay engaged!

You can follow the progress of any bill, view hearing schedules, or watch live floor debates by visiting the official Nebraska Legislature website at www.nebraskalegislature.gov. When a bill has an upcoming hearing, you have an opportunity to make your voice heard. Comments can be submitted up until 8 am the day of the hearing online or you can attend the hearing to testify in person. To submit a written comment, search the bill number here, then follow the link that says “submit comments online for LBxxx.”

Tips on Testifying: https://nebraskalegislature.gov/about/testifying.php