https://worldleaders.website/leader-us-gov-ne.htmlThe public schedule of Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska, from official sources via World Leaders Daily.enWed, 22 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000https://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-signs-executive-order-data-centersus-gov-ne-2026-07-21-Gov. Pillen Signs Executive Order on DatTue, 21 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Signs Executive Order on Data Centers July 21, 2026 jim Tue, 07/21/2026 - 13:02 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 Gov. Pillen Signs Executive Order on Data Centers LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen signed an executive order ending access to tax incentives provided through the state’s ImagiNE Nebraska Act for data centers. Joined at the announcement by Senator Mike Jacobson, Director of Economic Development (DED) Maureen Larsen and Director Jesse Bradley of Water, Energy and Environment (DWEE), the Governor said his order will allow the state to assess the benefits of such projects going forward, while also evaluating impacts to resources like land, water and electricity. “Early in my administration, I called for a pause in building new data centers, and this executive order is consistent with that call,” said Gov. Pillen. “Data centers are a booming industry. Major tech companies are pouring hundreds of billions of dollars into them. And while that presents significant economic opportunity, it also presents resource challenges.” In addition to prohibiting data center applications from being approved under the ImagiNE Act, the order requires that DED, Revenue and DWEE work collaboratively when reviewing project proposals to determine if they are in the state’s best interest. It also requires the establishment of a data center task force through DWEE to ensure protection of the state’s natural resources. Speaking about Nebraska’s unique water management system, Dir. Bradley said the task force will work with NRDs to ensure that policies and best practices are effective. Another aspect will be making sure that county officials have the necessary tools for zoning and other activities. “I think this is just a great opportunity to educate and learn about all the great practices Nebraska has as a state but also examine those and make sure those practices are going to ensure that we have sustainable resources for the future,” added Bradley. “Building off of the work that was done on energy last session, I think this is a natural fit to now really examine the water side of things.” Passage of LB1261 this year included ‘behind the meter’ legislation allowing massive industrial users to engage private entities in construction of their own power facilities, thereby protecting ratepayers from price hikes due to increased electrical demand. “This is not a moratorium on data centers,” said Gov. Pillen. “However, if a local entity chooses to engage in the development of a data center, it must now be developed in accordance with guidelines included in the executive order.” Sen. Jacobson, who will be introducing legislation next year, said that providing tax incentives to data centers is not necessary at this point, given the amount of money the companies are able to generate on their own and that competition to entice them is not an issue. "If a mega data center chooses to locate in Nebraska, our taxpayers and communities should receive the full benefit of that investment. Tax incentive programs should not return or waive the very revenue that could support our counties, cities, schools, and other political subdivisions,” said Sen. Jacobson. “We neither promote nor prohibit data centers. We ensure that if they locate here, the people of Nebraska benefit. I look forward to working with Governor Pillen and my colleagues next session on legislation that achieves that goal." Dir. Larsen joined Gov. Pillen in acknowledging the role of data centers in the development of artificial intelligence and other technologies. “As a matter of national security, it is absolutely critical for America to be a global leader in AI,” said the DED director. “And being at the forefront of AI will require building data centers in the U.S. At the same time, we must assess the impact of increased water and power demands on existing Nebraska businesses and communities. The Governor's executive order enables us to evaluate whether potential data center projects are truly in Nebraskans' best interests.” “We need to make sure we have givers coming to Nebraska who want to make an incredible difference for democracy,” said Gov. Pillen. This executive order is simple – it’s a strategic and necessary step that will allow us to keep moving forward in this conversation with the right considerations and objectives in mind.” Executive Order 26-17 can be found on the Governor's website here: Executive Order No. 26-17 Gov. Pillen speaks at data center news conference Sen. Jacobson speaks at data center news conference Gov. Pillen displays signed executive orderhttps://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-issues-order-allow-continued-delivery-hay-and-supplies-nebraskaus-gov-ne-2026-07-15-Gov. Pillen Issues Order to Allow for CoWed, 15 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Issues Order to Allow for Continued Delivery Of Hay and Supplies to Nebraska July 15, 2026 jim Wed, 07/15/2026 - 09:50 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 Gov. Pillen Issues Order to Allow for Continued Delivery Of Hay and Supplies to Nebraska LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen has reissued an executive order allowing for the continued delivery of hay and other supplies to areas of the state ravaged by wildfires. Those fires, and continued drought, have severely impacted the availability of livestock feed. The order allows for the relaxation of service hours and over-dimension and weight restrictions for commercial motor carriers which assist in the transport of those items. The order will be in effect through Aug. 12. The executive order is included below. Executive Order 26-16 PDFhttps://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-issues-emergency-declaration-due-corkscrew-road-fireus-gov-ne-2026-07-14-Gov. Pillen Issues Emergency DeclarationTue, 14 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Issues Emergency Declaration Due to Corkscrew Road Fire July 14, 2026 jim Tue, 07/14/2026 - 14:18 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 Gov. Pillen Issues Emergency Declaration Due to Corkscrew Road Fire LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen issued an emergency declaration in response to the Corkscrew Road Fire in Sioux County southwest of Crawford. The wildfire, which began on July 10, was ignited by lightning and fueled by high winds, low humidity, and extremely dry conditions. The fire has burned nearly 30 acres and continues to threaten the health and safety of Nebraskans while damaging and threatening both public and private property. The proclamation activates vital state resources and authorizes the use of the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help cover costs associated with responding to the fire and mitigating its impact. Text version of the Proclamation for the Corkscrew Road Wildfire in Sioux County, Nebraskahttps://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-shares-appreciation-freedom250-fair-successus-gov-ne-2026-07-10-Gov Pillen Shares Appreciation for FreedFri, 10 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov Pillen Shares Appreciation for Freedom250 Fair Success July 10, 2026 jim Fri, 07/10/2026 - 16:12 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 Gov Pillen Shares Appreciation for Freedom250 Fair Success 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. “Due to their participation, thousands of visitors had the opportunity to learn about Nebraska's long history of innovation, culture, and economic leadership,” said Gov. Pillen. “Their dedication, enthusiasm, and hospitality made this event possible and ensured that every visitor experienced the very best of Nebraska.” Gov. Pillen helped kick off the opening of the fair, and the state’s pavilion, on June 25. Several Nebraska businesses and organizations—including Tenaska, Werner Enterprises, Union Pacific, Boys Town, Valmont Industries, Nebraska Public Power District, the University of Nebraska, the Nebraska State Fair, and the Nebraska State Historical Society—played a key role by providing sponsorship support, volunteers, and exhibit displays for Nebraska's pavilion. The Governor and First Lady Suzanne returned to D.C. again for the Fourth of July weekend to represent Nebraska at the pavilion and check out other state and U.S. territory pavilions along the National Mall. They also met with National Guard troops from Nebraska and Nevada, who have been assisting with security during the lead up to and through the Great American State Fair as well as other events in Washington, D.C. Nebraska’s contingent of around 200 deployed personnel will be returning to the state shortly. “It was a privilege to spend time with them and hear about their experiences,” said Gov. Pillen. “They’ve been serving in uniform during some of the hottest days this summer, assisting visitors and helping them to have a safe and enjoyable experience in our nation’s capital. We look forward to their return home.” Between the events in Washington D.C. and those organized in Nebraska, Gov. Pillen said he was proud of how the state has stepped up to celebrate America’s birthday. “We extend our sincere thanks to the White House and the Freedom250 organizers for making this event a reality. While the Great American State Fair has ended, events will continue throughout the remainder of the year.” Gov. Pillen greets visitors to Nebraska pavilion Gov. Pillen greets visitors to talks to Nebraska pavilion Gov. Pillen greets visitors to Nebraska pavilion Gov. Pillen visits with National Guard members in D.C. Gov. Pillen visits with National Guard members in D.C. Gov. Pillen & First Lady Suzanne pose with National Guard members in D.C.https://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-issues-memo-directing-further-reductions-state-spending-outlines-processes-ensureus-gov-ne-2026-07-09-Gov. Pillen Issues Memo Directing FurtheThu, 09 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Issues Memo Directing Further Reductions in State Spending; Outlines Processes to Ensure Compliance July 8, 2026 jim Wed, 07/08/2026 - 21:11 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 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. “I am pleased with the progress we’ve made, but I am not satisfied,” said Gov. Pillen. “We must do better. We must run government like a business and embrace the innovation and change that is necessary to shrink the size of government. Bloated businesses don’t survive for long, and it’s our duty to make sure our State adapts and changes to stay competitive and resilient.” In his memo, the Governor made clear that appropriations in the current fiscal year as well as the biennium years of FY 27/28 and FY28/29 would be reduced. Agencies, boards and commissions have been ordered to exercise fiscal restraint in the areas of travel, hiring, membership dues, implementation of technology upgrades and equipment purchases. In addition, those entities are encouraged to consider additional avenues for budget savings like reduction of redundant processes and services, consolidation of duties and ensuring that programs are meeting their stated objectives for Nebraskans. To ensure compliance, Gov. Pillen is requesting the submission of monthly reports beginning July 31 that detail, among other things, the amount of appropriation saved as a result each entity’s initiatives. The State Budget Division will be responsible for receiving and reviewing those reports, as well as providing final approval for newly created positions and hiring. A copy of the Governor’s memo is included below. Text version of Memorandum for the Cabinet and Heads of all Agencies, Boards, and Commissionshttps://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-launches-workforce-pell-grant-program-expand-short-term-training-access-workersus-gov-ne-2026-07-08-Nebraska Launches Workforce Pell Grant PWed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Nebraska Launches Workforce Pell Grant Program to Expand Short-Term Training Access for Workers July 8, 2026 jim Wed, 07/08/2026 - 15:08 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 Grace Johnson, NDOL, grace.johnson@nebraska.gov 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 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. “This is about meeting people where they are and helping them get where they want to go," said Gov. Pillen. "These opportunities are fast, focused, and designed to lead to real jobs with real wages.” Students will apply through the same process as regular Pell funding. Institutions can apply for Workforce Pell program approval through the Department of Labor’s website at Nebraska Workforce Pell . "The strong partnership with the Nebraska Department of Labor and the state’s early commitment to workforce-aligned training has set the stage for the MCC’s continued investment in short-term career pathways, making Workforce Pell a reality for our students,” said Randy Schmailzl, Metropolitan Community College president. “MCC is proud to help lead this work and remains committed to helping students gain the skills and credentials they need to enter Nebraska’s workforce and contribute to the state’s continued brain gain.” Programs must demonstrate strong student outcomes — including a 70% completion rate and a 70% job placement rate — and tuition must not exceed the value-added earnings calculated by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Programs are approved through a two-step process: first by the Governor in consultation with the Nebraska Workforce Development Board (NWDB), then by the U.S. Secretary of Education. "We designed this process from the ground up to make sure every approved program leads to meaningful opportunities," said NDOL Commissioner Katie Thurber. "Nebraskans who invest their time and Pell dollars in a short-term training program deserve to know that it will lead to a good job. Our occupation list, application requirements, and accountability standards are built around that commitment." Rob Jeffreys, director of the Department of Corrections, said the new Pell opportunity is a key step forward in transforming how Nebraska supports people who are going through reentry. “This initiative is ultimately about dignity and opportunity. It sends a clear message: Nebraskans returning from incarceration deserve the chance to rebuild their lives, support their families, and contribute to their communities,” Jeffreys said. The Workforce Pell program is designed to help employers quickly fill their workforce needs, including jobs in manufacturing and other key industries. "We are happy to partner with MCC on the new credentialing program, and for the opportunities the Pell program will unlock for the future of the manufacturing workforce.” said Andy Lozier, CEO at Lozier Corporation Who Is Eligible Students must meet standard federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements. Students who have already earned a bachelor's degree may be eligible for a Workforce Pell Grant to enroll in an approved short-term training program — an important expansion for workers seeking to upskill or change careers. Students may not receive Pell Grants if their full cost of attendance is already covered by other non-federal grant or scholarship funding. Nebraska's Approved Occupation and Program List NDOL has established an initial list of approved occupations for the 2026–2027 award year. Using Nebraska's statewide H3 labor market data, NDOL applied a rigorous, multi-step screening process to identify occupations that are high-skill, high-wage, and/or in-demand. The resulting list of 40 approved occupations — linked to 97 unique training program categories — spans a wide range of sectors including: • Healthcare: Licensed Practical Nurses, Dental Assistants, Computer User Support Specialists • Trades and Construction: Electricians, Plumbers and Pipefitters, Welders, HVAC Mechanics, Roofers • Transportation and Logistics: Heavy Truck Drivers, Industrial Truck Operators, Bus Drivers • Manufacturing: Machinists, Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Quality Control Inspectors • Public Safety: Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers, Correctional Officers • Business and Administration: Executive Assistants, Insurance Sales Agents, Office Supervisors • Agriculture and Equipment: Farm Equipment Mechanics, Agricultural Equipment Operators More Information and Application The application form for institutions, as well as policies and a complete list of approved occupations and corresponding training programs are available at Nebraska Workforce Pell . Governor Pillen speaks at Workforce Pell Grant announcement Director Thurber speaks at Workforce Pell Grant announcement Director Jeffreys speaks at Workforce Pell Grant announcement MCC President Schmailzl speaks at Workforce Pell Grant announcement CEO Andy Lozier speaks at Workforce Pell Grant announcementhttps://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-secures-federal-loan-assistance-farmers-and-producers-impacted-wildfiresus-gov-ne-2026-07-08-Gov. Pillen Secures Federal Loan AssistaWed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Secures Federal Loan Assistance for Farmers and Producers Impacted by Wildfires July 8, 2026 jim Wed, 07/08/2026 - 14:26 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 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. “We appreciate the swift response by Secretary Brooke Rollins and the USDA to this request. This provides an avenue for producers and farmers to receive much needed financial support as they continue to deal with the aftermath of the Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby and Minor fires,” said Gov. Pillen. The Secretarial Disaster Declaration enables those living in qualifying areas to be considered for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance. Applications for assistance must be submitted within the next eight months. Primary and contiguous counties covered by the designation are listed below: Primary: Garden, Grant, Lincoln, Morrill Contiguous: Arthur, Banner, Box Butte, Cherry, Cheyenne, Custer, Dawson, Deuel, Frontier, Hayes, Hooker, Keith, Logan, McPherson, Perkins, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan Affected farmers can reach out to their local FSA office for additional information and help with applications.https://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-reminds-nebraskans-about-upcoming-and-ongoing-250th-activitiesus-gov-ne-2026-07-08-Gov. Pillen Reminds Nebraskans About UpcWed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Reminds Nebraskans About Upcoming and Ongoing 250th Activities July 8, 2026 jim Wed, 07/08/2026 - 10:33 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 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. “There are a variety of events and programs that continue across Nebraska, some lasting through the end of the year,” said Gov. Pillen. “They include quilt displays, community archives, films, live performances and more. I encourage Nebraskans to take in all the special events happening in their community as well as across the state.” On Wednesday, the public is invited to hear live readings of the Declaration of Independence, sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution. They will happen simultaneously in Nebraska and across the nation as part of Sharing the Spirit of America . In Lincoln and Omaha, programs will start at 4:30 p.m. with a presentation of the colors, the National Anthem, guest speakers and a reading of the Declaration. In Lincoln, the program will take place on the north steps of the State Capitol. The reading in Omaha will happen on the Monument Walk on the north side of Memorial Park. Similar events are scheduled to take place in other communities across Nebraska including Nebraska City, Blair, Verdigre and Anselmo. A complete listing of locations can be found here: Declaration Reading Locations . Throughout the month of July, visitors to the State Capitol can view a display of student artwork commemorating the semiquincentennial, coordinated through the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Department of Education. In addition, Quilts of Valor are on display in the Legislative Chamber on the Second Floor of the State Capitol. The first level of the State Capitol continues to host The Founders Museum, a collection of more than 80 photos of the nation’s most influential men and women during the Revolution, as well as the events that helped shape the nation. Each photo has a QR code that can be scanned for more information about the person or event. The State Capitol Gift Shop is one of dozens of stops featured in Visit Nebraska's 2026 Nebraska Passport program. As part of the Party Like It's 1776 Tour , the Capitol joins six other destinations that highlight Nebraska's connections to the nation's founding and Nebraska’s evolution. The Nebraska Passport program continues through September 30. “The Nebraska Passport program is now in its 17th year and is the most successful statewide passport program in the country,” noted Executive Director Jenn Gjerde. “This year’s program features 70 stops and encourages exploration of local attractions and businesses in communities of all sizes.” The Nebraska Semiquincentennial Commission website continues to feature events in communities across the state. Organizers are encouraged to submit their information to the website america250.nebraska.gov. “Independence Day has just concluded, but there are plenty of opportunities to dive into our founding, as a territory and then a state, through a variety of interactive and exciting attractions. Many museums and libraries have displays available and communities will continue to celebrate through their local fairs,” said Daryl Bohac, director of the Nebraska Historical Society. Nebraska’s State Fair will be happening at Fonner Park in Grand Island Aug. 28 – Sept. 7. This year’s theme, It All Happens Here, will incorporate patriotic elements, special historical and educational exhibits and a variety of events tied to its Veterans Day Celebration on Sept. 7. Information about the fair can be found at statefair.org. Nebraska Governor’s Residence continues to feature patriotic décor in honor of America’s 250th Student artwork on display in the Nebraska State Capitol Student artwork on display in the Nebraska State Capitol State Capitol Gift Shop, one of the stops on the Party Like It’s 1776 Tourhttps://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-encourages-nebraska-student-athletes-participate-patriot-gamesus-gov-ne-2026-07-08-Gov. Pillen Encourages Nebraska Student-Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen Encourages Nebraska Student-Athletes to Participate in the Patriot Games July 8, 2026 jim Wed, 07/08/2026 - 10:26 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 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. Male and female athletes will be selected to represent their home state or territory. They will take part in a series of high-intensity challenges designed to test strength, speed, agility, teamwork, resilience, and leadership. “Here in Nebraska, we are known for our grit, determination, and hard work. This event provides our youth with a chance to prove to the rest of the country that we have amazing student athletes who demonstrate those outstanding qualities,” said Gov. Pillen. The competition will be held Aug. 9-11. The televised finale will air on ESPN Aug. 13. At the end, one male and one female Patriot Games champion will be recognized. Each one will receive $125,000 in scholarship funding. Additional information and a participant application can be found at: Patriot Games . A short video needs to be submitted as part of the application. All applications are due Friday, July 10.https://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-new-report-indicates-why-nebraska-open-businessus-gov-ne-2026-07-06-Gov. Pillen: New Report Indicates Why NeMon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000Gov. Pillen: New Report Indicates Why Nebraska Is Open For Business July 6, 2026 jim Mon, 07/06/2026 - 16:12 CONTACT: Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495 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. “Our top ten ranking is great news,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “It reflects the decisions we have made in maintaining a historically conservative budget, improvements in our state tax code and the robustness of our business climate. This sends a direct signal that Nebraska is boosting its competitiveness, and we want people to come and take advantage of that.” The Index puts Nebraska in the top ten, based on its placement in three metric areas: employment growth, personal income growth, and population growth. Published quarterly by State Policy Reports through Federal Funds Information for States (FFIS), the Index indicates which states are performing well and outpacing the national average. Below are the categories and rankings for Nebraska: Economic Momentum Growth, 9th Personal Income Growth, 3rd Population Growth, 18th Unemployment Rate, 6th Labor Force Growth, 13th National employment growth was described as tepid with only three states that had job growth over 1%. Nebraska ranked 43rd in this metric with a decline of 0.5%. The state’s unemployment rate remained one of the lowest in the nation (6th) at 3.0%. “Our state is strong, people are finding great careers and we have the momentum,” said Gov. Pillen. The Good Life is open for business and opportunities abound here.”