Latest News from the Governor's Office

CONTACT:

Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Announces Appointments to the Newly Created Data Center Task Force

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of 17 members to the state’s newly created Data Center Task Force. Authorized by the Governor’s executive order (EO 26-17) and overseen by the Nebraska Department of Water, Environment and Energy (DWEE), this group will help evaluate the impact of data centers on Nebraska’s water resources, power grids and local infrastructure.

“This task force has a significant undertaking, but its work is critical to considering future data center development,” said Gov. Pillen. “Data centers are a booming industry, yet we need to protect our most valuable resources. The members of this group bring the knowledge of each of their respective industries. Together, they will ensure that we are making solid decisions when it comes to balancing data center development with the continued preservation of our land, electricity and water.” 

In addition to evaluating impacts the group will work to ensure that county officials have the necessary tools, zoning guidelines, and policy frameworks to manage data center growth effectively.  It is anticipated that the task force will have its first meeting next month.

Task Force membership includes:

Mark Hewett -- president, CEO and director of Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Chris Leitner – president and CEO of Tenaska

David Miles – president of Kiewit Infrastructure Group

Mike Miller -- broadband group leader at HDR

Tony Cotton – General (USAF, Ret), former commander US Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base

Javier Fernandez – CEO of the Omaha Public Power District

Tom Kent – president and CEO of the Nebraska Public Power District

Emeka Anyanwu – CEO of the Lincoln Electric System

Rick Nelson – general manager of the Nebraska Rural Electric Association

Micaela Wuehler – county commissioner, Lincoln County

Angi Burmeister – county commissioner, Sarpy County

Heath Mello – president and CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber

Kevin Stocker – commissioner, Nebraska Public Service Commission

Ron Kaminski – president, Building, Construction and Trades Council, NE & Southwest IA

John Winkler – general manager, Papio NRD

Dave Eichenberg – general manager, Upper Big Blue NRD

Doug Whitfield – vice president of water operations, Metropolitan Utilities District

Links to Governor Pillen’s recent actions on data centers:

Gov Pillen Signs Executive Order Data Centers

Gov Pillen Joins White House Roundtable Highlight Ratepayer Protections and Energy Safeguards

Contact:

Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Celebrates Back to School Month

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen signed a proclamation to mark the start of the 2026-2027 school year, emphasizing the need for safe, supportive classrooms that foster student learning, engagement, and academic growth. During the event, he was joined by parents and students, some of whom experienced their first day back to school today.

“I think it’s important that we first recognize the teachers of our state and the critical role they play for our young people. They spend hours dedicating their time to each and every student, and they don’t get enough recognition,” said Gov. Pillen. “So, thank you to all of you for everything you do in investing in the next generation. I wish our students, teachers, and parents a great school year, and I hope every student has the opportunity to be inspired, challenged, and empowered.”

During the news conference, Gov. Pillen highlighted how student attendance, proper nutrition, and sleep directly impact academic performance. He also mentioned some of the legislative measures he has advocated for over the last two years to support educators and maintain learning-focused environments.  

Specifically, LB 140 eliminates screen time and cell phone distractions in the classroom -- a vital step to ensuring teachers have the full attention of their students. Additionally, LB 653 restores administrative authority to manage safety concerns while maintaining strong family collaboration, ensuring classrooms are places of learning and not disruptions or violence.  

"As a new school year begins, we celebrate the excitement of fresh starts, new opportunities, and the promise that comes with learning,” said Nebraska Commissioner of Education Brian Maher. “Nebraska's students and educators are at the heart of our future, and we are grateful for their dedication and enthusiasm. We encourage every student to attend school every day, as consistent attendance helps students stay engaged, connected, and on track for success. I wish all Nebraska schools a wonderful year filled with curiosity, achievement, and joy."

“Governor Pillen’s declaration of Back to School Month directly reflects the work of the State Board of Education through our strategic plan, model cell phone policy, and support of the federal lunch program,” said State Board of Education President Elizabeth Tegtmeier. “I hope all families, schools, and communities will support this proclamation knowing that our support can make a meaningful difference for students.”

Senator Dave Murman, chairman of the Legislature’s Education Committee, also shared his appreciation for everyone working to support Nebraska schools.

“As the new school year begins, I want to thank families, educators, and support staff for working together to inspire every student in Nebraska with fresh opportunities to reach their fullest potential,” he said.

In addition to Sen. Murman, senators Jana Hughes and Dan Lonowski, also from the Education Committee, attended today’s signing event.

Text version of the Proclamation for Back to School Month

A copy of the proclamation is available below.

Gov. Pillen speaks on Back to School Month Proclamation

Gov. Pillen signs proclamation at news conference

Gov. Pillen signs proclamation at news conference

CONTACT:

Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Announces Resignation of Medicaid & Long-Term Health Director

LINCOLN, NE -- Governor Jim Pillen has announced the resignation of Drew Gonshorowski, director of the Division of Medicaid & Long-Term Care (MLTC) in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Gonshorowski, who has served the state since 2024, plans to pursue opportunities on the east coast while being closer to family.

Gov. Pillen expressed his appreciation for Dir. Gonshorowski’s service to the people of Nebraska.

“Drew brought to his role an understanding of the fundamentals of strong health care policy as well as an understanding of how best to implement programs that benefit the greatest number of people,” said Gov. Pillen. “His leadership has allowed Nebraska to be first in implementing work requirements and eligibility checks as required through the One Big Beautiful Bill.”  

“Director Gonshorowski has been a tremendous asset to DHHS and the State of Nebraska. His leadership, expertise, and commitment to serving Nebraskans have made a lasting impact and we are grateful for everything he has accomplished during his time with the Department,” said DHHS CEO Steve Corsi. “We wish Drew all the best in his next chapter and know he will continue to make a difference.”

“Governor Pillen is right when he says the greatest asset of Nebraska is its people,” said Gonshorowski. “It has been a privilege and an honor of a lifetime to serve alongside some of the most dedicated workers within MLTC Division. Thank you Governor for your trust in appointing me and your strong support for Medicaid services in our state.”

Gov. Pillen has appointed Jeremy Brunssen, MLTC’s Deputy Director of Finance and Program Integrity to serve as the interim director. Jeremy has been with the DHHS for nearly a decade and previously served as interim director for the same division in 2020.

The search for a permanent  MLTC Director will begin.

Contact:

Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Extends Executive Order to Support Wildfire and Drought Recovery

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen reissued an executive order extending relief for commercial drivers transporting hay and essential agricultural supplies to areas impacted by recent wildfires and ongoing drought conditions across Nebraska.

Due to the severe impact of wildfires and persistent drought on the state’s livestock feed supply, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) granted an additional 30-day waiver on Hours of Service requirements for drivers assisting with relief efforts.

Under the Governor’s executive order, standard hours-of-service regulations as well as over-dimension and over-weight size restrictions are waived for commercial motor vehicles delivering hay and necessary supplies to affected agricultural producers.

This order will be in effect through Sept. 11.

Executive Order 26-18 Commercial Motor Carrier Relief PDF

The executive order attached below.

Contact:

Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Jim Pillen Issues Statement Following the Arrests in Connection with Massive Paid Signature Fraud

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement regarding news from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office of multiple arrests in connection with massive paid signature fraud:

“Like most Nebraskans, I am deeply troubled by the reports breaking today of historic fraud in connection with signature-gathering campaigns in recent weeks.

“The Legislature made a terrible decision in 2015 when it repealed the prohibition on paid signature gathering. The results have been Nebraskans being harassed on the street by in-state and out-of-state signature gatherers, skyrocketing payouts per signature, and outright criminal activity.

“I call on the Legislature to reform this system and to restore the ban on pay-per-signature. I’m grateful to the law enforcement who are protecting our election system and investigating this election fraud, and expect those responsible at every level to be held accountable to the fullest extent under the law.”