Nebraska Worker Protections: LB921 cleared the Legislature, setting 60-day written layoff notice rules for employers with 25+ workers and updating workforce-related laws, with limited exceptions for unforeseen circumstances and natural disasters. State Government Overhaul: LB1048 advanced to streamline and consolidate agency reporting and oversight, including changes across environment and other departments, and it eliminates the state employee suggestion system. Court and Legal Process Changes: LB935 passed, adjusting court fee rules and procedures and adding consequences for frivolous or bad-faith civil claims. University Budget Pressure: UNL regents approved cutting low-enrollment programs, including ethnic studies and insect science majors, while the broader NU system seeks higher state funding amid inflation. Public Health Watch: NDWEE reported Lake Yankton E. coli at 1,300 CFUs/100 ml—well above the 235 standard—urging extra caution for swimmers. Agriculture Economy: A conference keynote highlighted a split in 2026 farm earnings, with livestock receipts outpacing crops, while rangeland conditions keep ranchers cautious. Wildfire Forage Relief: USDA expanded emergency haying and grazing options on CRP acres in multiple states, including Nebraska, for affected livestock producers. Energy Grid Politics: The DOE canceled three multistate transmission line projects tied to Biden-era corridors, including one reaching North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and tribal reservations. Clean Energy Policy: A cleantech roundup discussed Trump’s solar tariffs and price floors on imported polysilicon, plus ongoing battles over grid and EV support. Research and Tech: UNL’s NIMBUS Lab won an Air Force-funded contract exploring wireless power for longer-lasting drones.