Tensions mount in Nebraska Legislature over disagreement on answers to deficit

By: Erin Bamer

Outlets: Nebraska Examiner

Published: March 5, 2026

Words: 1,059

Last Updated: 5 days, 10 hours ago

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LINCOLN — State budget tensions boiled over onto the floor of the Nebraska Legislature Thursday in the aftermath of lawmakers’ rejecting a $50 million proposal to increase the state’s cigarette tax.

Lawmakers appear to be in a standoff over options to help fill the state’s projected budget deficit, which is listed at $125 million but in reality is closer to $140 million.

Senators have plenty of avenues to solve the issue, but do any …

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