LINCOLN - The approaching 2022 legislative session is emerging as a rare moment of challenge and opportunity for Nebraska, state senators and business leaders told a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce legislative breakfast audience.

A strong stream of state revenue accompanied with $1 billion in federal pandemic recovery assistance offers "some significant opportunities," Speaker of the Legislature Mike Hilgers of Lincoln said.

Workforce development is atop of the list of the state's economic challenges, remarked Bryan Slone, president of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 92% of employers now say that is the No. 1 challenge for Nebraska businesses.

Among strategies to combat economic challenges, Hilgers has his sights set on the potential water development project that could lead to long lasting benefits for recreation, tourism, flood control, economic development and water sustainability.

Hilgers is chairman of the Statewide Tourism and Recreational Water Access and Resources Sustainability (STAR WARS) Committee that is considering projects throughout the state, including the possibility of constructing a large reservoir between Lincoln and Omaha.

Kristen Hassebrook, the Nebraska Chamber's executive vice president for legislation and policy, said the Chamber is "very excited" about the recently signed $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill as it provides funding for roads, ridges, and broadband. The Chamber is less excited about the proposed $2 trillion social spending package that could follow.

Senator Suzanne Geist is focused on small-business needs and was supportive of the Ricketts administration's action which negotiated a significant pay increase for state correctional officers.

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