Nebraska Judicial Branch requests $28M for salary, court programs, and IT upgrades

In a pivotal meeting held on March 19, 2025, the Nebraska Legislature's Appropriations Committee gathered to discuss urgent funding requests from the judicial branch, highlighting a looming financial crisis that could significantly impact court operations across the state.

As the meeting unfolded, officials presented a detailed budget proposal requesting over $5 million in general funds for fiscal year 2026 and $11 million for fiscal year 2027. These funds are essential to implement cost-of-living salary increases and health insurance adjustments for judicial employees, who have faced stagnant wages for years. The committee's preliminary recommendations, however, only allocated personnel spending limitations, leaving critical needs unmet.

The judicial branch also sought an additional $8.1 million for each year of the biennium to sustain initiatives previously approved by the legislature, including a $6.7 million allocation for a salary study for courts and probation, and funding for specialized courts aimed at addressing veterans' issues and drug-related offenses. The urgency of these requests was underscored by the stark reality that without additional funding, two problem-solving courts—one for veterans in Sarpy County and another for adults with drug offenses in Platte County—would cease operations, potentially leading to increased recidivism and higher costs for the state.

The financial strain on the judicial system has been exacerbated by significant budget cuts over the past five years, totaling $44 million. As the meeting progressed, officials warned that by the end of fiscal year 2025, the judicial branch would have no unobligated general funds left and would be forced to deplete its cash reserves, leading to a projected deficit of $14.2 million by the end of fiscal year 2027.

To address this gap, the judicial branch outlined a plan that includes the discontinuation of several programs and services, particularly those not mandated by statute. This includes reducing transitional living reimbursements for problem-solving court participants and limiting juvenile probation services, which could result in a 17% budget reduction for these essential programs.

Despite these cuts, officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining staff salaries and benefits, recognizing that a well-compensated workforce is crucial for the effective functioning of the courts. The meeting concluded with a call for understanding and support from the legislature, as the judicial branch faces unprecedented challenges that threaten its ability to uphold justice in Nebraska.

As the state grapples with these financial realities, the future of its judicial system hangs in the balance, underscoring the critical need for timely legislative action to ensure the continued operation of essential court services.