Sept. 17 Update: Pillen names three to state forecasting board; NU and Notre Dame to play home-and-home

# What happened

Gov. Jim Pillen announced three appointments to the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board: former state senator Lou Ann Linehan, former state treasurer and state senator Tom Briese, and retired CPA Tom Wilson. The advisory board advises revenue forecasters whose numbers feed into the state budget process.

The U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee moved the Farm Bill forward during its Wednesday meeting. That action sends the bill closer to the full Senate for further consideration.

Hemp product sellers around the country are preparing for a federal ban on most of their products set to take effect in December. Vendors are assessing inventory, compliance needs, and likely business impacts.

Lincoln and Lancaster County are observing Welcoming Week with more than 50 events across the city. The schedule includes community gatherings intended to connect newcomers and long-term residents.

Nebraska and Notre Dame announced a home-and-home football series that will begin in 2032.

# Why this matters

Appointments to the Economic Forecasting Advisory Board matter because the board provides input that helps set the states revenue forecast. Those revenue figures influence budget planning and spending decisions at the state level.

Progress on the Farm Bill affects federal farm and food policy, funding for agricultural programs, and related support that impacts Nebraska farmers and rural communities.

The federal hemp product ban will directly affect businesses selling hemp-derived goods, including retailers and producers who must decide whether to sell down inventory, change product lines, or adjust marketing ahead of December.

Welcoming Week events are local civic programming that aim to support community integration and public engagement.

Dame football agreement sets a long-range marquee schedule for the program and will shape future home schedules and ticket planning.

# What to watch next

• Floor action on the Farm Bill in the U.S. Senate and any amendments that might change program funding or eligibility.

• Welcoming Week event listings and participation levels in Lincoln for community engagement indicators.
• Scheduling details and ticketing announcements when Nebraska and Notre Dame confirm venues and dates for the 2032 home-and-home series.

# Practical takeaways

• For Nebraska budget watchers: monitor any updated revenue forecasts after the new board members begin work.
• For agricultural stakeholders: follow the Farm Bill as it moves to the full Senate for potential impacts on programs affecting Nebraska producers.
• For hemp retailers: plan inventory and compliance options now ahead of the December federal ban on most hemp products.
• For Lincoln residents and newcomers: check the Welcoming Week calendar for events that facilitate local connections and services.
• For Husker football fans: mark 2032 as the start of a scheduled home-and-home with Notre Dame and expect future scheduling details to follow.