Mar 05, 2026

Gov. Pillen Signs Classroom Improvement Legislation into Law

Posted Mar 05, 2026 5:28 PM

By Governor's Office

 Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen talking at St. Teresa Catholic School in Lincoln on Sep. 29. 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen talking at St. Teresa Catholic School in Lincoln on Sep. 29. 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN, Neb. – Governor Jim Pillen, a strong supporter of K-12 education in Nebraska, signed LB653 into law today to improve classroom environments. The new law will provide school districts the flexibility to work with students and their families to address disruptive behaviors, ensuring that our classrooms are a place for learning.

“We’re investing in Nebraska’s kids while ensuring classrooms are safe and great learning environments,” said Governor Pillen. “Today, I signed LB653 into law and I’m grateful for the legislature’s work – especially Sen. Murman for carrying this legislation on my behalf – to get this to my desk to provide teachers and school administrators the tools they need to discipline and assist young students who engage in violent behavior in the classroom.”

Earlier this year during the Governor’s State of the State Address, Gov. Pillen highlighted pieces of this legislation as a priority initiative to help address issues teachers have faced with violent or disruptive students in classroom settings.

The legislation allows school districts to suspend Pre-K through 2nd grade students who exhibit violent behavior and protect the students right to be heard by the administration. While this legislation was not a full repeal of the existing prohibition, it will help schools to regain control in their classrooms.

This is win for Nebraska teachers, students, families and learning.