Photos: Legislature's opening day
State senators returned to the legislative chamber to open this year's 60-day session on Wednesday. See photos of the event.
Chief Sergeant at Arms Jim Doggett shakes the hand of Sen. Matt Williams after taking the oath on the first day of the 105th Legislature on Wednesday.
New Sen. Theresa Thibodeau, her husband, Joseph, and children Anna, Eleanor and Joey pose for a family photo on the first day of the Legislature on Wednesday.
Former senator and lobbyist Heath Mello (center) speaks with former senators and lobbyists Jan McKenzie (left) and Don Wesely on the first day of the 105th Legislature Wednesday in the Rotunda at the Capitol.
New Sen. Theresa Thibodeau of Omaha, husband Joseph and children Anna (left), Eleanor and Joey pose for a family photo on the first day the legislative session on Wednesday.
Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court Michael Heavican (left) administers the oath to Chief Sergeant at Arms Jim Doggett on the first day of the 105th Legislature, Wednesday at the Capitol.
Sens. Suzanne Geist (left) and Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln speak on the first day of the 105th Legislature, Wednesday.
New Sen. Theresa Thibodeau listens to Speaker Jim Scheer on the first day of the Legislature on Wednesday.
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State senators will convene in Lincoln on Wednesday to launch what appears destined to be a politically charged legislative session.
State senators introduced a number of criminal justice-themed and Department of Correctional Services-related bills Wednesday. They included proposals on prison overcrowding emergency requirements, medical release of inmates and reasonable rates for phone calls from county and city jails.
A stalled legislative package of income and property tax reductions is being restructured to provide more property tax relief, Sen. Jim Smith acknowledged Wednesday, and although encouraged, he sees "a very, very narrow path" ahead for its eventual enactment.
