LINCOLN— The Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE/AFSCME), the state’s largest public employees union, is beginning negotiations with state officials for a new two-year contract covering July 2027 through June 2029. The union’s top priority is securing wage increases that keep pace with inflation, with leaders estimating annual raises of roughly 3% to 4% based on the Consumer Price Index. Union officials acknowledge Nebraska’s ongoing budget deficit could make those increases difficult to achieve and say they may need to explore other cost-saving measures, including greater use of remote work.

NAPE is also prioritizing rising health insurance costs, employee retention and expanded benefits. Union members said health insurance premiums have increased nearly 25% over two years, reducing the impact of previous wage gains. They also pointed to state employee turnover of nearly 20% and argued that competitive salaries and benefits are necessary to recruit and retain workers. Other proposals could include expanding paid parental leave and considering adjustments to health coverage to control costs. Negotiations are expected to continue through December, although union leaders said they will remain at the bargaining table as long as necessary to reach an agreement.

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