Nebraska Department of Economic Development sees high staff attrition

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has experienced significant staff attrition, with at least 61 employees leaving the agency within a 15-month period. According to department data, the agency's full-time equivalent workforce peaked at 115.25 in May 2025 and dropped to 69.75 by late August 2025. During this timeframe, the department made 15 new hires.

Former employees have attributed the departures to changes in leadership and policy following Governor Jim Pillen’s appointment of Maureen Larsen as interim director in July 2025. Some former staff members alleged that budget cuts and new internal policies were intended to shrink the department. Justin Hubly, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees, described the attrition levels as “mind-boggling” for a state agency, noting the potential impact on state growth efforts.