By: Associated Press

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska lawmakers will have another $9.7 million at their disposal for legislation in this year’s session.

The revenue estimates approved Thursday came despite predictions that the state would collect less money than expected for its two-year budget. If the new estimates hold, lawmakers will have a total of $58.7 million available.

The Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board projected that state revenue will grow 5 percent during the fiscal year that starts on July 1, and 4.3 percent in the following year. Board members said Nebraska’s unemployment remains low and the state economy appears to be holding strong.

The state is expected to collect an additional $12 million in the current fiscal year, which will go to the cash reserve.