LINCOLN — Nebraska’s new Division of Legislative Oversight announced the appointment of Zach Pluhacek as the new Inspector General of the state’s prison system.

Pluhacek previously worked as a reporter for the Lincoln Journal Star and briefly served as a legislative aide before he joined the Office of Inspector General of the Nebraska Correctional System in late 2020.

Regarding his appointment, Pluhacek emphasized the importance of legislative oversight in maintaining effective and accountable government operations.

“Legislative oversight of our state agencies and programs is essential for our system of government,” Pluhacek said in a press release. “This is especially true of our prisons and other state institutions, which are places most people never step inside.”

The Division of Legislative Oversight was established in 2025 with the purpose of promoting transparency across Nebraska’s state agencies and providing the Legislature with reports about state government operations. The Division encompasses the Office of Inspector General of the Nebraska Correctional System, the Office of Inspector General of Nebraska Child Welfare and the Legislative Audit Office.

Director of Legislative Oversight Steph Meese said Pluhacek’s experience and commitment made him well-suited for the role.

“Zach brings a strong understanding of the Inspector General’s role and a deep commitment to transparency and accountability,” Meese said. “His experience within the office, combined with his background in journalism and within the Legislature, equips him to lead and continue advancing its work.”

State Sen. Myron Dorn of Adams, chair of the Legislative Oversight Committee, which oversees the division’s work, approved the appointment and expressed confidence in Pluhacek’s leadership.

“Zach has demonstrated a strong commitment to accountability and public service throughout his time with the Legislature,” Dorn said. “His experience and dedication will serve the people of Nebraska well, and I am confident he will continue to strengthen the important oversight work of this office.”

This story was published by Nebraska Examiner, an editorially independent newsroom providing a hard-hitting, daily flow of news. Read the original article: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/zach-pluhacek-appointed-as-new-inspector-general-of-nebraska-corrections/