LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s tax revenue will grow at roughly an average pace over the next few years, but senators are still projected to face a $62.6 million shortfall in their next two-year budget.

The legislative estimates were updated Friday after the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board approved its newest revenue projections.

Board members predicted annual growth of about 5 percent, putting the state on course to collect about $9 billion for that budget period.

Nebraska lawmakers are required to balance the state budget. Senators have signaled that they may use some revenue for prisons, a water settlement with Kansas and reimbursement to the federal government for child welfare services.

Gov. Dave Heineman has said lawmakers should limit state spending growth and focus on tax relief.