Adopt the Uniform Health-Care Decisions Act

LB 66 proposes adopting Nebraska's version of the Uniform Health-Care Decisions Act. This bill would establish a standardized legal framework for advance healthcare planning, allowing adults to appoint agents to make medical decisions if they become unable to do so themselves (via "advance directives" or "power of attorney for health care"). It defines key terms like "agent," "default surrogate" (e.g., family members), and "cohabitant," clarifying who can make decisions and under what circumstances. The act directly affects Nebraskans planning ahead for healthcare, their families, and healthcare providers who must follow these procedures. (Note: The bill is currently pending before the Judiciary Committee as of January 2025.)