Healthcare (Children)

LB 903 requires case managers in Nebraska's Department of Health and Human Services to refer families with children under two years old to evidence-based home visitation services when appropriate. This applies to families involved in child welfare cases where a juvenile is under the department's care (either court-ordered or voluntary) or in non-court cases. The bill amends existing law to mandate this referral process, which connects families to existing home visitation programs designed to support early childhood development and family well-being.

LB 368 establishes the Nebraska Youth in Care Bill of Rights, directly affecting children in foster care or residential child-care institutions. The bill defines specific rights, including safety from exploitation, access to age-appropriate medical and educational services, freedom from discrimination, the right to participate in court proceedings, and protection of their assets. Key mechanisms require the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure these rights through actions like facilitating sibling placements, providing timely court notices, and supporting transitions to independent living. The law mandates that all youth in care receive clear, developmentally appropriate information about their rights and services, while respecting biological parents' rights where applicable.