Bill > LB48

This bill establishes a Family Resource and Juvenile Assessment Center Pilot Program in metropolitan areas of Nebraska, designed to provide comprehensive support and intervention services for youth and families at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. The program will operate 24/7 and be developed in partnership with local organizations and community stakeholders, with the goal of preventing youth from escalating into the justice system by addressing underlying issues like mental health, substance abuse, and family dynamics. The Department of Health and Human Services will designate two centers through a rigorous application process that requires centers to offer a wide range of services including parenting support, youth counseling, mental health services, conflict resolution, and job readiness training. Centers must employ professionals trained in trauma-informed care, develop community partnerships, and implement data collection to track program effectiveness. Each center will host multiple community providers, offer free assessments and services, and provide ongoing support to youth and families, with a focus on culturally relevant and trauma-informed approaches. The program is set to run for five years, with funding of up to $500,000 annually per center from the Medicaid Managed Care Excess Profit Fund, and the Department will conduct annual evaluations to assess the program's impact on youth well-being and community trust.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59016