Bill > LB740

This bill, known as the Housing First Supportive Services Act, aims to address homelessness and improve health outcomes by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to seek federal approval to cover supportive housing services under Medicaid, which is the state's Medical Assistance Act. The bill establishes that stable housing is crucial for health and can reduce reliance on expensive emergency and institutional services, and it adopts the "Housing First" model, which provides permanent housing without preconditions like sobriety or treatment participation, coupled with voluntary support services to help individuals maintain stability. DHHS will pursue federal approval through mechanisms like a section 1115 demonstration waiver or a state plan amendment to allow Medicaid reimbursement for services such as housing transition, tenancy support, and care coordination for eligible individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The bill also creates a dedicated fund to support these services and leverage federal and state resources, and it mandates coordination with other state agencies and authorities to maximize housing and health service integration, with annual reporting requirements to the Legislature on program outcomes and an independent evaluation within five years of implementation.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=63166