Bill > LB912

This bill, known as the Community Health Worker Training Endorsement Act, aims to strengthen Nebraska's public health workforce by establishing a statewide process for recognizing training programs for community health workers (CHWs). A CHW is defined as an individual who has completed an endorsed training program and understands the community they serve, acting as a bridge between health systems and the community to improve health outcomes. The act clarifies that CHW services include preventive, outreach, education, navigation, advocacy, and social support. The Department of Health and Human Services (Department) will be responsible for setting and maintaining "core competencies," which are the essential knowledge and skills CHWs must possess, and will periodically review these to align with national best practices. The Department will also establish procedures for approving training programs, including application processes, fees, and renewal requirements, and will have the authority to deny, suspend, or revoke endorsements. Importantly, this act does not create a licensing or certification requirement for CHWs, nor does it allow them to perform tasks requiring professional licensure or limit the scope of practice for licensed healthcare professionals.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=62787