Bill > LB1213

This bill, known as the Case Management Licensure Act, establishes a system for licensing and overseeing individuals who perform case management, investigative, or supervisory functions within the state's child welfare system, including foster care. The act defines key terms such as "case manager" (any individual involved in child welfare case management or investigation), "licensure" (state certification to perform these duties), "malfeasance" (intentional misconduct), and "negligence" (failure to meet professional standards). It mandates that all such individuals must be licensed, with licenses valid for two years and subject to renewal. The Foster Care Review Office (referred to as the "office") is designated as the authority responsible for administering this act, including setting professional standards, investigating complaints, and imposing disciplinary actions like license suspension or revocation for misconduct, which can include falsifying records or abuse of authority. The bill also outlines an appeal process for decisions made by the office and specifies that licensed case managers have an independent duty to act with prudence and integrity, but the state is not liable for their actions or omissions. Finally, the act requires the office to develop standards to improve investigation processes, ensure timely communication with families, and consider foster parent input, and to submit an annual report to the Legislature detailing licensure activity, complaint trends, fiscal impacts, and progress in improving efficiency and federal funding eligibility.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=63666