This bill amends section 71-8616 of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to establish a statewide support service provider program specifically for deaf-blind individuals. The program aims to facilitate the transition from dependency to independent living and societal participation. It will include various services such as assistance with daily living activities, access to information, and the provision of human guides. The commission has the option to either contract with private providers or offer these services directly.

Additionally, the bill expresses the Legislature's intent to appropriate $100,000 from the General Fund for the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 to support this program. It also eliminates obsolete provisions related to the transfer of property and personnel from the Division of Rehabilitation Services for the Visually Impaired to the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and it repeals the original section of the law. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-8616