This bill aims to enhance suicide awareness and prevention training for employees involved in the child welfare system in Nebraska. It mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a baseline curriculum and training materials in consultation with relevant organizations, ensuring that the training incorporates evidence-based practices. All staff providing direct services to children or families must complete at least ninety minutes of this training prior to independent contact and annually thereafter. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the incorporation of suicide awareness and prevention training into the licensing requirements for foster homes.

The bill also establishes standardized training requirements for employees of child-placing agencies, allowing these agencies to tailor their training to meet specific needs while adhering to the baseline curriculum set by the department. The act will become operative on October 1, 2025, and it repeals the original sections of the law that are being amended. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the safety and well-being of children in the welfare system by equipping workers with essential skills to recognize and respond to mental health issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-1904, 71-1924