This bill amends various sections of Nebraska's Revised Statutes to enhance access to public benefits for eligible aliens and their dependents. It introduces definitions for terms such as "approved identification document," "eligible alien," and "public benefits," allowing eligible aliens to receive employment-related benefits, including retirement and educational financial aid. The bill ensures that family members of eligible aliens can access the same benefits as other employees, irrespective of their immigration status. Additionally, it modifies the verification process for lawful presence in the U.S. for public benefits, emphasizing non-discrimination based on race, religion, gender, ethnicity, or national origin, and clarifies that prenatal care services are available regardless of the mother's immigration status.

Furthermore, the bill revises the eligibility requirements for participation in retirement systems for state employees and members of the Nebraska State Patrol, stipulating that employees must be U.S. citizens, lawfully present, or eligible aliens. It mandates that both the employing agency and the employee maintain at least one approved identification document to verify eligibility. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of governmental entities regarding notifications of business transactions that may affect their qualification under the retirement system, ensuring that affected plan members are fully vested immediately upon the board's determination. Additionally, it introduces a requirement for mandatory compliance in producing specific documents upon request from the Public Employees Retirement Board, while repealing several existing sections to streamline the legal framework surrounding public employee retirement systems.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-109, 4-108, 4-110, 4-111, 4-112, 4-113, 23-2306, 24-703.01, 48-628.04, 79-915, 81-2016, 84-1307, 84-1504