This bill amends section 71-7611 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, concerning the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund. It establishes a series of financial transfers from the Nebraska Medicaid Intergovernmental Trust Fund and the Nebraska Tobacco Settlement Trust Fund to the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund, including specific amounts for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision that mandates an increase of $7.5 million in fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 to be allocated to various community health centers to enhance healthcare access, with each center receiving $700,000 and the remaining funds distributed based on the number of uninsured patients.

Additionally, the bill repeals the original section 71-7611, which indicates a complete overhaul of the existing provisions. The intent of the Legislature is clearly stated, emphasizing the importance of restoring funding for programs previously supported by the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund and ensuring that no new programs are funded until this restoration is achieved. The bill also maintains existing non-discrimination clauses for educational institutions receiving funds from the Health Care Cash Fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-7611