This bill amends section 81-1403 of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to enhance the collaboration between law enforcement and Adult Protective Services (APS) social workers during incidents involving individuals with mental health concerns. It introduces definitions for key terms such as "APS social worker," "crisis intervention," and "trauma-informed care," and mandates that APS social workers accompany law enforcement officers in specific situations. The Department of Health and Human Services is tasked with developing a program to approve social workers as APS social workers, ensuring they receive appropriate training in crisis intervention and related areas. Law enforcement agencies are required to implement policies for identifying and responding to calls involving individuals with mental health issues, including the use of a "Mental Health Priority" designation.

Additionally, the bill establishes sanctions for law enforcement agencies that fail to comply with the new requirements, including ineligibility for loans, grants, or donations administered by the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice. It also introduces a new provision for the discipline of law enforcement officers who do not adhere to the requirements set forth in the bill, specifically regarding the involvement of APS social workers in mental health-related calls. The original section 81-1403 is repealed, and the bill aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of law enforcement responses to individuals experiencing mental health crises.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 81-1403