The proposed bill, known as the Youth Early Intervention and Support Act, aims to enhance child welfare by establishing a structured framework for early identification and support of youth exhibiting signs of trauma, neglect, or instability. The legislation emphasizes the importance of collaboration among schools, families, community health workers, and public systems to address these issues effectively. It mandates the development of an early support system within all Nebraska public school districts, which will identify students showing early warning indicators such as changes in attendance, academic performance, and behavioral challenges. The goal is to facilitate compassionate, trauma-informed interventions rather than punitive measures.

To implement this act, each school district is required to form a youth support coordination team that includes various stakeholders, such as school counselors, community health workers, and family advocates. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the State Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services in providing training, technical assistance, and monitoring compliance with privacy laws. Additionally, it ensures that no student will be referred to law enforcement or child welfare based solely on the indicators identified by the early support system, unless there is an imminent risk. Each district must submit an annual report detailing the implementation and outcomes of the program, which will be compiled and evaluated by the State Department of Education.