This bill amends the Revised Statutes to enhance the Medical Assistance Act in Nebraska, particularly focusing on home and community-based services. Key provisions include the establishment of a home and community-based services waiver, retroactive coverage for certain benefits, and the reimbursement of doula services. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is mandated to ensure that employees administering assessment tools for waiver participants receive training in clinical interviewing techniques. Additionally, the DHHS must clearly communicate eligibility determinations and service tier assignments to participants and their guardians, and conduct supervisory reviews before any reductions in service tiers or hours are implemented. A work group will also be formed to develop an implementation plan for doula services, with a deadline for reimbursement set for January 1, 2029.

The bill further enhances the Nebraska Prenatal Plus Program by removing its termination date of June 30, 2028, allowing it to continue indefinitely. It expands eligible services for at-risk mothers to include a minimum of two breastfeeding support sessions. The DHHS is required to submit an annual electronic report to the Legislature detailing the number of mothers served, services offered, and birth outcomes, extending the reporting period through December 15, 2034. Additionally, the bill modifies eligibility criteria for the low-income home energy assistance program, establishing a household income threshold of 150% of the federal poverty level and allowing crisis assistance payments of up to $800 per program year, with the potential for exceeding this amount under special circumstances. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 68-901, 68-907
Final Reading: 68-901, 68-908, 68-1215