This bill amends section 43-907 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to enhance the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regarding children under its care, particularly concerning social security benefits. The bill mandates that the DHHS screen each child for social security benefit eligibility within sixty days of entering its charge and manage any benefits received on behalf of the child. It requires the department to provide timely written notifications to the child, their guardian ad litem, and parents regarding eligibility determinations, benefit approvals, and the appointment of representative payees. Additionally, the bill outlines the department's obligations to maintain detailed records of the child's assets and expenditures, ensuring that social security payments are conserved for the child's future needs.

The bill also introduces specific provisions for managing social security benefits, including the establishment of trust accounts, the conservation of a percentage of benefits based on the child's age, and the requirement for the department to consult with beneficiaries aged fourteen and older about their needs. Upon exiting the department's charge, children will be informed of their rights to unspent benefits and the process for continuing to receive social security payments. The bill emphasizes the importance of compliance with federal regulations and seeks to maximize federal funding before utilizing state resources for implementation. The original section 43-907 is repealed to accommodate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-907
Final Reading: 43-907
Slip Law: 43-907