Nebraska Legislature Bill LB283

Nebraska 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/17/25

Caption

Require the Department of Health and Human Services to implement express lane eligibility

Impact

If passed, LB283 would significantly modify how eligibility for state health and human services programs is determined. The measure is designed to expedite the application process, which could result in increased enrollment in health programs. By utilizing existing data from other state programs, the Department of Health and Human Services will be better able to serve the community while also minimizing delays that often hinder applicants from receiving timely assistance.

Summary

LB283 requires the Department of Health and Human Services to implement express lane eligibility for public assistance programs. This bill aims to streamline access to health care and social services by allowing for a more efficient determination of eligibility based on existing data. The implementation of express lane eligibility is intended to reduce the bureaucratic burden on applicants and improve the overall efficiency of the public assistance system in the state.

Contention

Statements from discussions surrounding LB283 indicate that there may be concerns regarding privacy and data security, as the bill would involve using personal information from existing databases for eligibility determinations. Proponents argue that the benefits of quicker access to essential services outweigh the risks, while critics worry about potential misuse of information and the effect on vulnerable populations. As the bill progresses through legislative processes, these points of contention will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the final version of the legislation.