The Nebraska legislature discussed many topics during Tuesday’s session, including healthcare, violations of protection orders, and custody requirements.
One bill changes the Medicaid waiver 1915(c) in the state by prohibiting the Department of Health and Human Services from submitting applications or making changes to the waivers without legislative approval.
It also adds the definition of nursing facility level of care, meaning care will be provided in community settings if the waiver program cost doesn’t change, the Medicaid recipient qualifies, and they require assistance with two or more daily living activities. It advanced on a 45 to 0 vote.
Additionally, a bill that increases penalties for continuous violations of protection orders involving domestic violence and sexual assault moved forward.
It reforms the penalties by establishing a tiered penalty system and categorizing them based on the number of offenses. It advanced on a 34 to 5 vote.
Another proposal that moved forward would require judges moderating a divorce to consider reliable proof that children's holistic development is healthier when they have equal time with both parents.
The proof would be added to the list of factors the judge must consider when deciding custody in divorce court. Other components include the child’s wants and relationship with each parent. It moved forward on a 33 to 0 vote.
Other bills discussed during Tuesday’s session include a ban on weapons in the state capitol, coverage for children’s neuropsychiatric disorders, and housing for people with disabilities.
