At Voices for Children in Nebraska, we advocate for policies that help make our state the best place to be a kid. Guided by research, we seek to remove barriers to opportunity for all children by engaging the public and elected officials on the issues of child welfare, economic stability, health, and juvenile justice
Regardless of the results of this election, child well-being remains a non-partisan issue. As our state’s greatest resource, children serve as a unifier across the political spectrum. The decisions our leaders make about them impact our collective future. Now that you have voted, we encourage you to reach out to your newly elected officials to find out how they will work to make children a priority. To find your current state senator, click here.
With this in mind, we present our Pro-Kid Policy Plan for the upcoming year. This plan represents our vision for a Nebraska where strong communities allow all children to lead healthy, secure, and fulfilling lives.
Pro-Kid Policy Plan
Voices for Children works to ensure that:
Child Welfare: Children grow up in safe, permanent, and loving homes. An effective child welfare system strengthens families and minimizes trauma through timely and appropriate action.
In October, we testified at an interim study on LR 513 about workforce issues within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Next week, we will share information with the Legislature during a hearing on LR 523 about the gap in child protective response for 18 year olds, who have not yet reached Nebraska’s age of majority.
Economic Stability: Families are able to achieve financial security, and children’s basic needs are met. State economic policies support families in trying to build a better future and balance work and family life.
Last month, we collaborated with other community partners on, “The Cost of Being Poor” a panel discussion on small debt lawsuits in Nebraska, and how they disproportionately burden low-income Nebraskans.
On December 7, we invite you to join us for a film screening of The Ordinance, a film highlighting a community’s successful efforts to take on predatory lending practices. This industry often prevents families from achieving financial security. Register for free here.
Health: Children and families have access to affordable, quality physical and behavioral health care. Consistent and preventive health care gives children the best start to grow up to be healthy and productive adults.
We are working to ensure the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is re-authorized by Congress and that the over 15,000 Nebraska kids currently eligible for Medicaid or CHIP but not yet enrolled get access to care.
Juvenile Justice: Youth are held accountable for their actions in developmentally appropriate ways that promote community safety and allow them to grow into responsible citizens.
Last month, we testified on LR 514 an interim study to examine the availability of transition services for youth who will leave or have left the juvenile justice system while in an out-of-home placement.
With the Pro-Kid Policy at the core of all that we do, Voices for Children will continue researching and advocating to make Nebraska the best place for everyone to be a kid.
Comment(1)-
Kathy Karsting RN says
November 9, 2016 at 1:48 pmThanks for sharing a positive outlook on going forward on behalf of children. In the health arena, changes are occurring as Heritage Health transforms Nebraska Medicaid and new Managed Care Organizations come on board. Opportunities for new collaborations in communities to benefit children and families are coming. A pro-kid approach is the way to go.