NE LB181

Expands Nebraska's Bridge to Independence program beginning January 1, 2026 to include young adults who are not lawfully present in the United States, providing foster care transition services to former foster youth ages 19-21 regardless of immigration status

Adds participation in the Bridge to Independence program as an exemption from Nebraska's verification of lawful presence requirements under section 4-108

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to submit a Medicaid state plan amendment by October 1, 2025 to provide medical assistance to program participants under age 21 who are not lawfully present

Authorizes the expansion under 8 U.S.C. 1621(d), which allows states to provide public benefits to immigrants through affirmative state legislation notwithstanding federal welfare reform restrictions

Directs the department to pursue all coverage options for medical care, including General Fund payments, if a young adult is ineligible for Title XIX (Medicaid) or Title XXI (CHIP) due to immigration status