Aging task force established

A bill that creates a statewide task force on aging and seeks federal grant funds was given final approval March 31.

LB690, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Kate Bolz, creates the Aging Nebraskans Task Force to facilitate implementation of the statewide strategic plan for addressing the needs of Nebraska’s aging population.

The task force will include stakeholders as well as representatives of the three branches of state government and will report its recommendations to the Legislature by Dec. 15, 2014. The task force will terminate June 30, 2016, unless extended by the Legislature.

The bill also requires the state Department of Health and Human Services by Sept. 1, 2014, to apply for a federal grant to fund the development of a comprehensive and coordinated system of home and community based long-term care services.

LB690 passed on a 32-11 vote.