Family finding pilot project approved

A bill that creates a pilot project to establish family connections for state wards was approved May 21.

LB243, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Kate Bolz, creates a four-year statewide pilot program to provide family finding services in at least two service areas. The state Department of Health and Human Services will provide oversight and contract with providers to carry out the program.

The department also is required to establish a data collection system and contract with an academic institution to complete an independent evaluation of the pilot project’s effectiveness.

Funding for the program will be $750,000 per year in fiscal years 2015-16 and 2016-17.

The bill passed on a 39-5 vote.