Youth rehabilitation centers will see increased collaboration

A bill that will promote administrative collaboration at each of the state’s youth rehabilitation and treatment centers (YRTCs) was passed by the Legislature April 4.

Currently, the state Department of Health and Human Services, through the Office of Juvenile Services (OJS), oversees YRTCs in Kearney and Geneva.

LB972, introduced by Omaha Sen. Brad Ashford, authorizes the Department of Correctional Services to provide training to OJS employees on the safety and security of youth living at YRTCs. OJS is required to submit an annual status report to the Legislature.

Senators passed the bill on a 49-0 vote.