SENATOR MURMAN’S LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

January 14, 2022

On Wednesday, January 5th we kicked off the second session of the 107th Nebraska Legislature. We welcomed Governor Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore to the Norris Chamber this past Thursday for the governor’s State of the State address. I have some important legislation that I am proposing this session, and I plan to share information about some of the bills I am introducing over the coming weeks.

The unfortunate closing of the Arapahoe nursing home has highlighted the need for more healthcare providers in greater Nebraska. The difficulty in maintaining adequate staff was certainly a major factor contributing to the closure.

I have proposed a bill this session to modify the Rural Health Systems and Professional Incentive Act. My objective is to bolster rural healthcare by bringing in doctors, nurses, dentists, etc. Under the act, a healthcare professional may have their educational loans and other financial assistance repaid if they agree to practice in a “designated health profession shortage area” for at least three years. Currently, a local entity within this area is required to provide equal funding for the repayment of a recipient’s debt. The bill amends the act by saying a match would not be required by a local entity unless required by federal law. This change would allow the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA-federal funds) to match. My goal is to enhance the objectives of the act to promote rural health.

I would welcome any comments, questions or ideas you may have on this or any other issue. Please feel free to email me at dmurman@leg.ne.gov or call my office at 402-471-2732.