Change the maximum time limit for receipt of cash assistance under the Welfare Reform Act

This bill (LB 379) increases the maximum time limit for cash assistance under Nebraska's Welfare Reform Act from 24 months to 60 months (5 years) for families with children. It directly affects low-income families receiving cash assistance, extending their eligibility period while adding specific conditions: assistance may be extended if the state fails to meet self-sufficiency contract terms, if no jobs paying at least the assistance amount are available, or if extreme hardship (inability to cover basic needs like food, housing, or child care) exists. The bill also clarifies that work-related child care assistance remains available after cash assistance ends, with cost-sharing based on income thresholds tied to federal poverty levels.