Adopt the Housing First Supportive Services Act and require the Department of Health and Human Services to seek federal approval for coverage under the Medical Assistance Act

This bill would allow Nebraska to cover supportive housing services through Medicaid by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to seek federal approval. It establishes a "Housing First" approach - providing permanent housing without conditions (like sobriety requirements) paired with voluntary support services such as housing transition, tenancy stabilization, and care coordination. The bill creates a dedicated fund to cover both Medicaid-eligible services and non-Medicaid housing costs (e.g., short-term rental assistance). It directly affects Nebraskans experiencing or at risk of homelessness by expanding access to stable housing with integrated support.