NAP Winter 2026 Unicameral Review

As of February 20, 2026, the Nebraska Legislature remains in session, and senators are continuing committee hearings and floor debate as bills move through the process. This is a key point in the session where many proposals begin advancing out of committee and into full legislative consideration. The decisions made now will shape policies and funding priorities that directly impact health care access across Nebraska.

For the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP), this session is especially important because several bills focus on Medicaid eligibility, affordability, and administration. Medicaid is a lifeline for many Nebraskans living with HIV and for individuals who depend on preventive services, prescriptions, and routine medical care. Even small policy changes can have a big impact on whether people are able to stay covered and stay healthy.

Key Medicaid-Related Bills & Committee Activity

LB 812 – Medicaid Eligibility Redeterminations & Community Engagement
 This bill looks at how the Department of Health and Human Services reviews eligibility and documentation requirements. During committee hearings, many speakers shared concerns that overly complicated renewal processes can lead to people losing coverage even when they still qualify. The main theme was the importance of keeping people continuously insured, especially those managing chronic conditions.

LB 929 – Medicaid Deductions & Cost-Sharing Requirements
 LB 929 focuses on copays and out-of-pocket costs for Medicaid enrollees. Testimony highlighted that even small increases in cost can create real barriers for low-income individuals, sometimes forcing people to delay appointments or skip medications. Lawmakers discussed how to balance affordability with long-term program sustainability.

LB 942 – Medicaid Reimbursement for Emergency & Inpatient Services
 This bill addresses how hospitals and providers are reimbursed for emergency and inpatient care. Providers shared that stable reimbursement rates are essential to keeping doors open, especially in rural and underserved communities where options are already limited.

LB 1221 – Community Engagement & Work Requirement Definitions
 LB 1221 proposes clearer definitions related to work or engagement expectations within Medicaid. Advocates raised concerns that similar policies in other states have sometimes resulted in coverage losses for individuals facing employment, disability, or caregiving challenges.

LB 1122 – Medicaid Nursing Facility Rate Appropriations & Reporting
 This proposal centers on transparency and funding for nursing facility reimbursement rates. Discussions have focused on making sure long-term care providers remain financially stable while also maintaining accountability in how rates are set.

Why This Matters for NAP and Our Community

For many people living with HIV in Nebraska, Medicaid coverage is directly tied to medication access, routine lab work, and preventive care like PrEP. Even brief gaps in coverage can interrupt treatment and create long-term health risks. These bills may influence:

• Coverage Stability – how easy it is to stay enrolled without unnecessary disruptions
• Affordability – whether care and medications remain financially within reach
• Provider Access – the ability of clinics and hospitals to continue serving their communities
• Health Equity – ensuring marginalized populations are not left behind

NAP is continuing to follow these bills closely and advocate for policies that keep care accessible, affordable, and uninterrupted for the people we serve.

Call to Action

Stay informed and stay engaged.
 Policy decisions are stronger when they reflect the real experiences of the community. We encourage you to follow bill updates, learn how proposed changes may affect you or your clients, and reach out to your state senator when issues matter to you. You can keep track of bill progress by following the link found here