LINCOLN — A key lawmaker joined child advocates Monday in panning a state proposal to repeal almost all of Nebraska’s child welfare regulations. State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln said the Department of Health and Human Services’ plan to eliminate almost 200 pages of rules and regulations could affect the rights of children and families and increase the chances of unequal treatment.

“It’s clear the mantra right now is to get rid of regulations, regardless of the cost,” she said. “The cost here is the welfare of children.”

Pansing Brooks spoke at a hearing held to collect comments about the proposed changes in rules and regulations. HHS officials will consider the comments offered at the hearing, along with any written comments, in deciding whether to go forward with the changes. In a statement, HHS CEO Dannette Smith said the proposed changes are part of a broader review of department regulations. The aim of the review is to remove old policy, eliminate duplication and remove regulations that are spelled out in state law.