LINCOLN- As we move towards the inauguration of the Gov.-elect, Jim Pillen is beginning to widen his search for DHHS and Corrections heads to a nationwide level. However, a spokesman for Pillen said that, despite hiring Ford Webb Associates to help fill the position, Pillen will still consider current interim Director Diane Sabatka-Rine for the post.

Thus far, Gov.-elect Pillen has reappointed many Ricketts-era officials to his cabinet, meaning that this nationwide search is of great importance to him. The new director, whether Sabatka-Rine is retained or someone new is selected, will have to wrestle with Nebraska's prison overcrowding and staff shortages.

"This search firm has a long track record of finding the best candidates for agency directors nationally and in Nebraska," said Pillen of Ford Webb Associates. On Monday, the state's Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health, Dr. Gary Anthone, announced his departure, prompting Pillen to begin the new search for a DHHS director.

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