LINCOLN- Legislative Bill 1208, as introduced by State Sen. Carolyn Bosn of Lincoln, would allow juveniles to be detained if it is a “matter of immediate and urgent necessity for the protection of such juveniles.” Sen. Bosn offered an amendment to that bill last week could expand mental health services to Nebraska juveniles in need of immediate and urgent protection.

Nebraska should support youths suffering from mental health crises — such as those at risk of suicide — but who do not qualify for a psychiatric residential treatment facility and are not good candidates for being sent home, Bosn explained. She is also working to address concerns of who would pay for the services. “Having an individual who is a juvenile be detained is not my goal,” Bosn said.

State Court Administrator Corey Steel, who oversees the administrative operations of Nebraska’s court system, testified in support of Bosn’s amendment. Steel said LB 1208 as originally proposed was not the right solution in pursuit of Bosn’s goals. The proposed changes would apply when a juvenile is suffering from a severe health crisis and needs support, including emergency protective custody.

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