Interim Studies Lay Groundwork for Policy Change

by Elizabeth Everett, V.P., Early Futures Partnership

As the Nebraska Legislature wraps up its 2026 regular session, our work continues with the crucial role of ongoing advancements in early childhood policies.

One of the ways this happens is through interim studies, which allow senators and stakeholders to gather research, identify policy and administrative barriers, learn about best practices and examine potential policy solutions.

First Five Nebraska has collaborated with state senators on the introduction of several interim studies this session. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s on the horizon:

LR382 (Senator Fredrickson) – This study will examine issues related to play therapy access in Nebraska. Play therapy is a well-established, evidence-based mental health intervention that is particularly effective with young children.

LR383 (Senator Spivey) – This study will examine maternal depression in Nebraska and potential statutory or administrative changes that may support maternal health.

LR391 (Senator Dungan) – This study will look at diaper access for Nebraska families. This issue is important because caregivers often struggle to afford an adequate supply of clean diapers to maintain child health and hygiene.

LR393 (Senator Conrad) – This study will examine the potential for providing universal child care in Nebraska.

LR412 (Senator Spivey) – This study will examine how the Nebraska Legislature can take a more coordinated and proactive role in child care policy, with a specific focus on child care financing models. It will examine how different approaches impact access, affordability and coverage for working families in Nebraska.

LR423 (Senator Rountree) – This study will look at food insecurity for pregnant and postpartum women and their children in Nebraska, understanding that good nutrition is critical for the health of mothers and can significantly impact birth outcomes.

LR472 (Senator Clouse) – This study will examine federally funded Head Start and Early Head Start programs and provide state policy recommendations in support of such programs. These programs provide high-quality early childhood education and wraparound services.

We thank the State Senators who introduced these studies, and we look forward to working with them to inform policy moving forward.

First Five Nebraska will offer a deeper dive into these interim studies in the coming months as we lay the groundwork for successful policy advancements in the 2027 legislative session. Stay tuned for more information on these studies and all of our interim work.