From the Policy Desk... LB 1173 Reimagines Well-Being of Nebraska's Children Last year, the Nebraska Legislature approved Legislative Bill 1173. This bill required the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of Nebraska government to develop a workgroup to transform and improve the well-being of Nebraska children and families. As part of this work, listening sessions were held across the state of Nebraska and wrapped up this month in Lincoln. Voices for Children was in attendance along with a large group of community members, nonprofits and state employees. The feedback Voices for Children and the group of attendees offered up was recorded and passed on to the statewide work group who will consider the feedback from stakeholders in their recommendations. We will be closely monitoring any proposed outcomes or changes to ensure they align with a child welfare system that promotes child safety and family strengths. Voices Staff Attend Nebraska Civic Engagement Table Member’s Summit Voices for Children staff Josh and Katie joined policy and advocacy partners at the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table member’s summit earlier this month. The two-day event allowed member agencies to focus on their collective impact and shared vision for policy work. The event included sessions on strategy, technology, compliance, organizing work in rural communities, ballot initiative strategies, judicial branch advocacy strategies, and more. In addition, Voices staff were able to participate in a diversity, equity and inclusion training on authentic allyship. One of our core values is equity, centering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all that we do. The gathering also allowed for reflection on the last legislative session and time to organize with other community agencies in preparation for 2024. We accomplish more for Nebraska children when we work in partnership. Voices for Children continues to collect signatures for the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans ballot initiative. Visit Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans for more information on the issue, where to sign, and how to get involved ... or stop into Voices for Children's office in downtown Omaha to add your signature! | 
