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I was very glad to hear about the plan of action being implemented to address concerns at the Beatrice State Developmental Center. Safety and staffing concerns are at crisis level. The developmentally disabled people at BSDC deserve much better care and the state has a duty to provide a safe environment. The five step plan outlined by the Governor is a beginning but it will take more. Therefore, in addition to the Governor's plan, the Legislature is creating a Commission to oversee the implementation of strategies to bring BSDC up to appropriate levels of care and safety and earmarking money for this implementation.
I would be remiss, however, if I didn't point out that other agencies are dealing with the same issues staff shortages, mandatory over time and staff working before training is complete. This creates a situation that endangers both staff and patients. If the State of Nebraska is not more proactive in addressing these issues we will be distressing over more crises like the one we are now seeing in Beatrice.
Since most of these situations are under the control of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, the Governor's leadership is of utmost importance in looking at concerns and implementing improvements. I have voiced my concerns to the administration. However, it's going to take an ongoing coordinated group effort by many senators, the Governor's office and NDHHS to turn the situation around and to avoid future crises. Please let me, other representatives and the Governor know of your experiences and concerns about your family members in state care.
As always, please contact me with your support, opposition or questions on any legislative bill or issue. Thank you for allowing me the privilege to represent you in the Unicameral.
Senator Ray Aguilar
District 35, P.O. Box 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509
402-471-2617
raguilar@leg.ne.gov
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