On May 29, Gov. Pete Ricketts signed LB641 into law, ensuring United Way’s 2-1-1 Helpline will receive $300,000 in state funding each year for the next two years. The bill was approved by the legislature on May 23 with a vote of 41-0.
The 2-1-1 Helpline is a free, comprehensive information and referral system linking Nebraska residents to health and human services, community and disaster response and government programs. The newly granted state funding will allow the 2-1-1 Helpline to reinstate 24/7 service, positioning it to assist in any emergency or disaster response efforts across the state. State funds will also bolster awareness and outreach efforts that encourage people and agencies to utilize this vital resource.