What LB 287 Proposes

LB 287 requires housing agencies in Nebraska to take decisive action against bed bug infestations by:

• Conducting routine inspections of properties.
• Prohibiting the showing or leasing of units with infestations.
• Informing tenants about known infestations in their buildings.
• Responding promptly to complaints with professional investigations and treatments.
• Maintaining written records of all complaints and control measures for two years.
• Covering the costs of remediation for infestations.

Additionally, AM 608 empowers metropolitan cities to regulate housing authorities by:

• Providing code enforcement for pest control in properties owned or managed by them.
• Conducting regular inspections and requiring housing authority registration.
• Imposing penalties for violations and requiring monthly updates to the city council.

This amendment aims to uphold health and safety standards for residents while addressing community needs.

Why NASW-NE Strongly Supports LB 287

Housing authorities must be accountable for bed bug infestations to:

• Protect residents' health and prevent the spread of pests.
• Address the physical and mental health issues caused by bed bugs, such as anxiety and sleep disruption.
• Uphold tenant rights, alleviate financial burdens on low-income families, and reduce public health risks.

Housing authorities have a legal and ethical obligation to ensure safe living conditions. Proactive measures lead to healthier communities and enhanced public well-being. As social workers, we advocate for vulnerable populations, especially low-income families facing housing instability. Bed bug infestations worsen challenges like mental health issues and financial stress and many families lack the resources to manage bed bug problems and have few affordable housing options, leaving them trapped in unsanitary conditions. It is our responsibility to ensure the systems designed to serve vulnerable populations are accountable.