Senator Howard investigates Youth Rehabilitation Treatment Center's poor conditions and transport issues

In a recent session of the Nebraska Legislature, lawmakers addressed serious concerns regarding the conditions at the Youth Rehabilitation Treatment Center (YRTC) in Geneva. The discussions were sparked by alarming reports of unsafe living conditions, including black mold and deteriorating infrastructure that posed health risks to the young residents.

The issues came to light following an uprising by young women at the facility, who were reportedly forced to take drastic measures to avoid returning to their cottages, which were deemed uninhabitable. The situation escalated to the point where law enforcement was involved, leading to the temporary detention of some minors in county jail—a practice that raised significant legal and ethical questions, as minors are not permitted to be housed in such facilities.

Senator Howard, then chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, was notified of the situation, prompting a multi-year investigation into the conditions at YRTC. The young women were subsequently moved to a facility in Kearney, which was originally designed for boys. This transition raised further concerns, as the dormitory-style setup created additional challenges, including privacy issues and safety risks for both residents and staff.

The federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) regulations complicated the situation further, as the facility had to cover windows to comply with privacy standards. This led to increased tensions and incidents of violence, as staff members were unable to monitor the interactions between the boys and girls effectively.

In response to these ongoing challenges, the state took steps to address the situation by contracting with Lancaster County to utilize part of the youth detention center as a new YRTC facility in Lincoln. This decision reflects the state's ongoing struggle to provide safe and effective rehabilitation for youth in its care.

The discussions in the legislature highlight the urgent need for reform and investment in youth rehabilitation facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations. As the investigation continues, lawmakers are expected to explore further legislative measures to improve conditions and oversight at these facilities. The situation remains a critical issue for the Nebraska community, emphasizing the importance of accountability and reform in the juvenile justice system.