If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes regarding kinship foster care stipends by establishing a structured increase in the monthly stipend provided to kinship foster care parents. Under the proposed changes, the Department of Child Safety (DCS) would be required to provide a stipend of $400 per month for each child placed with a kinship foster care parent starting January 1, 2026. This stipend would increase to $500 per month in 2027 and $600 per month in 2028, thereby ensuring that kinship foster care parents receive a more substantial financial support over the next few years.

The bill specifically inserts new language into section 8-514.03 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, detailing the amounts and effective dates of the stipend increases. The current law does not specify these amounts or the timeline for increases, which would be a significant update to the existing framework for kinship foster care support. The bill aims to enhance the financial assistance available to kinship foster care parents, reflecting a commitment to improving the welfare of children placed in such care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-514.03