The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes by establishing the Extended Foster Care Comprehensive Service Model as permanent law, which is currently session law. It mandates the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) to create a scope of work for the model, including essential supportive services and case management for young adults in the Extended Foster Care (EFC) program. The bill also introduces an Extended Foster Care Success Coaching Program, which emphasizes youth-driven practices and limits success coach caseloads to 20 young adults, while allowing for alternative qualifications for coaches. Additionally, it repeals the existing Extended Foster Care Comprehensive Service Model Fund and establishes the EFC Model Fund as a permanent, continuously appropriated fund.

In terms of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the bill directs the Department of Economic Security (DES) to enhance eligibility evaluations through data matching agreements and requires participation in employment and training programs for able-bodied adults under 60. It tightens eligibility criteria by prohibiting DES from seeking waivers of work requirements without state law authorization and mandates that DES verify residency for individuals making out-of-state purchases with EBT cards. The bill also creates new funds for various human services programs, ensuring continuous appropriation of federal grant monies, and includes technical and conforming changes to existing statutes. Overall, the bill aims to improve support for vulnerable populations while streamlining program administration.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-521.03, 28-472, 41-608, 41-608.01, 41-1970, 41-1971, 41-1972, 46-232, 46-233, 46-234, 46-297.01, 35-190, 8-521.02, 35-146, 35-147, 28-475, 28-476, 28-2414, 28-2428, 28-2431, 28-2447, 28-2454, 28-2470.10, 28-2473, 28-2474, 28-2475, 28-2476, 43-620, 41-1363, 35-313, 41-603.01, 113-128