The Support, Opportunity, Unity, Legal Relationships (SOUL) Amendment Act of 2025 establishes a new permanency pathway for young individuals aged 16 and older transitioning from foster care to adulthood. This legislation amends Chapter 23 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Official Code to create a framework for "support families," which are composed of caring adults who provide essential support and legal relationships for these youths. Key provisions include the ability for youths to request a change to their permanency plan to SOUL, the process for establishing a support family, and the rights retained by the youth throughout this process. The bill emphasizes a youth-driven approach, requiring agreements to be signed by all parties involved, including the youth, caregivers, and the Agency.

Additionally, the bill outlines the Family Court's role in creating and modifying support family agreements, ensuring that the best interests of the youth are prioritized. It allows for modifications to be made with the consent of all parties and stipulates that a support family order can only be established after the youth has lived in the proposed arrangement for at least six months. The legislation also introduces provisions for subsidy payments to support family members, mandates the Mayor to issue implementation rules within 120 days, and emphasizes the confidentiality of records related to these proceedings. Overall, the SOUL Amendment Act aims to enhance the support system for youth transitioning from foster care to stable family environments.