The Responsible Implementation of Settlement Education Amendment Act of 2026 aims to enhance the financial literacy of minors who receive settlements or inheritances exceeding $3,000. The bill mandates that guardians of these minors ensure they complete a financial literacy course, have at least one documented contact with a certified financial counselor, and receive a plain-language summary of their assets and anticipated disbursements before they reach the age of majority. This requirement is intended to prepare young individuals for managing their finances independently once their guardianship ends.
To implement these provisions, the bill amends section 21-120 of the District of Columbia Official Code. It specifies that guardians must fulfill these educational and informational obligations no later than 12 months before the minor turns 18. Additionally, the bill defines what constitutes a financial literacy course, which includes topics such as budgeting, saving, and identifying predatory financial products. The legislation seeks to mitigate the risks of financial mismanagement among young adults by equipping them with essential financial knowledge and resources.