The bill amends the Foster Care and Adoption Services Act by adding a new section (Sec. 8f) that outlines the responsibilities of the department regarding the management of state and federal benefits for children in foster care. It mandates that the department screen children for potential eligibility for benefits within 90 days of entering foster care and annually thereafter. The department is also required to consult with the child's parents or guardian ad litem to make decisions in the child's best interests and apply for any benefits the child may be eligible for but is not currently receiving. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the state cannot use a child's benefits as reimbursement for their care, but may use them for special needs services if deemed appropriate.

Furthermore, the bill establishes protocols for the department when it serves as a representative payee or fiduciary for a child in foster care, including the conservation of benefits, monitoring asset limits, and providing annual accounting to the child and their guardian ad litem. It also requires the department to notify the child and their guardian of any applications or decisions regarding benefits, facilitate the transfer of assets upon discharge from foster care, and file appeals for denied benefits when appropriate. The new provisions aim to ensure that the financial interests of children in foster care are protected and that they receive the benefits they are entitled to. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 722.951, 722.960