House Bill No. [insert number] amends the 1994 PA 203 to introduce Section 8f, which establishes new requirements for the management of benefits for children in foster care. The bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services screen children in foster care for potential eligibility for various benefits, including federal and state income support, within 60 days of entering foster care and annually thereafter. The department is required to apply for these benefits on behalf of the child and, if necessary, act as a representative payee, ensuring that the benefits are used in the best interests of the child. The bill outlines specific guidelines for conserving benefits, including the establishment of special accounts and trusts to avoid federal asset limits, and mandates financial literacy training for children aged 14 and older.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the department must provide an annual accounting of how the child's benefits have been used or conserved and allows for monthly payments to the child for allowable expenses related to education, health care, job training, and living costs. If another person serves as the representative payee, the department is tasked with monitoring their activities and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, contingent upon the enactment of Senate Bill No. 18.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 722.951, 722.960
Substitute (S-4): 722.951, 722.960
House Introduced Bill: 722.951, 722.960
As Passed by the House: 722.951, 722.960
As Passed by the Senate: 722.951, 722.960
House Concurred Bill: 722.951, 722.960
House Enrolled Bill: 722.951, 722.960