This bill establishes a Foster Children Assistance Trust aimed at providing financial support to foster children who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 142A.609, to clarify the treatment of SSI benefits for foster children, including the requirement for financially responsible agencies to apply to be the payee for these benefits. The bill introduces new provisions that mandate the establishment of a trust managed by the commissioner of children, youth, and families, which will hold deposits made for the benefit of current and former foster children. The trust's assets are protected from state claims and must be used exclusively for the beneficiaries' benefit.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of financially responsible agencies, including assessing eligibility for SSI benefits, remitting payments to the commissioner, and notifying beneficiaries about their potential entitlements. It also includes provisions for annual reporting on the trust's financial activities and the disbursement of funds to beneficiaries once they reach 18 years of age. The bill appropriates funds from the general fund to reimburse agencies for the federal cash assistance benefits they send to the commissioner, ensuring that the financial support for foster children is effectively managed and utilized.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142A.609