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 children in foster care, including the requirement for financially responsible agencies to apply to be the payee for these benefits. The bill introduces new provisions that outline the establishment and management of the trust, including the responsibilities of financially responsible agencies to assess eligibility for SSI, remit benefits to the commissioner of children, youth, and families, and notify beneficiaries about their potential entitlements.

Additionally, the bill mandates the commissioner to maintain records of the trust's receipts and disbursements, and it specifies the disbursement process for beneficiaries once they reach 18 years of age. The commissioner is also required to submit annual reports to legislative committees regarding the trust's impacts and costs. An appropriation from the general fund is included to reimburse financially responsible agencies for the federal cash assistance benefits sent to the commissioner. Overall, the bill aims to enhance financial support for foster children while ensuring proper management and accountability of the funds.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142A.609