This bill establishes a trust for foster children who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 142A.609, subdivision 11. The bill removes previous provisions regarding the responsibilities of financially responsible agencies in managing SSI benefits for foster children and introduces new requirements. These include the establishment of a "foster children assistance trust," which will hold deposits made by the commissioner of children, youth, and families for the benefit of current or former foster children. The trust will be managed to ensure its stability and growth, with all assets held in a separate account that is not subject to state claims or appropriations.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of financially responsible agencies, including assessing eligibility for SSI benefits, remitting benefit payments to the commissioner, and notifying beneficiaries over the age of 18 about their potential entitlements. It mandates the commissioner to keep records of trust transactions, report on the trust's impacts, and disburse funds to beneficiaries once they reach 18 years of age. The bill also includes an appropriation from the general fund to reimburse agencies for federal cash assistance benefits sent to the commissioner.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142A.609