The proposed "Foster Youth Bill of Rights" in Minnesota aims to ensure that children in foster care receive care and treatment comparable to their non-foster peers. It outlines a comprehensive set of rights for foster youth, emphasizing their entitlement to safety, appropriate discipline, and the fulfillment of basic needs, while also ensuring privacy, health care access, and the opportunity to experience childhood similarly to their peers. The bill clarifies key definitions related to abuse, neglect, and safety, and mandates that foster youth be free from physical and emotional harm, discrimination, and excessive medication. It also highlights the importance of culturally appropriate practices and the need for foster youth to have their voices heard in decisions affecting their lives.

Additionally, the bill introduces new rights for foster youth, including the right to make decisions about their health care, maintain family connections, and be free from drug testing as a condition of placement. It emphasizes the importance of supporting pregnant and parenting foster youth, ensuring they retain legal custody of their children unless otherwise determined by a court. The legislation also establishes a framework for feedback and grievances, allowing foster youth to report concerns confidentially. Overall, the bill seeks to create a supportive and empowering environment for foster youth, enabling them to thrive while maintaining connections to family, culture, and community.