This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to modify eligibility requirements for foster care benefits for individuals transitioning out of foster care at age 18. It allows children who have had their permanent legal and physical custody transferred to a relative after the age of ten to qualify for continued foster care benefits. The bill introduces new language clarifying that individuals under 26 years of age who were in foster care at ages 18, 19, or 20 may receive medical assistance if they were receiving foster care benefits past age 18. Additionally, it establishes a definition for "child in foster care" to include those who have had custody transferred to a relative after age ten.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the responsible social services agency in preparing individualized out-of-home placement plans that involve the child and their family. It emphasizes the inclusion of an independent living plan for children aged 14 and older, particularly for those with custody transferred to a relative. The notification process for children in foster care regarding their eligibility to continue receiving benefits up to age 21 is modified, and the conditions under which a child may remain in foster care past age 18 are clarified. Overall, the bill aims to enhance support for youth transitioning out of foster care, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and services, while also changing the age from "16" to "ten" for certain eligibility criteria related to custody transfers.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.055, 260C.212, 260C.451, 260C.452