This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to extend foster care benefits and medical assistance to individuals up to 26 years of age who were in foster care at ages 18, 19, or 20, including those who continue to receive foster care benefits past the age of 18. It modifies the eligibility criteria for extended foster care, allowing individuals to remain in care until the age of 21 if they meet certain conditions, such as completing secondary education or being employed. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifies the responsibilities of social services agencies in developing independent living plans for youth in foster care.

Key changes include the deletion of outdated terminology, such as "have another legally permanent family," replaced with "be adopted," and the addition of a new subdivision defining "child in foster care." The bill also emphasizes the importance of providing continued services and support to youth transitioning to adulthood, including vocational and educational assistance, and outlines the process for reentering foster care for those who have left the system. Furthermore, it mandates that written notices regarding the termination of foster care benefits be sent to both the individual and the commissioner of children, youth, and families, ensuring transparency and the right to appeal decisions.

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