The bill establishes the "Quality Foster Parent Recruitment and Retention Task Force," which will consist of thirteen members appointed by various state officials, including the governor and legislative leaders. The task force is tasked with addressing the challenges in the foster care system by conducting research in collaboration with an institution of higher education and studying successful models from other states. The members will receive per diem and mileage for their service, and the task force is required to submit a final report to relevant legislative committees and the governor by July 1, 2026.
Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $100,000 from the general fund to the children, youth, and families department for the fiscal year 2026 to support the task force's activities. Any remaining funds at the end of the fiscal year will revert to the general fund. This initiative aims to improve the recruitment and retention of quality foster parents, ultimately benefiting children in the foster care system.