This bill mandates the Children, Youth and Families Department to conduct a study every five years starting in fiscal year 2026, focusing on the costs and reimbursement rates associated with community-based foster care placements and treatments. The study will encompass various costs, including those related to the safety and well-being of children and resource families, as well as reimbursements for necessities such as food, clothing, and travel expenses. The findings from these studies are to be submitted to the legislative finance committee, with the first report due by December 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $100,000 from the general fund for the department to carry out this rate study in fiscal year 2026, with any unspent funds reverting to the general fund at the end of that fiscal year. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2025.