House Bill No. 2361 amends the Successful Adulthood Act to enhance the support provided to children transitioning out of foster care and those released from the custody of the Office of Juvenile Affairs. The bill mandates that children aged fourteen and older in foster care receive a written Notice of Rights, which outlines their rights regarding education, health, visitation, and court participation. Additionally, it specifies that children who are about to leave foster care at eighteen must be provided with essential documents, including a birth certificate, Social Security card, medical records, and educational transcripts. Notably, the bill replaces the requirement for health insurance information with information on how to obtain health insurance.
Furthermore, the bill introduces a new provision for individuals released from the custody of the Office of Juvenile Affairs, ensuring they receive similar documentation upon reaching eighteen. This includes a birth certificate, Social Security card, health insurance information, and educational records. The bill aims to facilitate a smoother transition into adulthood for these individuals by ensuring they have access to necessary documents and resources. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.