This bill amends the Human Services Code, specifically focusing on the reimbursement process for counties providing services to children. It updates the reimbursement percentages for various child welfare services, including informal adjustment services and care for children placed by county welfare agencies. Notably, it replaces references to the "Juvenile Act" with specific citations to the relevant sections of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes (42 Pa.C.S. Ch. 63). The bill also introduces new provisions for reimbursement related to legal expenses incurred during dependency and delinquency proceedings, including the appointment of guardians ad litem and counsel for indigent children.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes that reimbursements for legal services are intended to supplement, rather than replace, necessary funding for juvenile counsel. It requires counties to include these expenses in their needs-based budgets and prioritize them to enhance the quality of legal services provided to juveniles. The department's review of county submissions will now consider whether budgets are reasonable and aligned with best practices in defense funding. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.