Bill H.657 proposes significant amendments to the laws governing the Department for Children and Families in Vermont, particularly focusing on the Reach Up program and unaccompanied youth. A key change is the elimination of the asset limit for families in the Reach Up program, which previously restricted eligibility based on a $9,000 asset cap. This amendment aims to improve access to support for families in need. The bill also introduces new definitions regarding Social Security benefits for children in foster care, ensuring these benefits are not used to offset state costs, except for maintaining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Additionally, it establishes a framework for unaccompanied youth aged 16 and 17 to access services without parental consent, including obtaining vital documents and licenses at no charge.

The legislation further revises regulations on the transportation of children in state custody, emphasizing secure transport methods and prohibiting certain restraints for children 12 years and younger. It mandates that the Commissioner for Children and Families ensure transportation respects the child's privacy and safety. The bill also introduces new regulations on the use of restraint and seclusion, requiring less restrictive interventions to be attempted first and outlining specific procedures for their application. Furthermore, it creates a Prenatal Engagement and Family Support Working Group to evaluate practices related to monitoring pregnant individuals and recommends extending support to youth up to 21 years of age. The bill includes provisions for compensation for non-professional members of the working group and sets various effective dates for its sections.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-5017, 23-115, 23-608, 23-617
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-5017, 23-115, 23-608, 23-617, 33-1103, 33-4902, 13-1311, 33-5123, 33-5130(l), 33-5130
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 33-1103, 33-4902, 13-1311, 18-5017, 23-115, 23-608, 23-617, 33-5123, 33-5130(l), 33-5130