The bill seeks to improve extended foster care services for youth aged 18 to 21 in Washington State, addressing the critical need for support during their transition to adulthood and efforts to prevent homelessness. It mandates that all dependent youth are informed about the extended foster care program upon turning 18 and can choose to participate. Key amendments include redefining "youth" to encompass those aged 18 to 21, establishing a "supervised independent living subsidy," and ensuring that dependency proceedings are maintained for youth who agree to participate until they turn 21 or withdraw their consent. The bill also requires the appointment of legal counsel for youth in dependency proceedings to guarantee proper representation.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for extended foster care services, emphasizing that nonminor dependents must have been dependent at age 18 to qualify. It allows for unlimited reenrollment in the program and mandates the development of rules to provide age-appropriate support without imposing extra eligibility requirements. The legislation also expands adoption support benefits for youth adopted at age 16 or older, requiring enrollment in educational or employment programs, and allows for guardianship subsidies for eligible youth. Overall, the bill aims to create a more supportive framework for young individuals in the foster care system, ensuring they have access to necessary resources as they transition to independence.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.34.267, 74.13.031, 74.13.336