The proposed bill establishes a housing assistance program specifically for youth enrolled in extended foster care in Washington State. It aims to address the issue of homelessness among these young individuals, as approximately 13 percent experienced homelessness in the fiscal year 2024. The bill introduces a new section to chapter 74.13 RCW, which outlines the creation of the extended foster care housing program that will provide rental assistance and associated housing fees to eligible youth. To qualify for this program, youth must be receiving extended foster care services and either experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. The program will offer rental assistance for up to 36 months, ensuring that eligible youth contribute no more than 30 percent of their adjusted gross income toward rent.

Additionally, the bill adds a new section to chapter 13.34 RCW, mandating that the department conduct a transition planning process for youth in extended foster care at least three months before they turn 21. This process will assess the youth's housing and financial stability, support applications for federally funded housing vouchers, and provide referrals to housing assistance and other services that promote financial stability, such as education and employment resources. The overall intent of the legislation is to ensure that young people in extended foster care have stable housing as they transition to independence while still being able to access federal benefits when they reach the age of 21.