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Committee funds extension of foster care up to age 23 after HB245 signed into law
Summary
Following enactment of House Bill 245, the committee approved an ongoing $420,500 appropriation — $222,900 General Fund and $197,600 federal — to extend foster care assistance up to age 23 for qualifying youth.
After House Bill 245 was signed by the governor, the Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee approved the fiscal impact to extend foster care services for youth aging out of foster care from age 21 to 23.
Alex Williamson, budget and policy analyst, told the committee HB245 expanded eligibility so that foster youth who were in the system prior to their 18th birthday may under certain circumstances remain with their foster family and receive state support until age 23. Because the bill is now law (signed March 21), the fiscal note is before the committee for appropriation.
Senator Berke moved the FY2026 appropriation to the Department of Health and Welfare — an ongoing addition of $222,900 from the General Fund and $197,600 in federal funds for a total of $420,500 in trustee and benefit payments. The motion was seconded and discussed by members who framed the decision in terms of return on investment and outcomes for youth aging out of care.
Committee roll call recorded a combined vote of 16 ayes, 3 nays, and 1 absent/excused (Senate 8–2, House 8–1–1); the motion passed and the committee issued a due‑pass recommendation for the fiscal impact of the enacted bill.
Members referenced research on outcomes for youth who age out of care — including higher rates of homelessness and incarceration — as part of the rationale for the appropriation.
