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Bill would stop DCYF from using extended‑foster‑care benefits to reimburse cost of care, advocates say
Summary
Committee staff and advocates briefed and testified on substitute Senate Bill 59 11, which would prohibit DCYF from applying benefits paid to youth in extended foster care against those youths' cost of care starting Jan. 1, 2027; staff estimated a net general‑fund impact of roughly $608,000 in FY27 and $2.2 million per biennium thereafter.
O'Mara Harrington, staff to the Early Learning and Human Services Committee, explained the substitute for Senate Bill 59 11 and the striking amendment passed out of policy committee. She told the panel that, beginning 01/01/2027, "DCYF may not apply any benefits payments or funds of a person in extended foster care as reimbursement for the person's cost of care." Harrington said the measure also requires DCYF to help eligible extended‑care youth become their own Social Security representative payee when possible, and authorizes DCYF to conserve funds in qualifying protected accounts such as ABLE accounts when funds reach $2,000.
Sydney Jeffries, staff to the committee, summarized the fiscal estimate…
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