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HD 1117

An Act protecting benefits owed to foster children

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill requiring state agencies to guarantee foster children receive all entitled state and federal benefits without interruption during care transitions or status changes.

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Bill Summary · HD 1117

Legislative bill overview

HD 1117 establishes protections ensuring that foster children receive and retain benefits they are entitled to under state and federal law. The bill addresses gaps where foster youth may lose access to critical support services, healthcare, educational benefits, or other assistance due to administrative failures or transitions in their care status.

Why is this important

Foster children are among the most vulnerable populations, often lacking stable family support systems and advocacy. Benefits delays or loss can have cascading negative effects on their health, education, and stability during critical developmental years. Strengthening these protections helps prevent foster youth from falling through bureaucratic cracks during transitions between placements or aging out of the system.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Expanding or protecting benefits may require additional state funding and administrative infrastructure to track and ensure delivery across multiple agencies
  • Definition of "owed benefits": Unclear which specific benefits are covered could lead to disputes about the bill's scope and state obligations
  • Coordination challenges: Ensuring coordination between foster care agencies, healthcare providers, schools, and benefit administrators may prove administratively complex

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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