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HB 4697

Children: guardians; eligibility for guardianship assistance payments; modify. Amends sec. 4 of 2008 PA 260 (MCL 722.874). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4696'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kelly Breen and 27 co-sponsors

HB 4697 modifies eligibility requirements for Michigan's guardianship assistance payments to relatives and guardians caring for children outside foster care.

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Bill Summary · HB 4697

Legislative bill overview

HB 4697 modifies Michigan's guardianship assistance payment program by amending eligibility requirements under the 2008 Kinship Care Law (PA 260). The bill adjusts criteria for guardians to receive state financial assistance when caring for children outside the traditional foster care system. The specific amendments are tied to companion bill HB 4696, suggesting coordinated policy changes to this program.

Why is this important

Guardianship assistance payments help relatives and other caregivers afford to raise children who cannot remain with biological parents, reducing reliance on formal foster care. Modifying eligibility criteria directly affects which guardians receive support and how many children can be served, with potential impacts on child welfare outcomes and caregiver financial burden across Michigan.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility changes: Without detailed amendment text available, the direction of changes (expanding or restricting who qualifies) is unclear, which could either help more families or reduce access to assistance
  • Coordination with HB 4696: The tie-bar reference suggests these bills must pass together, meaning disagreement with either bill's provisions could block both from passage
  • Implementation costs: Depending on eligibility modifications, the state may face increased or decreased appropriations needs for guardianship assistance payments

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

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