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Bill

Bill

SB 974

RELATING TO FOSTER CARE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 6 co-sponsors

Bill SB 974 enhances financial support for foster children by establishing savings accounts and guidelines for managing Social Security payments, aiding their transition to adulthood.

The committee on HHS deferred the measure.
#dhs #fostercare #savingsaccount #socialsecuritypayments
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Bill Summary · SB 974

Summary of Bill SB 974: Relating to Foster Care

Introduction

Bill SB 974 was introduced on January 17, 2025, with the intent to address issues related to foster care, specifically focusing on the management of savings accounts and the handling of Social Security payments for children in foster care. The bill is currently deferred by the committee on Health and Human Services (HHS).

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of SB 974 is to enhance the financial stability and support for children in foster care by establishing guidelines for the management of savings accounts and ensuring appropriate handling of Social Security payments. This aims to provide foster children with better financial resources as they transition into adulthood.

Key Provisions

While the specific provisions of SB 974 are not detailed in the provided information, the bill is expected to include the following key elements:

  • Savings Accounts: Establishment of savings accounts for children in foster care, potentially allowing for the accumulation of funds that can be accessed upon reaching adulthood.
  • Social Security Payments: Guidelines for the management and distribution of Social Security payments received on behalf of children in foster care, ensuring these funds are used to benefit the child's welfare.

Affected Parties

The bill would primarily affect:
- Children in Foster Care: Providing them with enhanced financial resources and support.
- Foster Care Agencies: These agencies would need to implement the new guidelines for managing savings accounts and Social Security payments.
- State Departments: The Department of Human Services (DHS) would be responsible for overseeing the implementation of these provisions.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill SB 974 was introduced.
  • January 21, 2025: The bill passed its first reading.
  • January 23, 2025: The bill was referred to the committees on HHS and WAM (Ways and Means).
  • January 24, 2025: A public hearing was scheduled for January 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Conference Room 225 and via videoconference.
  • January 29, 2025: The committee on HHS deferred the measure.

Related Legislation

  • HB 1229: This bill is noted as a companion to SB 974, suggesting that it may address similar issues or provide additional context or support for the provisions outlined in SB 974.

Conclusion

Bill SB 974 represents a significant step towards improving the financial management of resources for children in foster care. By establishing savings accounts and clarifying the handling of Social Security payments, the bill aims to provide foster children with better financial support as they transition into adulthood. The bill is currently in the legislative process, awaiting further discussion and potential amendments.

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

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