Children: foster care; conditions on the use of certain benefits for a child in foster care; provide. Amends 1994 PA 203 (MCL 722.951 - 722.960) by adding sec. 8f.
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill updates Michigan law to ensure foster children receive and manage their benefits more effectively. It requires the Department of Health and Human Services to screen foster children for eligibility for various benefits like Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits and to apply for them. The bill also establishes guidelines for how these benefits are used and conserved, prioritizing the child’s best interests and ensuring funds are available for their future needs, including education and financial literacy.
Key provisions
- The Department of Health and Human Services must screen foster children for potential benefit eligibility.
- Benefits include Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Veterans Affairs benefits, and other applicable benefits.
- A representative payee or fiduciary must be appointed to manage benefits, following specific federal guidelines.
- At least 50% of benefits must be conserved for the child’s future needs if the child is between 14 and 17.
- The Department must explore options like PASS accounts, 529A plans, and special needs trusts to avoid federal asset limits.
- Foster children will receive an annual accounting of how benefits are used.
- Foster children will receive financial literacy training starting at age 14.
- The Department will make monthly payments to the foster child for allowable expenses (education, healthcare, job training, transportation, and living expenses).
Who is affected
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