South Carolina Fostering Futures Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
The South Carolina Fostering Futures Act aims to support current and former foster youth by requiring public colleges and universities to waive tuition and fees. It establishes eligibility criteria based on age, foster care history (including extended foster care, adoption, and length of custody), and provides for institutional support such as priority housing and employment opportunities. The act also mandates annual reporting to the Department of Social Services to track student participation and program effectiveness.
Key provisions
- Waives tuition and fees at public colleges and universities for eligible foster youth.
- Eligibility criteria include age (under 26), DSS custody history (including extended foster care, adoption, and 3+ years of custody).
- Provides priority access to student housing and work-study positions.
- Requires institutions to designate a staff liaison to provide support and guidance to eligible students.
- Mandates annual reporting to DSS on student enrollment, academic progress, and program effectiveness.
- Exempts tuition waivers from covering room, board, books, and non-mandatory fees.
- Allows tuition waivers to apply to summer and shortened academic terms.
- Treats a double major as one degree for waiver purposes.
Who is affected
- Current and former foster youth
- Public colleges and universities in South Carolina
- Department of Social Services (DSS)
Bill text
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Sponsors
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3 on record
Primary sponsor
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