This bill will modify the CHAFEE program. It will extend foster care payments for youth that stay in foster care after 18, up to age 21. Eligible youth would receive both living and transportation vouchers, to be used towards rent, utilities, car insurance, maintenance, and licensing. The amount received will decrease each year youth are in the program, and payments last a total of 4 years. Amount of monthly payments will be determined the the average cost of utilities, a one-bedroom apartment, and automobile ownership in the geographic area the youth lives.
In addition, the bill will require all state post-secondary educational institutions to provide in-state tuition for eligible youth. Education and Training Vouchers will be extended to age 28 and youth will be able to continue utilizing ETV until they finish their program.
The bill will update mandates for siblings in foster care, including closer placements and more visitation if they are unable to reside in the same home, and assistance locating siblings once a youth is an adult.