Bill > S3153

This bill prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from using federal benefits received by a child in out-of-home placement, such as Social Security or Veterans Administration benefits, to reimburse the state for the cost of the child's care, except to maintain the child's eligibility for federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program benefits and avoid violating federal asset or resource limits. The bill requires DCF to apply for any federal benefits the child may be eligible for, establish qualified ABLE accounts or other trust accounts to properly manage the benefits, and provide annual accounting to the child, parents or guardians, and the court. The Commissioner of Children and Families must apply for any necessary federal waivers to ensure continued federal reimbursement for state child welfare expenses, while preserving the child's eligibility for SSI benefits.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3153