Bill > A4543

This bill prohibits the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) from using federal benefits received by children in out-of-home placement to reimburse the state for the cost of their care, with specific protections and guidelines. The bill requires DCF to establish procedures for managing a child's federal benefits, including Social Security and Veterans Administration benefits, ensuring they are used primarily for the child's benefit. When DCF is appointed as the representative payee for these benefits, they must monitor federal asset limits, potentially establish a qualified ABLE account (a special savings account for individuals with disabilities), and use the benefits to meet the child's unmet needs. The department is also required to determine a child's eligibility for federal benefits, apply for those benefits on the child's behalf, and provide an annual accounting of how the benefits are used or conserved. The bill mandates that DCF notify the child, parent or guardian, legal counsel, and the Family Part of the Chancery Division about benefit-related actions. Additionally, the Commissioner of Children and Families must apply for necessary federal waivers and may need to forego certain federal maintenance payments to ensure the child remains eligible for Supplemental Security Income Program benefits. The act will take effect twelve months after enactment, allowing time for administrative preparation.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4543