Bill > SB545

This bill modifies regulations related to licensing and financial support for relatives or designated caregivers who are taking care of children in the child welfare system. The bill creates a new licensing procedure for relative and designated caregivers through the Department of Family and Protective Services, allowing them to receive foster care payments through two potential pathways: either by being verified by a licensed child-placing agency to operate an agency foster home or by obtaining a new specific license created by this bill. The executive commissioner will establish rules for this new license, which will require meeting basic safety requirements to ensure child safety. The bill also clarifies that caregivers receiving foster care payments will not be eligible for additional permanency care assistance benefits. When entering into a caregiver assistance agreement, the department must now inform caregivers about both the option to become verified as a foster home and the new licensing procedures. These changes aim to provide more structured support and financial assistance for relatives caring for children who might otherwise be in the formal foster care system, while maintaining standards to protect child welfare. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.