Bill > SB5082

This bill creates a new housing assistance program for youth enrolled in extended foster care to address the significant homelessness challenges faced by these young people. The program aims to provide rental assistance to eligible youth who are currently receiving extended foster care services and are either experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Eligible youth can receive rental assistance for up to 36 months, but not beyond their 21st birthday, with the amount based on fair market rent in their location. Participants will be required to pay no more than 30-40 percent of their adjusted gross income toward rent, depending on their specific circumstances. The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families will be responsible for implementing the program, which includes conducting a competitive procurement process to identify contractors with expertise in supporting youth in the child welfare system. Additionally, the bill mandates a transition planning process for youth approaching their 21st birthday, which includes assessing housing and financial stability, supporting applications for federal housing vouchers, providing housing and service referrals, and connecting youth to benefits that support their long-term independence. The underlying motivation is to prevent youth from losing foster care support before they can access other housing resources and to create a more stable pathway to independence for young people in the child welfare system.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5082&Year=2025&Initiative=false