Bill > HB1964

This bill establishes the Future in Focus Program to provide services and support to individuals aged 21 to 23 who were previously in the Fostering Futures program. The program is voluntary and designed to help young adults transition to adulthood and become self-sufficient. Eligible participants must be Virginia residents who turned 21 on or after July 1, 2025, and meet specific criteria such as being employed, enrolled in education, or participating in employment-promoting activities. Participants will enter into a voluntary agreement with their local department of social services, which includes assigned case management with face-to-face meetings at least every other month. Each participant will receive a stipend payment based on the foster care maintenance rate, with the amount gradually decreasing as they age: 75% of the rate at age 21, 50% at age 22, and 25% at age 23. Participants can terminate the agreement at any time and may be able to re-enter the program if they reestablish eligibility. The program is not considered foster care, and participants retain their full adult rights under state law. The State Board of Social Services will develop regulations to implement the program, with initial rule-making exempt from standard administrative procedures.