Bill > HB945

This bill modifies Missouri's laws related to foster children and foster parents, establishing comprehensive rights and protections for children in the foster care system. The legislation creates a new "Foster Youth Bill of Rights" that outlines specific protections for children, including the right to live in a safe environment, maintain contact with family, have educational stability, attend court hearings, access personal belongings, receive timely permanency and transition plans, and be treated with respect. For foster parents, the bill expands their rights and responsibilities, requiring the children's division to provide full disclosure about children's backgrounds, offer training and support, involve foster parents in case planning, and establish a fair grievance process. The bill introduces new provisions for kinship foster parents and emphasizes cultural competence, requiring foster parents to respect children's cultural identities and receive training on cultural needs. Additionally, the legislation allows for equitable relief if rights are violated and mandates that foster parents be informed about and involved in key decisions affecting the children in their care. The overall goal is to improve the foster care system by prioritizing the best interests of children and creating more transparent, supportive processes for both children and foster parents.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB945&year=2025&code=R