Bill > S08204

This bill expands the definition of a "prospective relative guardian" in New York's social services law to clarify that the timing of establishing a relationship with a child does not disqualify someone from being considered for kinship guardianship assistance payments. Specifically, the bill modifies existing law to ensure that a potential guardian can be considered regardless of whether their relationship with the child was formed before or after the child's placement in foster care. The definition of a prospective relative guardian now includes not only blood relatives, half-siblings, and those related by marriage or adoption, but also adults with a positive relationship to the child, such as step-parents, godparents, neighbors, or family friends. The key change is that the establishment of the relationship (whether before or after foster care placement) cannot be used as a basis for disqualifying a potential guardian. This amendment aims to provide more flexibility in identifying suitable guardians for children in the foster care system, potentially increasing options for children to be placed with supportive, familiar adults.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8204