Bill > B26-0399

This bill, the Support, Opportunity, Unity, Legal Relationships (SOUL) Amendment Act of 2025, establishes a new pathway for young people aged 16 and older who are in the care of the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) to transition out of foster care into adulthood. This pathway, called a "SOUL Family," allows youth to form legal relationships with a network of supportive adults, including "SOUL Caregivers" who provide housing and meet basic needs, and "SOUL Supporters" who also commit to rights and responsibilities. Crucially, this SOUL Family arrangement does not terminate existing legal familial relationships, such as the parent-child relationship or sibling bonds. The bill also amends the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Act of 1977 to authorize the CFSA to conduct background checks on adults seeking to become SOUL Caregivers or Supporters, ensuring the safety of the youth involved. The goal is to provide a stable and supportive environment for young people as they navigate the transition to independence.