Bill > SB1573

This bill modifies provisions related to children in foster care or under state custody, ensuring greater involvement and support as they transition out of care. Specifically, children aged fourteen and older must be consulted on their case plans, and they can choose individuals to join their family support team, though the state can reject members if they are not in the child's best interest. Children will receive a document outlining their rights regarding education, health, visitation, court participation, and safety, and must sign an acknowledgment that these rights have been explained to them. When a child leaves foster care upon reaching eighteen years old or a later age chosen by the state, the state will now provide them with a birth certificate, Social Security card, health insurance information, medical records, a driver's license or ID card, information on accessing their records and court documents, a letter confirming their foster care history for program eligibility, contact information for social services, and a summary of available state and federal programs like health coverage and housing assistance, unless they have been in care for less than six months or are otherwise ineligible. Furthermore, if guardianship is the permanency plan, any nominated guardian must be included in the plan development at least six months before the child leaves care and will receive a copy of the plan and the same transition documents provided to the child.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=1584508