Bill > SF4360

This bill establishes an extended foster care services grant program, administered by the commissioner of children, youth, and families, to provide financial support and case management to eligible youth aged 21 to 27 who were in foster care in Minnesota at age 14 or older and are not currently receiving Title IV-E foster placement. To be eligible for grants, community-based providers must demonstrate expertise with transition-age youth, maintain non-discrimination policies, ensure geographic access to services, meet performance metrics for education, employment, and housing stability, and adhere to training standards. Eligible youth must be actively pursuing education, employment, or treatment for mental health or substance use disorders, or facing documented barriers, and maintain monthly contact with a case manager. The program will provide monthly stipends for basic living and education costs, adjusted for cost of living and inflation, with a gradual decrease after age 25, along with case management, financial literacy training, savings account assistance, housing navigation, and transition planning starting at age 24. The commissioner will track and report program outcomes, including disparities, and grantees will report on services provided and expenditures, with legislative reports beginning in July 2029. The bill also directs the commissioner to establish program details by January 1, 2027, consult with youth and stakeholders, coordinate with existing programs to avoid duplication, and contract with grantees by March 1, 2028, with an appropriation for initial implementation.