Bill > H1345

This bill expands the existing Relative Caregiver Program, which provides financial assistance to relatives caring for children removed from their parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, to include certain nonrelative caregivers. Specifically, it allows individuals who are not related by blood or marriage to a child to receive temporary legal custody of that child and be eligible for financial assistance through the program, provided a court determines this placement is in the child's best interest. The bill also clarifies that these nonrelative caregivers, like relative caregivers, are not required to meet foster care licensing requirements and will receive a special monthly caregiver benefit, with the total cost of assistance not exceeding the cost of foster care. The program aims to provide a safe and stable home environment for children and prevent unnecessary placements in shelters or foster care by recognizing the value of nonfamilial caregivers who have established close relationships with the children.