Grassley, Luján Introduce Bill to Better Prepare Foster Youth for Transition into Adulthood, Including Vital Documents and Available Services

Grassley, Luján Introduce Bill to Better Prepare Foster Youth for Transition into Adulthood, Including Vital Documents and Available Services

Legislation follows Grassley's Foster Caucus event for older foster youth last year.

Listen to audio of Grassley discussing the legislation HERE.

WASHINGTON - Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), co-chairs of the Senate Caucus on Foster Youth, introduced bipartisan legislation to help ensure foster kids are better prepared for their transition into adulthood. The Informed Foster Youth Act would ensure foster youth, especially those 14 years and older, receive their vital documents and information on their rights and available services as part of a more personalized, comprehensive case plan.

"I've heard from too many people who've left the foster care system without being given the documents and resources they need to transition into adulthood. Our bipartisan legislation tackles this issue head-on by setting up a process that ensures each child gets these materials so they can pursue success in their chosen career or higher education pathways," Grassley said.

"To ensure a smooth transition to adulthood for foster youth, it is vital they are equipped with the tools and resources they need," Luján said. "Our bipartisan Informed Foster Youth Act sets up foster youth with personalized plans that will inform them of the tools and resources available to them as well as provide them with the critical documents necessary for daily life. Supporting our foster youth as they navigate the transition to adulthood is a bipartisan priority, and I will continue fighting to ensure they are equipped with the resources and support necessary to succeed."

States are currently required to create a written case plan to support foster children, and federal law also requires that vital documents be provided to youth exiting foster care. Yet, foster youth report they were unaware of the requirement to be provided with these documents, were not involved in their case planning and were not being given information on their rights and services available to support them while in care.

The Informed Foster Youth Act solves this by requiring that foster children, beginning at age 14, are provided the following by the time they exit care:

The legislation also ensures health and education records are reviewed and updated each time a child is placed in care and that foster parents or care providers are provided with these records.

Click HERE for audio of Grassley discussing the legislation.

Find bill text HERE and a one-page summary HERE.

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