HB 2728 Summary

• Changes the definition of "qualified young adult" to remove the requirement that they sign a voluntary agreement, instead requiring they "do not decline" participation in extended foster care programs.

• Amends section 8-521.02 to make the extended foster care program mandatory for eligible young adults (ages 18-20) rather than optional, unless they actively decline to participate.

• Removes the requirement that qualified young adults sign a voluntary extended foster care agreement, eliminating the prior affirmative consent requirement.

• Adds juvenile court jurisdiction to determine whether participation in an extended foster care program is in a qualified young adult's best interests within 120 days of submission.

• Eliminates references to "voluntary" extended foster care agreements and case plans throughout the statute, shifting from opt-in to opt-out participation model.