AZ SB1602

Increases the monthly stipend for kinship foster care parents in Arizona through a phased schedule: minimum $400 per child starting December 31, 2026, increasing to $500 in 2027, and $600 from December 31, 2028 onward.

Kinship foster care places children removed from their homes with relatives or persons who have a significant relationship with the child.

Kinship foster care applicants must be at least 18 years old and submit fingerprints for state and federal criminal background checks, along with home visits and interviews by the Department of Child Safety.

Kinship foster care parents may also qualify for full foster care benefits if licensed, temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) payments, and various nonfinancial services including child day care, respite services, and emergency services.