HB22-1245: Foster Youth In Transition Program Clarifications

• Expands eligibility for the Foster Youth in Transition Program to include youth who turned 18 while in a dependency and neglect case, in addition to those previously in foster care or kinship care at age 16 or older.

• Requires courts to hold transition hearings within 35 days of a youth's 18th birthday to determine whether they will opt into the transition program or choose emancipation, with mandatory advisement of program rights and services.

• Clarifies that youths entering the program directly from open cases can file petitions in either their current county or where they reside, and allows youths age 18+ to file petitions independently.

• Establishes initial hearing procedures within 56 days of petition filing, requiring court determinations of voluntary entry, best interest, and legal authority for placement, with appointment of counsel for participating youth.

• Maintains program eligibility and services through age 21 (or greater age as required by federal law) on a voluntary basis, with financial support for housing and other services, and right to re-enter if youth leaves.