IN SB0015

Requires the Indiana Department of Child Services to develop a "foster youth bill of rights" statement in collaboration with individuals with lived experience in the child welfare system, child placing agencies, and experts in older foster youth services.

Mandates annual distribution of the foster youth bill of rights to foster youth (including translated versions for those with limited English proficiency), current and prospective foster parents, and publication on the department's website.

Expands the definition of "foster youth" for purposes of the new bill of rights to include individuals ages 12-23 who are children in need of services or receiving collaborative care and are in out-of-home placement.

Updates statutory cross-references throughout Indiana Code to clarify the definition of "foster youth" across multiple sections relating to state park admission, automobile insurance, and banking services.

Effective date: July 1, 2026.