Senate Bill 872 Summary

• Department must screen children in foster care for state and federal benefits eligibility within 90 days of entry and annually thereafter, and apply for benefits the child qualifies for.

• Beginning October 1, 2026, state and federal benefits received by a child in foster care cannot be used to reimburse the cost of care, except for special needs services or conserving benefits for future needs with parental or guardian ad litem consultation.

• Department must serve as representative payee or fiduciary for benefits when appropriate, conserve funds, monitor asset limits, provide annual accounting statements, and file timely appeals on the child's behalf.

• Children ages 14 and older must receive financial literacy training, and the department must provide notice to the guardian ad litem regarding all benefit applications, decisions, and distributions before each permanency planning hearing.

• Upon discharge from foster care or at age 18, whichever comes first, the department must transfer accumulated assets and income to the child, a nominated representative payee, parents/guardians, or heirs if the child dies.