MS SB2470

Expands the definition of relatives eligible for kinship care payments to include adults related beyond the third degree, godparents, friends of the family, and others with strong familial bonds to the child, in addition to traditional relatives within the third degree.

Authorizes the Department of Child Protection Services to continue making monthly kinship care payments to relatives after relinquishing legal custody if the relative has completed foster care training requirements.

Sets kinship care payment amounts at up to 100% of the foster care board payment amount, subject to specific legislative appropriation.

Adds clarifications to youth court definitions regarding "fictive kin" to explicitly include adults beyond the third degree, godparents, and family friends with strong familial bonds to children.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.