MS SB2504

Expands definition of eligible kinship care recipients to include adults related beyond the third degree, godparents, friends of the family, and other adults with strong familial bonds to the child, in addition to 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 complies with foster care training requirements.

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

Amends the definition of "fictive kin" in youth court law to explicitly include adults related beyond the third degree, godparents, friends of the family, and other adults with strong familial bonds to the child.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.