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NJ S3153
Bill
Status
12/19/2025
Primary Sponsor
Teresa Ruiz
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AI Summary
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Prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from using a child's federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, Veterans Administration) to offset the State's costs for the child's maintenance while in out-of-home placement
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DCF may use a child's federal benefits only for the child's unmet needs beyond what the State is obligated to pay, after notifying the child, parent, legal guardian, counsel, and the court
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Requires DCF to establish qualified ABLE accounts or trust accounts for eligible children to conserve benefits while avoiding federal asset limits that could affect benefit eligibility
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Mandates DCF to determine whether children in custody are eligible for federal benefits and apply on their behalf, with annual accounting provided to the child, parent, legal guardian, counsel, and court
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Takes effect on the first day of the twelfth month following enactment (approved December 19, 2025)
Legislative Description
Prohibits DCF from using federal benefits received by a child in out of home placement to reimburse State for cost of child's care, except under certain circumstances.
Bills and Joint Resolutions Signed by the Governor
Last Action
Approved P.L.2025, c.162.
12/19/2025