Ruiz, Cryan Bill Helping Secure the Financial Future of Children in Foster Care Sent to Governor’s Desk

TRENTON – Following approval by the General Assembly, legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz and Senator Joe Cryan that prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from using a child’s property or benefits to offset the cost of their state care has been sent to the Governor’s desk.

“Removing provisions that require children to pay for their own foster care — a public service that federal law mandates the government pay for — will pave the way for a brighter future as they transition out of the system,” said Senator Ruiz (D-Essex/Hudson). “Saving a child’s benefits can help them secure housing, an education, and pay for basic necessities in adulthood. We must do everything we can to secure the financial future of our youth in foster care and their families, so we are not perpetuating a system that keeps families separated and foster kids with little resources when they begin their independent lives.”

“Many exit the foster care system into homelessness with only a duffel bag to their name. Dedicating these benefits for future use can mean the difference between life on the street and life with stability, security, and opportunity,” said Senator Cryan (D-Union). “This legislation will help ensure former foster kids receive the benefits that are rightfully theirs so they can begin their adult lives with confidence.”

Under the bill, S-3153, DCF would be required to conserve the child’s benefits in an account at a federally insured financial institution for the child’s future use. The department would be eligible to use these benefits in the child’s best interests if the child has unmet needs that exceed the State’s maintenance obligation within the federal income and resource limits established for the relevant federal benefits program.