HR 7655 links expectant and parenting foster youth to home visiting services

What does this do?

The bill changes the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood by adding a goal of connecting expectant or parenting foster youth with home visiting services. States would have to certify they have a process to inform eligible young people about these services. States may also use federal money for tailored case management and resource coordination, such as help finding housing, health care, or child care.

Who does it affect?

Young people who have been in foster care, receive services under this program, and are expecting or raising a child. State child welfare agencies would also be affected, since they must set up the information process and may offer the new case management.

Why does it matter?

States would take on a new certification duty to keep receiving program funds. The case management option gives states another allowed use of existing money, though they can still spend it in other ways that fit the program.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• No new funding
• Changes use of existing money
• States must certify a process