Foster youth would get records, IDs, and health documents free starting at 14

What does this do?

S 4556 changes federal rules for how states handle foster care cases by requiring that health and education records be shared directly with each child at no cost beginning at age 14, and again upon leaving care. Foster youth age 14 and older must also receive a free annual credit report, birth certificate, Social Security card, and state ID or driver's license while still in care. Transition planning documents must be updated to include information on Medicaid enrollment, medical decision-making authorization, and health care proxy setup.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects the roughly 400,000 children currently in the U.S. foster care system, with the strongest focus on teenagers age 14 and older, especially those who age out at 18. State child welfare agencies are also affected, as they must update procedures to meet the new requirements.

Why does it matter?

States that lack existing laws to meet these requirements would need to pass their own legislation, and the bill gives those states extra time to comply. Youth must be informed about available support services not just once, but at every caseworker meeting and every court hearing they attend.

Where does it stand?