| Child Welfare |
|
|
INDEPENDENT LIVING/FOSTER CARE ENSURE that all eligible foster children receive Road to Independence program support through adequate funding, inclusive eligibility requirements and expanded needs assessment so they may enter society as healthy and capable adults. Fully provide support options for the foster care system available under the Federal Independent Living Act, including optional extended foster care placement, comprehensive planning for independent living, and Medicaid services for the post-18 foster care population until age 21. ENSURE that additional funding reductions do not occur for community based care programs, adoption subsidies and child protective services. PURSUE legislation to establish a mechanism for relative caregivers to obtain legal authority for children in their custody. PRESERVE funding for the Florida Kinship Center, which provides services for children living with relatives and avoids placement in child |