Senate Bill 415 lowers kinship foster parent age to 18 and streamlines licensing standards

The Senate Family and Veterans' Services Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 415, which focuses on kinship foster care licensing standards. The meeting began with Mr. Gaddy presenting the bill, which aims to enhance the availability of kinship foster family homes by establishing different licensing standards for kinship caregivers compared to non-relative foster homes. Key changes proposed include lowering the minimum age for kinship foster parents from 21 to 18 years and removing certain requirements that do not directly affect child safety.

Senator Florence, chair of the subcommittee, emphasized the importance of this bill as a top legislative priority for the Department of Social Services (DSS). The bill seeks to facilitate kinship care, which includes relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption, as well as fictive kin, such as close family friends or mentors. The committee unanimously passed the bill out of subcommittee, highlighting that no safety-related requirements would be waived.

Discussion ensued regarding the rationale behind lowering the age requirement. It was noted that younger relatives, such as a 20-year-old sibling, could provide a stable home for younger children in foster care, thereby minimizing trauma and maintaining family connections. Testimonies from various organizations, including Halos and Epworth Children's Home, supported the bill, citing real-life examples of kinship caregivers who could benefit from these changes.

The committee also addressed the need for corresponding regulations to implement the statute changes effectively. It was noted that kinship placements have increased significantly, from below 10% in 2019 to approximately 28% currently, indicating a growing reliance on kinship care within the foster system.

The meeting concluded with a favorable motion for the bill and its accompanying regulations, which will be moved to the full Senate calendar for further consideration. Additionally, the committee discussed House Bill 3654, which pertains to the sharing of reports by appointed guardians ad litem and the funding for the Department of Children's Advocacy.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to improving kinship care standards and ensuring that children can remain connected to their families while receiving the necessary support and resources.