Maryland House approves HB 1057 for child care stipends in foster care homes

On April 5, 2025, House Bill 1057 was introduced in the Maryland General Assembly, aiming to enhance support for private treatment foster care homes through the provision of child care stipends. The bill, sponsored by Delegates Roberts and others, seeks to address the financial challenges faced by these homes in providing adequate care for children.

The primary purpose of House Bill 1057 is to require the Secretary of Human Services to review and reallocate a portion of the Department of Human Services’ annual budget to fund child care stipends for private treatment foster care homes. This initiative is intended to alleviate the financial burden on these facilities, enabling them to better serve children in need of specialized care. The bill mandates that starting in a specified fiscal year, the Secretary must include funding for these stipends in the Department’s annual budget proposal and establish procedures for awarding the stipends.

In addition to the financial provisions, the bill calls for a comprehensive study by the Department of Human Services to identify appropriate state support for private treatment foster care homes. This study aims to assess the types of assistance that would be most beneficial in enhancing the services provided by these homes.

The bill has garnered attention and support within the legislature, having been reported favorably with amendments by the Appropriations Committee. However, discussions surrounding the bill have also highlighted concerns regarding the allocation of state resources and the potential impact on the overall foster care system.

Experts in child welfare have noted that while the bill represents a positive step towards supporting private treatment foster care homes, it also raises questions about the sustainability of funding and the long-term implications for state budgets. The economic impact of providing these stipends could be significant, potentially improving the quality of care for vulnerable children while also necessitating careful fiscal planning.

As House Bill 1057 progresses through the legislative process, its implications for Maryland's foster care system and the support of private treatment facilities will be closely monitored. The bill's future will depend on continued discussions and potential amendments as it moves toward final approval.