Boback’s Bill to Assist Older Foster Youth Passed by House

A bill sponsored by Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) that would help older foster youth in Pennsylvania to find more permanent family connections was unanimously approved by the House of Representatives on Monday.

“Young people who leave the child welfare system without having adults in their lives to provide assistance often end up in jail or homeless,” said Boback. “My bill would give foster youth every possible opportunity to find a permanent family during this critical transition period.”

House Bill 1866 would build on existing state requirements that foster youth receive counseling and other services as they grow older, including the identification of family members who may be willing to assume a primary caretaker or other supportive role. Boback’s proposal would also ensure those requirements are fully and effectively implemented.

The bill will next be considered by the Senate.