SS/SCS/SBs 551, 410, 539, 528 and 296 - This act modifies the law relating to children and families.

The Grandparents as Foster Parents Program is revised. Section 208.029, RSMo, currently outlines the Program and its requirements. This act makes the Program subject to appropriations and adds a 200 percent of the federal poverty level income restriction to Program eligibility. Finally, Program duties become discretionary rather than mandatory. This provision is identical to SB 551. (Section 208.029)

Membership on the Children's Trust Fund Board is increased in Section 210.170, RSMo. Currently, the Board may have twelve public members. New language allows the Governor to appoint four additional members with the Senate's consent. This provision is similar to SB 464. (SSA 1 for SA 2).

Currently, Sections 210.536 and 453.073, RSMo, require the Division of Family Services to pay for the cost of foster care and to grant adoption subsidies. Subject to appropriations (SA 4 & 5), beginning in fiscal year 2003, new language in both sections requires the incremental increase of the foster care reimbursement rate and the adoption subsidy rate over four years. Both rates shall be increased until they meet or exceed rates established by the United States Department of Agriculture. This portion of the act is similar to SB 410. (Sections 210.536 and 453.073)
ERIN MOTLEY