SS/HCS/HB 509 - This act establishes the "Grandparents as Foster Parents Program" within the Division of Family Services. A grandparent is eligible to participate in the program if the grandparent is (1) fifty five years of age or older; (2) is the legal guardian of a grandchild placed in the grandparent's custody; and (3) participates in training available through the Division of Family Services.

The "Grandparents as Foster Parents Program" shall: (1) provide reimbursement based on the current foster care payment schedule to eligible grandparents; (2) establish program requirements including participation in foster parent training, parenting skills, childhood immunizations and other health screening training; (3) provide continued counseling for the child and the grandparent; (4) provide support services including respite care, child care and transportation assistance; and (5) provide Medicaid services to the child.

The funding for cash benefits and other assistance to eligible grandparents will be made from the state Maintenance of Effort Fund.

Grandparents who are under fifty-five or who are fifty-five years or older and refuse to participate in the training programs may apply to the Division for Foster Care reimbursement and assistance. This assistance shall be funded by the federal block grant moneys, known as TANF. Recipients of assistance funded with TANF dollars shall be required to follow the work participation and time limit requirements set forth in The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996.
CHERYL GRAZIER