Florida Governor Crist Signs Foster Care Transition Legislation

August 2, 2007 -- TAMPA – Florida Governor Charlie Crist today ceremonially signed Senate Bill 2114, increasing services for young adults transitioning from foster care to independent living. Governor Crist was joined at the ceremony by Representative Rich Glorioso (R-Plant City) at Connected by 25, an organization that assists youth transitioning out of foster care and into adulthood.

“This legislation is an important step in helping Florida’s foster youth as they transition to adulthood,” Governor Crist. “The expanded services help these young Floridians gain valuable life skills and education to support them in becoming successful adults.”

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The legislation expands eligibility for independent living services, specifically the Road to Independence Program, which provides financial assistance to help former foster children receive educational and vocational training. The bill also allows foster youth, who have completed a financial literacy course and met certain criteria, to open checking and savings accounts as minors.

Medicaid eligibility is extended from age 20 to age 21 for former foster youth who are eligible for other transition assistance services. Under certain conditions, young adults in foster care can receive learner’s permits and driver’s licenses more easily, allowing them to begin and maintain employment.

“This legislation provides for youth in Florida’s foster care system to engage in ‘normal’ teenage activities,” said Diane M. Zambito, executive director of Connected by 25. “Our goal is to ensure that all of our youth leave foster care with a place to call home – and caring adults to call ‘family.’ This bill expands opportunities to achieve that goal.”

Linda Lee, a 17-year-old high school student, currently transitioning out of the foster care system, also joined Governor Crist for the bill signing ceremony.

Source: Florida Governor