Law makes children in foster care automatically eligible for child care help

The law provides that a child is automatically eligible for Purchase of Care when the child enters foster care or DSCYF certifies a placement that requires the program. The rule covers children in foster care and children in other placements that DSCYF certifies require Purchase of Care. Foster care means care for a child in DSCYF custody under Title 13, provided by people approved by DSCYF or a licensed agency. Eligibility applies upon foster care placement or DSCYF certification of a placement requiring Purchase of Care.

The Department of Health and Social Services must make rules for checking these children's eligibility in coordination with DSCYF. The rules cover children who meet the foster care or placement conditions for automatic eligibility. The rules must include required documents.