H.R. 7463: Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act

This bill, known as the Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act, aims to enhance support for foster youth pursuing postsecondary education and training. It does this by making specific amendments to Section 477 of the Social Security Act, focusing on education and training vouchers.

Key Features of the Bill

• Increased Voucher Amount: The bill proposes to raise the maximum amount of education and training vouchers available to eligible youth from $5,000 to $12,000. This increase is intended to provide more substantial financial assistance to foster youth who wish to enroll in colleges, universities, vocational schools, or various training programs.
• Grace Period for Participation: The legislation allows states to establish a grace period for youth who may need extra time to complete their training programs. This flexibility is contingent on an assessment made in consultation with the youth, ensuring it aligns with their personal circumstances.
• Guidance Development: The Secretary of Health and Human Services is tasked with creating model guidance for states on how to implement these changes effectively. This guidance will be informed by input from youth who have experienced foster care, ensuring that their perspectives are included in the development process.

Improving Accessibility and Awareness

• Outreach Efforts: States are required to make reasonable efforts to inform eligible youth about the benefits available to them under this program. This includes coordination with other related programs to maximize awareness.
• Simplified Application Process: The bill mandates the creation of a user-friendly application form. This form should be standardized, easily understandable, and made accessible online to facilitate smoother application by eligible youth.

Use of Funds

States receiving funds under this program can utilize the money in various ways that promote the objectives of the program, including outreach initiatives and support for the application process to ensure eligible youth can access the benefits available to them.

Effective Date

The provisions of this bill will become effective one year after the bill is enacted into law.

Relevant Companies

None found.