Relating to: the state or federal benefits of a child in out-of-home care. (FE)

AB 1053 ensures that children in out-of-home care (like foster care) retain control over their state or federal benefits. It requires child welfare departments to hold these benefits in protected accounts that won’t reduce other benefits, provide regular financial reports to the child and their legal representatives, and return any remaining funds when the child leaves care. The bill explicitly prohibits using a child’s benefits to cover their care costs. This policy change directly affects children in state custody and their legal representatives, focusing on financial accountability and preserving benefits for the child’s future.