New laws protect, support Hawai‘i foster children

Governor Linda Lingle has signed two bills that help foster youth maintain relationships with their relatives and hanai families and assist them to meet their higher education goals. Both new laws take effect on July 1.

• HB1356 HD2 SD2 CD1 gives former foster youth additional time to apply for and receive higher education benefits. This allowance of $529 per month helps pay for living expenses while attending school or taking part in vocational training.
• SB2730 SD2 HD2 CD1 ensures that children in need of foster care are afforded an opportunity to stay with relatives or hanai family members who are willing and able to provide safe and nurturing home environments.

“Children who must be removed from their family homes due to abuse or neglect have endured many hardships and challenges,” Lingle said. “We want all our foster children to lead happy and well-adjusted lives so they can achieve their potential as adults. The bills I signed today will help bring that about.”