STATEHOUSE (Feb. 12, 2024) – The Indiana House of Representatives unanimously approved State Rep. Dale DeVon's (R-Granger) legislation that he said would help boost support for relatives, like grandparents and aunts, who step in and raise children in their family when the biological parents cannot.
Relatives or older adults that have family-like relationships with children that aren't their own, but care for and look after foster children are known as kinship caregivers. DeVon, chair of the House Family, Children and Human Affairs Committee, said Indiana has a higher percentage of foster youth in kinship care than other states but doesn't provide the needed financial support or services to these critical caregivers.
"Caring for children can often place a significant financial burden on their extended families and relatives, and it's a tall hurdle they need help getting over," DeVon said. "Currently, many kinship caregivers receive minimal government assistance or support, because they need a state license and that's an extensive process that can take months. So, families just don't apply. We know that children who have had their worlds turned upside down will do better if they're kept with family, so we've got to do a better job supporting these full-time caregivers."
DeVon's legislation would allow unlicensed and licensed kinship caregivers, who are providing full-time care for a child under the age of 18 and that's part of a case involving the Indiana Department of Child Services, to receive the same state benefits and resources as foster parents. He said this will help families cover everyday expenses like clothing, food and medical needs.
DeVon said research shows that placing children who are in the child welfare system with relatives or people that they know, can strengthen children's social network, reduce trauma and provide more stability in their lives.
"We should be doing all we can to help those who look after our most vulnerable," DeVon said. "This legislation supports caregivers, and I'm looking forward to this bill moving through the legislative process as we look to help and support Hoosier children and families."
The Indiana Senate is now considering House Bill 1064. To learn more and follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5,
which includes a portion of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
