STATEHOUSE (March 25, 2025) – Legislation co-authored by State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) to expand eligibility for the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program, offering additional support for foster families was recently approved by the Senate.
The Indiana Youth Institute recently reported that more than 18,000 children experienced foster care in the state last year, an increase after several years of decline. To support Hoosier foster families, House Enrolled Act 1248 would make foster parent households eligible for CCDF assistance, regardless of the number of biological children in the home, if they meet income eligibility requirements.
"By clarifying eligibility requirements, we can help encourage more families to become foster parents and help address the urgent needs facing children in foster care,” Goss-Reaves said. "I look forward to seeing this bill cross the finish line to help support parents and the children in their care."
According to a report by Sevita, there are over 11,000 Hoosier children available for adoption but only 4,500 foster homes currently available. Expanding CCDF eligibility would ease the financial burden of child care and allow more foster parents to provide a stable and loving environment for children in need of their care.
The bill would also require the FSSA to hold 200 CCDF vouchers in reserve to be used for a child who is placed with a licensed foster parent.
House Enrolled Act 1248 passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support and now heads to the governor for consideration as a new law. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) represents House District 31,
which includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.
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