Dear Providers:

 

HB972 is the Division of Family and Children Services’ strategic plan (also known as CB21) to legislatively support extension of foster care beyond 18 for young people choosing to stay in care. DFCS/ILP and MAAC are asking for your help and support as we work to improve outcomes for youth in care.

Our goal is to make sure it “makes it onto the Rules Calendar” so it can be voted on. Below is a link to the general Rules Committee page. Please consider reaching out to Chairperson Mullis and 2-3 Senators to reach out to directly (phone or email) using either the talking points or sample email below.  YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A CONSTITUENT TO REACH OUT TO THEM SINCE YOU ARE REACHING OUT TO THEM AS COMMITTEE MEMBERS BUT IF YOU ARE PLEASE LET THEM KNOW. If you choose to call you can leave a message on their voicemail or with their assistant. 

http://www.senate.ga.gov/committees/en-US/committee.aspx?Committee=83&Session=25 (Please focus on members – not ex-officio members.)

Talking Points

• Please support HB972 being placed on the Rules Calendar
• Updates state law to reflect Division policy regarding services for youth after 18 
• 24 other states (including Alabama and Tennessee) have already enacted it and federal funding is available to support through Fostering Connections to Success Act and Family First (enacted just this month)
• Well thought out, strategic plan that reflects youth and provider input
• Reflects adolescent brain development research that illustrates brain development occurs until mid-twenties (FYI- Insurance companies figured this out a long time ago which is why you can’t rent a car until 25 and you see auto insurance drop then too)

Sample Email

Dear Senator:

I am reaching out in support of HB972 moving to the Senate floor. HB 972 is a bill that updates state law and legislatively supports the Division of Family and Children Services supports (known as Extended Youth Services now) to young people in foster care 18-21.  These are crucial services that include education and housing and reflect what we know about adolescent brain development continuing into the mid-twenties.  National research shows better educational, employment and housing outcomes for young people remaining in care past 18. The bill would clear the path in seeking additional funding under the Family First Act (recently enacted) and the Fostering Connections to Success Act. 

Thank you for your service and support.