SB 139 - This act modifies the Grandparents as Foster Parents Program. This act returns the Program to that which was passed in SB 837 in 1999.

Section 453.325, RSMo, requires the Division of Family Services to establish the "Grandparents as Foster Parents" Program. A grandparent, who is age 50 or older, may participate if he or she is the legal guardian of a grandchild and if he or she participates in the training available through the Division. If all of the requirements are satisfied, the Program will provide the following benefits:

Reimbursement based on the current foster care payment schedule;

Foster parent training, parenting skills training, childhood immunizations, and other similar health screens;

Continuing counseling for the child and the grandparent;

Support services, including respite care, child care, and transportation assistance;

Medicaid services to the child; and

Ancillary services, such as child care, respite care, transportation assistance, clothing allowances, but not direct financial payments to the participants.

Grandparents who are either under 50 years of age or who choose not to participate in the training for the Program may apply to the Division for foster care reimbursement and assistance.

This act is identical to SB 793 (2002).
LORIE TOWE