JEFFERSON CITY — Senate Bill 47, sponsored by Sen. John Lamping, R-Ladue, was signed into law today (6-25) by the governor. The measure, among other provisions, expands the list of persons eligible to receive a subsidy for becoming a legal guardian to a child in the foster care system.

“By allowing more families to utilize state and federal resources, we are enabling more children to find forever homes,” said Sen. Lamping. “Studies show that children who are placed with relatives or close non-related persons have a higher instance of staying in that home permanently, thereby giving the child a stable environment.”

Currently, only grandparents, aunts, uncles, adult siblings and first cousins may receive subsidies for child care. This bill would allow any person related to the child by blood or affinity or any close non-related person to also become eligible for the subsidy when he or she becomes a legal guardian of the child.

Melanie Scheetz, Executive Director of the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition in St. Louis, called the passage of SB 47 a groundbreaking advancement in Missouri's child welfare system. "Members of the coalition deeply appreciate Sen. Lamping's support of our state's children and families," said Scheetz.

“I am grateful to the Foster and Adoption Coalition for brining this idea forward, and I am hopeful that it will provide more children with the stability and support they may need to successfully achieve their dreams,” said Sen. Lamping.

To read more about legislation filed this session by Sen. Lamping, visit www.senate.mo.gov/lamping and click on the “Legislation” tab.