▶ 0:13:42You ready?
▶ 0:13:46Yeah, it should be. The committee will come to order. Before we start, I think it's very important that we wish one of our colleagues today a happy birthday, Mr. Horseford. It is his birthday. So, [applause] we won't sing to you, but we'll just send the wishes. So, I'll get you desserts, though. So, um,
▶ 0:14:14today the way today the Ways and Means Committee will consider six bipartisan bills to modernize the Chaffi program and provide the most significant reforms since its creation in 1999. During my time as chairman, I have made it a point to make sure federal programs in our jurisdiction are authorized and work for the people that they are intended to serve.
▶ 0:14:38The Chaffi program helps current and former foster youth gain employment, obtain housing, pursue post-secary education, and create meaningful connections with other adults as they transition to independence. Each year, nearly [snorts] 16,000 foster youth age out of the foster care program.
▶ 0:14:59Young adults who age out of foster care at age 18 experience high rates of homelessness and are less likely to graduate from high school, gain employment, or enroll in postsecary education compared to their peers. Foster youth deserve the same chance at a good education, meaningful work, and fulfilling relationships as every other child in America.
▶ 0:15:25I want to thank all of our members who joined us earlier this month for the remarkable roundt discussion we had with the first lady Melania Trump and our two foster youth leaders Jocelyn and Jaden. These six bills we are considering today are strongly aligned with the first lady's fostering the future initiative and would codify many of the policies laid out in the president's executive order.
▶ 0:15:51Not only did the roundt demonstrate bipartisan agreement on foster care policy, it also showed the momentum for getting reforms passed into law. That momentum is desperately needed. Hearings we've held in the work and welfare subcommittee have revealed the current programs failings. Education and training vouchers do not allow foster youth to pursue alternatives to college.
▶ 0:16:18Program frag fragmentation exists across federal programs supporting them, forcing foster youth to navigate a web of complex services and many foster youth report being unaware of the services available to them through Chaffi.
▶ 0:16:34The Government Accountability Office published a report last year that found states have been returning Chaffi funds since at least Each year, 30 or so states returning about six to 11 million despite evidence of unmet need. During our roundt, I made a commitment to the first lady that this committee will advance reforms to Chaffi. Today, we are following through on that commitment.
▶ 0:17:03The bipartisan bills before us are solutions that better help foster youth lead independent lives. Our first bill introduced by representatives Lehood and Gwen Moore address stable housing, a top issue for foster youth by strengthening coordination between Chaffi and the foster youth to independence housing voucher program.
▶ 0:17:25Legislation from Representatives Chu and Moran increases financial support for foster youth pursuing post-secary education and bolster state efforts to make students aware of education and training vouchers or ETVs. The next bill led by representatives Max Miller and Evans allows ETVS to pay for short-term workforce and vocational training and credentiing programs.
▶ 0:17:50This reform opens new career paths for foster youth that may have been previously unavailable to them. The committee will then mark up legislation introduced by work and welfare subcommittee ranking member Davis and chairman Le Hood that expands access to legal services for foster youth and requires states to consider legal issues commonly facing foster youth as part of case uh part of case management planning.
▶ 0:18:18Legisl legislation from representatives Yakam and Davis expands access to Mickvy program, a home visiting program for expectant mothers or women with young children to foster youth who are themselves parenting or soontobe parents.
▶ 0:18:35Our final bill introduced by representatives Gwen Moore and Carrie updates the purposes of the Chaffi program to include the importance of foster youth developing and maintaining meaningful connections with trusted adults and lifelong support networks. Each of these bills incorporates and reflects the feedback that we have received from foster youth with lived experience.
▶ 0:19:02Thank you to each of our bill sponsors for pushing important bipartisan reforms that will empower America's foster youth. I want to especially thank the work and welfare subcommittee chairman Darren Lehood for his leadership in bringing these bills together and to our members on both sides of the aisle who have worked to get to where we are today. I'm now pleased to recognize the ranking member um Mr. Neil from
▶ 0:19:27Thank you, Chairman. I appreciate the strong bipartisan work by our colleagues that has resulted in the six bills we are marking up this morning. They listen carefully and importantly to young people who have experienced the uncertainty of foster care. And each of these bills is a thoughtful solution to specific problems as they describe them. The genuine collaboration between Danny Davis and Darren Leood is particularly apparent and I want to applaud them for sticking with it. Mr. Chairman, I hope this isn't where it ends.
▶ 0:19:56We want this legislation to head to the House floor. It's long overdue to enhance the Chaffi program and reach even more former foster youth. I knew John Chaffy. He was a gentile, kind Republican from Rhode Island. You would not have met a better advocate in my time and a more decent human being. We worked together to establish the Blackstone Valley Historic Corridor.
▶ 0:20:22And this is a fitting tribute to the memories that he created fondly for all of us across New England. And I believe he also had a very distinguished military career as well. That said, we know that these bills are just the first step. We have lots of work left in front of us to ensure every child who experiences foster care has the opportunity to transition to adulthood and to lead a successful life.
▶ 0:20:47The Chaffi program is a strong example of Congress listening to the people affected by our decisions and investing in the kind of help that they will really need. There isn't much better use of federal dollars and to help foster youth overcome their tough beginnings and tradition to an adult life where they have good jobs, a place to live, and people who genuinely love them. These are investments in our future and in our families. However, the program only currently reaches about a fourth of the youth who need our help.
▶ 0:21:16And when it does, it often falls short of providing everything they need. Gwen Moore's Connect Act would help focus and refocus the Chaffy program to reach further and ensure children who have been in foster care have strong lifelong [clears throat] relationships with adults and peers to help navigate life after some difficult moments for them.
▶ 0:21:38We must make sure that the Jaffy program, whose funding has essentially stagnated since 1999, has the resources to [clears throat] help serve every former foster youth who needs our help. I know our colleagues here recognize the persistent challenges and areas we need to keep working at. I hope they will continue working together and that this markup on these issues will not end just this morning. We have much to do. I yield back.
▶ 0:22:05Our first order of business is HR7432, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, introduced by Work and Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Lehood and Representative Gwen Moore, which will help youth transitioning out of foster care and former foster youth by strengthening coordination between Chaffi and the Foster Youth to Independence Housing Program.
▶ 0:22:28Chairman Le Hood has long been an outstanding champion for expanding access to housing of all types, such as through his work to improve the low-income housing tax credit. His collaborative work on this bill ensures that housing stability remains within reach for these young adults during a very vulnerable time as they transition to independence and self-sufficiency.
▶ 0:22:53I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I'm pleased to recognize its sponsor, Mr. Le Hood, for an opening statement.
▶ 0:23:00Thank you, Chairman Smith, and thank you for your leadership uh with these six uh separate bills that we're bringing forth today. And also want to acknowledge the success of the round table we had with the first lady and how impactful that was uh on raising awareness on fostering uh on fostering the future um and these six bills. Today I I also just want to mention the collaboration with my colleague um Congressman Danny Davis on the work and welfare subcommittee.
▶ 0:23:28We started this process roughly two years ago working collaboratively uh and I want to thank Danny for his leadership. These six bills would not be coming forward without the collaboration of uh Congressman Davis and so grateful for the substantive work uh that that we've engaged in in the subcommittee. So thank you for that Danny. Um, and as chairman of the work and welfare subcommittee, I'm pleased to see the committee uh consider these six bills to modernize the Chaffi program.
▶ 0:23:55These bills represent the second legislative initiative of First Lady Melania Trump, who has elevated foster care to the highest level of government, which is a good thing. Earliest earlier this month, Mrs. Trump joined a bipartisan group of more than 30 committee members to discuss Chaffi reforms and her efforts to uplift America's youth through the fostering the future initiative.
▶ 0:24:17We have arrived at a unique moment in time where there is shared bipartisan agreement to making reforms for this largely forgotten group in our country. The woolen the work and welfare subcommittee has held two hearings leading up to this day to learn about challenges faced by foster youth. listening to their voices and what we can do to support their independence and success in the future.
▶ 0:24:43During our first hearing in June of last year, we learned about a troubling report from GAO that red and blue states have been returning millions of dollars of unused Shaffy and Education and Training vouchers uh funds since at least 2007.
▶ 0:25:00In 2022 alone, more than 30 states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Nevada, Wisconsin, and Virginia, returned 8.9 million in these funds despite unmet needs of foster youth. What we learned is that when federal programs like Chaffy remain on autopilot, they fail to adapt to changing needs and address the realities facing foster youth today. That's why this markup is so important.
▶ 0:25:28We are stewards of these programs and it is our shared responsibility to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used effectively and working for the people we are trying to help. As a package, these six bills represent comprehensive reform that will truly provide foster youth with the tools they need for long-term stability. One of these bills is the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, which I introduced with my colleague, Representative Gwen Moore of Wisconsin.
▶ 0:25:58Access to stable housing is one of the most significant challenges foster youth face as they work towards A staggering 35% of former foster youth experience homelessness by age 21. Lack of stable housing increases the risk of human trafficking for foster youth.
▶ 0:26:17According to a survey conducted by the administration for children and families, nearly 28% of foster youth who self-reported human trafficking slept the most often on the street. This bill will improve access to housing for these youth by strengthening the Chaffy program's connection with the foster youth to independence housing voucher which is run by HUD.
▶ 0:26:42The bill does a couple of key things to leverage resources across two different federal programs. It ensures FYI voucher recipients receive housing supportive services which can help them build financial literacy skills and reduce the risk of eviction.
▶ 0:27:01It will also provide more flexibility to states by carving these services out of the current 30% limit on room and board in Chaffi and aligning age eligibility program uh access across programs. This bill um has more than [snorts] 160 national, state, and local endorsements.
▶ 0:27:20I'm confident that through the bipartisan work of this committee and the support of the first lady and the white house, we can deliver this bill and other meaningful and long long overdue reforms to Shaffy to support the nearly 16,000 foster youth who age out of foster care every year. With that, I urge my colleagues to support HR 7432 and the other bills to modernize Chaffy.
▶ 0:27:46By advancing these bills, we can set foster youth our and our our nation's future leaders on a path to thrive and fulfill their potential, their their full potential. With that, I yield back and thank the chairman.
▶ 0:28:00Thank you, Mr. Lehood. I now recognize the ranking member from Massachusetts.
▶ 0:28:04Let me yield my time to the distinguished gentle lady from Wisconsin, Miss Moore.
▶ 0:28:12Thank you, Ranking Member Neil, for yielding. And thank you uh Chairman Smith. I want to start by thanking Chairman Le Hood for his partnership on this bill. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention our our ranking member and my good friend Dr. Danny Davis who's been a longtime champion for our foster youth. He'll be sorely missed uh in our next uh Congress.
▶ 0:28:38As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, I am privileged to be able to fight for foster youth, including meeting youth who have lived experience in the foster care system. It's no secret that many youth who age out of foster care experience homelessness. In fact, research shows that up to 46% of youth exiting foster care experience homelessness by age 26.
▶ 0:29:08That's thousands of individuals, young people without stable and and consistent uh roofs over their head. This is unacceptable and entirely preventable. This bill, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, would be a good first step in helping to write this ship by requiring state child welfare agencies to collaborate with public housing entities that administer
▶ 0:29:38programs specifically designed for foster youth. we can begin to bridge the gap in housing services for youth transitioning out of care and reduce homelessness rates amongst former foster youth. This bill also exempts so-called housing supportive services uh such as security deposits and utility connection fees from the 30% housing cap under Chaffi.
▶ 0:30:07This will allow states the opportunity to provide more youth with rental and housing assistance. We know that stable housing is the key to success, safety, and improved health outcomes.
▶ 0:30:22Without housing stability, it's nearly impossible to hold stable employment, address physical and mental health concerns, and maintain supportive We owe it to these young people to ensure that they have the tools that they need not just to survive, but to thrive in adulthood. And that starts with safe, accessible, and affordable housing.
▶ 0:30:47Passing this bill is the first good step in ensuring that no foster youth is left to fend for themselves on the streets, and I hope my colleagues on this committee will join me in this effort. Thank you, and I yield back. Thank you, Miss Moore. The committee will now proceed to consideration of HR7432, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point.
▶ 0:31:17At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute, which was distributed in advance along with a green sheet explaining it. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point and considered base text for purpose of amendment. I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman, work and welfare subcommittee staff director to provide a technical description of the amendment and the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction. I ask that members hold their questions until after her presentation.
▶ 0:31:49Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil. HR7432, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, modifies title 4E of the Social Security Act at section 477 as it relates to the Chaffi program for foster youth. The bill makes several several modifications to provide more flexibility to states by modifying the 30 30% cap in Chaffi for spending on room or board.
▶ 0:32:13This includes allowing the cap to be determined based on a rolling five-year average and creating a new definition of housing supportive services to allow states to exclude services provided to youth receiving an FYI voucher. Under this definition, supportive services may include count counseling on financial literacy, use of credit, money management, counseling on rental lease contracts, and moving costs. The bill also aligns age eligibility between Chaffi and the FYI program up to age 26.
▶ 0:32:43Finally, the bill adds a requirement that HHS and HUD provide joint agency guidance to states and public housing agencies to improve As reflected on the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of a substitute modifies HR7432 as introduced on page 5 line 19 by striking the before supportive services. These changes are consistent with the intent of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr. Chairman, that completes my walkthrough.
▶ 0:33:13I'm happy to answer any technical questions.
▶ 0:33:17Thank you. Are there any technical questions about the amendment and the nature of a substitute? Seeing none, does anyone wish to strike the last word? Mr. Thompson.
▶ 0:33:27Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for holding this hearing. I want to thank all of my colleagues who have participated in this great legislation uh that will really uh help foster youth in our country. Um but I can't ignore the broader context.
▶ 0:33:43At the same time that we're advancing uh legislation to expand, in this case, housing access, um my Republican colleagues in this administration are pursuing policies that make it harder for Americans to both uh own and to rent homes.
▶ 0:34:00The Trump administration has proposed a rule that could put as many as 3.7 million people at risk of losing housing assistance, more than half of them children, due to the rigid time limits and the burdensome work requirements in California, my home state alone. That puts approximately people at risk. And this comes on top of an already severe affordability crisis.
▶ 0:34:30In my district, median household income falls short of what is needed to qualify for a mortgage on even a bottom tier home. Buying a modest two-bedroom home is more than 50% more expensive than renting. And outdated tax provisions are discouraging homeowners from putting properties on the market, further constraining supply. Mr. Chairman, we're in a full-blown housing crisis.
▶ 0:34:59Incremental steps are good, but they're clearly not enough. We need serious comprehensive solutions, not more tax advantages for corporate housing developers and venture capital that further distort the market. That's why I introduced the American Affordability Act with my fellow Ways and Means Democratic colleagues.
▶ 0:35:23It expands the supply of affordable housing by and strengthening lowincome house uh housing tax credits. Miss Delbaney is a leader in that area. It supports renters and home buyers with refundable tax credits to lower housing cost. Mr. Panetta and Mr. Gomez are leaders in that space.
▶ 0:35:47It incentivizes the conversion of vacant lots and underutilized commercial properties into a affordable housing. It encourages more homes to come onto the market by modernizing the capital gains exclusion for homeowners looking to downsize. Mr. Panetta is a leader in that area and it prioritizes development in rural communities and for veterans and tribal populations. And I want to thank Mr.
▶ 0:36:17Swisy, Mr. Gomez, Miss Sanchez, and Miss Delbaney for their leadership in that area. I'm proud to support this bill today, but our committees needs to go further and meet this moment with the urgency that it demands. Uh again, thank you to everyone who's trying to address this issue. Let's come together and uh and do the big lift. So, I urge uh an I vote on this. I thank you and I yield back the balance of my time.
▶ 0:36:45Thank you, Mr. Larson.
▶ 0:36:49Thank you, uh, Mr. Chairman, and kudos to the committee. I couldn't help but looking out at the, uh, audience and realize because we have all these bipartisan bills that have such a positive impact on people that u, wow, isn't it a difference when uh, that's the case? So, when you hear all this talk about how committees don't work together and how Republicans and Democrats can't get along or accomplish something, uh, kudos to Mr.
▶ 0:37:17Lehood and Gwen Moore and of course our esteemed Danny Davis for the work that they've done. And I know that it impacts in my district uh clearly nonprofits like the village for children and families and our piece of the pie and Harford communities that care that provide specialized care for foster youth dealing with complex trauma as well. I would also uh Mr.
▶ 0:37:44Chairman also like to point out and agree with Mr. Thompson as well that Mr. Neil, that there's more that we could do and more that we could do together and uh certainly Mr. Thompson's uh affordability act is one of the areas that I think across the board we could have bipartisan agreement for the work that he's put in there and that we could collectively all share. And with that, I yield back.
▶ 0:38:13Mr. Davis.
▶ 0:38:15Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I strongly support this crucial common sense legislation introduced by my distinguished colleagues, Chairman Le Hood and Representative Gwen Moore.
▶ 0:38:29HR7432, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, is designed to improve coordination across state, local, and federal government agencies and systems to better meet the housing needs of older foster youth as they navigate the critical transition to adulthood.
▶ 0:38:51The bill would also provide greater flexibility for the Chaffi program to help cover housing related cost and services such as utility connection fees and security deposits that can be insurmountable barriers even for youth who have a way to pay rent.
▶ 0:39:12I've long recognized that stable housing like quality food and clean water is a fundamental need for every human in This need is even more urgent for transition age foster youth who through no fault of their own find themselves on the brink of independence as they exit are prepared to exit the child welfare This committee saw this need firsthand
▶ 0:39:42during the pandemic when we joined together to increase housing assistance for older foster youth. I praised this bill for integrating some of our lessons learned from those bipartisan efforts. Research conducted by Chapen Hall shows that youth transitioning out of foster care face higher risk of housing instability and homelessness compared to their peers.
▶ 0:40:13As 31% to 46% of youth exit foster care experience homelessness by age 26. These deserving youth require robust extended care options and targeted support. And chief among these supports are dedicated housing resources and assistance. So, Mr.
▶ 0:40:38Chairman, I support this legislation to strengthen housing stability and expand housing options for foster youth transitioning out of car care and into a brighter future.
▶ 0:40:55In addition to the important first steps in this bill, additional investment in the Chaffi program could help states realize its true potential to increase housing stability for transition age youth.
▶ 0:41:12So, in closing, I thank my good friends, Chairman Darren Le Hood and Representative Gwen Moore for their commitment to improving housing supports and stability for foster youth. I thank you, Mr. Chairman, and y back the balance of my time.
▶ 0:41:31Thank you, Mr. Davis, Mr. Byer,
▶ 0:41:34Mr. Chairman, thank you very much. And I want to thank um all the leaders here, especially Mr. the hood, Miss Ms. Moore for putting this together and and I'm thrilled that we have yet another session here where we're doing this in a largely bipartisan fashion. Um I intend to vote yes on all these bills, but I do want to bring up five specific thing that came to me through the voices for Virginia's children. First was that they strongly encouraged us to increase the Chaffi funding by 500 million.
▶ 0:42:02We noted that it's remained basically around 140 million for since 1999. It was 140 million in 1999. It's 143 million right now. Obviously inflation's gone up a great great deal. Threearters of eligible youth don't receive any HAV services. So while we're serving those quarter I think well we have we're missing an awful lot of these kids.
▶ 0:42:25And while we talk about money that's given back, let's also recognize that the states that do use it have used up virtually 99.9% of those money. The second argument is that we should extend the age of eligibility for Chaffi afterare services to age 23 for all youth. I know about half the states already do it to age 23, but there's half that don't because they don't have the specific things. So this eligibility thing would would make a big difference to make sure that youth all states have that opportunity.
▶ 0:42:52The third is to suspend participation requirements for young people in extended foster care. Of course, in general, we would like the kids to be in the work school and program participations. But if they can't, we need to make sure that they can continue to receive the placement and support services so that they can stay on track to meet their goals. Without it, they may be pushed into homelessness and unsafe situations. Number four is put a moratorium on discharges from the foster care system for those older youth 18 to 21.
▶ 0:43:20often that's the critical time in their lives when they're they're just trying to get their feet on the ground. The additional time and support will help young people and child welfare agencies appropriately plan for the successful transition out of care and into adulthood. And finally, let's allow states to draw down the Title 4 E funds until a young person reaches age 22. Right now, it's only till age 21. And again, that extra year can make could be the difference for an awful lot of kids. Um, I'm th so glad we are doing this.
▶ 0:43:50I intend to support it and I hope this is just the start of many more necessary reforms to the system. With that, Mr. Chairman, I yield back. Thank you. Does any additional member wish to strike the last word? Seeing none, um, are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute? If there are no amendments, the question is question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 0:44:21Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 0:44:30Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably report HR 7432 as amended to the House of Representatives. The question is on the motion to favorably report HR7432 as amended to the House of Representatives. The clerk will call the
▶ 0:44:46Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 0:44:47Mr. Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of
▶ 0:44:51Mr. Smith of Nebraska, yes. Mr. Kelly, Mr. Kelly, yes. Mr. Schwikert. Mr. Schwikert. Yes. Mr. Le Hood. Mr. Le Hood. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Arrington. Yes. Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus. Yes. Mr. Smucker. Mr. Smucker. Yes. Mr. Hearn Mr. Hearn. Yes. Mrs. Miller. Mrs. Miller. Yes. Dr. Murphy.
▶ 0:45:17Dr. Murphy. Yes. Mr. Kustoff. Mr. Kustoff. Yes. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes. Mr. Stwie.
▶ 0:45:26Mr. Stwie. Yes. Miss Tenny. Miss Tenny. Yes. Mrs. Fishbach.
▶ 0:45:32Mrs. Fishbach. Yes. Mr. Moore.
▶ 0:45:35Mr. Moore. Yes, Miss Vanine. Miss Vanine. Yes, Mr. Fenstra. Yes,
▶ 0:45:41Mr. Fenstra. Yes, Miss Maliaakus, Miss Malotakus. Yes, Mr. Kerry. Mr. Kerry. Yes, Mr. Yakam.
▶ 0:45:50Mr. Yakam. Yes, Mr. Miller. Mr. Miller. Yes. Mr. Bean.
▶ 0:45:56Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran.
▶ 0:45:59Mr. Moran. Yes. Mr. Neil.
▶ 0:46:03Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Mr. Dogget.
▶ 0:46:10Mr. Thompson.
▶ 0:46:12Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr. Larson.
▶ 0:46:16Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez. Miss Sanchez. Yes. Miss Su. Miss. Delben.
▶ 0:46:30Miss Delen. Yes. Miss Chu. Miss Chu. Yes. Miss Moore. Miss Moore. Yes. Mr. Bole.
▶ 0:46:40Mr. Bole. Yes. Mr. Byer.
▶ 0:46:43Mr. Byer. Yes. Mr. Evans. Mr. Schneider. Mr. Schneider. Yes. Mr. Petta. Mr. Petta. Yes. Mr. Gomez. Mr. Horsesford. Mr. Horzford. Yes. Miss
▶ 0:47:11Mr. Swazy. Hi.
▶ 0:47:13Mr. Swazy. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Miss Su Mr. Evans.
▶ 0:47:31Mr. Gomez. Miss Plask.
▶ 0:47:40Chairman Smith.
▶ 0:47:42Chairman Smith. Yes. The clerk will report the vote.
▶ 0:48:05Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 40 and the nos are zero.
▶ 0:48:08There being 40 yeses and zero nos, the motion is agreed to in HR 7432 as amended as ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR 7432 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views.
▶ 0:48:29Our next order of business is HR7463, the Foster Youth Postsecary Education Access and Success Act, introduced by Representatives Judy Chu and Nathaniel Moran, which will provide greater academic support for foster youth pursuing a post-secary education and increase awareness about the education and training voucher program.
▶ 0:48:52Representative Moran has been a leader in identifying these government that government bureaucracy gets in the way of success. He has worked closely with the Texas Workforce Commission to expand opportunities for work for all [snorts] types of Americans, making him a perfect fit to lead this effort on behalf of foster youth.
▶ 0:49:12Another Texan, Jaden Martinez, who testified at our round table, made a compelling case to update the Chaffi program to increase the value of the voucher and level the playing field. We're glad to have Texans of all stripes leading this effort. And I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I'm pleased to recognize the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Moran, to provide an opening statement.
▶ 0:49:36Thank you, Mr. Chairman. and I rise in strong support of HR 7463, the Foster Youth Post Secondary Education Access and Success Act, which I am proud to co-lead with Congresswoman Chu. Several weeks ago, I had the privilege of hearing from Jaden Martinez, a student from Steven F. Austin University, just about an hour from my house. Jaden's story is one of resilience in the face of instability, abuse, and constant uncertainty. Circumstances no young person should have to endure.
▶ 0:50:05His parents were unable to care for him and like so many foster youth, he was forced to navigate life in the midst of uncertainty. Unfortunately, Jaden's experience is not unique. Thousands of young adults aging out of foster care face similar challenges as they try to build a future.
▶ 0:50:22At the same time, a government accountability office report found that in fiscal year 2023, 28 states returned unused education and training voucher funds, including more than 1.3 million from my home state of Texas. Despite the clear and ongoing need among foster youth for these funds, this statistic alone underscores why this legislation is necessary. HR7463 strengthens the education and training voucher program by doing two things.
▶ 0:50:52First, increasing the maximum ama amount annually that can be awarded from 5,000 to 12,000 without increasing overall program appropriations. And second, by giving states the flexibility to provide a short structured grace period for students who are strug struggling academically. It aligns with President Trump's directive to ensure that unused federal funds intended for foster youth are actually redirected to support their e educational success.
▶ 0:51:21This is a practical bipartisan solution that better aligns resources with the needs and give foster youth a fair chance to succeed. We have a responsibility to invest in the next generation, especially those who have had to overcome the greatest obstacles. Students like Jaden are not just stories. They are inspirations and they are the future of this country. I am proud to co-lead this legislation and I urge my colleagues to support it. With that, I yield back.
▶ 0:51:53Thank you. I now recognize the ranking
▶ 0:51:55Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Let me yield my time to the gentle lady from California, Miss Chu.
▶ 0:52:00Thank you. I'm so proud that today this committee is marking up my bill HR7463, the Foster Youth Postsecary Education Access and Success Act, which I co-lead with Congress member Nathaniel Moran. Foster youth face so many barriers in so many areas of their lives, including attaining a college education.
▶ 0:52:21That's why in 2001, Congress created education and training vouchers or ETVs under the Chaffy program, which provide foster youth a voucher of up to $5,000 per year to attend college.
▶ 0:52:36However, during a subcommittee hearing last year, a former foster youth witness described the unique challenges he faced while navigating college and shared that he wasn't even aware of resources he was eligible for, including ETV, until it was too late. The data backs this up. Currently, only about onethird of eligible youth who attend college even receive an ETV.
▶ 0:53:01Another witness at the hearing shared that the maximum value of the ETB, $5,000 per year, is far too low to truly help cover the cost of higher education. In fact, that amount hasn't been updated since the program was created 25 years ago.
▶ 0:53:20That's exactly why in I introduced My bill would raise the maximum value of the ETV from $5,000 to $12,000 to make higher education more affordable for foster youth. It would also address many of the barriers we know youth face in accessing ETV. First, it would improve state outreach to ensure that more youth are made aware of ETV.
▶ 0:53:47It would also make it easier for you to apply for ETV by requiring a simplified application that is user tested, easy to understand, and available electronically. And finally, the bill would help more foster youth maintain their voucher for the full duration of their education. Currently, foster youth lose access to ETB if they fall short in meeting their state's satisfactory academic progress requirements.
▶ 0:54:17This can happen for many reasons. As we know, foster youth face disproportionate challenges that may hinder their studies. My bill would allow for a grace period for youth who are temporarily struggling so they can get back on track academically without losing their voucher. This bill will make important progress toward ensuring more foster youth can earn a degree.
▶ 0:54:42But if we want to truly ensure that all foster youth can pursue higher education and follow their dreams, this legislation must also be paired with a corresponding increase in overall funding for JAFI ETV. Without an increase, many states will be forced to choose between either raising ETV award amounts or serving fewer young people.
▶ 0:55:09In my state of California, for example, the ex maximum award has already been reduced to 4,500 per year so that states can serve more youth. And yet, there are still over 600 young people on a waiting list to receive ETV. Only additional funding can address these shortfalls and ensure that all youth receive full support.
▶ 0:55:33ETB's funding authorization of $60 million hasn't been updated since the program was first created in 2001. If this were adjusted for inflation alone, it would probably be over $100 million now. We must also increase funding for the entire Shea program, which has only been increased by a measly $3 million since Congress created the program in 1999.
▶ 0:56:02If we are serious about wanting to improve outcomes, our investments must reflect the real needs of the young people we are trying to serve. So, while my bill and other bills being marked up today would make meaningful progress toward ensuring the Chaffy program works better for foster youth, we must not stop here.
▶ 0:56:21After today's markup, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to increase funding for Shavey and ETV to truly meet the needs of our youth. And I look forward to strengthening other programs that help support older foster youth, such as my bipartisan bill, which I just introduced, the increasing access to foster care through age 21 act.
▶ 0:56:48with today's markup and going forward, we will continue working until foster youth have the resources and support to reach their full potential. Thank you. Thank you. The committee will now proceed to consideration of HR7463, the foster youth postsecary education access and success act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point. At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute which was distributed in advance along with a green sheet explaining it.
▶ 0:57:18Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point, and considered base text for purpose of amendment. I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman, work and welfare subcommittee staff director to provide a technical description of the amendment in the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction. I ask that members hold their questions until after her presentation. Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil.
▶ 0:57:44HR7463, the Foster Youth Post-Scary Education Access and Success Act, modifies title 4E of the Social Security Act at at section 477I as it relates to the Chaffi Education and Training Voucher or ETV program.
▶ 0:58:00As reflected on the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of a substitute modifies HR SE 7463 as introduced on page two lines 8 through 15 by making a technical correction to move the parenthetical phrase to follow that program instead of training program and by striking lines 16- 17. These changes are consistent with the intent of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr. Chairman, that completes my walkthrough. I'm happy to answer any technical questions.
▶ 0:58:31Thank you. Are there any technical questions about the amendment in the nature of a substitute?
▶ 0:58:39Any technical questions? Seeing none, we will move to strike the last word. Mr. Thompson is recognized.
▶ 0:58:44Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I want to thank uh everyone who's worked on this important uh piece of legislation. But again, we're making incremental improvements while our entire education system is under attack. This is like repainting the walls in your kitchen while the foundation is crumbling. We need to make sure that everybody has access to quality affordable education.
▶ 0:59:10And you don't need an advanced degree to know that eliminating successful student loan repayment plans will increase costs for students. You don't need an advanced degree to know that capping borrowing options hike the cost. And you don't need an advanced degree to know that eliminating the department of education will increase costs uh for students. Uh I support this bill. I encourage everyone uh to vote accordingly.
▶ 0:59:36uh but I would uh urge everyone on the dis to work together to figure out how we lower uh the cost to make sure everyone will be able to get a good uh education. Failing to do so is going to make it much more difficult for us to educate our doctors, nurses, teachers, social workers, other professionals, and e even in the technical space. Uh we're really putting students at a disadvantage. So vote yes.
▶ 1:00:06Let's agree to work on these issues. Let's lower the cost of uh student loans. Let's make sure that everybody has access to education. I yield back.
▶ 1:00:16Thank you, Mr. Davis.
▶ 1:00:18Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I strongly support HR 7463 led by Representatives Chu and Moran that would improve access to sec postsecary education for foster youth. A college degree increases the likelihood of employment and higher earnings. Unfortunately, foster youth face significant barriers to accessing and completing college.
▶ 1:00:47Although the vast majority of foster youth want to go to college, less than 10% of foster youth obtain a two-year or four-year degree by age 23, with men being significantly less likely to complete college.
▶ 1:01:06Given that foster youth often experience considerable financial hardship and given that pale grants currently cover a small percentage of education expenses, Chaffi education and training vouchers are essential supports for foster youth to access and graduate postsecary Indeed, over the past few decades, many foster youth participating in the Congressional Coalition on Adoption
▶ 1:01:36Institute, Congressional Intern Program have asked for improvements to these training vouchers. So, I applaud this bill for substantially raising the potential amount of these vouchers from $5,000 to 12,500 and for making it easier for foster youth to learn about, apply, and use education and training vouchers. This bill is a strong first step.
▶ 1:02:06In addition, our committee should work to secure the funding needed to deliver in vouchers for foster youth. In the current environment where discretionary education funds keep getting cut, the Ways and Means Committee is in a unique position to guarantee the delivery of these funds.
▶ 1:02:30In addition, research is clear that for many youth, more than education and training vouchers is needed. Research shows that foster youth who attend a 4-year college and receive education training vouchers and who participated in college support systems were significantly more likely to graduate with the first year of college being a critical intervention point.
▶ 1:02:59Additional support beyond the vouchers are critical. Further studies by Chapen Hall suggest several predictors associated with college enrollment. High school grades, reading proficiency, education encouragement, and participation in independent living.
▶ 1:03:21In contrast, contemporary factors like child care responsibilities, working and economic hardship. I strongly support this bill and urge its Foster youth need it tremendously. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I yield back.
▶ 1:03:41Thank you. Are there additional members that wish to strike the last word? Seeing none, we will move to amendments. Are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute? With no amendments, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 1:04:01Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 1:04:10Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably report HR7463 as amended to the House of
▶ 1:04:18The question is on the motion to favorably report HR7463 as amended to the House of Representatives. The clerk will call the
▶ 1:04:25Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 1:04:27Mr. Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Yes. Mr. Kelly. Mr. Kelly. Yes. Mr. Schwiker. Mr. Schwikert. Yes. Mr. Le Hood.
▶ 1:04:40Mr. Mr. Leood. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Arrington. Yes. Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus. Yes. Mr. Smucker.
▶ 1:04:51Mr. Smucker. Yes. Mr. Hearn.
▶ 1:04:55Mr. Hearn. Yes. Mrs. Miller. Mrs. Miller. Yes. Dr. Murphy. Dr. Murphy. Yes. Mr. Kustoff. Mr. Kustoff. Yes. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes. Mr.
▶ 1:05:11Mr. Stwie. Yes. Miss Tenny.
▶ 1:05:14Miss Tenny. Yes. Mrs. Fishbach. Mr. Moore. Miss. Van. Yes.
▶ 1:05:27Miss. Van. Yes. Mr. Fenstra. Mr. Fenstra. Yes. Miss Malotakus. Miss Malotakus. Yes. Mr. Kerry. Mr. Kerry. Yes. Mr. Mr. Yakam.
▶ 1:05:40Mr. Yakam. Yes. Mr. Miller. Mr. Miller. Yes. Mr. Bean.
▶ 1:05:46Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran.
▶ 1:05:50Mr. Moran. Yes. Mr. Neil.
▶ 1:05:54Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Dogget.
▶ 1:06:00Mr. Thompson.
▶ 1:06:02Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr. Larson. Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez. Miss Sanchez. Yes. Miss
▶ 1:06:17Miss Delben.
▶ 1:06:19Miss Delben. Yes. Miss Chu.
▶ 1:06:22Miss Chu. Yes. Miss Moore.
▶ 1:06:25Miss Moore. Yes. Mr. Bole.
▶ 1:06:28Mr. Bole. Yes. Mr. Byer. Mr. Byer. Yes. Mr. Evans. Mr. Schneider,
▶ 1:06:39Mr. Schneider, yes. Mr. Petta,
▶ 1:06:43Mr. Petta, yes. Mr. Gomez, Mr. Horford,
▶ 1:06:49Mr. Horzford, yes. Miss Plask, Mr. Swazy,
▶ 1:06:56Mr. Swazy, yes.
▶ 1:07:01Mrs. Fishbach.
▶ 1:07:06Mr. Moore.
▶ 1:07:08Mr. Moore. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Miss Su, Mr. Evans, Mr. Gomez. Miss Plask.
▶ 1:07:36Chairman Smith.
▶ 1:07:38Chairman Smith. Yes.
▶ 1:07:48The clerk will report the the vote.
▶ 1:07:51Mr. Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 39 and the nos are zero.
▶ 1:07:55There being 39 yeses and zero no, the motion is agreed to and HR 7463 as amended is ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR 7463 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views.
▶ 1:08:16Our next order of business is HR7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act, introduced by Representatives Max Miller and Dwight Evans, which will expand flexibility in the Chaffi Education and Training Voucher Program to allow youth to access short-term workforce and vocational training and credentiing programs.
▶ 1:08:39Since coming to Congress, Congressman Miller has been an outspoken voice in favor of expanding opportunities to people from all walks of life, and he's been an outstanding champion for the vocational training schools in Ohio's 7th Congressional District. His effort to ensure young people have multiple career pathways to success closely closely complements the priorities he's been fighting for. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I'm pleased to recognize a gentleman from Ohio, Mr. Miller for an opening
▶ 1:09:10Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I app truly [clears throat] appreciate your kind comments and working with the Ways and Means staff. I'm pleased to speak in support of my bipartisan bill HR7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act. This legislation will expand the Chaffi program's education and training vouchers so they can be used at short-term training and career technical education programs that lead into demand jobs. This will help youth feel comfortable pursuing alternative career paths without worrying too much about financial barriers.
▶ 1:09:39The Chaffi program has not had significant changes made to it since its creation. As a result, states are returning millions of dollars of unused funds annually. This is mainly due to vouchers being limited in use and are traditionally used at a 4-year universities rather than be used by youth interested in technical and trade careers. We know that in modern economy, in this modern economy, many in demand, high-paying jobs do not require a 4-year degree. So, we should not be forcing young people to get one.
▶ 1:10:10We need to give the options and flexibility to pursue multiple career pathways, whether it is in healthcare, construction, information technology, or the skilled trades. This expansion will not cost the federal government anything. Right now, states are returning unused voucher funds because of underutilization. My home state of Ohio returned more than $400,000 in the fiscal year of 2023. But we also know that it isn't because there aren't any foster youth out there who need it.
▶ 1:10:39During hearings, I've heard about the impact of these vouchers on students enrolled at Kyahoga County Community College in my home districts, and the results, they're incredible. This bill also codifies part of President Trump and the first lady's fostering the future executive order. The EO says to expand ETVS for short-term career focused credential awarding programs.
▶ 1:11:00This bill expands ETVS for remedial education purposes and provides fostered youth an extra year of ETV eligibility if used for this purpose so that youth can receive the academic support they need in a high school diploma or qualify for a post-secary program.
▶ 1:11:16By passing this legislation, which has more than 150 endorsements, including from Action Ohio, Public Children's Services Association of Ohio, and the Ohio Youth Advisory Board, we can equip foster youth with the tools they need to secure a bright future and achieve upward mobility. My bill will help states like Ohio, which returned more than $400,000 in unused funds in 2022, deliver those funds to foster youth so they can receive support to access workforce training programs.
▶ 1:11:44I urge my colleagues to support this bill and the package of bills being considered today. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to the Ways and Means Committee staff. I yield back.
▶ 1:11:52Thank you, Mr. Miller. We'll recess until after the votes and then um we'll we'll come back. Thank you.
▶ 1:54:15The committee will come to order. Mr. Evans is recognized for an opening
▶ 1:54:26Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm thrilled we are making up this bill and I'm co-leading with Mr. Miller, the Foster Workforce Opportunity Act. This bill will help those use Mr. Chaffi's training voucher for education or training. These bills are a good first step to help reform the Chaffi program. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the other side of the aisle.
▶ 1:54:56We must continue to work together to help foster youth in this country. I thank you, Mr. Thank you. The committee will now proceed to consideration of HR 7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point.
▶ 1:55:23At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute which was distributed in advance along with the green sheet explaining it. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point and considered base text for purpose of amendment. I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman for uh work and welfare subcommittee staff director to provide a technical description of the amendment in the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction.
▶ 1:55:53I ask that members hold their questions until after her presentation. Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil. HR 7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act, modifies title 4E of the Social Security Act at section 477I as it relates to the Chaffi Education and Training Voucher Program.
▶ 1:56:16This bill clarifies the use of ETVs for attendance at a community college and expands allowable uses to include short-term workforce training programs that meet Workforce PEL standards in the Higher Education Act.
▶ 1:56:29HR 7343 also expands the allowable use of ETVS to be used for costs associated with participation in an apprenticeship program obtaining a general equivalency degree or remedial education and provides an additional year of eligibility for remedial education allowing up to six years whereas ETVS are otherwise limited to five years.
▶ 1:56:52Finally, the bill aligns the eligibility requirements in Chaffi and the ETV program to include foster youth who have left foster care for kinship guardianship or or adoption beginning at age 14. As reflected on the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of a substitute modifies HR 7343 as introduced on page four, line one by striking not provided by and inserting not already available through.
▶ 1:57:20These changes are consistent with the intent of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr. Chairman, that completes my walkthrough. I'm happy to answer technical questions.
▶ 1:57:31Thank you. Are there any technical questions from members about the amendment and the nature of a
▶ 1:57:39Seeing none, does anyone wish to strike the last word? Mr. Hearn is recognized for five minutes.
▶ 1:57:46Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, this the topic of this markup today is very near and dear to my wife and I. Supporting the most vulnerable of our nation's children, those who do not have stable families of their own to take care of them is something she and I are very passionate about. I'm grateful for the first lady's leadership on this issue and her dedication to supporting America's children. I'd also like to thank the chairman for holding this markup so that we can better support foster youth in America.
▶ 1:58:13The Chaffi foster care program provides critical resources for older foster youth, setting them up for independence and a successful transition to adulthood. Oklahoma uses these funds for the Oklahoma Successful Adult Program, which serves foster youth at various stages to help them achieve self-sufficiency. OKSA [snorts] focuses on several targeted areas of support, including education, employment, and life skills.
▶ 1:58:38The Chaffy program allows states to provide a range of programs to support foster youth, but states have been returning these funds to the federal government for nearly two decades. Oklahoma returned over $145,000 in 2018, despite the need for the support from foster youth. The reforms made by this package of bills we are marking up today will allow states to better utilize these funds and better successfully help foster youth gain self-sufficiency as they enter into adulthood.
▶ 1:59:08One of the reasons I decided to run for Congress that was that American dream no longer felt accessible for all Americans. I felt that a child growing up like I did, coming from a school uh from school to a house with no running water, not knowing if there would be food on the table, would not have the same opportunities today had I as I did back then. And growing up in the environment I did, it took hard work, education, and the right opportunities for me to make it to this point in my life.
▶ 1:59:36I was determined to pull myself up, and I knew that obtaining an education was the best way to reach my goals. I am proud to co-sponsor the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act, allowing young adults in foster care to access short-term workforce training programs that lead to in- demand jobs, expanding their opportunities for success. Education doesn't look the same for everyone, and a four-year degree isn't always the best option.
▶ 2:00:02Workforce and vocational training programs provide specialized and careerpecific training allowing individuals to enter the workforce with the necessary skills to succeed. A foster youth named Anna who is pursuing trade school shared her support for the bill saying it would quote help create some breathing room in quote for her as she finishes her training.
▶ 2:00:24We owe it to the Americas to America's foster youu to ensure the Chaffi program is working for them providing them with the best opportunities for success and independence. This legislation and the package of reforms that we are considering today will make a meaningful difference in their lives and of all foster youth and ensure they can achieve and receive the resources they need for successful future. I yield back.
▶ 2:00:52Thank you. I now recognize Miss Malotakus for 5 minutes.
▶ 2:00:56Thank you very much. I am proud to support HR 7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act, introduced by Congressman Miller and Congressman Evans. This bipartisan bill has a common sense approach to expanding opportunity for foster youth by making sure federal resources reflect the real world pathways young people are choosing today. The Chaffi Education and Training Voucher Program provides up to $5,000 per year to help foster youth pursue education and training.
▶ 2:01:26But too often these funds are geared towards traditional four-year colleges. Even though many young people are interested in trade schools, workforce programs, apprenticeships that lead directly to good paying jobs. This bill makes practical, straightforward updates. It clarifies that vouchers can be used at community colleges and expands eligibility to include short-term workforce training programs that meet strong quality standards.
▶ 2:01:53It also allows funds to support apprenticeships, GED programs, and remedial education. And importantly, it gives foster youth who need additional preparation more time to succeed by extending eligibility from 5 years to six years. Right now, millions of dollars are going unused. In fiscal year 2022 alone, 28 states returned more than 6.3 million in unspent voucher funds.
▶ 2:02:20That's unacceptable when there are young people aging out of foster care who could be using that support to build a future. And this allows those dollars to go to work for those youth. in my in my district, organizations like the Seaman Society for Children and Families on Staten Island. This was an organization I was very proud uh to serve on the board of. They're looking for um ways to help foster youth transition into adulthood.
▶ 2:02:47They know that success doesn't look the same for every young person. And this bill gives them the flexibility to connect youth with the right opportunities, whether that's education, job training, or career placement. And as a former uh board member of this organization, I've seen firsthand the impact of their work and the challenges that the our youth still face.
▶ 2:03:10This common sense approach is also supported by leading child welfare advocates including fostering youth success alliance and systemic abuse and the Schuler Center for Analysis and Advocacy in New York. At the end of the day, this legislation is about results and making sure that money is well spent and going to help the very people that it's intended.
▶ 2:03:32It's about making sure that foster youth have real options, that taxpayer dollars are being used effectively, and that local partners have the tools they need to help our young people succeed. And by cutting the red tape and expanding opportunity, we are better preparing our foster youth for independence and long-term success. With that, I'm very proud to support this bill, and I urge everyone to vote for it. And I yield back.
▶ 2:03:57Thank you. I now recognize Dr. Murphy for five minutes.
▶ 2:04:00Thank you, Mr. Chairman. You know, like yesterday's hearing, I think there are a lot of issues here and it's nice to see some good bipartisan work. There was a lot of things that came out of yesterday's hearing. I think there's a lot of a rich environment, a target rich, I like to say, things that we can work on. And this obviously this issue with foster care is one uh is one of these.
▶ 2:04:17I I just want to say I fully support HR 7343, the Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act, which improves the education and training vouchers program by expanding how foster youth can use those funds, specifically making short-term workforce training programs and their apprenticeships eligible for these vouchers. These reforms are needed now more than ever. And it is a crippling statistic to hear that only 8 to 10% of foster youth earn a two or 40-year degree by their mid20s compared to almost 50% by their peers.
▶ 2:04:48And only a onethird of those foster youth foster youth gain employment by age 21. Those are crippling statistics. I'm a strong believer in the amount of great amount of dignity that comes from work, getting up, having purpose, getting a job, and doing a job well done. Work is not just a paycheck. It gives people a reason to get out of bed. They show up, put up the effort, produce something, and discover themselves about something that can't be taught in any other way.
▶ 2:05:14This allows them to learn skills that are transferable, makes time make gives them time management skills, communication, accountability, all the things that need to a wonderful and successful career, and honestly, a life worth living. Work is a great place to build relationships and make friends. Some of the best friends of the people that I've worked with, even a couple here in Congress, and I think everyone in the room can say the same. A few in Congress, maybe not, but that's a different issue.
▶ 2:05:40Work allows young people, especially those in foster care, to take the next step in their lives and earn a truly earn a living. I've been in foster homes when I was in the state house. I I did a lot of work going into foster homes. Those are challenging challenging environment. And if you took a second and put yourself in the shoes of a child who has either been abandoned or put in a foster home and they move foster home to foster home, we had one young man that came at the hearing the other day.
▶ 2:06:06What a spectacular speech he gave, but what a challenging environment that is for young individuals to find meaningful uh to find meaning and purpose. So, I think anything that we can do to support these individuals is critical. I'm proud to support this bill and I'm thankful to Congressman Miller Evans and First Lady of Melania Trump for all of their efforts in supporting foster youth. I yield back and encourage my colleagues for an urgent and quick and speedy and successful vote. Thank you. I'll yield back.
▶ 2:06:34Thank you. Any other members wishing to strike the last word? Uh just very briefly, I would like to add uh my appreciation to the entire committee for working on this very important issue and certainly modernizing the programs that can really make a positive impact. I certainly salute the University of Nebraska Lincoln that uh in 2024 they initiated the Nebraska Youth Homelessness System Improvement Project to help identify youth in need of stable housing and making it easier for them to navigate available services.
▶ 2:07:03and uh appreciate the comments previously made in appreciation of the first lady's efforts with the committee specifically and certainly on the issue in general. Any others wishing to strike the last Seeing Seeing none, are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute? Seeing none, if there are no further amendments, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute.
▶ 2:07:32All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 2:07:35Those opposed, nay. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it. And the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 2:07:45Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably [clears throat] report HR 7343 as amended to the House of
▶ 2:07:54The question is on the motion to favorably report HR 7343 as amended to the House of Representatives. Clerk, call the role.
▶ 2:08:01Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 2:08:03Mr. Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of
▶ 2:08:06Mr. Smith of Nebraska, yes. Mr. Kelly,
▶ 2:08:10Mr. Kelly, yes. Mr. Schwiker, Mr. Schwiker, yes. Mr. Leood, Mr. Le Hood, yes. Mr. Arrington, Mr. Arrington. Yes, Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus, yes. Mr. Smucker. Mr. Smucker. Yes, Mr. Hearn.
▶ 2:08:31Mr. Hearn. Yes, Mrs. Miller.
▶ 2:08:35Mrs. Miller. Yes,
▶ 2:08:37Dr. Murphy.
▶ 2:08:39Dr. Murphy. Yes, Mr. Kustoff.
▶ 2:08:43Mr. Kustoff. Yes, Mr. Fitzpatrick.
▶ 2:08:46Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes, Mr. Stwie.
▶ 2:08:50Mr. Stwie. Yes, Miss Tenny. Mrs. M Fishbach.
▶ 2:09:01Mr. Moore.
▶ 2:09:02Mr. Moore. Yes. Miss Vanine.
▶ 2:09:09Mr. Fenstra. Miss Malotakus. Miss Maliotakus. Yes. Mr. Kerry.
▶ 2:09:20Mr. Kerry. Yes. Mr. Yakam.
▶ 2:09:24Mr. Yakam. Mr. Miller. Mr. Miller. Yes. Mr. Bean.
▶ 2:09:30Bean. Yes.
▶ 2:09:31Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran.
▶ 2:09:34Mr. Moran. Yes.
▶ 2:09:36Mr. Neil.
▶ 2:09:38Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Mr. Thompson. Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr. Larson.
▶ 2:09:48Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez. Miss Sanchez. Yes. Miss Sulen. Miss Delben. Yes. Miss Chu.
▶ 2:10:05Miss Chu. Yes. Miss Moore.
▶ 2:10:09Miss Moore. Yes. Mr. Boille.
▶ 2:10:12Mr. Boille. Yes. Mr. Byer.
▶ 2:10:15Mr. Byer. Yes. Mr. Evans.
▶ 2:10:19Mr. Evans. Yes. Mr. Schneider. Mr. Schneider. Yes. Mr. Mr. Petta Mr. Petta. Yes. Mr. Gomez.
▶ 2:10:29Mr. Gomez. Yes. Mr. Horford. Mr. Horford. Yes. Miss Plask. Mr. Swazy. Mr. Swazy. Yes. Miss Tenny. Mrs. Fishbach. Miss Vanine. Miss Vanine. Yes, Mr. Mr.
▶ 2:10:59Fenstra. Yes, Mr. Dogget. Miss Su Miss Plask.
▶ 2:11:15Chairman Smith.
▶ 2:11:16Chairman Smith. Yes. The clerk will report the vote.
▶ 2:11:32Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 40 and the nos are zero.
▶ 2:11:35There being 40 yeses and zero nos, the motion is agreed to in HR 7343 as amended is ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR 7343 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views. Our next order of business is HR7529, the fresh starts for foster youth act introduced by work and welfare subcommittee ranking member Davis and chairman Le Hood.
▶ 2:12:05This bill will improve access to legal services for foster youth. Youth who age out of the child welfare system often lack permanent connections to family and face barriers that can make transitioning into adulthood difficult. Mr.
▶ 2:12:19La Hood has been one of the most consistent voices in Congress for so many of these these [snorts] youth and I was so pleased that we heard directly from a foster youth from Chairman Le Hood's home state of Illinois, Joselyn, who shared with us at our roundt the importance of the changes we are making today.
▶ 2:12:39Like many of the bills we're looking at today, feedback from youth who have experienced foster care and the case workers and community organizations on the ground has been a key driver and this bill in particular reflects that. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I'm pleased to recognize the gentleman from Illinois, Mr. Le Hood for an opening statement.
▶ 2:12:59Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I move to strike the last word. And I want to thank you, Chairman Smith, for your leadership and partnership on all of these bills that we're um debating and and marking up and passing today. Um foster youth who age out of care often face unique challenges compared to their peers as they enter into their early 20s.
▶ 2:13:20So the bill that we have today, Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act, helps to um give support to to those youth. Their path to stability is not always straightforward. It may require them to access legal services and resolve issues uh that they may have not foreseen. To this end, I have joined uh my friend uh and colleague, Ranking Member Danny Davis, in introducing the Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act.
▶ 2:13:48This bipartisan bill will ensure that states take legal issues into consideration as part of case planning for SHA eligible foster youth. According to an estimate by the Casey family programs, more than 70% of foster youth are separated from one or more of their siblings while in foster care. Entering the foster welfare system is already traumatic for children. And being separated from their siblings only adds to that trauma.
▶ 2:14:15As some youth age out of the system, their youngest siblings may still remain in care. Often older foster youth need access to legal services to help them take custody or legal guardianship of their younger siblings. Further, in 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General published a report which found that foster youth are highly vulnerable to identity theft.
▶ 2:14:41This is due to the fact that their personally identified and financial information is accessed is accessed by various people when they change placements in foster care. As a result of this um of these different placements, youth can easily become victims of credit fraud, leading to inaccurate information on credit reports under their name and making them more vulnerable to identity theft and fraud.
▶ 2:15:10I recently learned about a foster youth from Canton, Ohio named Lyric who wrote in in support of our bill. He shared how he was setting up a new Wi-Fi router at his home and was shocked to learn there were already several uh bills that had his name attached to it. He shared that if the identity of a foster youth is misused, it limits their future and transition to adulthood before it ever begins.
▶ 2:15:36Lyric went on to say, "How would you feel if you're going to set up Wi-Fi at your home only to find out there's bills already in your name uh by several others? For so many foster youth, that's not a question. It's a reality." For someone whose name carries a story, I know how much it means to have a fresh start. When records aren't cleared, identities are misused, or housing barriers exist. It doesn't just follow us. It limits our future before it even begins.
▶ 2:16:05The Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act is about protection, fairness, and giving us a real chance to step into adulthood clean, stable, and free. Unfortunately, foster care is already a barrier, and our path shouldn't decide how far we go." Unquote from Lyric. These types of issues can be real barriers for foster youth and as we seek as as they seek employment and try to access housing, auto loans and other basic needs needed for a foundation for stability.
▶ 2:16:36Access to legal services and counseling can help. By supporting the fresh starts for foster youth act, we can ensure that a history of being in foster care does not limit the potential of foster youth as they move towards a path of stability and self-sufficiency. With that, Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I yield back.
▶ 2:16:56Thank you. I now recognize the ranking member from Massachusetts.
▶ 2:16:59Let me yield my time to the gentleman from Illinois, Dr. Davis.
▶ 2:17:04Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you, Mr. Neil. Mr. Chairman, I'm proud of the sincere collaborative process in which Chairman Le Hood and I have engaged that yielded these six pieces of legislation that signify real consensus.
▶ 2:17:24These bills reflect first steps that represent real progress and I believe that we can accomplish far more, especially with the first lady's Foster youth face numerous challenges as they transition to adulthood.
▶ 2:17:43Foster youth can experience legal needs that often are acute and time sensitive, threatening a young person's housing, educational goals, income, and family stability at a time when they have the least support.
▶ 2:18:04Since launching its virtual support services program for foster youth in Think of Us reports that 18% of all requests from transition age youth are for help with legal services.
▶ 2:18:24A few of the issues include housing stability and eviction defense, guardianship and custody, especially for youth informally, caring for relatives, needs of expectant and parenting youth, re-entry into extended care, legal issues, education and disability I want to thank
▶ 2:18:55Nicolas Hugley, a former foster youth intern with the Congressional Coalition on Adoption for raising the issue of urgent legal Chairman Lehood and I lead the Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act, which would help foster youth transition to by providing better access to resources to legal issues affecting housing,
▶ 2:19:26education, employment, and family Specifically, the bill would amend the Chaffi program to require states to consider legal issues affecting youth as part of case planning and to provide states with the option to use funds to support access to legal representation and counseling.
▶ 2:19:54I am grateful that this bill is supported by over 140 foster, youth, legal, and child and family advocates. I am proud of this bill and the other five we are considering today, and I hope that they are just the first of many bipartisan Notably, there is a critical need for more investment.
▶ 2:20:22Aside from the pandemic, Congress has only increased Chaffi funding by $3 million since its creation in 1999, excluding the funds we later added for education and training vouchers, which also have not been adjusted for inflation. So, right now, we spend about $143 million a year on Chaffy.
▶ 2:20:50If the 1999 funding had been adjusted for inflation, Chaffi would receive 270 million each year. The amount of investment needed today is tiny compared to the fiscal impact of a routine tax markup in our committee or day at the defense department. Yet, such funding could be lifechanging for foster youth.
▶ 2:21:17Further, there are other important policy improvements we could make. For years, foster youth have championed my bill to help them obtain driving related assistance. Transportation presents one of the biggest barriers for foster youth to access education and employment especially in rural areas.
▶ 2:21:41The Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative found that foster youth with driver's license were 1.6 times as likely as their peers to attend school and almost twice as likely to work. And Jocelyn, one of the foster youth who attended the roundt with the first lady, spoke to me at length about how a peer mentoring program in Illinois was critical to her success.
▶ 2:22:09We could also help youth build assets or connect youth to their kin whether or not those family members are able to be foster parent implements. In closing, I am so grateful for the opportunity to do so much bipartisan work on child welfare during my 30 years in Congress. These bills today are important initial improvements to chaffing.
▶ 2:22:38I have enjoyed certainly working with chairman of our subcommittee, chairman Darren Le Hood, and we will continue to work together and do even more before I retire. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back.
▶ 2:22:55Thank you, Mr. Davis. Um, the committee will now proceed to consideration of the Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point. At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute, which was distributed in advance along with a green sheet explaining it. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point, and considered base text for the purpose of amendment.
▶ 2:23:23I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman, work and welfare subcommittee staff director, to provide a technical description of the amendment and the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction. I ask that members hold their questions until after her presentation.
▶ 2:23:37Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil. HR7529, the Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act, modifies title 4E of the Social Security Act at section 477 as it relates to the Chaffi program. The bill clarifies purposes section of the statute that Chaffi is intended to support access to legal counseling.
▶ 2:23:58It also adds a new state plan requirement to include certification that the state has processes in place to take into consideration legal issues that may impact a youth's transition into adulthood adulthood as part of their case planning as well as efforts required to address such issues.
▶ 2:24:15As reflected in the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of a substitute modifies HR 7529 as introduced on page two line 14 to strike the effect of these changes are consistent with the intent of pro of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr. Chairman, that completes my walkthrough. I'm happy to answer technical questions.
▶ 2:24:37Thank you. Are there any technical questions about the amendment and the nature of substitute? Seeing none, we'll move to strike the last word. Does any member wish to strike the last word? Miss Miller.
▶ 2:24:50Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move to strike the last word. In my home state of West Virginia, more than 15,000 foster youth aged out of the child welfare system. While a majority of foster youth attained permanency, we know that there is more that can be done to improve the programs that support our nation's foster youth. We know that foster youth who age out of the system face a challenging path to adulthood and need stability.
▶ 2:25:19These foster youth lack access to stable housing, educational support, legal services, and supportive networks. I appreciate the committee's focus on modernizing the John H. Chaffy foster care program for successful transition to adulthood. The bipartisan comprehensive package of bills being considered today reflects the needs of foster youth with lived experience.
▶ 2:25:45Specifically, the Fresh Starts of Foster Youth Act would help foster youth resolve legal issues they are facing during a vulnerable period in their lives. Many foster youths need assistance addressing legal complications that can impact their ability to gain employment and build their futures.
▶ 2:26:04According to a foster youth named Russ, who sent a letter of support, this bill is a smart preventive approach that helps ensure young people aren't set back before they even have a fair chance to move forward. In addition, the package of bills members of this committee have introduced would address the chronic underutilization of Chaffy program funds so that foster youth receive the critical support that they need.
▶ 2:26:31My home state of West Virginia has had trouble drawing down Chaffy program funds, returning more than one of the money it has received from 2010 to 2023. But West Virginia is not the only state having trouble drawing down on the funds.
▶ 2:26:47According to the GAO, states have been returning funds since at least 2007, and 28 states returned 6.3 million dollars of unused education and training voucher funds in The returned funds from states like West Virginia then end up in other states, really depriving the foster youth in my state of the resources that they need.
▶ 2:27:14Last December, the Mountain State Spotlight published an article about a teenager named Jaden Hol who wants to be a barber, but he's unable to afford barber school. The article states how he already has two sons and didn't know about the existence of federal resources, referring to education and training vouchers to help him pay for school.
▶ 2:27:36The package of bipartisan bills considered today would expand the vouchers for trade and vocational programs such as Barber School and would require greater efforts to raise awareness about the vouchers.
▶ 2:27:49Jaden stated in the article, "I've never been the type to have hopes and dreams about stuff because growing up I never saw a future." This committee has a real opportunity to ensure that youth like Jaden can pursue their hopes and dreams by helping states like West Virginia draw down on federal funds and youth can pursue a career path of their choice and secure a brighter future. I urge my colleagues to support this package of bills and I yield back.
▶ 2:28:19Thank you, Mr. Thompson.
▶ 2:28:21Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh I support this legislation uh which allows states to better utilize funds to ensure foster youth can access critical legal services. Uh but once again, we're making incremental improvements. There are bigger issues that our committee should be addressing. This is the greatest committee in the Congress. We should be taking on these issues and we should be addressing them rather than making uh baby steps.
▶ 2:28:49The administration today is failing to address the root causes that lead to many young people into the legal system in the first place. We know that behavioral and mental health challenges are a primary driver of youth involvement with the judicial system. Yet HR1 passed out of this committee, passed out of the House, and signed into law, made deep cuts to the very services designed to address those challenges.
▶ 2:29:18In California, my home state, one of one in three residents rely on medical for essential care, including lifesaving ben u behavioral health services. With these cut new cuts, added red tape, and increased administrative barriers, too many young people will be left without access to the care they need, the care that our communities need.
▶ 2:29:44As a result, more youth will be pushed into already strained county behavioral health systems, shifting costs to local governments. And for too many, the first point of intervention will not be care, but contact with law enforcement and the justice system. That's not right. If we are serious about helping foster youth, we must invest in prevention, not just legal services after the fact. Mr.
▶ 2:30:14Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record a report from the California Budget and Policy Center detailing the impacts that HR1 will have on behavioral health care in California.
▶ 2:30:29Without objection.
▶ 2:30:30Thank you and I yield back.
▶ 2:30:31Thank you, Miss Moore.
▶ 2:30:36Thank you so much, Mr. Chairman. And I want to give my fullthroatated support to HR7529. You know, this is so preient uh uh Dr. Davis and and and Representative Le Hood. There are some things we were discussing today that are just so obvious that youth aging out of foster care need like housing or educational opportunities, but this really digs really deep into some of the troubles that youth face when they're aging out.
▶ 2:31:07We've already mentioned identity theft. So many children are exploited, their names being used on utility bills and so on. Uh and that needs to be straightened out with legal support. Name changes. Young people sometimes find themselves in situations where they must or should change their names in order to move forward in life with the identity uh the name that most reflects their identity.
▶ 2:31:37Uh again, what was also mentioned was that sometimes they need legal help in searching for siblings, uh correcting birth certificates, or maybe even as Mr. Thompson has suggested, challenging entries onto juvenile records. Um I uh I think that this is very preient. I want to thank the authors for bringing it forward and I would urge all my colleagues to support it and I would yield back the balance of my time.
▶ 2:32:05Are there additional members that wish to strike the last word? Seeing none, we will move to amendments. Are there any amendments in the in the amendment in the nature of a substitute? Seeing no amendments, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 2:32:23Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 2:32:32Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably report HR 7529 as amended to the House of Representatives.
▶ 2:32:40The question is on the motion to favorably report HR7529 as amended to the House of Representatives. The clerk will call the
▶ 2:32:48Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 2:32:49Mr. Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of
▶ 2:32:56Mr. Kelly, Mr. Schwiker Mr. Le Hood Mr. Leood Yes. Mr. Arrington Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus. Yes. Mr. Smucker. Mr. Smucker. Yes. Mr. Hearn.
▶ 2:33:26Mr. Hearn. Yes.
▶ 2:33:28Mrs. Miller.
▶ 2:33:30Mrs. Miller. Yes, Dr. Murphy.
▶ 2:33:34Dr. Murphy. Yes, Mr. Kustoff.
▶ 2:33:38Mr. Kustoff. Yes, Mr. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes, Mr. Stwie. Mr. Stwie. Yes, Miss Tenny. Mrs. Fishbach.
▶ 2:33:53Mrs. Fishbach. Yes. Mr. Moore.
▶ 2:33:57Mr. Moore. Yes. Miss Vanine. Miss Vanine. Yes, Mr. Fenstra.
▶ 2:34:03Mr. Fenstra. Yes, Miss Malotakus. Miss Maliaakis. Yes, Mr. Kerry.
▶ 2:34:09Mr. Kerry. Yes, Mr. Yakam.
▶ 2:34:13Mr. Yakam.
▶ 2:34:14Yes, Mr. Miller.
▶ 2:34:16Mr. Miller. Yes. Mr. Bean.
▶ 2:34:20Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran.
▶ 2:34:23Mr. Moran. Yes. Mr. Neil.
▶ 2:34:28Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Mr. Dogget. Mr. Thompson.
▶ 2:34:35Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr. Larson.
▶ 2:34:38Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis.
▶ 2:34:42Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez.
▶ 2:34:45Miss Sanchez. Yes. Miss Su. Miss Delen.
▶ 2:34:53Miss Delen. Yes. Miss Chu. Miss Chu. Yes. Miss Moore. Miss Moore. Yes. Mr. Bole.
▶ 2:35:02Mr. Boille. Yes. Mr. Byer.
▶ 2:35:05Mr. Byer. Yes. Mr. Evans.
▶ 2:35:09Mr. Evans. Yes. Mr. Schneider.
▶ 2:35:12Mr. Schneider. Yes. Mr. Petta.
▶ 2:35:16Mr. Petta. Yes. Mr. Gomez.
▶ 2:35:19Mr. Gomez. Yes. Mr. Horford. Mr. Horford. Yes. Miss Plask. Mr. Swazy. Hi.
▶ 2:35:30Mr. Swasy. Yes. Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Yes. Mr. Kelly. Mr. Kelly. Yes. Mr. Schwikert. Mr. Schwikert. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Arrington. Yes. Miss Tenny. Miss. Tenny. Yes. Mr. Dogget.
▶ 2:35:58Miss Su, Miss Plask,
▶ 2:36:06Chairman Smith.
▶ 2:36:08Chairman Smith. Yes.
▶ 2:36:20Clerk will report the vote.
▶ 2:36:22Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 42 and the nos are zero. There being 42 yeses and zero nos, the motion is agreed to in as amended [snorts] is ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR7529 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views.
▶ 2:36:46Our next order of business is HR7655, the Support for Expectant and Parenting Foster Youth Act, introduced by Representative Rudy Yakam and Work and Welfare Subcommittee Ranking Member Danny Davis, which will improve access to home visiting services offered through the maternal, infant, and early childhood home visiting program for youth in foster care who are expectant or parenting.
▶ 2:37:11In 2022, the committee worked on a bipartisan basis to reauthorize the MCVY program, a success led by Representative Yakam's predecessor, the late Miss Jackie Warski. Her work strengthened the program's focus on evidence-based interventions and made available additional matching funds for states.
▶ 2:37:31Congressman Yakam is a perfect choice to build upon Jackie's great work to ensure those existing resources are connected to the foster care system where we know that they can make a big impact. This is a creative and thoughtful bill that leverages the different resources Congress has made available in a truly meaningful way. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I'm pleased to recognize the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Yakam for an opening statement.
▶ 2:37:58Thank you, Mr. chairman uh not only for the kind words but also for recognizing the incredible work that my predecessor Jackie Worski did on this bill. As we held hearings on the Chaffi program throughout the last year, we regularly heard from that siloed programs and opaque guidelines create additional hurdles for foster youth transitioning to adulthood. The bills we are considering today are essential to better supporting foster youth and alleviating unnecessary Foster youth are more likely to become parents compared with their peers.
▶ 2:38:28Specifically, 70% of women in foster care become pregnant by the age of 21 compared with just 34% of their peers. Navigating the foster youth system can be difficult enough, but adding the demands of parenting presents a special challenge for older foster youth who are also parents. I'm proud to lead the Support for Expectant and Parenting Foster Youth Act with my friend, Ranking Member Davis.
▶ 2:38:53This bill strengthens the coordination between the Chaffi program and the maternal infant early childhood home visiting or MCV program. I would like to share the story of a Hooser named Jada who aged out of foster care and participated in the MCV program. She shared that she didn't always have the best role models to teach her parenting skills.
▶ 2:39:12But the MCVY program gave her access to important postpartum resources and helped her build parenting skills and better understand child her child's My bill would help more parenting expecting foster youth a access the MCV services by improving program coordination and allowing for specialized case management. Connecting foster youth with evidence-based Mikvy services can help improve infant health, teach parent, young parents critical skills, and promote early childhood literacy.
▶ 2:39:43These improved outcomes strengthen families and keep children from entering into the foster care system. Thank you to Ranking Member Davis for your work on this bill and for your longtime support of the Mikvy program. Passing these bipartisan bills will help modernize the Chaffi program, alleviate resource fragmentation, and ultimately better support foster youth who are transitioning to adulthood. I urge my colleagues to support these bills and I yield back.
▶ 2:40:08Thank you, Mr. Mr. Nil.
▶ 2:40:10That's great.
▶ 2:40:15Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Let me yield my time to Dr. Davis.
▶ 2:40:18Thank you, Mr. Neil, and it was indeed a pleasure to work with Representative Mr. Chairman, youth with foster care are at least four times more likely to become early parents than their peers.
▶ 2:40:38According to the National Youth in Transition Database, 22% of young adults surveyed at age 21 who were in foster care at age 17 had welcomed a child in the prior two years.
▶ 2:40:59In contrast, the latest kids count data center reports that only 5% of young adults aged 18 to 24 are parents. These expectant and parenting foster youth face additional unique such as restricted autonomy and parenting decisions and possible challenges to their right to legal
▶ 2:41:29and physical custody of a Further, the numerous hurdles all foster youth face as they transition to including limited financial, housing, employment, and educational are even more complicated for young parents. Mr.
▶ 2:41:56Yakam and I have the privilege of representing two states, Illinois and Indiana. Two states that are national leaders in helping expectant and parent and foster youth address the unique challenges they I also want to recognize the efforts of researchers and advocates who've worked hard to understand the needs of and effective
▶ 2:42:27interventions to support these youth including Mark Kourtney and Amy Dwarski with Chapen Hall, Justin Hardy at Arizona State University, the Teen Parenting Services Network at Ukan and in Chicago, the Center for the Study of Social Policy, the Children's Law Center of Youth Villages,
▶ 2:42:57and the Transition Aids Youth Research and Evaluation Hub at the University of California at Berkeley. From their work, we know that specialized case management for expectant and parent and foster youth, coupled with connections to key are important, especially to helping these youth transition to their new role as young parents.
▶ 2:43:28One resource supported by decades of research is home visiting. Home visiting is demonstrated to help prevent child abuse and neglect, strengthen positive parenting, improve maternal and child health, and promote child development and school readiness.
▶ 2:43:51Home visiting programs provide pregnant new mothers and families with young children with regular planned visits from trained professionals who help them improve their healthy living and parenting skills. Promote child development and access needed resources and services.
▶ 2:44:15These services are vital for at youth at risk youth like young parents in foster care. I proudly join with Representative Yakam to ensure that these young parents get what they need so that they and their children can thrive and survive.
▶ 2:44:40The support for expectant and parent and foster youth act would help expectant and parent and foster youth transition to adulthood by requiring state chaffy programs to inform youth about the maternal infant and early childhood home visiting or MCV program to better support expectant and parent and foster youth and by encouraging states to provide tailored case management
▶ 2:45:10and resource coordination services to expectant and parents and foster youth. In our next efforts to help foster youth, I hope that we can also provide more financial support to states and tribes trying to help expectant and parenting foster youth and their children flourish.
▶ 2:45:33Providing these vulnerable foster youth with access to home visiting is especially personal for me because I'm honored to call bipartisan home visiting policies one of my proudest legacies of my 30 years in Congress.
▶ 2:45:51From my work with Senator Kit Bun and Representative Tom Osborne and Todd Platt to propose dedicated funding for home visiting in 2005 to my strong partnership with Representative Jackie Warski to expand and enhance MACB in 2022. We always put partisanship aside to help children and families.
▶ 2:46:19I hope my colleagues will support this bill to ensure that expectant foster youth have access to home visiting today and that when it comes time to reauthorize MCV next Congress, the committee will once again take bipartisan action to ensure that families in need of home visiting get it. Karen Jackis and my work into the future. I thank you, Mr.
▶ 2:46:49Chairman, for your indulgence and yield back the balance of my time.
▶ 2:46:53Thank you, Mr. Davis. Um, we appreciate your heart and commitment to the foster foster youth. Um, uh, the committee will now proceed to consideration of HR 7655, the support for ex expectant and parenting foster youth act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point. At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute, which was distributed in advance along with a green sheet explaining it.
▶ 2:47:18Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point and considered base text for purpose of amendment. I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman, work and welfare subcommittee staff director, to provide a technical description of the amendment in the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction. I ask that members hold their questions until after a presentation. Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil.
▶ 2:47:44HR7655, the Support for Expectant and Parenting Foster Youth Act, modifies title 4E of the SEC the Social Security Act at section 477 as it relates to the Chaffi program. The bill adds a purpose and a new state plan requirement to include a certification that the state has processes in place to ensure that foster youth who is expecting or parenting is provided with information about services funded by the MCV program in the state.
▶ 2:48:13The bill also permits a state to use funds from its Chaffy aotment to provide tailored case management and resource coordination services to eligible expectant and parenting foster youth. As reflected on the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of the substitute modifies HR7655 as introduced on page three, line 11 to strike C and insert C1. These changes are consistent with the intent of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr.
▶ 2:48:42Chairman, that completes my walkthrough. I'm happy to answer technical questions.
▶ 2:48:46Thank you. Are there any technical questions about the amendment and the nature of a substitute? Seeing none, we will move to strike the last word. Mr. Moore, you're recognized to strike the last word.
▶ 2:48:57Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move to strike the last word. Um, I'm really really pleased that the committee is continuing its bipartisan tradition of making reforms to our nation's foster care system to support vulnerable foster youth and families in our country. Last Congress, this committee reauthorized and modernized the Title 4 B foster care program, which included a bill introduced to equipped courts for training, legal representation, and technological modernization to improve the timeliness of foster youth waiting for adoption.
▶ 2:49:27Each year, however, nearly 16,000 foster youth age out of foster care without achieving their permanency goals. In my in my home state of Utah, 8% of children in foster care aged out in 2025.
▶ 2:49:41The committee's efforts to modernize and reform the Title 4 E Chaffy foster care program will uplift these foster youth and provide them with the tools they need for success as they transition to In particular, the Support for Expectant and Parenting Foster Youth Act will connect expecting and parenting youth in foster care with evidence-based maternal, infant, and early childhood home visiting services that can improve the health of mothers.
▶ 2:50:07The family's economic well-being and support and and support healthy child development. In 2025, nearly 1450 families were served by 18,600 homes home visits in just Utah. This bill will ensure the evidence-based federal programs like Mickvy are maximized and families in need of uh families that are in need receive critical support.
▶ 2:50:32This bill also takes a preventative service-based approach to also ensure families can re remain together and reduce the rate of which the children of foster of foster youth enter into the the welfare system. Further, the bipartisan package of bills being considered in the committee today will make needed programmatic changes to the Chaffy program to ensure the program is working as intended and foster youth can receive the resources that they may need.
▶ 2:50:57From 2018 to 2022, my home state of Utah has returned unused education and training voucher funds. In 2022, Utah returned more than 80,000 in unused funds. Passing these reforms can ensure that funds get to foster youth in Utah, not passed along to other states like California that may have consistently taken unused funds from states like Utah. So, I'm sincerely grateful uh to First Lady Melania Trump for her leadership in advocating for reforms to the foster care system. So, it's addressing the needs for foster youth today.
▶ 2:51:27I urge my colleagues to support this package of bills and I yield back.
▶ 2:51:31And the other more, Miss Moore.
▶ 2:51:35Thank you so much, Mr. Chairman. And this this bill is I am so grateful that it has I moved to strike the last word. This this bill is so personal for me. Uh as a person who gave birth at age 18. Uh I could have been a foster youth because I was not living in my parents' home at the time and I had a baby. Uh and I had no idea what to do. I went into labor on New Year's Day of all days.
▶ 2:52:06I had no no car. I had no money to use the to to use the the phone booth. People will know about that. To call an ambulance. Um I had a baby and I had no idea what to do. Uh I had a child who had an asthma attack at 4 days old. Uh had no pediatrician to call.
▶ 2:52:32Uh, and thank God the door bell rang one day and there was the visiting nurse to help me navigate the first few months of my child's life. Uh, I didn't even know how to change a diaper. The visiting nurse taught me how to change a diaper. Uh, so I think that this is a a very important uh initiative.
▶ 2:52:58There are many foster youth of course who are parents and are in foster care or find themselves uh with child uh uh as they age out. And this I think will endure to the benefit of not only that foster youth but to the well-being of the child that they bring into this world. And with that I would I would yield back.
▶ 2:53:21Does any additional member wish to strike the last word? Seeing none we will move to amendments. Are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute? Seeing none, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 2:53:39Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 2:53:48Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably reports HR7655 as amended to the House of Representatives. The question is on the motion to favorably report HR 7655 as amended to the House of Representatives. The clerk will call the role.
▶ 2:54:03Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 2:54:05Miss Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of
▶ 2:54:08Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Yes. Mr. Kelly. Mr. Kelly. Yes. Mr. Schwiker. Mr. Le Hood.
▶ 2:54:20Mr. Le Hood. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus. Yes. Mr. Smucker. Mr. Smucker. Yes. Mr. Hearn.
▶ 2:54:36Mr. Hearn. Yes. Mrs. Miller.
▶ 2:54:39Mrs. Miller. Yes. Dr. Murphy.
▶ 2:54:43Dr. Murphy. Yes. Mr. Kustoff. Mr. Kustoff. Yes. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes. Mr. Stwie. Mr. Stwie. Yes. Miss Tenny. Miss Tenny. Yes. Mrs. Fishbach. Mrs. Fishbach. Yes. Mr. Moore. Mr. Moore. Yes. Miss Vanine. Miss. Van. Yes. Mr. Fenstra. Mr. Fenstra. Yes. Miss Maliaakus. Miss Malotakus. Yes. Mr.
▶ 2:55:14Mr. Kerry. Yes. Mr. Yakam. Mr. Yakam. Yes. Mr. Miller. Mr. Bean.
▶ 2:55:25Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran. Mr. Moran. Yes. Mr. Neil.
▶ 2:55:33Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Mr. Thompson. Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr.
▶ 2:55:43Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez. Miss Sanchez. Yes, Miss Su.
▶ 2:55:55Miss Delenet.
▶ 2:55:57Mr. Delben. Yes, Miss Chu.
▶ 2:56:00Miss Chu. Yes, Miss Moore.
▶ 2:56:03Miss Moore. Yes, Mr. Bole.
▶ 2:56:06Mr. Bole. Yes, Mr. Byer.
▶ 2:56:09Mr. Byer. Yes, Mr. Evans.
▶ 2:56:13Mr. Evans. Yes, Mr. Schneider.
▶ 2:56:16Mr. Schneider. Yes, Mr. Petta.
▶ 2:56:19Mr. Fetta. Yes. Mr. Gomez.
▶ 2:56:23Mr. Gomez. Yes. Mr. Horsford.
▶ 2:56:26Mr. Horford. Yes. Miss Plask.
▶ 2:56:31Mr. Swazy.
▶ 2:56:33Mr. Swazy. Yes.
▶ 2:56:37Mr. Schwikert.
▶ 2:56:39Mr. Schwikert. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Miller. Mr. Miller. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Miss Su.
▶ 2:57:00Miss. Plask.
▶ 2:57:03Chairman Smith.
▶ 2:57:05Chairman Smith. Yes.
▶ 2:57:08Clerk will report the vote.
▶ 2:57:17Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 41 and the nos are zero.
▶ 2:57:20There being 41 yeses and zero nos, the motion is agreed to and HR 7655 is amended as ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR 7655 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views.
▶ 2:57:42Our next order of business is HR7995, the Chaffy Opportunities for News and Existing Connection Trust or Connect Act, introduced by Representatives Gwen Moore and Mike Kerry, which will update the purposes of Chaffi to reflect the importance of foster youth developing and maintaining meaningful connections with kin, peers, mentors, and other lifelong support networks.
▶ 2:58:09I'm grateful for the leadership of Representatives Carrie and Moore for bringing this forward and recognizing the importance of relational health and support networks for foster youth to build realworld relationships that will help them navigate the transition to adulthood and achieve lasting independence. Mr. Kerry in particular has been outspoken about the importance of mentorship and listening to the voices of young people.
▶ 2:58:35I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I'm pleased to recognize the gentleman from Ohio, Mr. Kerry, for an opening
▶ 2:58:41I want to thank the uh chairman as well as the ranking member Neil um and both of their staffs for bringing these bills before the committee today. HR7995, the Chaffi opportunities for new networks in existing connection trust act or connect Act is a bipartisan piece of legislation that I co-lead with my friend and colleague from Wisconsin, Congresswoman Gwen Moore. Our bill would add a pair of new purposes to the Chaffi program.
▶ 2:59:12First, the bill strengthens the existing programs, quote, to help children who have experienced foster care at age 14 or older achieve meaningful permanent connections with caring adult end of quote. We have changed that to developed and maintain sustained supportive relationships with adults, mentors, and peers and more. We've also set out a goal for this to reduce isolation and ensuring lifelong connections and support networks.
▶ 2:59:43Clarifying the goal and expanding the number of relationships that are pursued creates more flexibility based on each individual's needs and opportunities that they have to access. Second, the Connect Act empowers foster youth to participate in the development of their own permanency plans.
▶ 3:00:05Whether this is is continuing to seek adoption to prepare for independent adulthood, both or more foster children deserve to have their voices heard. This section also ensures that foster youth receive information about available services and programs that they qualify for in writing. Within one year of enactment, the Department of Health and Human Services is required to issue guidance to the states on these changes.
▶ 3:00:35This includes standards for outreach, best practices for facilitating relationships, and documenting relationship building activities. These changes along with those of my colleagues are overdue. Modernizing the Chaffi program is not only necessary, but it is compassionate. We are ensuring that the next generation of foster youth are better equipped to transition successfully into adulthood. This is something that we should all be proud of.
▶ 3:01:05I'm happy to see that this is a strong bipartisan activity that we are working to finally get many of these provisions enacted. Finally, I'd like to thank the vocal public advocacy for improving foster youth system from the first lady and the president himself. Their leadership has been instrumental in spurring our efforts to institute these part bipartisan reforms. I encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation so that we can get these reforms into law. With that, Mr.
▶ 3:01:35Chairman, I yield back.
▶ 3:01:36Thank you. I now recognize the ranking member from Massachusetts.
▶ 3:01:39Thank you. Let me yield my time, Mr. chairman to the gentle lady from Wisconsin, Miss Moore.
▶ 3:01:44Thank you so much, Ranking Member Neil, and thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, uh, and thank Mr. Kerry, for co-leading this extremely important bill. And I want to join Mr. Kerry and all others who recognize the leadership that the first lady of, Mrs. Melania Trump, uh, has lent to this to these initiatives.
▶ 3:02:07And hopefully that will mean that we will be able to fund some of [clears throat] these initiatives that we are now voting on today. Again, I'm the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, and I've had the privilege to interact with youth who have been very resilient, but they have just barely survived u the foster care system. Um, and I just want to lift them up today for teaching us so many things.
▶ 3:02:36One thing that I heard time and time again was how isolating and lonely aging out of foster care uh, can be. I've shared a little bit about my own lived experience and I can tell you that turning 18, not living with your mom or dad, having a baby is quite frankly terrifying.
▶ 3:03:00And youth who are aging out oftentimes are unable to achieve permanency with the foster or adoptive family, kinship caregivers, or even their own biological families through no fault of their own. This in turn leaves them without a trusted adult in their lives to help them navigate the complexities of transitioning to adulthood. I've said it before and I'll say it again.
▶ 3:03:28You do not magically become an adult at age 18. I personally have had the intervention of adults in my life that helped me navigate my way uh into college uh helped me find housing um before there ever was a Chaffi bill. Uh and so this is so needed.
▶ 3:03:51Um, you know, your 18th birthday, uh, is a celebration for most people, but there's no magic wand that makes you an adult. It really does take the guidance and mentorship of a trusted adult, which many of us had in our parents, but the many of these youth do not have this luxury. um they've been alienated from their families, but they deserve our support.
▶ 3:04:20And that's why along with Mr. Kerry, we've introduced the Connect Act, which would amend the statutory purposes of the Chaffi program to establish helping youth create meaningful connections with adults and build a lifelong support network. uh as a purpose of the Chaffi program. I still have a relationship um with the with the couple that intervened in my life when I was 18 and I just had a birthday. I'm 75.
▶ 3:04:50It clarifies that shaffy funds can be used to help youth be partners in their permanency process and to facilitate and support uh peer support, mentoring, family reunification, kinship families, and adoptive families.
▶ 3:05:06This bill also requires the secretary of HHS to issue guidance regarding implementation of the new statutory purpose of the program, including facilitation of peer outreach, and referrals to appropriate programs and services and protocols for targeted support. Data doesn't lie.
▶ 3:05:32According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, having at least one safe, stable, and nurturing relationship with the supportive adult dramatically reduces the negative impact of adverse childhood experiences, an example of which is being removed from your home and placed in foster care.
▶ 3:05:54Children with stable, nurturing relationships with tr trusted adults are better able to regulate their emotions, form other stable relationships, and far more likely to experience better academic and health outcomes. We owe it to these youth to help them take control of their own destiny. And we can start by helping them build the network they need to do so. I sure hope that my colleagues will join me and Mr.
▶ 3:06:22in supporting this legislation and I yield back.
▶ 3:06:27Thank you. The committee will now proceed to consideration of HR795, the Connect Act. Without objection, the measure will be considered as read and open for amendment at any point. At this time, I offer an amendment in the nature of a substitute, which was distributed in advance along with a green sheet explaining it. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read, open for amendment at any point and considered base text for purpose of amendment.
▶ 3:06:52I will now turn to Cheryl Freeman, work and welfare subcommittee staff director to provide a technical description of the amendment in the nature of a substitute with an emphasis on the changes made since introduction. I ask that members hold their questions until after her presentation.
▶ 3:07:07Thank you, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neil. HR7995, the Chaffi opportunities for new networks and existing connection trust act modifies title 4E of the Social Security Act at section 477 as it relates to the Chaffi program to add two new purposes. The first provides that Chaffi is intended to help foster youth develop and maintain supportive relationships with adults with the goal of reducing isolation and ensuring youth build lifelong connections.
▶ 3:07:36The second provides that Chaffi is intended to support a foster youth in developing their permanency plan and to ensure foster youth receive written information about available services such as mentoring and peer support. As reflected on the green sheet, the chairman's amendment in the nature of a substitute modifies HR7995 on page three, line 14 by striking the comma after child welfare agencies. These changes are consistent with the intent of the provisions to correct references and make conforming changes. Mr. Mr.
▶ 3:08:06Chairman, that completes my walkthrough. I'm happy to answer technical questions.
▶ 3:08:12Thank you. Are there any technical questions about the amendment and the nature of a substitute? Seeing none, we will move to strike the last word. Does any member wish to strike the last word? Mr. Mr. Kelly. Nope. Um, Mr. Davis. Mr. Chairman, and thank you, Mr. Neil, for this important markup. Mr.
▶ 3:08:36Chairman, I want to join my colleagues in supporting HR7995, the Connect Act. This bipartisan measure by Congresswoman Moore and Congressman Kerry recognizes the importance of assisting older foster youth in building meaningful, longlasting, and supportive that will help anchor them in their journey to adulthood.
▶ 3:09:03The bill also updates the Chaffi program purposes to clarify that funds can embrace youth as valued partners in their own journey toward permanency. I quote, "nothing about me without me as I've been told." Although support for older foster youth often focuses on tangible resources such as housing, education, nutrition assistance, and Medicaid.
▶ 3:09:33We frequently overlook the critical need for consequential lasting relationships. This bill marks a vital shift from focusing on the tangible to also prioritizing the cultivation and preservation of supportive networks and connections as essential supports for transition age youth.
▶ 3:09:58Such relationships anchor us during hard times and lift us up when we need it. Although these youth may have some strong relationships, by strengthening and deepening these enduring relationships, [clears throat] this bill ensures that foster youth have the sustained support needed to thrive and succeed throughout life.
▶ 3:10:26This bill lifts up the recommendations of those who have lived experience. Foster youth are leading the effort in states like Kansas and the District of Columbia to enact policies like the soul family to expand beyond the traditional adoption or guardianship framework to create legally binding networks of support.
▶ 3:10:54An amazing former intern of mine, Shai Robinson, focused her CCAI policy recommendations on finding ways to advance a youth centered permanency approach that these connections foster resilience, promote emotional stability, and increase the likelihood of educational attainment and employment.
▶ 3:11:23And I might mention, Mr. Chairman, that Shai is in the House with us today and actually now works for my dear friend, Mr. Evans. Last Congress, we enacted similar legislation that I led with Chairman Le Hood during our rethanization of title 4B that promoted the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships between foster youth and their incarcerated parents.
▶ 3:11:54So, I'm pleased to see this committee once again recognize how impactful healthy relationships and relationship building is for these young people as they navigate the complexities of life.
▶ 3:12:10Something as small as having someone to call when times get rough or a mentor to accompany you on your first day on a college campus to make all the difference in the lives of these older foster youth. So I thank my colleagues, Representatives Gwen Moore and Mike Kerry. And again, I thank you, Mr.
▶ 3:12:36chairman and ranking member Neil for all of the support that you've given to this work and to this markup today. I thank you and yield back the balance of my
▶ 3:12:50Thank you, Mr. Davis. Mr. Horseford.
▶ 3:12:54Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and to the ranking member. Uh, this bill underscores something that we all know. Young people, especially foster youth, do better when they have consistent, caring adults in their lives. Mentors, teachers, coaches, those relationships matter.
▶ 3:13:13So, I support the underlying bill because it helps strengthen these connections and it helps build the kind of lifelong support that every young person uh deserves. And today, we're reminded of that.
▶ 3:13:28Uh I'm pleased to have 45 students from the Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain all the way from Las Vegas here in our nation's capitol and they're joined by their teachers and chaperones showing just how powerful that those connections can be. So welcome to Washington DC Alexander Dawson and thank you for joining us for this important hearing. I yield back
▶ 3:13:57Mr. Mr. Kerry,
▶ 3:14:00Mr. Chairman, thank you. I appreciate uh I appreciate all your work, but I also appreciate the ranking member. Uh but I want to also uh acknowledge um the work and welfare subcommittee chairman, Mr. Le Hood and Ranking Member Davis, both from Illinois, for bringing not just this bill, but all the bipartisan Chaffy reform bills before this committee today. I also finally want to thank uh my partner on this bill and the champion of foster youth, Congresswoman Gwen Moore.
▶ 3:14:30I hope that all my colleagues, Republican and Democrat, will join Congresswoman Moore and I in support of this compassionate legislation. Mr. Chairman, with that I yield back.
▶ 3:14:41Thank you. Does any additional member wish to strike the last word? Seeing none, we will move to amendments. Are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute? With no amendments, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 3:15:01Those opposed say no. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is agreed to. I will now recognize Mr. Buchanan for the purpose of offering a
▶ 3:15:11Mr. Chairman, I move the committee favorably reports HR7995 as amended to the House of
▶ 3:15:19The question is on the motion to favorably report HR795 as amended to the House of Representatives. The clerk will call the
▶ 3:15:28Mr. Buchanan,
▶ 3:15:30Mr. Buchanan, yes. Mr. Smith of
▶ 3:15:37Mr. Kelly. Mr. Kelly. Yes. Mr. Mr. Schwiker. Mr. Schwiker. Yes. Mr. Le
▶ 3:15:46Mr. Le Hood. Yes. Mr. Arrington. Mr. Estus. Mr. Estus. Yes. Mr. Smucker. Mr. Hearn. Mr. Hearn. Yes. Mrs. Miller. Mrs. Miller. Yes. Dr. Dr. Murphy.
▶ 3:16:12Dr. Murphy. Yes. Mr. Kustoff. Mr. Kustoff. Yes. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick. Yes. Mr. Stwie. Mr. Stwie. Yes. Miss Tenny. Miss. Tenny. Yes. Mrs.
▶ 3:16:29Mrs. Fishbach. Yes. Mr. Moore.
▶ 3:16:33Mr. Moore. Yes. Miss. Van. Miss. Van. Yes. Mr. Fenstra. Mr. Mr. Fenstra. Yes. Miss Maliotakis.
▶ 3:16:42Miss Maliaakus. Yes. Mr. Kerry.
▶ 3:16:46Mr. Kerry. Yes.
▶ 3:16:48Mr. Yakam.
▶ 3:16:49Mr. Yakam. Yes. Mr. Miller.
▶ 3:16:53Mr. Miller.
▶ 3:16:54Yes. Mr. Bean.
▶ 3:16:56Mr. Bean. Yes. Mr. Moran.
▶ 3:17:00Mr. Moran. Yes.
▶ 3:17:03Mr. Neil.
▶ 3:17:04Mr. Neil. Yes. Mr. Dogget. Mr. Thompson.
▶ 3:17:12Mr. Thompson. Yes. Mr. Larson.
▶ 3:17:16Mr. Larson. Yes. Mr. Davis.
▶ 3:17:20Mr. Davis. Yes. Miss Sanchez. Miss Sanchez. Yes. Miss Su. Miss Delen.
▶ 3:17:30Miss Delben. Yes. Miss Chu. Miss Chu. Yes. Miss Moore. Miss Moore. Yes, Mr.
▶ 3:17:39Mr. Boille.
▶ 3:17:40Yes, Mr. Byer.
▶ 3:17:42Mr. Byer. Yes,
▶ 3:17:44Mr. Evans.
▶ 3:17:45Mr. Evans. Yes, Mr. Schneider. Mr. Schneider. Yes, Mr. Petta. Mr. Petta. Yes, Mr. Gomez. Mr. Gomez. Yes, Mr. Horsford. Mr. Horford. Yes. Miss Plask. Mr. Swazy. Mr. Smith of Nebraska. Mr. Smith of Nebraska.
▶ 3:18:15Yes. Mr. Mr. Smucker, Mr. Doug, Miss Su, Miss Plask,
▶ 3:18:40Mr. Swazy,
▶ 3:18:42Mr. Swazy,
▶ 3:18:49Chairman Smith,
▶ 3:18:50Chairman Smith, yes.
▶ 3:18:57Clerk will report the vote. Mr. Chairman, the yeses are 40 and the nos are zero.
▶ 3:19:03There being 40 yeses and zero nos, the motion is agreed to and HR7995 is amended as ordered favorably reported to the House. Without objection, I ask that staff be authorized to make technical and conforming changes to HR795 and that members have two additional days to file with the committee clerk supplemental additional dissenting or minority views. Uh there being no further business before this committee, the committee stands adjourned.