Establishes the "Forgivable Grant Program for Families of Adopted Children with Special Needs" within the division of senior and disability services
Impact
The bill would create dedicated funding for forgivable grants, serving as a financial support system for families caring for children with significant needs. Under this program, once families meet the requirements, they can enter into a contract that details the terms of the grant, including an interest rate not exceeding five percent, and conditions under which the grant may be forgiven. Ultimately, these provisions are aimed at alleviating the burden on families, providing much-needed resources to address unique challenges faced by families with adopted children who have special needs.
Summary
House Bill 2117 seeks to establish a 'Forgivable Grant Program for Families of Adopted Children with Special Needs' within the division of senior and disability services of Missouri. This program aims to provide forgivable grants to families who have adopted children with special needs in order to improve their living conditions or assist with necessary modifications related to the children's needs. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria, including the requirement for families to have adopted three or more children with special needs, with at least two of them residing in the home for over eighteen years.
Contention
Discussion surrounding HB 2117 may include concerns over the funding mechanisms and administrative procedures needed to support the program. As with most legislation concerning financial aid, there will likely be scrutiny regarding the sufficiency of funds allocated by the general assembly and the potential implications on future budgets. Stakeholders may debate the fairness and accessibility of the grant program, particularly regarding its capacity to support all eligible families and whether the defined criteria are overly restrictive.
Modifies and establishes provisions relating to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)