Grandfamilies Act of 2023
If passed, the provisions of HB 6803 will significantly impact the welfare system by ensuring that states cannot impose limits on the duration of assistance for older caregivers or those caring for a child with a disability. Furthermore, it mandates that states disregard the income and resources of caregiver relatives when determining eligibility for assistance, thereby smoothing the process for families to obtain financial help. This could lead to increased enrollment in support programs for qualifying families, enhancing their economic stability.
House Bill 6803, titled the 'Grandfamilies Act of 2023', seeks to provide enhanced support for grandfamilies and older caregiver relatives. Its primary focus is on improving access to financial assistance programs for families where children are cared for by grandparents or other nonparent relatives. This Bill proposes amendments to the Social Security Act, aiming to eliminate the five-year cap on welfare assistance for caregivers who are older or taking care of children with disabilities. Additionally, the bill seeks to broaden eligibility criteria for benefits, making it easier for families in such situations to receive necessary support.
While supporters of the bill argue that it addresses a critical need to support grandfamilies and older caregivers, there may be concerns about the financial implications for state budgets, especially concerning the expanded eligibility and disregard of caregiver income. Critics may raise questions about the potential increase in the burden on state welfare systems, highlighting the need for corresponding funding adjustments to aid in the implementation of these changes.