Youngkin signs legislation designed to encourage placement of children in foster care system with family members

House Bill 27 and Senate Bill 39 create the Parental Child Safety Placement Program, codifying the practice of placing children with relatives and strengthening Virginia’s commitment to a “Kin First” child welfare system, according to Youngkin and other state officials.

“Today, we celebrate a milestone more than a decade in the making,” Youngkin said in a statement. “An overwhelming collection of hearts have come together to demonstrate that working in partnership we can fundamentally change lives.”

Despite recent improvements, only 16% of children in foster care in Virginia are placed with kinship families, far below the national average of 35%. Research has shown that children placed with relatives experience better behavioral and mental health outcomes, increased permanency, and greater stability in placement, including the likelihood of remaining with siblings.  The legislation mandates local departments of social services submit exception reports, monitor barriers to kinship placements and develop service plans for the children and their families. It also provides financial support to kinship caregivers.

“By establishing a robust statutory framework centered on kinship care, we pave a pathway towards permanency for Virginia’s children, ensuring consistent practice across all local social services, incorporating safeguards, clear time frames, active family engagement, and consistent services for children, caregivers, and parents,” Youngkin said.