relative to foster parent representation of foster children with disabilities.

HB 178 requires foster parents to advocate for foster children with disabilities during case planning meetings and decision-making processes within the foster care system. It directly affects foster children with disabilities and their foster parents by mandating that foster parents ensure these children’s specific needs are addressed in their care plans. The key provision establishes a formal role for foster parents to represent the child’s perspective in meetings involving medical, educational, and developmental services. The bill became law on June 23, 2025, and takes effect August 23, 2025.