Montgomery’s Kinship Care Bill Signed into Law

State Sen. Velmanette Montgomery (D-Fort Greene, Boerum Hill, Red Hook, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Sunset Park, Gowanus, Park Slope) saw Gov. Andrew Cuomo this week sign her Kincare legislation (S6405/A8059) into law.

This measure encourages the placement of youth in foster care with relatives instead of strangers by making a much-needed amendment to the Family Court Act. It expands the definition of people who are eligible to petition the court to become foster parents, who are related to the child:

• Through blood, marriage or adoption
• Through a half-sibling of the child through blood, marriage, or adoption and the person is or are the prospective or appointed relative guardian of the half-sibling; or
• By a positive relationship with the child, including, but not limited to, a stepparent, godparent, neighbor or family friend.

“Already difficult circumstances become more challenging for children who are removed from their homes only to be placed with strangers. Whenever possible, we should try to support and strengthen existing family ties for young people caught up in the child welfare system,” said Montgomery. “I am happy the Governor signed my bill so we can make it a little bit easier for caring relatives and those invested in the child’s well being to step in and assist in these times of need.”  

To read the full story, visit https://www.kingscountypolitics.com/brooklyn-lawmakers-on-the-move-oct-30-2019/