What does Preamble of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This bill proposes amendments to the John H. Chaffee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood. The proposed changes aim to increase the maximum amount of education and training vouchers. The bill intends to provide greater support for foster youth pursuing postsecondary education. It also seeks to expand education and workforce training opportunities for youth with foster care experience.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026.

What does EXPANSION OF EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Section 477 of the Social Security Act to expand education and workforce training opportunities for youth who have experienced foster care. The definition of youth eligible for these programs is modified to include those who experienced foster care at age 14 or older, rather than those who 'aged out'. The age limit for participation in the voucher program is adjusted; it is generally capped at 5 years, but extended to 6 years for youth participating in remedial education. The allowable uses of vouchers are broadened to include costs associated with registered apprenticeship programs and obtaining a general equivalency degree, in addition to higher education and Workforce Pell eligible training programs. The definition of 'remedial education' is established as education or skill training needed to support obtaining a high school diploma or qualifying for postsecondary education or a registered apprenticeship, not provided by other programs. The definition of 'registered apprenticeship' is provided, referencing apprenticeship programs registered by State agencies or the Secretary of Labor.

What does INCREASE IN MAXIMUM EDUCATION AND TRAINING VOUCHER AMOUNT AND of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Section 477(i) of the Social Security Act. It modifies paragraph (3) to allow states to establish grace periods for foster youth continuing participation in training programs under reasonable circumstances. The amendment changes paragraph (3) to refer to 'that education or training program'. It increases the maximum education and training voucher amount from $5,000 to $12,000. The Secretary of Health and Human Services will develop model guidance for states regarding the implementation of these amendments, consulting with youth who have experienced foster care.

What does IMPROVING ACCESSIBILITY AND YOUTH AWARENESS OF EDUCATION AND of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Section 477(i) of the Social Security Act to require states to ensure eligible youth are aware of potential benefits under the voucher program. The program must include a simplified, user-tested, and standard form for youth to apply for vouchers, accessible electronically. States may use funds to assist eligible youth in overcoming transportation barriers to access postsecondary education, workforce training, registered apprenticeships, or employment. Section 477(d)(1) of the Social Security Act is amended to allow states to use funds for outreach related to youth awareness of benefits. States can use funds from their allotment for purposes related to the voucher program for eligible youth.

What does EFFECTIVE DATE. of Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes the effective date for the amendments made by this Act.

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Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act of 2026

Last updated: 4/16/2026 · Introduced: 4/16/2026

Author: Steve Daines (R-MT)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill expands eligibility for education and workforce training programs to include youth who experienced foster care at age 14 or older, and broadens allowable voucher uses to include apprenticeships and GED programs.
The bill increases the maximum education and training voucher amount from $5,000 to $12,000, and allows for grace periods for youth continuing participation in training programs.
States are now required to ensure eligible youth are aware of voucher program benefits and provide accessible application forms, along with assistance to overcome transportation barriers.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 4 more.

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