Bills affecting Adoptive or foster parent in Rhode Island — 2026 session

Allows a minor between the ages of 14 -17 without a permanent residence/in custody of the DCYF to get state identification card without a signature from parent, guardian or foster parent as well as a certified copy of minor's birth certificate at no cost.

Establishes the rights of adoptive/foster children or those in guardianship, to have post-separation visitation with their sibling(s).

Expands foster care academic youth reports to include information regarding 504 eligibility, graduation progress and surrogate parents. The act would require implementation of additional strategies to improve performance and additional progress reports.

Requires the DCYF director to disclose to the school nurse where a child is enrolled, when that child has been placed in foster care.

Requires DCYF to establish segregated savings account for foster care child receiving SS, SSI, veterans benefits or railroad retirement benefits to manage the accounts and keep child eligible for future benefits.

Requires all out-of-state foster care placement facilities be registered with Medicaid as a Medicaid provider.