1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to child protection; requiring court findings regarding independent 
1.3 	living goals for children age 16 or older who are in an out-of-home placement;
1.4 	amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 260C.201, by adding a subdivision.
1.5 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.6 	Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 260C.201, is amended by adding a 
1.7 	subdivision to read:
1.8 		Subd. 11b.Findings regarding independent living goals. This subdivision applies 
1.9 	to the review of court-ordered placements required under subdivision 11 if the child is 16 
1.10 	years of age or older at the time of the review. The court shall make findings regarding 
1.11 	progress toward or accomplishment of the following goals:
1.12 	(1) the child, the child's parents or legal guardian, and the foster parents have been 
1.13 	notified in writing of the availability of foster care benefits up to age 21 and how to file an 
1.14 	appeal if a request for foster care benefits up to age 21 is denied by the county;
1.15 	(2) the child has obtained a high school diploma or its equivalent;
1.16 	(3) the child has completed a driver's education course or has demonstrated the 
1.17 	ability to use public transportation in the child's community;
1.18 	(4) the child has acquired a Social Security card, a birth certificate, green card or 
1.19 	school visa, a state identification card or driver's license, school and medical records, and 
1.20 	an emergency contact list that includes medical, dental, mental health providers, and 
1.21 	supportive adults to contact for assistance;
1.22 	(5) the child is employed or enrolled in postsecondary education;
1.23 	(6) the child has applied for and obtained postsecondary education financial aid for 
1.24 	which the child is eligible;
2.1 	(7) the child has health care coverage and health care providers to meet the child's 
2.2 	physical and mental health needs;
2.3 	(8) the child has applied for and obtained disability income assistance for which 
2.4 	the child is eligible;
2.5 	(9) the child has obtained affordable housing with necessary supports, which does 
2.6 	not include a homeless shelter;
2.7 	(10) the child has saved sufficient funds to pay for the first month's rent and a 
2.8 	damage deposit;
2.9 	(11) the child has an alternative affordable housing plan, which does not include a 
2.10 	homeless shelter, if the original housing plan is unworkable;
2.11 	(12) the child, if male, has registered for the Selective Service; and
2.12 	(13) the child has a permanent connection to a caring adult.