June 11, 2008

REP. WALKER ANNOUNCES NEW LAW IN SUPPORT
OF GRANDPARENT CAREGIVERS

Rep. Toni Walker is pleased to announce the governor has signed Senate Bill #66, An Act Concerning Support For Grandparent Caregivers.

"We live in an era where grandparents are taking an increasing role in the care and rearing of grandchildren," Rep. Walker said. "As a grandparent I know first-hand how important it is for us to provide as much assistance as we can for the grandparent's and children's well-being."

This bill allows grandparents or other relative caregivers appointed guardian of a child through Superior Court and who are not receiving subsidized guardianship or foster care payments from the Department of Children and Families (DCF), to apply for grants under the probate-court administered Kinship Fund and Grandparents and Relatives Respite Fund.

Eligibility for these grants was restricted to grandparents or relative caregivers appointed guardian of a child through probate court. Probate Court Kinship Care and Respite Grants provides funds for one-time grants to help grandparents pay for some nonrecurring child rearing costs. These can pay for such things as a bed or winter coat or for activities like summer camp or tutoring. Grant amounts range from $50-$250 per child, with a family maximum of $1,000.

The Children's Trust Fund also funds grants to help grandparents pay for respite costs. Grants are available for up to $2,000 per family per year to pay for housing, transportation and child care expenses approved by the court.

Representative Walker represents New Haven's 93rd Assembly District and serves on the Appropriations, Human Services and Judiciary and Legislative Management Committees.