The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued instructions for two changes in eligibility for Extended Foster Care. First, nonminor dependants can now enter, reenter or remain in Extended Foster Care if they are married or get married. Married youth in Extended Foster Care will be subject to the same supervision requirements as other nonminor dependants and they are eligible for the same placement options.
For the Transitional Housing Program for Nonminor Dependents, housing providers that allow non-participant roommates cannot exclude married youth on the basis of marital status.
Second, a nonminor dependants who is in the reserve command of any branch of the armed forces or is a member of the National Guard is not eligible for Extended Foster Care. Nonminor Dependants who are on active duty are not eligible for Extended Foster Care. Nonminor Dependents are not eligible for Extended Foster Care if they in extended training if the military does not allow a social worker/probation officer to conduct monthly visits and supervision. The youth would be eligible to re-enter foster care when caseworker visitation can resume.
When a nonminor dependant is enlisted in a part-time military program, their Transitional Independent Living Plan can include military participation as a goal. (ACL 18-101, September 12, 2018.)