This bill strengthens mental health requirements for states that oversee foster care systems. It requires states to include comprehensive mental health and well-being services in their foster care plans, with involvement from mental health providers and state mental health agencies. The legislation mandates that states document mental health services available to foster children, ensure youth provide informed consent for mental health treatment, and follow professional practice guidelines when delivering those services. The law takes effect October 1, 2026, and applies to federal payments made after that date, though states can delay implementation if they need to pass new legislation to comply with the requirements.
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