119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 6221
The Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Act directs federal agencies to study and expand job training and apprenticeship opportunities for current and former foster youth. The bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor to conduct a comprehensive study within one year examining existing federal, state, and private sector programs that provide technical training and apprenticeships for foster youth, along with identifying service gaps and barriers. Following this study, the bill establishes the Fostering the Future Pipeline Program, which will award competitive grants to states, schools, employers, and nonprofits to expand access to industry-aligned training in high-demand fields like skilled trades, healthcare, IT, and agriculture. The legislation authorizes up to $50 million per fiscal year for this grant program and modifies existing foster care education vouchers to allow funding for short-term, career-focused credential programs and registered apprenticeships. The bill becomes effective six months after enactment.