Assigned to FS & APPROP                                                                                                                  FOR COMMITTEE

 

 

 

ARIZONA STATE SENATE

Phoenix, Arizona

 

FACT SHEET FOR S.B. 1070

 

appropriation; independent living paralegal

 

Purpose

           

Appropriates $40,300 from the state general fund in FY 2001-2002 to the Department of Economic Security (DES) for a paralegal position to obtain behavioral health services and  file appeals for youth in the Independent Living Program (ILP) and the Transitional Independent Living Program (TILP).

 

Background

 

The ILP demonstration project was initially funded through the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services in 1983, to encourage self-sufficiency in foster children after they leave the foster care system. The four key components of the ILP are independent living skills training, mentorship, independent living subsidy and voluntary foster care for young adults 18 through 20 years of age.

 

The TILP allows DES to provide care and services to former foster youth  who were in out-of-home placement while age 16, 17 or 18 until they reach the age of 21. The goal of transitional living support services is to foster self-sufficiency and personal responsibility while preparing and transitioning youth from adolescence to adulthood. Funds may not be used for room and board payments for youth who were not in the custody of  DES on their 18th birthday. Services include case management; independent living skills training; community advisors and mentors; educational, employment and vocational support; and transportation and counseling.

 

Health care is  available through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for former foster youth enrolled in either program. Behavioral health care is provided through the Regional Behavioral Health Authorities.  The youth involved in these programs often lack the expertise or resources to obtain these services or appeal denials.

 

This legislation appropriates $40,300 in FY 2001-2002 from the state general fund to DES for a paralegal  to obtain behavioral health services and file appeals for youth in ILP or TILP.

 

Provisions

 

1.      Appropriates $40,300 in FY 2001-2002 from the state general fund to DES for a paralegal to assist youth  enrolled in the ILP or  TILP obtain behavioral health services and file appeals. Exempts the appropriation from lapsing.

 

2.      Provides for a general effective date.

 

 

Prepared by Senate Staff

January 15, 2001