Subcommittee approves bill to preserve veteran survivor death benefits for minor foster clients

Representative Cross presented HB 1327 to prevent the Department of Children and Families from using veteran survivor death benefits to replace monthly stipends for minor children in foster care and to ensure veteran survivor benefits are available to the youth when they turn 18.

Representative Cross explained a strike‑all amendment (barcode 535983) that “directs the Department of Children and Families to deposit and conserve all survivor death benefits provided by the US Department of Veterans Affairs on behalf of a minor client in out of home care and release the funds in their entirety to the client at age 18.”

There was no public opposition; Victoria Zupp of Family Support Services of North Florida waived in support. Representative Eskamani thanked Representative Cross for identifying the problem and working with stakeholders. The clerk reported HB 1327 favorably by roll call, 17 yays, 0 nays.

The measure moves forward to subsequent committees; committee discussion focused on ensuring foster youth receive survivor benefits owed to them rather than having those funds substituted for state supports.