State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz this week joined Gov. Gretchen Whitmer as they recognized a new law spearheaded by Schmaltz that is now helping foster children build stronger, more stable futures. Schmaltz’s bipartisan plan was signed into law on July 29 as Public Act 51 of 2026 and officially took effect Oct. 1.

The new law ends a practice in which federal benefits awarded to foster children could be used to reimburse the state for the cost of care. Instead, a significant portion of those benefits must now be preserved to help young people as they transition into adulthood.

“Too many foster youth enter adulthood without the support systems and financial resources many other young people can rely on,” Schmaltz said. “This law helps ensure benefits intended for foster children remain available to help them pursue an education, secure housing, start a career, and build a stable future. I’m grateful to everyone who helped bring attention to this issue and worked together to get this reform across the finish line.”

In addition to preserving benefits for foster youth ages 14 and older, the law makes sure kids receive financial literacy education and ensures young people are informed about federal benefits collected on their behalf. Schmaltz said the reform will provide foster youth a stronger foundation for success as they age out of the foster care system.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz, right, joins Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for a ceremonial bill signing this week to celebrate the culmination of her efforts to improve support for foster children in Michigan. Joining them, from left: Sen. Jeff Irwin, who sponsored a companion bill, Jackson County resident and foster parent Steve Castle, and Lucas Gravatt, Schmaltz’s legislative director.