Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2004 and the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Act of 1999: What are the policy implications for youth with disabilities transitioning from foster care?
Youth with disabilities who are transitioning out of foster care are at high risk for poor adult outcomes. Although there are not definitive studies, research estimates that between 50% and 80% of youth in the child welfare system are youth with disabilities (United Cerebral Palsy & Children's Rights, 2006). The John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 expanded transition services for youth aging out of foster care; the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 continues the federal commitment to transition supports for youth with disabilities through special education services. This article examines the similarities and differences between the transition mandates in each of the two laws and makes recommendations for policy improvements.
Hill
Katharine
K
School of Social Work, College of St. Catherine/University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN 55105, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004519:Education, Special / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005581:Foster Home Care / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D014481:United States; D055815:Young Adult