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The Georgia Senate passed three bills late last week prioritizing Georgia’s children and families – following up on a commitment from Lt. Governor Burt Jones. The legislation provides resources and services to all of Georgia’s children – including those in and aging out of the foster care system.

“The Senate will continue to lead the way, while working with President Trump’s Administration, to ensure we are delivering on behalf of Georgia’s most vulnerable – our foster care children and families,” said Jones. “Over the past four years, I have committed to ensuring that children in foster care receive the proper care, support, and resources at every stage of life, and my resolve on this issue will not waver.

“I will continue to prioritize legislation and funding because these children and families deserve a champion who will never give up on them. I am committed to ensuring they are heard, supported, and never forgotten,” Jones added.

During the 2025 Legislative Session, Jones created the Senate Study Committee on Additional Services and Resources for Transition Age Youth. Last year, the study committee filed its recommendations and during this session, Jones prioritizing the following study committee recommendations:

Senate Bill 402 – Sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery, R-Vidalia. Continue current pilot programs screening foster youth for autism spectrum disorder and collect additional data for the pilot by implementing screening in two additional DFCS regions.

Senate Bill 431 – Sponsored by Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick, R-Marietta. Ensure school districts are in compliance with enrollment requirements for children in the foster care system.

Senate Resolution 622 – Sponsored by Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick, R-Marietta. Joint Study Committee on Evaluating Escalating Costs in Georgia’s Foster Care System.