New laws expand options for foster kids

Foster children in the First State are going to have an easier time playing youth sports and other extracurricular activities as well as learning to drive and driving, thanks to a pair of new laws signed by Gov. John Carney Aug. 17.

During an event at Elizabeth W. Murphey School in Dover, Carney signed measures limiting a foster parent's liability if they allow their foster children to take part in age-appropriate activities and allowing foster parents to add their charges to the family's car insurance policy.

Sen. Brian Bushweller, D-Dover, said the new laws will make it easier for foster kids to better fit into their surroundings. 

"The more we can do to help make lives of foster children growing up as normal as possible, we should be doing it," said Bushweller, who championed both the bills in the Senate. “The first bill means that foster parents will be able to make decisions about their daily activities without fear of being sued, and that's a good thing."

Even more important, he said, is dropping the bar on foster kids being added to their foster family's auto insurance policy. Previously, foster kids had to get their own car insurance, which made it almost impossible for many foster kids to drive.

"Their families are going to have to pay for it," Bushweller said. "But being able to get a license is a great thing for foster children so they can get out and drive like other kids."

Carney agreed that the changes are an important step toward normalizing life for kids in foster care.

"I am pleased to support and sign into law both pieces of legislation, which will help Delaware kids in foster care participate in youth sports and other activities, and allow Delawareans to add foster children to their car insurance policies," said Carney. "These changes really just make common sense; they will help both foster kids and foster parents in Delaware, and I thank Sen. Bushweller for his leadership on this issue."

Rep. Bryon Short, D-Highland Woods, who sponsored the measures in the House, said he hopes this improves the lives of Delaware's foster children.

"Children who are in foster care already are facing difficult times, sometimes having their lives disrupted and uprooted multiple times. Anything we can do to help them have as normal a life as possible, we should take those steps," said Short. "My hope is that by passing and signing these bills into law, we will improve foster children's lives and let them go about a daily routine a little easier."

Michael Kopp, the Murphey School's executive director, praised Bushweller for taking on an issue he says is important for foster children.

"Both of these bills are essential for children and youth in Delaware's foster care system," Kopp said. "These bills allow youth in foster care to feel a sense of normalcy. I appreciate the efforts of Sen. Bushweller, Rep. Short and numerous others who co-sponsored and supported these important pieces of legislation."