What the “Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Families and Youth in Foster Care
Big Bill, Big Changes, and Big Questions
The “Big Beautiful Bill” is a new piece of legislation aiming to change how parts of the child welfare system work. It touches big areas like Medicaid/Medicare, education, and family support services. On paper, it promises improvements but real impact will depend on how it’s put into action. (Source)
What This Could Mean for Families and Youth in Care
- One size doesn’t fit all – Rules may not work for every family or community.
- More paperwork – Extra forms could slow down help for children and families.
- Uneven support – Some states may implement the bill better than others.
- Limited funding – Big promises don’t always come with enough money.
- Ignoring lived experience – Without input from those who’ve been in the system, real needs may be overlooked.
That’s why the Family Voices United Lived Experience Advisory Board (LEAB) is speaking up and highlighting both the opportunities and risks this bill brings.
Real Change Takes United Voices
LEAB Member: Jarrod Hummer, (he/him) Parent, Indiana
Jarrod emphasizes the power of collective action:
"Real change takes people who understand the issues and come together with enough united voices that can't be ignored. Even when things feel bleak, united voices can protect what matters and stop harmful legislation."
When communities come together, they can push for policies that help and block changes that hurt.
When the System Moves Backwards
LEAB Member: Pasqueal Nguyen, Parent, Louisiana
Pasqueal shares her frustrations:
"I was recently discouraged in my own state, knowing that the previous administration had built amazing reforms in criminal justice and developmental disability rights, and now they are at risk."
Even strong reforms can be rolled back. Federal bills can only go so far, state decisions can still weaken progress.
Real Change Starts with Understanding
LEAB Member: Susan Langenfeld (she/her), Resource/Adoptive Parent, New York
Susan stresses the importance of informed collaboration:
"Real change starts with people who truly understand what’s going on. It takes a group effort, with many voices coming together. Even though it can feel like a huge undertaking, when enough people speak out and support one another, those voices become impossible to ignore."
Legislation works best when the people most affected help shape it. That requires listening, outreach, and accountability.
Bridging Gaps in Knowledge
LEAB Member: Rowan Grae (they/them), 8 Years in Indiana Foster Care System
Rowan points out the need for better information and communication:
"Child welfare workers should tap into available resources and ask those with lived experience for insight. Better communication between offices could uncover tools and knowledge that make a real difference."
The bill includes training for caseworkers but without strong communication and collaboration, those resources would be wasted.
How You Can Make a Difference
You don’t need to be a policymaker to influence how this bill affects your community:
- Learn what’s in the bill and how your state is applying it
- Join local groups of youth, families, and advocates
- Share your story with decision-makers
Why Lived Experience Matters Now More Than Ever
Laws can help or harm. This bill could do both. Communities must watch closely and speak up to make sure it helps more than it hurts.
As Jarrod said, "Even when things feel bleak, united voices can protect what matters." And as Susan reminded us, "When those voices are impossible to ignore, real change happens."
About Family Voices United
Family Voices United is a collaboration between FosterClub, Generations United, the Children’s Trust Fund Alliance, and Casey Family Programs. The project works to improve the child welfare system by listening to, and amplifying, the voices of people who have lived through it. When their experiences shape policy, we all move closer to a system that truly supports children and families.
Take action. Learn more. Share your story at familyvoicesunited.org
