The CONNECT Act is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It was recently introduced in the Senate and sent to the Committee on Finance for review. No further actions are scheduled at this time.
Legislative Progress
Senate
House
President
Law
Unlikely to pass
This bill was recently introduced and sent to a committee, which is where most bills stop moving unless they get a lot of support from both parties.
Key Points
This bill updates a federal program for foster youth to focus more on building long term relationships. It aims to help kids aged 14 and older stay connected with family, mentors, and other people who can support them as they grow up.
It gives foster youth a bigger voice in their own lives. The bill requires agencies to help these teenagers participate in planning where they will live and what their future looks like.
The government would be required to create new rules for states and tribes. These rules would explain how to use federal money for peer support groups and programs that help siblings and community members stay in touch.
The main goal is to make sure foster youth do not feel alone when they leave the system. By building a network of supportive adults and friends, the bill tries to give them a better chance at success in adulthood.
Impact Analysis
Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.
Milestones
2 milestones2 actions
May 21, 2026Senate
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
May 21, 2026
Introduced in Senate
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
