Children: guardians; eligibility for guardianship assistance payments; modify. Amends sec. 4 of 2008 PA 260 (MCL 722.874). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4696’25
Key claim: Michigan HB 4697 would modify eligibility for guardianship assistance payments under the Guardianship Assistance Act (2008 PA 260), tie-barred with HB 4696.
Abstract
(HB4697 · 103rd Legislature) Children: guardians; eligibility for guardianship assistance payments; modify. Amends sec. 4 of 2008 PA 260 (MCL 722.874). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4696’25 Sponsor: Rep. Stephanie Young (D) + 27 co-sponsors Latest vote: Reported Favorably Without Amendment 5/19/2026 — 8-2 (passed, 2026-05-20) Latest action (2026-05-20): Referred To Committee Of The Whole
Why this matters
Guardianship assistance payments are a key subsidy that enables relatives to take permanent legal guardianship of children who would otherwise remain in Michigan’s foster care system. Even incremental eligibility tweaks under 2008 PA 260 shift which kin caregivers—and therefore which children—can access this safety-net benefit. Paired with HB 4696’s redefinition of ‘relative,’ HB 4697 forms a coordinated adjustment to the program’s coverage boundaries.