In today’s rundown: Major changes to D.C.’s subsidized guardianship laws. | Emergency executive orders mean higher taxes, fees and fines in the District. | And the youth job market outlook just in time for the end of the school year.
— The Foster & Adoptive Parent Advocacy Center (FAPAC) is applauding members of the D.C. Council for passing the Adoption and Guardianship Subsidy Emergency and Temporary Amendment Acts of 2010. The legislation expands guardianship and adoption subsidies until youths turn 21 and expands the definition of those eligible to apply to become subsidized guardians. Before the legislation was passed that opportunity was open only to “kin or godparents.” Now, foster parents or others who have a significant relationship with a child can become subsidized guardians. This is particularly important to older youth in the foster care system. FAPAC is a Women’s Foundation Grantee Partner.
— D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty has enacted emergency executive orders that increase taxes and fees on everything from business permits to traffic fines. Fenty says the orders are “emergency” maneuvers to balance the budget and added that the increases would bring the city about $7 million this fiscal year and $21 million in the 2011 fiscal year which begins in October. Click here for details.
— The job market may be getting better for teens and recent college graduates, but, according to experts, the improvements are coming so slowly that they may not see noticeable change until the fall. Meanwhile, older workers continue to fill jobs that, traditionally, went to younger people. Click here for more.
