Louisiana foster tuition law remains unfunded for 20 years

According to its website, American Foster Futures is a national nonprofit “dedicated to empowering foster youth by advocating for systemic improvements in state and federal policies.”

The law authorizes tuition and mandatory fee exemptions for eligible former foster youth attending Louisiana's public colleges and universities. However, implementation has remained contingent on legislative funding, which has never been approved.

According to American Foster Futures, the program stalled after Hurricane Katrina strained the state's finances shortly after the law was enacted. The organization estimates the program could be funded for approximately $6 million over five years, though that estimate has not been independently verified by the state.

There are roughly 4,000 children in Louisiana’s foster care system, with approximately 48 homes per every 100 children. Almost 300 children age out of the state’s system every year, though many can opt for extended foster care, which allows them to stay in the system until their 21.

"The Legislature created the path 20 years ago but failed to appropriate the meager funds needed to change lives," Stephen Benavides of American Foster Futures said in a statement. "Inaction by the Louisiana Legislature has resulted in an entire generation of foster youth being denied access to this historic opportunity."

The organization is asking the state to provide funding through a BA-7 midyear budget adjustment for the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, or, at minimum, include funding during the 2027 legislative budget process.

"Six million dollars over five years is a rounding error in the state budget, but it is life-changing for foster youth ready to enroll in 2027," Benavides said.

American Foster Futures said waiting until a later budget cycle could delay implementation until 2028.

Research has consistently shown that young adults who age out of foster care face lower rates of college enrollment and completion than their peers. The organization argues that access to higher education improves long-term employment, housing stability and self-sufficiency.

Louisiana is among the states that have enacted laws providing tuition assistance for former foster youth, but unlike some states, including Texas, the benefit has never been funded for implementation.

In a statement to The Center Square, LOSFA said, "Should the Legislature provide funding for the foster care tuition waiver program, LOSFA will work collaboratively with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services and other partners to support its implementation." 

The Center Square was unsuccessful prior to publication getting comment from the governor.