A ceremonial singing was held Thursday in Columbia, for a new bill that will allow the Department of Social Services to place children across the state in the care of a relative, who is not yet a licensed foster parent.
The legislation also allows the child to be placed with a person they have an existing relationship with, who is not blood related. Both of those groups will now be eligible for financial assistance from DSS while working to become licensed.
Governor McMaster said " "Today we further strengthen our foster care system by cutting red tape and providing our children increased stability in the care of people they already know. It is legislation like this that makes a true impact on the lives of our children."
South Carolina now joins a list of 29 states that have passed similar legislation.