U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran hosted a foster youth roundtable in Tyler on Friday, August 29, 2026, gathering feedback from East Texas professionals on foster care policy. The discussion, partnered with The Fostering Collective, focused on the state of foster care in the region and proposed changes within the Fostering the Future Act (H.R. 7432), which passed the House of Representatives in May and awaits Senate consideration.
The Fostering the Future Act reforms the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood, supporting foster youth ages 14 to 21. The bill expands the Chafee Education and Training Vouchers (ETVs) cap for postsecondary education from $5,000 to $12,000 per year, maintaining current funding levels. It also increases access to legal services, short-term workforce training, federal housing initiatives, and connects parents to Maternal Infant Early Childhood Home Visiting services. Moran noted this bill fine-tuned the Chafee Program for the first time since its 1999 creation.
Moran explained the ETV cap increase is possible without greater appropriations because current funds are underutilized. "States are returning millions of dollars back to the federal government," Moran said, stating these funds should instead benefit foster youth pursuing education. A student from Stephen F. Austin State University who aged out of foster care testified $5,000 is insufficient for college costs. Moran highlighted that expanded vouchers empower youth to pursue education and professions, fostering independence.
The roundtable aimed to inform East Texas about foster care legislation and, crucially, to understand local needs and federal policy impacts. Moran invited about 20 local professionals to participate. Discussions identified access to resources as a primary concern, especially for young adults transitioning out of foster care. Moran acknowledged the difficulties faced by East Texas foster families, noting the need for more support services.
Rural geographical barriers were highlighted as a challenge to accessing support across the region, including Texarkana, Longview, and Tyler. The need for legal services, often not covered by the existing Chafee Program, was also discussed, as such assistance is critical for youth navigating complex situations. Moran emphasized that while the federal government cannot solve all problems, it must support local institutions making a difference.
Justin Hayes, Executive Director at The Fostering Collective, expressed gratitude for Moran's engagement, saying he was "thankful for the chance to be a part of this round table." The discussion followed The Fostering Collective’s annual fundraising event, “A Seat at the Table.” Moran plans to take the gathered ideas and concerns back to Washington D.C. to formulate solutions for the 120th United States Congress, beginning January 3, 2027. He underscored the importance of local input to prevent flawed policy.
