Campbell bill allowing foster children to open bank accounts heads to the senate

Today, Feb. 10, House Bill 1441 passed with a unanimous vote on the House floor and heads to the Senate for their consideration. State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) authored the bill to allow foster youth at least 16 years old to create bank accounts without an adult co-signer. The bill was amended to include minors who’ve been emancipated.  

Campbell released the following statement on the House passage of her bill:

“This is a major win for our foster and emancipated youth in Indiana. We want every child to have a safe and secure home, but the state needs to do more for our young adults who are on their own. It’s hard to do anything when you’re unable to open your own bank account. 

“You need a bank account for direct deposits at your job, to build credit or to get a loan. With this policy change, foster children have the tools they need for financial success. This bill ensures that our children who don’t have a reliable guardian can live independently. Most importantly, it protects vulnerable children from theft out of a joint account from bad actors.

“We’re encouraging minors to join the workforce while they're still in school, so let’s ensure they have the tools they need to thrive. I am grateful that the bill was passed by the House today. I want our foster kids to know that we’re thinking of you, and we’re trying to make your lives a little bit easier.”