State Policy
Colorado and Rhode Island Launch Support Programs for Young Family Caregivers
Colorado and Rhode Island have established state-level support systems for youth who serve as family caregivers, aligning with expanding federal recognition of this population. The programs aim to provide resources and assistance to young people who provide care for family members with chronic conditions or disabilities. This development responds to growing awareness of caregiving responsibilities among minors and young adults, which can affect their health, education, and long-term outcomes. Both states are developing infrastructure to identify and support these caregivers through their Medicaid programs and related social service systems.
Why it mattersThese state initiatives create new operational requirements for Medicaid agencies and managed care plans to identify, coordinate services for, and potentially reimburse supports targeting young caregivers — a population that may qualify for respite, behavioral health, or family support services through existing LTSS or home and community-based waiver authorities.