French National Assembly votes to extend support for youth in child protection

The French National Assembly has approved two provisions aimed at strengthening support for young adults transitioning out of child protection services. On October 29, 2026, deputies voted to extend the age limit for mandatory support from 21 to 25 years for certain individuals who previously received assistance from child social services (ASE). The proposal also seeks to include youth formerly under judicial youth protection (PJJ) and focuses on improving access to housing, training, and professional integration.

A second provision establishes a funding mechanism for departments to support these measures. While the legislative advancement was marked by votes of 121 to 88 and 120 to 89 respectively, some political groups have criticized the move. Critics argue the legislation lacks sufficient financial guarantees and fails to address the structural crisis facing departments, noting that state disengagement has increased the financial burden on local authorities.