Jerusalem, 27 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee on Tuesday approved for first reading a bill that would abolish the maximum age limit for foster parents, removing the current cap of 56. The legislation, sponsored by MKs Karin Elharer and Yinon Azoulay, aims to address a shortage of foster families, with officials noting that at least 70 children are waiting for placement at any given time.
Committee members and representatives from the ministry of Social Affairs backed the move, saying age alone should not disqualify suitable families. Data presented showed nearly 5,000 children in foster care nationwide, and growing interest from older prospective foster parents currently barred by the limit.