A new law passed in Connecticut
will allow children born into poverty access to a state-run savings account
once they turn 18.
The new Baby Bonds program creates
savings account in which money is invested over a period of at least 18 years.
Lawmakers say once the child turns
18, he or she can then use the money for college, retirement savings or to buy
a home or start a business.
State Treasurer Shawn T. Wooden,
who created the program, says it will help ensure a sound state economy going
forward.
The new program applies to every
child in Connecticut whose birth was covered by Husky Health on or after July 1
of this year.
All children covered will each get a savings account containing $3,200 - which
Wooden says will grow to $11,000 by the time
each child turns 18.