Grandparents who take in their grandkids would receive a monthly stipend, under a proposal given approval Wednesday by an Arizona Senate committee. The bill calls for a $75 monthly payment from the state Department of Economic Security, if the grandchild is placed in their grandparents’ home. Phoenix Republican Nancy Barto says grandparents bring an obvious value to their families.

"It’s irreplaceable, the love and support that they provide, so it’s a very worthy discussion to have," Barto said. "The issue is probably going to be the budget, and whether or not it fits into the big budget picture for the year."

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee chaired by Barto unanimously approved the bill Wednesday. But, it still has to go through the Appropriations committee before it can come up for debate in the full senate.

Updated: 1/24/13 8:41 AM