Legislation

Be in the know about up-and-coming and recently passed legislation pertaining to child welfare & services. We strive for policy advocacy and system reform work. Our efforts are informed by the voices and experiences of the youth we represent.

California-Specific Legislation (PROPOSED)
Support these pieces of legislation? Let your local assemblymember or state senator know!
AB 20 Strengthening Family Connections for Adopted Children
Status: Awaiting Governor’s signature
Many children and young adults adopted through the child welfare system report that maintaining a connection to their biological family and community is critical to their well-being. This bill would strengthen family connections for adoptees when appropriate by promoting ongoing contact between siblings and allowing parental rights to be reinstated for children and nonminor dependents in foster care after an adoption has failed.
AB 448 Promoting Family Connections for Youth in Foster Care
STATUS: Awaiting Governor’s signature
Research shows that children in the foster care system who are placed with relatives have greater placement and school stability, fewer emotional and behavioral problems in placement, and more connections to their biological family and social-cultural communities. This bill would strengthen existing requirements around social workers and/or probation officers’ documentation of family finding efforts.
AB 866 Preventing Food Insecurity for Transition Age Youth
Status: Two-year bill
Transition age youth in foster care are among the most vulnerable populations in California. Through no fault of their own, these youth are often faced with a multitude of difficulties, including hunger and insufficient healthy food. This bill would allow CalFresh benefits to be provided at the maximum amount to non-minor dependents (NMDs) in Supervised Independent Living Placements (SILPs) regardless of income or resources, including NMDs who are custodial parents.

US Legislation (PROPOSED)
Support these pieces of legislation? Let your house representative and senator know!

CONTACT
To make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, call (805) 781-KIDS