Assembly Bill 495, the so-called Family Preparedness Act, has already passed the California Assembly and is expected to move through the Senate before landing on the Governor’s desk this fall. Its author frames it as a compassionate reform aimed at helping children whose parents, specifically illegal immigrants, are detained or deported, giving schools a faster way to ensure kids are cared for. But conservative groups are sounding the alarm, warning that the bill could put children at risk, make human trafficking easier, and further erode parental rights in the state. Today, I’m breaking down exactly what AB 495 does, and of course, giving you my full take on why it matters!

Check out more content related to California politics, here: https://youtu.be/juPt6LQLKQ8?si=H-LIdR5-6TZM3Jxf

For sources cited in compiling today’s episode, check out my corresponding article here: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/articles/california-assembly-bill-495

Resources to Oppose AB 495:

Please contact your representatives about this bill today! See my article on how to find your legislators here: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/articles/resources

Use my pre-prepared letter template for what to say: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/s/Template-for-AB-495-Opposition.docx

Lastly, take a moment to sign this petition, making your voice heard on the bill: https://www.change.org/p/stop-ab-495-protect-parental-rights-child-safety-in-california?source_location=psf_petitions

Timestamps:

00:00 - 06:48 Details of AB 495

06:49 - 14:19 Existing Law

14:20 - 28:47 Red Flags, Child Endangerment, & Real Life Outcomes

28:48 - 34:23 Call to Action