On October 12th, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the AB 495 Family Preparedness ACT Plan of 2025. This law allows relatives to serve as legal caregivers if children’s parents are deported. It also puts existing family support provisions into practice by implementing these plans. 

AB 495 also requires licensed daycare facilities and preschools to refrain from collecting any immigration-related information from students or their families. This bill aims to prevent children from experiencing more trauma during emergencies or crises. 

In a statement, Newsom explained his support for the Family Preparedness Bill and the importance of protecting children and their families.

“We stand by our families and their right to keep their private information safe, maintain parental rights, and help families prepare in case of emergency,” said Newsom.

Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez authored this bill. It will not change a child’s legal guardian without a court order. The bill also clarifies how parents can protect their rights and remain involved in decisions about their children.

Rodriguez expressed her gratitude to Gov. Newsom for signing AB 495 into law, which will safeguard many children across the state. 

“This is a crucial step toward protecting children and families at a time when they are facing the terror of separation,” said Rodriguez. 

During routine welfare checks, immigration officials have detained parents of children, causing uncertainty for their futures.  A report from CNN investigated that, upon their parents being detained, nearly 100 U.S.-born children were either left stranded or went into government custody after the arrest. 

“Together we are sending a message to immigrant and mixed-status families that in California, you are seen, and we will do all in our power to protect you from the trauma of family separation,” said Rodriguez.  

A recent study published by the School of  Medicine at UC Riverside concluded that “forced family separation resulting from immigration enforcement introduces acute psychological risks … and generates profound emotional harm.”  

AB 495 seeks to limit those stressors imposed on children and families amidst these prolonged mass deportations and separations. Advocates in support of this bill are reminding individuals that it aims to provide parents with legal tools, which will help families prepare in the event of separation.