Speaker Robert Rivas’ Bill to Protect Foster Children and Ensure Family Support is Signed by Governor

SACRAMENTO, CA - Speaker Robert Rivas’ (D-Salinas) legislation to ensure more foster children are cared for and supported by their families and stay connected to their communities was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Assembly Bill 2830 will require the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to establish “relative” or “kin-specific” licensing or approval standards by January 1, 2027. Once implemented, the department will track data related to outcomes regarding its effectiveness and report all findings or data to the Legislature.

“As a foster parent, I understand that children in foster care live their best lives when they stay with family. And research shows keeping kids with relatives or loved ones also improves behavioral and mental health outcomes, not to mention greater academic success, stability and a stronger sense of belonging,” Speaker Robert Rivas said. “I want to thank the Governor for signing this important legislation.”

In September 2023, the federal Administration on Children, Youth and Families published a final rule revising the definition of “foster family home,” permitting states with the option to use “relative” or “kin-specific” foster care licensing or approval standards. This new law stands to benefit the overall health and well-being of California’s foster youth.

###

Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas represents California’s 29th Assembly District, which includes all of San Benito County and portions of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Santa Clara Counties. For a full biography of Speaker Rivas, click here