California2026Active
AB-1025
Standby Caretaker Act
Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 7:05 AM
In one sentence
This law allows custodial parents to name a standby caretaker or guardian who can care for their child if an activating event, such as an adverse immigration action, occurs.
What it does
- Allows a custodial parent or legal guardian to designate a person as a standby guardian of the minor's person, estate, or both by signing and witnessing a special form under penalty of perjury.
- Lets parents choose an alternate standby guardian in case the first choice cannot serve.
- Requires the standby guardianship to start when an adverse immigration action happens to the parent or legal guardian.
- Allows a custodial parent to nominate a person as a standby caretaker upon the occurrence of an activating event, using a required statutory form signed and witnessed under penalty of perjury.
- Lets parents choose an alternate standby caretaker in case the first choice cannot serve.
- Requires courts to hold hearings during or after the time the standby arrangement is active.
- Allows parents to file a petition at any time to end a standby caretaker nomination, with a rule that this request is presumed to be in the child's best interest.
- Makes signing the Standby Caretaker Authorization form enough proof for school residency requirements so the child can stay in their current district.
Who it affects
- Custodial parents and legal guardians of minor children
- People named to serve as standby guardians or caretakers
- Courts that handle hearings about these care arrangements
- School districts that check student residency requirements
Limits and unknowns
- The exact list of events that count as an 'activating event' is defined by law but not fully detailed here.
- This bill states no state reimbursement is required for local costs, citing a specified reason without explaining the details.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Standby Guardian
- A person chosen to take legal control of a child's care and money if the parent cannot do so.
- Adverse Immigration Action
- An event related to immigration that stops a parent from caring for their child, as defined by this law.
- Activating Event
- A specific situation that starts the standby caretaker's role in looking after the child.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Standby Caretaker Act.
Official activity
Bill history
- Assembly - Died - Appropriations