Plain English Breakdown
The effective date is unknown because executive action (such as a Governor's signature) has not been recorded in the provided metadata, even though the bill passed the Legislature.
AB-1602: Disaster Aid for Foster Youth
This bill creates a new program and account to help foster youth and their caregivers with basic needs during disasters, subject to legislative funding approval.
What This Bill Does
- Establishes the Child Welfare Disaster Response Program administered by the State Department of Social Services.
- Creates the Child Welfare Disaster Response Account to hold money for this program.
- Requires the Legislature to approve spending before funds from the account can be used.
- Allows county child welfare agencies, probation departments, and specified Indian tribes to apply for these disaster funds.
- Limits fund use to housing, clothing, transportation, and other tangible needs within 180 days of an emergency proclamation.
Who It Names or Affects
- Foster children and youth as defined by law.
- Caregivers who look after foster children during disasters.
- County child welfare agencies that apply for funds.
- County probation departments and specified Indian tribes that apply for funds.
Terms To Know
- Child Welfare Disaster Response Account
- A specific fund created by this bill to pay for disaster aid programs, pending legislative appropriation.
- Emergency proclamation
- An official announcement of an emergency made either by a local government or the Governor.
Limits and Unknowns
- Funds can only be spent after the Legislature approves the appropriation.
- The State Department of Social Services must determine specific eligibility criteria for applicants.
- Assistance is limited to needs occurring within 180 days of an emergency proclamation.