California

California Bill Aims to Protect Illegal Immigrants’ Children by Easing Guardianship Rules, But Critics See Risks

AB 495 broadens the pool of potential caregivers to include ‘nonrelative extended family members.’ Opponents say strangers could take custody of your child.
California Bill Aims to Protect Illegal Immigrants’ Children by Easing Guardianship Rules, But Critics See Risks
A man is detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Los Angeles on Oct. 14, 2015. John Moore/Getty Images
Kimberly Hayek
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A bill making its way through the California state Legislature would make it easier for children to be temporarily placed under the care of guardians other than their parents.

Assembly Bill 495, also called the Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025, is aimed at protecting children of illegal immigrants and allowing “nonrelative extended family members” to act as caregivers if parents are unavailable due to immigration issues. Critics argue the bill has gaping holes that put children—and parental rights—at risk.
Kimberly Hayek
Kimberly Hayek
Author
Kimberly Hayek is a reporter for The Epoch Times. She covers California news and has worked as an editor and on scene at the U.S.-Mexico border during the 2018 migrant caravan crisis.