Story perspectives

California Expands Caregiver Definition, Sparks Safety Concerns

10/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 495 expanding definition of a 'caregiver' to withdraw children from school.
Critics say the law could enable abduction and trafficking by letting distant relatives claim custody without background checks or parental consent.
Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez, the bill's author, says it protects children from ICE arrest separations.
Opponents warn of risks to child safety and parental rights and urge alternatives to public schooling.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 495 expanding definition of a 'caregiver' to withdraw children from school.
Critics say the law could enable abduction and trafficking by letting distant relatives claim custody without background checks or parental consent.
Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez, the bill's author, says it protects children from ICE arrest separations.
Opponents warn of risks to child safety and parental rights and urge alternatives to public schooling.