In a groundbreaking move that champions immigrant family rights, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 495, providing crucial protections for children whose parents face potential deportation.

The new law allows a broader range of relatives to serve as temporary caregivers if parents are detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This legislation expands the definition of who can be considered a caregiver, including great aunts, cousins, and other extended family members, giving immigrant parents more flexibility in planning for their children’s care during uncertain times.

The bill emerged as a direct response to the increasing challenges faced by immigrant families, particularly in the wake of aggressive deportation policies. By enabling parents to nominate temporary legal guardians through family court, the law ensures children have a stable support system if their parents are suddenly detained.

Despite facing intense backlash from conservative activists who claimed the bill could enable child trafficking, Newsom stood firm. “We are putting on record that we stand by our families and their right to keep their private information safe,” the governor stated in a press release.

The legislation also includes critical protections for families, such as barring daycare providers from collecting immigration information about children or their parents. This provision aims to create a safer environment for vulnerable communities and prevent potential discrimination.

Supported by immigrants’ rights groups and children’s advocates, the bill’s author, Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez, emphasized the human impact: “I introduced this bill so children do not have to wonder what will happen to them if their parents are not able to pick them up from school”.

While opponents argued the bill could compromise parental rights, proponents highlighted the temporary nature of the caregiver designation and the fact that family court judges ultimately maintain control over legal guardianship.

California continues to position itself as a sanctuary state, consistently implementing policies that protect immigrant communities and prioritize family unity in the face of federal immigration challenges.