California’s Assembly Bill 495, also known as the Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025, has garnered national attention since it could “revise the definition of a relative” to allow more people beyond immediate family members to qualify as a caretaker.
If signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the bill would amend portions of the state’s Education, Family and Probate codes. It would expand the use of caregiver authorization affidavits and create a joint guardianship option that allows parents to retain their rights while planning for long-term absences.
Supporters say the bill is needed to make sure children are not left without care if federal immigration officials detain a parent. Opponents counter that expanding who can authorize care could put children’s safety at risk…