October 2025 | Newsom Signs AB 1314, Significant Reforms for FY Transitional Housing
Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Bill Key to Getting Foster Youth Housed
Sacramento, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1314 into law on Oct. 1. The law will drive significant reform to transitional housing programs that serve 2,100 foster youth ages 18-21 across California.
Introduced by Assembly member Aherns and sponsored by the California Alliance of Child and Family Services and Good River Partners, AB 1214 swept both the State Assembly and Senate with a coalition of more than 24 organizations.
The deregulatory measure clarifies that county child welfare agencies may not place “unreasonable barriers” for youth to be accepted and participate in transitional housing program. Advocates hope this language shift will force counties from imposing conditions that – for example – currently include restrictions that inhibit youth from moving between counties for work and educational opportunities.
The bill also specifies that youth should be responsible for decisions about shared living arrangements – such as sharing a room with a sibling. Currently, some counties prohibit room sharing even between siblings.
“We are thrilled that Governor Newsom has recognized the value of transitional housing services for foster youth and the urgent need to ensure these quality programs provided by non-profit community-based organizations can sustain and serve more youth on their journey to independence,” said Selena Liu-Raphael. “Many thanks to Assembly member Ahrens, the broad coalition of supporters backing AB 1314, and especially to the youth who voiced their needs, and whose advocacy was essential to crafting and passing this bill. We look forward to closely collaborating with the administration and partners in implementation and continued progress on supporting youth housing needs.”
Kevin Clark, Senior Director at Good River Partners and co-sponsor of the bill:
“Commonsense policies that result in tangible change is exactly what California needs. We are fortunate to have elected leaders like Governor Newsom and Assembly member Ahrens who are committed to removing barriers that stand in the way of getting transition-aged foster youth housed.”
About Good River Partners
Good River Partners is a mission-driven organization working nationally to end the foster care to-homelessness pipeline. The organization takes a comprehensive approach focusing on real estate, coalition building, applied research, and policy change to ensure youth are provided with high quality housing.
About the California Alliance for Child and Family Services
The California Alliance of Child and Family Services is a unifying force for organizations serving the state’s children, youth and families. Our goal is to lead change, advance policy, and provide support for those doing essential front-line work to maximize their impact.
Media Contact
Kevin Clark
Senior Director, Good River Partners
818-389-0731
kclark@goodriverpartners.com