Nonfamily members and distant relatives will be allowed to sign children out of school and approve medical procedures without parental consent under a new California law signed on Oct. 12 by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
The author of Assembly Bill 495, Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D-San Fernando), said the law was needed to keep families together, especially those affected by recent deportations of illegal immigrants.
“This is a crucial step toward protecting children and families at a time when they are facing the terror of separation. By creating additional protections and tools that strengthen parental rights and community preparedness, we are ensuring that no child is left without a safety net and reinforcing California’s commitment to safety and compassion for all families,” Rodriguez said in a statement….