California’s Assembly Bill 495, the so-called Family Preparedness Plan Act, is an outrageous assault on parental rights that threatens every family in the state. This bill, pushed by Assembly member Celeste Rodriguez (D), claims to protect kids, especially those with immigrant parents, but instead opens a Pandora’s box of risks, letting almost any adult take charge of a child without parental consent. It’s a reckless, poorly written law that could enable predators and erode the sacred bond between parents and their children. AB 495 must be stopped before it tears families apart.
AB 495’s Alarming Loopholes
This bill allows any adult claiming an “established familial or mentoring relationship” to become a child’s caregiver with a simple affidavit. No parental signature, no court oversight, no background checks—just a piece of paper. Teachers, neighbors, or even strangers could make critical decisions about a child’s education or medical care, including invasive treatments. Shockingly, schools and doctors don’t need to verify the adult’s identity or legitimacy. This isn’t protection; it’s a free pass for chaos.
Why AB 495 Endangers Kids
While Rodriguez insists AB 495 helps kids of detained immigrants, its language applies to all California children. The bill’s vague terms, like “nonrelative extended family member,” could let anyone from a coach to a family friend claim authority. Without mandatory checks, predators could exploit this to gain control over vulnerable kids. Attorney Erin Friday called it a “child trafficker’s dream bill,” and she’s right. The lack of safeguards invites abuse, not safety.
Parental Rights Under Siege
Parents, you should be furious! AB 495 lets strangers bypass your authority, potentially authorizing medical procedures or school decisions without your knowledge. Imagine someone taking your child for vaccinations or even gender-affirming treatments behind your back. Existing guardianship laws already provide safe, court-supervised options, but this bill throws oversight out the window. It’s a slap in the face to every mom and dad who fights to protect their kids.
The Fight Against AB 495
Thankfully, opposition is growing. Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills is rallying families to flee California if this bill passes, calling it a direct attack on parental rights. A “No on AB 495” protest is set for August 19, 2025, in Sacramento, and thousands are expected to demand the Senate kill this bill. It’s now in the Senate Appropriations Committee, with a hearing on August 18, 2025. Californians must act now—call your senator and make your voice heard!
Time to Stop AB 495
This bill isn’t about helping kids; it’s a dangerous overreach that sacrifices parental rights on the altar of misguided policy. AB 495’s flaws are glaring: no verification, no limits, no accountability. Californians deserve better. We must protect our children and our families by demanding the Senate reject this bill. Stand up, speak out, and fight for your rights before AB 495 becomes a nightmare for every parent in the state. If this atrocious bill passes, parents must seriously consider the safety of their sons and daughters in the State of California going forward. Why submit to unnecessary legal threats to your family by those who were elected to protect you, but instead follow their personal agenda? Has the time finally come to gather the family, quit the job, sell the house, and escape before someone legally walks off with your kids?
