Youth Caregiver Bill Heads to Governor

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez’s Youth Caregiver Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk

SACRAMENTO — Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez’s, R-Indio, AB 2324, legislation recognizing California’s youth caregivers and expanding career pathways in caregiving, has passed the Legislature and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Inspired by his own family’s experience caring for his son, RJ, who lives with severe disabilities, AB 2324 directs California’s Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards to consider incorporating youth caregiving into the Healthcare and Human Services career pathway. The bill also encourages support for the unique emotional, academic, and social challenges youth caregivers face.

“Caregiving isn’t something my family reads about—we live it every day,” said Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez, who is seeking re-election to a second term in November. “My wife, my children, and I have all helped care for RJ, and I know the sacrifices young caregivers make across California. They develop incredible compassion, responsibility, and real-world skills that deserve to be recognized. AB 2324 tells these young people that we see them, we value them, and we want to help them succeed.”

An estimated 200,000 to 400,000 youth caregivers in California help care for family members with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or aging-related needs, while the state continues to face a shortage of direct support professionals. AB 2324 helps recognize these experiences and creates opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in caregiving and human services.

The bill is sponsored by the Association of Regional Center Agencies, the California Association of Public Authorities for IHSS, and the California Association of Local Behavioral Health Boards & Commissions.

Gonzalez represents Imperial County and portions of Riverside and San Bernardino County in the California Legislature. District 36 includes Anza, Blythe, Brawley, Calexico, Coachella, El Centro, Hemet, Holtville, Imperial, Indio, Mecca, Salton City, Thermal, Westmorland, Winchester, and Winterhaven.