On January 29, 2025, California State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 33, establishing the California Success, Opportunity, and Academic Resilience (SOAR) Guaranteed Income Program. This initiative aims to provide financial support to homeless high school seniors, enhancing their economic security and educational outcomes.

The bill stipulates that from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2030, any income received through the SOAR program will not be classified as earned income for the purposes of the California Earned Income Tax Credit, the young child tax credit, or the foster youth tax credit. This exclusion is designed to ensure that participants can access additional financial resources without jeopardizing their eligibility for these critical tax credits.

Key provisions of the bill include a mandate for the State Department of Social Services to analyze and report on the program's effectiveness by March 1, 2027. The report will compare college enrollment and workforce training outcomes for SOAR participants against both previous homeless youth cohorts and similarly situated non-participants. Additionally, it will assess measures of economic security, such as housing stability and income levels.

The bill has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on youth homelessness and educational attainment. Proponents argue that the guaranteed income will provide essential support to vulnerable students, enabling them to focus on their studies and improve their life circumstances. Critics, however, raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of such programs and the potential for dependency on government assistance.

The implications of SB 33 extend beyond immediate financial relief. By targeting homeless youth, the program seeks to foster greater educational achievement and economic independence, potentially reducing future reliance on social services. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes could significantly influence California's approach to addressing youth homelessness and educational disparities.

In conclusion, California Senate Bill 33 represents a strategic effort to bolster the welfare of homeless high school seniors through guaranteed income, with the potential to reshape their educational and economic futures. The upcoming analysis and reporting will be crucial in determining the program's effectiveness and guiding future legislative actions.