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Senate adopts resolution declaring May Foster Youth Awareness Month, senators urge more support for aged-out youth
Summary
The Senate unanimously adopted a resolution recognizing May as Foster Youth Awareness Month, with senators urging expanded supports for stable housing, education and mental health services for foster youth.
The California Senate adopted Senate Resolution 10 on the floor, recognizing May as Foster Youth Awareness Month and calling attention to the state’s obligations to children in the foster care system.
Author Sen. Wahab described the scale of need and outcomes for former foster youth, stating on the floor that in 2022 "there was roughly about 46,000 foster youth at any given time in the system" and that fewer than 3% obtain a college degree. She urged the Legislature to prioritize housing, education and mental‑health supports for this population.
Members across the aisle and chamber spoke in support. Sen. Ashby highlighted that about "50 percent of the people who experience homelessness on our streets identify as former foster youth," and praised bipartisan efforts to make college debt free for former foster youth. Sen. Anilo and others noted the long history of county responsibility for children removed from unsafe homes and co‑authored the resolution.
The floor called the roll and the resolution was adopted unanimously with 33 ayes and no no votes. The resolution is a formal recognition and advocacy measure; it does not appropriate funds. Senators asked the Legislature to consider continued and expanded policy and budget solutions to improve foster youth outcomes.
