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Panel advances bill to prioritize campus housing and defer deposits for foster and unhoused students

California State Assembly — Higher Education Committee · April 14, 2026

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Summary

AB 2766 would require campuses to prioritize housing for current and former foster youth and students experiencing homelessness and defer housing deposits until financial aid is disbursed; authors and student witnesses said the changes would reduce barriers to enrollment and persistence.

Assemblymember Summer Ahrens presented AB 2766 to address housing instability among foster youth and students experiencing homelessness by requiring community colleges to prioritize housing, asking all systems to identify eligible students, and deferring deposits until financial aid is dispersed.

Jessica Petros of John Burton Advocates for Youth described low completion rates among foster‑care alumni and cited housing instability as a key barrier to persistence. Students testified that unclear eligibility information and up‑front fees can prevent access to campus housing and even enrollment.

Supporters including campus and student groups urged the committee to advance the bill. The committee voted to pass and refer the measure to the committee on human services for further consideration.