Governor Newsom Signs Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez’s Youth Caregiver Bill into Law

-Editorial 

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) announced that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 2324, legislation recognizing California’s youth caregivers and expanding opportunities for them through Career Technical Education. The new law takes effect on January 1, 2027.

Inspired by Assemblyman Gonzalez’s own family experience caring for his son, RJ, AB 2324 encourages California’s Career Technical Education curriculum to recognize youth caregiving and consider pathways that prepare students for careers in healthcare, human services, and the direct support profession, while acknowledging the unique challenges many young caregivers face.

“This bill is deeply personal to my family,” said Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez. “My wife, our children, and I have experienced firsthand the love, sacrifice, and responsibility that come with caring for RJ. Across California, hundreds of thousands of young caregivers quietly do the same every day for someone they love. With the signing of AB 2324, we’re telling those young people that we see them, we value them, and the skills they’ve developed matter.”

Assemblyman Gonzalez also thanked Governor Newsom for signing the legislation into law.

“I appreciate Governor Newsom recognizing the importance of supporting California’s young caregivers and helping create opportunities for the next generation of healthcare and direct support professionals. This is a meaningful step forward for families across our state.”

AB 2324 was 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.