Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel, Chino Hills and others had rallied concerned citizens against Assembly Bill 495. The so-called "Family Preparedness Act" allows anyone who fills out an online form saying they are a caretaker to remove a child from school and take custody of them – essentially legalizing kidnapping.
Promoting it as a compassionate fix for families in crisis when a parent is detained or deported, Governor Gavin Newsom (D) signed the measure into law on Sunday, "adding to the already robust network of laws that help children and families feel safe at school," his press release states.
But Greg Burt of California Family Council calls it an act of defiance and mockery that proves Gov. Newsom's "contempt for California's parents."
"This bill undermines parental rights," he insists. "It's a violation of the Constitution. It opens the door for children to be abused, even kidnapped, and the government is facilitating it."
His "biggest concern" is anyone who signs a Caregiver Authorization Affidavit can make educational and medical decisions for a child without the parents' permission.
"Licensed childcare facilities and state preschools will not collect immigration-related information from students and families, and families' private information is further protected," the press release claims.
The law, Newsom says, will protect parents' legal rights and their children's security "in case they are separated from their parents due to immigration enforcement."
Burt points out that even children of illegal immigrants have the right to decide where their children are taken and who overseas their care.
"This is not necessary," he asserts. "It's violating parental rights under the guise that it's dealing with ICE agents. It actually puts illegal immigrant children at great risk."
He encourages parents to stay vigilant.
In addition to updating their emergency contact information, Burt says parents need to let their kids' schools know that only approved adults in the emergency contact list may take care of their children if the school is unable to reach them directly.
The California Family Council expects lawsuits will be filed against the new law in the near future.
