Bill > SB290

This bill modifies the CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids) program by changing immunization documentation requirements for aid recipients. Currently, families receiving CalWORKs must provide proof of immunizations for children not enrolled in school, with potential penalties like reduced assistance for non-compliance. Starting July 1, 2026, or when the State Department of Social Services determines the Statewide Automated Welfare System can implement the changes, the bill will eliminate the immunization documentation requirement for children not in school and remove the associated grant reduction penalty. Instead, the bill will require that notice to CalWORKs applicants and recipients only advise them of existing immunization obligations for children entering schools, childcare centers, and other educational institutions. The bill also specifies that the continuous General Fund appropriation previously used to support county CalWORKs program costs will not be made for implementing these changes. The notice will still include recommended immunization schedules from medical professional organizations and information about how to obtain immunizations through various healthcare providers.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB290