Bill > AB1357

This bill aims to modify how guaranteed income payments are treated in various means-tested public assistance programs in California. Specifically, the bill stipulates that guaranteed income payments (defined as unconditional, recurring cash payments intended to support basic needs) will not be counted as income or resources when determining eligibility for benefits in programs like CalWORKs, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI). Conversely, benefits from these programs will also not be considered when calculating eligibility for guaranteed income payments. The bill requires state departments to seek any necessary federal waivers to implement these provisions and ensures the changes will only be applied to the extent they do not conflict with federal law. This legislation builds upon the existing California Guaranteed Income Pilot Program, which prioritizes grants for foster youth and pregnant individuals, and aims to provide more financial flexibility for participants in both guaranteed income programs and existing social services programs. The bill also includes provisions related to state funding and local agency mandate reimbursements, ensuring that implementation will not unduly burden local governments.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1357