March 3rd, 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion by Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Hilda L. Solis to strengthen family preparedness protections for immigrant families and ensure parents have updated guidance under AB 495, the Family Preparedness Act of 2025.

“No parent should be facing the choices forced by federal immigration enforcement officials when it comes to the safety of their children and families,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “With half of all children in Los Angeles County having at least one immigrant parent, we have a responsibility to make sure families have clear, accurate information to protect their children. This motion ensures parents understand their rights under AB 495 and have the tools to plan for their children’s safety without giving up their parental rights.”

“I authored AB 495, the Family Preparedness Plan Act, with families and children in mind — to ensure they feel empowered and informed to create a plan that meets their needs in the event of immigration enforcement,” stated Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez. “I am grateful to Supervisor Horvath for her leadership and proactive, collaborative efforts to ensure family preparedness information is shared widely and delivered in culturally competent ways across our communities. This partnership reflects what good governance looks like: meeting Angelenos where they are, honoring the diversity of our communities, and ensuring every family has the tools they need to feel prepared and supported.”

AB 495, which took effect January 1, 2026, allows a custodial parent to nominate a joint guardian for their minor child in anticipation of temporary unavailability — including immigration-related circumstances — without relinquishing parental rights. The law provides families facing uncertainty with greater legal clarity and stability.

“Effective family preparedness plans are specific and tailored to each family’s goals—which can be complicated, especially given the misinformation circulating. This motion is essential because it ensures that county departments and their contracted providers have accurate, up-to-date information about families’ legal options. Public Counsel thanks Supervisors Horvath and Solis for introducing this critical measure to support immigrant families in Los Angeles County.” – Sharon Balmer Cartagena, Directing Attorney, Child Youth & Family Advocacy, Public Counsel.

“Many families facing separation were forced to make impossible choices to ensure their children were looked after, such as placing their children into the foster care system or making the difficult choice to give up their parental rights through a complicated and costly permanent probate guardianship process,” said Jennifer L. Braun, President and CEO, Alliance for Children’s Rights. “We appreciate Supervisors Horvath’s and Solis’ leadership in promoting informed, family-centered decision-making and new options that keep children supported in ways that work best for families.”

The motion directs the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), in collaboration with the Office of Immigrant Affairs, Office of Child Protection, Los Angeles County Office of Education, County Counsel, and First 5 LA, to update family preparedness materials to reflect the new law and include clear guidance on reunification following a separation. The County will work alongside trusted partners, including Public Counsel and the Alliance for Children’s Rights, to ensure families receive accurate and culturally responsive information.

Read the full motion here.

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