Foster care services in California would be extended to young people between the ages of 18 and 21 under a bill pending in the state legislature. The bill, co-sponsored by Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, would tap federal funds to help young people get on their feet before being forced out of the system. We discuss the proposal, which is set for a hearing next week.
Guests:
Karen Bass, speaker of the California State Assembly and co-sponsor of AB 12, a bill that would extend foster care benefits to young Californians up to the age of 21
Sam Cobbs, executive director of First Place for Youth, an Oakland-based non-profit working with foster youth to create a safe, supported transition from foster care
Amy Lemly, policy director for the John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes, a San Francisco-based non-profit dedicated to improving the quality of life for California's homeless children
Chio Saetern, former foster youth and peer educator at First Place for Youth in Oakland
Shaquilah Smith, former foster youth
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