A bill moving through the California Legislature is sparking intense backlash from parental rights advocates who warn it could be exploited by child traffickers and other predators.

Assembly Bill 495, the Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025, introduced by Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D–San Fernando), is being promoted as a way to help undocumented minors stay with a designated “caregiver” if their parents are detained. But opponents argue the bill’s broad language would allow almost any unrelated adult to assume control over a child’s care—without parental consent, court oversight, or background checks.

Attorney Erin Friday, president of Our Duty-USA, called AB 495 “a child trafficker’s and kidnapper’s dream bill,” noting that it requires only an affidavit and a form of ID to gain temporary parental authority. The bill allows a prospective caregiver to simply state they have “advised the parent(s)” or are “unable to contact the parent(s),” without needing a parent’s signature or a court seal.

Critics point out that the legislation applies to any child, regardless of immigration status, and permits the transfer of rights to individuals with no blood relation, including teachers, medical professionals, neighbors, or family friends. “We’re talking about a legal pathway for predators to operate in plain sight,” Friday warned.

Concerns also extend to medical authority. The bill grants caregivers power over a child’s schooling, residency, and healthcare—including mental health treatments. Opponents fear this could enable minors to receive gender transition services without parental knowledge, citing California’s 2022 SB 107 law, which already permits such treatments for minors from other states without parental consent.

Faith leaders have joined the opposition. Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills urged parents to consider leaving California if the measure passes. Gina Gleason, the church’s Real Impact ministry director, emphasized the urgency of public pushback, warning that Democrats’ supermajority makes passage likely unless citizens mobilize.

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