For Immediate Release

September 15, 2025

Contact: Elisa Rivera

Elisa.Rivera@sen.ca.gov (559) 264-3070

Senator Caballero Advances Legislation to Support Vulnerable Children and Families

SACRAMENTO — Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) announced that two key bills — SB 624, the FOSTER Act, and SB 785, the Durable Medical Equipment Tax Credit — have passed the Legislature and now head to the Governor’s desk. Together, these measures use California’s tax system to reduce hardship, strengthen families, and ensure every child has the tools and support they need to thrive.

“California’s children deserve every chance to grow up safe, healthy, and supported — no matter their circumstances,” said Senator Caballero. “These bills take practical steps to reduce poverty among foster youth and help families afford the essential medical equipment that keeps children with complex needs healthy at home. This is about fairness, dignity, and giving every child the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

SB 624 — The FOSTER Act
The California Foster Youth Tax Credit was created in 2022 to reduce poverty among current and former foster youth. However, in 2024, only 16 percent of eligible youth received the credit, leaving thousands without needed support. SB 624 closes this gap by requiring county child welfare agencies and juvenile probation departments to mail clear information to all non-minor foster youth, explaining the need to file taxes to access the credit. It also directs the California Department of Social Services to issue best practices for helping foster youth navigate filing requirements.

With annual incomes averaging between $9,000 and $16,000, foster youth are at disproportionate risk of homelessness and poverty. This bill ensures that more young people receive the financial support already available to them.

SB 785 — Tax Credit for Durable Medical Equipment
Children with complex medical conditions often depend on durable medical equipment (DME) — such as wheelchairs, ventilators, and mobility aids — to stay safe, healthy, and able to live at home. However, many families cannot afford the high out-of-pocket costs, even with Medi-Cal or private insurance.

SB 785 creates a new tax credit of up to $5,000 per child to help families offset the unreimbursed costs of this critical equipment. By making it financially possible for families to provide essential care at home, SB 785 helps avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and allows children to grow up in loving family environments.

Together, SB 624 and SB 785 will:

• Reduce poverty and financial hardship among foster youth and families with children who have complex medical needs.
• Ensure children receive the support, care, and stability they need to thrive.
• Put California’s values of fairness, dignity, and justice into practice by making our tax system work better for vulnerable families.

“These are simple, common-sense bills with life-changing impacts,” Caballero added. “By investing in our children, we are investing in California’s future.”

The bills now await the Governor’s consideration.

For interviews or inquiries, please contact: Elisa Rivera at 559-264-3070

Senator Anna M. Caballero proudly represents California's 14th Senate District, leading efforts to advance clean energy, improve healthcare access, expand affordable housing and create opportunities for working families across Merced, Fresno, and Madera Counties