Statutory Protections
California Foster Youth Bill of Rights
Under California Welfare & Institutions Code § 16001.9, every youth in foster care, including young adults in extended foster care (AB 12), has enforceable legal rights to safety, dignity, privacy, and self-determination.
Welfare & Institutions Code § 16001.9
All youth in out-of-home care in California are protected by statewide civil rights statutes. At Second Chance Homes, these are not bureaucratic checkboxes — they are the operational principles that govern our housing rules, staff conduct, and daily community culture.
Safety & Living Conditions
- Safe, comfortable home: To live in a safe, healthy, and comfortable home where you are treated with respect and free from discrimination.
- Zero abuse: To be free from physical, emotional, sexual, and verbal abuse, harassment, and any form of corporal punishment.
- Nutrition & essentials: To receive adequate, healthy food, personal clothing, and hygiene products suited to your cultural and physical needs.
Privacy & Unmonitored Communication
- Unmonitored communication: To make and receive unmonitored phone calls, send and receive unopened mail, and communicate privately online.
- Personal property: To have your own lockable space for personal possessions and to be free from unreasonable searches of your belongings.
- Confidentiality (WIC § 10850): To have your child welfare records and case history kept strictly confidential.
Autonomy, Education & Finances
- School & college: To attend school of your choice, remain enrolled in your school of origin, and access higher-education grants (Chafee, Pell, EOPS).
- Employment & earnings: To work, maintain personal bank accounts, build credit, and keep 100% of your earned wages.
- Independent living planning: To actively lead and participate in your Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP).
Legal Representation & Advocacy
- Court attendance: To attend all juvenile court hearings regarding your dependency status and speak directly to the judge.
- Private legal counsel: To contact your court-appointed attorney, social worker, probation officer, and CASA advocate confidentially.
- Independent reporting: To file complaints with the State Ombudsperson or Community Care Licensing without retaliation.
Office of the State Foster Care Ombudsperson (OFCO)
If you ever believe your rights are being violated or your caseworker is not responding to essential safety needs, the California Department of Social Services maintains an autonomous, confidential ombudsperson dedicated to investigating foster youth concerns.