Anthony Adams - photo: Dan Wilson

(Best Syndication News) SACRAMENTO - Two bills introduced by Assemblyman Anthony Adams (R-Hesperia), Assembly Bill 167 and Assembly Bill 595, which provide protection and support services for California's foster children, were signed into law on Sunday by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Assembly Bill 167 will exempt a foster child who transfers to a new school during the eleventh or twelfth grade from being required to meet locally-imposed course requirements if those requirements exceed the minimum state standards and would prevent him or her from graduating.

"Foster youth who experience multiple placement moves face considerable challenges in graduating from high school," said Kathy Martin, Legislative Program Manager for San Bernardino County's Human Services Administration. "This bill enables these vulnerable youth the opportunity to exit foster care with a diploma in hand."

Assembly Bill 167 will take effect on January 1, 2009.

Assembly Bill 595 tightens requirements for approving criminal background checks for foster care family homes licensing in an effort to prohibit persons convicted of specific offenses from becoming foster or adoptive parents.

"Children in California's foster care system face unique and difficult challenges," said Adams. "It is our responsibility to help these children transition to new surroundings and ensure that they are being placed in a safe family environment before leaving our care."

Assembly Bill 595 will take effect immediately.

Assemblyman Adams represents the 59th Assembly District, which includes the San Bernardino County communities of Apple Valley, Hesperia, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline, San Bernardino, Highland and Mentone. He also represents the Los Angeles County communities of Claremont, La Verne, Glendora, San Dimas, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Bradbury, Arcadia and La Crescenta.

By: Rebecca Bloomfield

Interview With Assembly Person Anthony Adams