Parental Consent Matters is a statewide effort to help families understand a new California law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom (2025), and what it means for parents. The law (AB 495) allows certain non-parents to legally take physical custody of a child from a school, daycare, or similar facility, without parental authority.
This campaign focuses on making sure parents know their rights, understand their options, and feel confident communicating their wishes to schools and childcare providers. It also highlights a simple tool, the Caretaker Authorization Affidavit Opt-Out Notice, that parents can use to clearly state who is and is not allowed to pick up their child.
At the heart of this issue is a simple principle: parents are the primary decision-makers for their children. Any situation involving physical custody, especially removing a child from school or daycare, should begin with a parent’s knowledge and consent.
AB 495 became effective on January 1, 2026. The best option to protect your child against AB 495 is to immediately submit the Caretaker Authorization Affidavit Opt-Out Notice to school and daycare authorities.
The Caretaker Authorization Affidavit Opt-Out Notice is a resource created by the legal team at Advocates for Faith and Freedom (AFF) and can be downloaded here or at the AFF website.
DOWNLOAD HERE
IMPORTANT POINTS:
PARENTS' RIGHTS COME FIRST
Parents—not outside adults—have the primary responsibility and authority when it comes to their child’s safety and transportation.PHYSICAL CUSTODY IS A SERIOUS MATTER
Even when it isn’t legal custody, taking a child from school or daycare is a major decision and should always involve the parent.THE OPT-OUT NOTICE GIVES PARENTS CONTROL
The Caretaker Authorization Affidavit Opt-Out Notice helps ensure schools follow a parent’s instructions about who may—or may not—pick up their child.SCHOOLS SHOULDN'T HAVE TO GUESS
Clear communication protects everyone. This campaign encourages parents to make their expectations known so schools aren’t left guessing.THIS IS ABOUT SAFETY, NOT POLITICS
The focus stays on child safety, parental involvement, and clear permission—not ideology or political debates.TRANSPARENCY MATTERS FOR EVERY FAMILY
Many parents are unaware that these policies exist. Awareness helps prevent confusion, misunderstandings, and unwanted situations.
AB 495 BILL TEXT: CLICK HERE
Sample of "Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit": CLICK HERE