CA AB2342

Requires the Office of the State Foster Care Ombudsperson to develop a comprehensive resource guide for emancipating foster youth outlining statewide programs and services with eligibility standards.

Resource guide must cover education (postsecondary/vocational preparation, financial aid), health care coverage, housing assistance, mental health services, independent living programs, personal identification documents, personal finance, career planning, and job training.

Office must incorporate the resource guide into its existing Internet website and print publications to ensure accessibility.

Office shall consult with relevant state departments, the Administrative Office of the Courts, and foster youth stakeholders including California Youth Connection during development.

Addresses findings that approximately 4,500 foster youth emancipate annually from California's system of 84,000 youth without adequate preparation, with 40-50 percent becoming homeless within 18 months and many unaware of available services.