CA SB731

Requires children and nonminor dependents in out-of-home foster care placements to be placed according to their gender identity, regardless of the gender or sex listed in their court or child welfare records.

Adds gender identity placement as an explicit right in the state's foster care bill of rights, alongside existing protections against discrimination based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and other characteristics.

Mandates the State Department of Social Services adopt regulations to implement gender identity-based placement policies.

Requires caregivers and child welfare personnel to receive instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity for providing adequate care to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth in out-of-home care.

Authorizes state reimbursement to local agencies for costs mandated by this legislation if determined necessary by the Commission on State Mandates.