CA AB223

Establishes pilot projects in Alameda, Sacramento, and San Joaquin counties (if they choose to participate) to provide specialized services for commercially sexually exploited youth.

Participating counties may direct their probation department, child welfare agency, or both to create and operate programs that provide services including physical and mental health assessments, trauma-informed counseling, and specialized placements.

Requires programs to be licensed by the State Department of Social Services and to include staff trained in child sex trafficking, peer mentors, and protective settings separated from trafficking environments.

Mandates participating counties conduct at least one evaluation of program impact and effectiveness by January 1, 2024, and submit results to the Board of State and Community Corrections and the Legislature.

Funding is contingent on appropriation in the annual Budget Act and administered by the Board of State and Community Corrections; the chapter repeals on January 1, 2025.