CA AB2520

Requires continuums of care to create or maintain youth-specific processes within their coordinated entry systems beginning in fiscal year 2026–27, upon appropriation.

Mandates implementation of youth-specific assessment tools that consider unique needs and presentations of youth homelessness, excluding length of time homeless as a sole prioritization factor.

Requires creation of a youth-lived-experience advisory body that continuums of care and Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention Program grantees must regularly consult on policies, program design, and youth interventions.

Obligates continuums of care to develop an array of youth-specific housing inventory aligned with regional youth homelessness needs.

Requires continuums already maintaining youth-specific coordinated entry systems to document how their assessment tools are youth-specific and trauma-informed, and provide their prioritization policies in their application.