CA AB2126

Expands the definition of "peer support specialist" to include current or former foster youth based on their experience of trauma, recovery, and system navigation

Requires the Department of Social Services to automatically grant criminal background exemptions for current or former foster youth convicted of certain offenses that occurred before age 21, when they will be employed in peer support roles rather than caregiving positions

Eliminates the requirement for additional evidentiary showing for these foster youth exemptions, streamlining their ability to work in community care facilities

Amends Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code and Section 14045.12 of the Welfare and Institutions Code relating to community care facility licensing and criminal background checks