CA AB79

Requires county human services agencies to include basic needs directors and coordinators from public colleges and universities when developing engagement protocols between the agency and higher education institutions

Directs the State Department of Social Services to develop training for campus basic needs staff and eligibility workers on topics including Local Programs that Increase Employability (LPIE), CalFresh student eligibility, financial aid, and public social services program criteria

Establishes a quarterly workgroup convened by the Department of Social Services with at least 12 county staff liaisons, campus basic needs representatives, and staff from UC, CSU, and community college system offices to share best practices and address statewide issues

Mandates the department submit a report to the Legislature by May 1, 2027, and every three years thereafter, on enrollment success trends, best practices, and services available to college students

Addresses findings that over half of California college students are housing insecure and nearly two-thirds are food insecure, with low-income students, students of color, and adult learners disproportionately impacted