Bill Increases Internship Odds For Foster Children

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- The California Assembly has unanimously passed a bill giving foster children preference for internships and student assistant programs at state agencies.

Assemblywoman Holly Mitchell, a Los Angeles Democrat, says there are few groups with as high a risk of homelessness, unemployment and dropping out of school as foster children. She hopes that by improving their likelihood of being hired, AB735 will help children better transition from foster care to independence.

The legislation received quick, bipartisan approval Friday from the Assembly, which voted 68-0 in favor.

In order to qualify for the hiring preference in state agencies, the young adults who come from foster homes must be as qualified for the position as any other applicant.

The bill now goes to the state Senate for consideration.

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