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SB 778

Migrant childcare and development programs.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Monique Limón

SB 778 expands childcare access for migrant agricultural families by lowering income requirements, ensuring more children benefit from essential developmental programs.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 459, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 778

Summary of SB 778: Migrant Childcare and Development Programs

Bill Number: SB 778
Introduced: February 21, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 459, Statutes of 2025.
Author: Limón

Purpose and Intent

SB 778 aims to amend existing laws regarding migrant childcare and development programs in California. The primary intent of the bill is to broaden the definition of "migrant agricultural worker family," thereby increasing access to childcare services for families engaged in agricultural work. This change is designed to better support the needs of families who rely on seasonal and migratory agricultural employment.

Key Provisions

  1. Revised Definition of Migrant Agricultural Worker Family:

    • The bill changes the definition from a family that earns at least 50% of its total gross income from agricultural work to one where at least one individual earns 40% of their total gross income from such employment during the 12-month period preceding the application for childcare services.

  2. Enrollment Priorities:

    • The bill maintains and clarifies the enrollment priorities for children of migrant agricultural worker families in childcare programs:
      • Families that move from place to place for work.
      • Families that have moved in the past five years and are currently settled near agricultural areas while still dependent on agricultural employment.
      • Families residing in rural agricultural areas dependent on seasonal agricultural work.
      • Compliance with federal regulations for the federally funded Migrant Child Development Program.

  3. Self-Certification of Income:

    • The bill mandates that the State Department of Social Services ensure that the self-certification of income for migrant childcare programs aligns with other childcare and development programs under the Child Care and Development Services Act.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill primarily affects migrant agricultural worker families in California, allowing more families to qualify for childcare services. This change is expected to benefit children from these families by providing them with access to necessary developmental programs.

  • Procedural Aspects:

    • The bill was approved by the Governor on October 7, 2025, and is now part of the Welfare and Institutions Code. It underwent several legislative processes, including amendments and approvals from various committees before its final passage.

Conclusion

SB 778 represents a significant shift in the accessibility of childcare services for migrant agricultural worker families in California. By lowering the income threshold and ensuring consistent income verification processes, the bill aims to enhance support for families engaged in agricultural work, ultimately benefiting the development and well-being of their children.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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