WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 952

Youth Offender Program Camp Pilot Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sade Elhawary

AB 952 establishes a permanent Youth Offender Program Camp in California, offering vocational training in wildland firefighting to help young offenders reintegrate successfully.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 718, Statutes of 2025.
#youthoffenderprogramcamppilotprogram
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 952

Summary of AB 952: Youth Offender Program Camp Pilot Program

Bill Overview

Bill Number: AB 952
Title: Youth Offender Program Camp Pilot Program
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 718, Statutes of 2025
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Author: Assemblymember Elhawary

Purpose and Intent

AB 952 aims to make the Youth Offender Program Camp Pilot Program a permanent initiative within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The program is designed to provide incarcerated youth offenders, aged 18 to 25, with opportunities for personal development and vocational training, specifically in wildland firefighting. The overarching goal is to encourage positive change and self-improvement, enabling these individuals to reintegrate as law-abiding citizens upon their release.

Key Provisions

  • Permanent Establishment: The bill mandates the Secretary of the CDCR to make the Youth Offender Program Camp Pilot Program permanent.
  • Expansion Authority: The Secretary is authorized to expand the program to include some or all California Conservation Camps, which are facilities designed for inmate labor related to conservation and firefighting efforts.
  • Eligibility Criteria: The program targets youth offenders with a Level III classification score or those identified with a Violent Administrative Determinant, allowing participation on a case-by-case basis.
  • Program History: The pilot program was initiated in August 2023 at Growlersburg Conservation Camp #33 and expanded to Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp #12 in August 2024 due to its promising outcomes.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects youth offenders within the specified age range, providing them with vocational training and skills that can aid in their rehabilitation and future employment.
  • Community Benefits: By equipping youth offenders with firefighting skills, the program not only aims to reduce recidivism but also contributes to community safety and environmental conservation efforts through active participation in firefighting and related activities.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Process: The bill passed through various committees and was approved by both the Assembly and Senate with unanimous votes, reflecting broad support for the initiative.
  • Timeline: The bill was chaptered on October 13, 2025, following its approval by the Governor, marking its official enactment.

Conclusion

AB 952 represents a significant step towards reforming the approach to youth offenders in California by providing them with structured opportunities for growth and skill development. The transition from a pilot program to a permanent initiative underscores the state's commitment to rehabilitating young individuals and enhancing public safety through proactive measures.

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

Sign in to ask a question.