Assembly Bill 90, aimed at establishing safe parking programs for homeless community college students in California, is unlikely to pass in the current legislative session. The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Corey A. Jackson, sought to address the increasing homelessness among students, with one in four of California’s two million community college students reporting homelessness, up from 19% in 2019.
The bill proposed secure overnight parking and designated bathroom and shower facilities for students living in cars and RVs due to high housing costs. However, it was held “under submission” by the Senate Appropriations Committee, preventing it from advancing to the Senate floor. Critics cited concerns about the estimated $40 million to $50 million statewide cost, with some community college districts, like the Los Angeles Community College District, opposing the bill. They prefer to connect students to housing providers rather than allow parking in lots.
Despite opposition, some colleges, such as Long Beach City College, have implemented safe parking programs, offering secure parking, internet service, showers, and housing assistance referrals. As the legislative session concludes Friday, the bill’s future remains uncertain, leaving many students without a secure place to sleep.
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