On July 7, First Place for Youth stood proudly in support of Assembly Bill 1314 (AB 1314) during a legislative hearing before the California Senate Human Services Committee. This important bill aims to remove unnecessary barriers for Transitional Housing Placement – Non-Minor Dependent (THP-NMD) programs by preventing counties from adding contract requirements beyond what is already outlined in state licensing standards. 

First Place for Youth CEO, Thomas Lee, traveled to Sacramento to testify as one of the bill’s key witnesses. Thomas joined fellow advocates in urging lawmakers to restrict counties from adding arbitrary rules that don’t allow transitional housing providers to focus on what matters most: helping foster youth transition successfully into adulthood. 

First Place currently operates licensed THP-NMD programs in six counties, serving more than 1,600 young people in California. These programs offer far more than housing—they provide wraparound support through youth-centered case management, education and employment coaching, and individualized services that foster independence and long-term stability. 

However, when counties add their own layers of regulation beyond what the state requires, it creates roadblocks for both providers and participants. During his testimony, Thomas shared real-world examples of these challenges—including one county requiring excessive inspections before a youth can move in and daily contact between staff and participants, who are legal adults. These overly restrictive policies not only delay access to housing, but also limit flexibility, reduce youth engagement, and weaken the impact of programs designed to support young adults in becoming self-sufficient. 

By aligning THP-NMD requirements across all counties, AB 1314 would empower providers like First Place to focus our time and resources where they’re needed most. As Thomas put it, “What makes the biggest difference is when our team has the flexibility, time, and resources to build meaningful relationships and provide individualized support to every youth we serve.” 

The Senate Human Services Committee voted in favor of AB 1314, with four Aye votes, advancing the bill to the Senate Appropriations Committee. We’re proud to stand behind this legislation and remain committed to advocating for policies that improve access to housing and support services for transition-age foster youth across California. 

Stay tuned as we continue to follow the progress of AB 1314—and thank you for standing with us in the fight to create a more equitable, youth-centered system. 

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