Child health and safety: “Have a Heart, Be a Star, Help Our Kids” license plate program.
Starting July 1, 2027, AB 997 will increase the fees associated with the initial issuance and renewal of the special license plates. Of the fees collected before this date, fifty percent will be allocated to state and local childcare provider licensure, oversight, recruitment, training, and development, while the remaining fifty percent will be used for various programs addressing childhood injury prevention. This change is expected to enhance the resources available for childcare providers and improve overall childcare standards throughout California.
Assembly Bill 997, introduced by Assembly Member Stefani, focuses on enhancing child health and safety in California through the establishment and funding of the 'Have a Heart, Be a Star, Help Our Kids' license plate program. The bill outlines a structure for collecting additional fees through the sale and renewal of these special license plates, which are designated for child-related health and safety initiatives. It also amends existing laws related to these license plates and how the funds generated from them are utilized, initiating a comprehensive approach to support child welfare programs statewide.
The bill is designed to create a dedicated revenue stream for child health and safety initiatives, which has sparked discussion among legislators and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that this initiative will provide much-needed funding for critical programs that address aspects of child welfare, from abuse prevention to enhancing vehicle safety and drowning prevention. However, critics express concerns about the reliance on increased fees for funding and the potential impact on families, emphasizing the need for a careful analysis of how these funds will effectively translate into tangible improvements in child safety.
AB 997 stipulates that moneys generated from the license plate fees will be deposited into the Child Health and Safety Fund, which is created within the State Treasury. This fund will finance various programs dedicated to preventing childhood injuries and abuse. The systematic allocation includes prioritizing local and state oversight of childcare services, ensuring a focus on quality and safety in care settings. Furthermore, the bill envisions utilizing these funds for ongoing public education and training programs that promote best practices in childcare and safety.