Pastor Warns of Exodus if Controversial Bill Passes in California
California’s Assembly Bill 495 has sparked a significant outcry from religious leaders concerned about its implications for parental rights. Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills cautioned his congregation about the controversial legislation, which could permit adults to assume custody of children without notifying their parents.
The proposed Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025 seeks to broaden the definition of a “caregiver,” including non-relative extended family members who have a mentoring relationship with the child or their family. This designation would enable individuals to take custody of a child by submitting a signed affidavit to school officials.
While supporters argue the bill addresses challenges faced by immigrant families due to past deportation efforts, Hibbs asserts the potential risks to child safety are too significant to ignore. “There’s no requirement in the bill for the school to ask you if it’s OK for them to take John out of school,” he explained to his church, emphasizing the absence of mandatory background checks or ID requirements.
The bill would also empower caregivers to make essential medical decisions for minors, including authorizing vaccinations and examinations. Hibbs expressed grave concern, suggesting that if the legislation passes, California might no longer be safe for Christian families. “If this bill passes, I am going to ask you to leave the state of California,” he declared, urging families to consider relocation for their children’s safety.
Beyond his congregation, Hibbs has organized a “Stop AB 495 Rally” on August 19 in Sacramento, aiming to gather thousands in opposition. He emphasized the importance of taking a stand, stating, “We want to make a statement because AB 495, one hundred percent strips parents of their parental rights.”
The pastor’s stance mirrors that of the California Family Council, which argues the bill’s definition of a caregiver is overly broad and lacks sufficient oversight. The group’s Vice President, Greg Burt, warned that the legislation allows individuals to gain guardianship through a simple affidavit, circumventing parental consent. “The notion that compassion must come at the expense of parental rights and child safety is a false dichotomy,” Burt commented.
The California state Senate appropriations committee is scheduled to review the bill on August 18, a decision awaited with apprehension by many concerned citizens.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
