SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) released the following statement after AB 495 passed off the Assembly Floor today:
Sadly, AB 495 passed its final vote in the legislature along party lines by a vote of 57-to-18. I voted no this afternoon on the final passage of this bill. This flawed legislation contains a loophole that could put minors at risk of being taken from their school without their parents’ knowledge or permission. Over the summer, when this loophole was found, the concern was brought to the author’s attention, and amendments were requested, but they were ultimately rejected. While I respect the author’s intention to encourage families to have a preparedness plan, this bill is not the solution and remains too broad and dangerous. In my career as a law enforcement officer, I have seen firsthand how predators can and will exploit any advantage they are given. The language in this bill, in my opinion, gives the worst of society a new advantage. Legislators have a responsibility to protect children and ensure that there are absolutely no loopholes in the intent of our laws. As a father and grandfather, I feel a deep commitment to work with my colleagues to strengthen our laws and protect minors. The number one most frequent question I ask my colleagues in the State Legislature is, “How are we protecting the kids?” This bill does not protect kids; it puts them at risk. I will be strongly urging the Governor to veto this legislation.
Assemblymember Juan Alanis represents the 22nd Assembly District, which includes the communities of Modesto, Turlock, Ceres, Denair, Patterson, Gustine, Newman, Hilmar, Ballico, Snelling, Keyes, Grayson, Crows Landing, Diablo Grande, Stevinson, & Empire.
