Youth Housing Bond Act of 2025.

Senator Menjivar's Youth Housing Bond Act of 2025 proposes a state bond measure to fund facilities and housing for homeless and foster youth across California. The legislation authorizes the Department of Housing and Community Development to award bond proceeds to local agencies and nonprofit organizations for acquiring, renovating, and constructing youth centers and housing projects.

The bond funds would be allocated between two primary purposes: youth centers providing services like counseling, education and employment support, and dedicated housing facilities serving homeless youth and former foster youth. At least half of housing funds must support projects for homeless youth, with the remainder designated for current or former foster youth. Recipients must match between 15-25% of awarded funds and commit to operating facilities for specified periods ranging from 3-20 years based on award size.

The measure establishes the Youth Housing Finance Committee, comprising state fiscal officers and agency directors, to oversee bond issuance and fund management. Awards will prioritize high-need urban and rural areas, with preference given to nonprofit organizations over local agencies. The department must create an advisory committee including youth service providers and legislative appointees to help develop proposal criteria.

If approved by voters in November 2026, the bonds would provide dedicated funding to expand California's infrastructure supporting vulnerable youth populations. The legislation requires facilities to offer comprehensive services like shelter, counseling, healthcare screening, and assistance accessing other public and private resources. Local agencies receiving awards may establish grant programs allowing nonprofits to access funds for youth housing projects in their jurisdictions.