Public social services: tax-exempt nonprofit organizations.

Assembly Member Bonta's legislation expands eligibility criteria for nonprofit organizations seeking California state grants and contracts by recognizing both federal and state tax-exempt status qualifications. The bill modifies multiple sections of state code to allow organizations exempt from state income tax under Revenue and Taxation Code Section 23701d to qualify for programs that currently require federal 501(c)(3) status.

The measure updates requirements for nonprofits providing refugee social services, immigration legal assistance, and resettlement support through state programs. Organizations must demonstrate relevant experience, maintain appropriate insurance coverage, and comply with reporting and monitoring requirements. For immigration legal services, nonprofits must have at least three years of experience handling immigration cases and conducting related training, while those providing refugee assistance must show expertise in immigrant outreach and benefits navigation.

Through the Enhanced Services for Asylees and Vulnerable Noncitizens program, qualified organizations can receive grants to deliver case management, temporary shelter, medical screening, and other critical support services. The legislation maintains existing program oversight mechanisms while broadening the pool of eligible service providers. As an urgency measure, these changes would take effect immediately upon enactment to address what the bill's authors describe as escalating federal pressures on organizations serving vulnerable communities.