text:
(a) As used in this section:

(1) “Basic needs services and resources” includes, but is not limited to, housing, food, clothing, feminine hygiene, diapers, technology, childcare services and resources, and mental health services and resources.

(2) “Childcare services and resources” includes, but is not limited to, providing information on affordable childcare options on and near campus and information and connections to local resource and referral agencies in order to obtain support in applying to state and federal childcare subsidies and programs and finding local childcare providers, including, but not limited to, the California state preschool program, Head Start, the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) childcare program, and general child care and development programs. Childcare services and resources may also include direct financial or service support.

(3) “Coordinator” means a basic needs coordinator established pursuant to this section.

(b) Each campus of the California State University shall, and each campus of the University of California is requested to, do all of the following:

(1) On or before July 1, 2025, establish the position of the Basic Needs Coordinator, and designate a staff person as the Basic Needs Coordinator to serve as the single point of contact for students experiencing basic needs insecurity related to basic needs services and resources. The coordinator shall act as a broker in identifying, supporting, and linking students to on- and off-campus housing, food, mental health, and other basic needs services and resources. To ensure the effectiveness and impact of this position, the coordinator shall be a dedicated position solely focused on addressing the basic needs of students and meet qualifications such as experience providing services to high-need and diverse populations. The coordinator shall oversee and coordinate with other staff tasked with addressing students’ basic needs, shall inform students of on- and off-campus basic needs services and resources and how to access them, and shall develop on- and off-campus partnerships to provide basic needs services and resources to their students.

(2) (A) On or before July 1, 2025, establish a Basic Needs Center, which means a central location on campus where basic needs services, resources, and staff are made available to students. The Basic Needs Center is intended to be a one-stop, single location and point of contact for students to more easily access and gain awareness of basic needs services and resources. The campus shall make a reasonable effort to locate all on-campus basic needs services and resources at the Basic Needs Center. If the campus cannot reasonably locate all basic needs services or resources at the Basic Needs Center, the campus shall provide students with the location and contact information, including name, telephone number, and email address, for all basic needs services and resources not located in the Basic Needs Center. The coordinator shall be housed in the Basic Needs Center.

(B) Each Basic Needs Center shall do all of the following:

(i) Help ensure that students have the information they need to enroll in CalFresh, the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), the California Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and other relevant government benefits programs. This clause does not require campus Basic Needs Centers to provide tax advising or preparation services.

(ii) If a campus has an existing center or office that supports parenting students and a student may be better served by that center or office, have the authority to direct that student to the student parent center or office.

(iii) Coordinate with their campus financial aid department or financial aid office. This clause does not require nor encourage the Basic Needs Center to be combined or colocated with the financial aid department or financial aid office.

(iv) Connect students to the financial aid department or financial aid office, as appropriate, to ensure that students are receiving all available financial aid, including supplemental awards such as the awards for students with dependent children established pursuant to Article 9 (commencing with Section 69465) of Chapter 1.7 of Part 42.

(v) Coordinate with their local homelessness response system to refer students to community resources available to address homelessness in addition to services and resources provided by the campus.

(C) Basic Needs Centers may provide support to students who can be reasonably expected to enroll in the upcoming term and to provide support to students during summer and winter breaks who were previously enrolled or are enrolled for the upcoming fall or spring term.

(D) Campuses shall endeavor, to the extent feasible, to use a portion of any funds made available for basic needs support for providing funds directly to students to address urgent needs. To the extent that a Basic Needs Center is already in place, that center may be used to satisfy the requirements of this section. If the existing Basic Needs Center fulfills only part of the requirements of this section, basic needs services and resources shall be expanded as needed to satisfy all the requirements of this section.

(E) The childcare services and resources a Basic Needs Center may provide for parenting students includes, but is not limited to, direct financial or service support.

(3) (A) On or before February 1, 2025, develop a document that shall be provided to students at the Basic Needs Center, once established pursuant to paragraph (2), in either electronic format or paper form, and that shall be made available to students online, that clearly lists on- and off-campus basic needs services and resources that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:

(i) The description of the service or resource.

(ii) The location of where the service or resource is provided.

(iii) The point of contact for the service or resource, including a name, telephone number, and email address.

(iv) Any eligibility restrictions on accessing the service or resource.

(v) The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service’s “SNAP Retail Locator” internet website link, which contains a map with locations that are authorized retail food stores under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and accept the use of electronic benefits transfer cards issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 10065) of Part 1 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(B) Provide the document to students as a part of campus orientations in either electronic format or paper form.

(C) Provide to faculty the online link to the electronic format of the document, the location of the Basic Needs Center, once established pursuant to paragraph (2), and the contact information for the coordinator, once designated pursuant to paragraph (1), and encourage faculty to include the online link to the electronic format of the document, the location of the Basic Needs Center, and the contact information for the coordinator in their syllabi.

(D) To ensure that the document remains useful to students, the document shall be reviewed, updated, and made available online on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution, as specified in paragraph (6), no later than the first day of every fall semester or fall quarter.

(4) On or before February 1, 2025, streamline the application and intake process for on-campus basic needs services and resources to minimize duplication and eliminate barriers to access. If an application is required, develop and use a single application for students to receive on-campus basic needs services and resources.

(5) On or before February 1, 2025, develop and implement a plan to identify and provide outreach to students, including nontraditional students, who have basic needs insecurity related to housing, food, and mental health. Once the coordinator is designated pursuant to paragraph (1) and the Basic Needs Center is established pursuant to paragraph (2), the outreach shall include information about the coordinator and the Basic Needs Center.

(6) On or before February 1, 2025, provide a student basic needs tab that is clearly visible and easily accessible from a drop-down menu on the home page of the campus’ internet website and include the information described in paragraph (3) conspicuously on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution. Once the coordinator is designated pursuant to paragraph (1) and the Basic Needs Center is established pursuant to paragraph (2), information about the coordinator and Basic Needs Center shall also be included on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution.

(c) (1) Each campus of the California State University shall report to the office of the Chancellor of the California State University, and each campus of the University of California is requested to report to the office of the President of the University of California, information that shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(A) The description and number of basic needs services and resources, broken down by category.

(B) The number of students served by the basic needs services and resources.

(C) Any existing and available data regarding the socioeconomic and demographic backgrounds of these students.

(D) Challenges and best practices in the implementation of the basic needs services and resources.

(E) Whether students who used the basic needs services and resources remained enrolled or graduated from that campus.

(F) The number of students who first started receiving CalFresh benefits in the previous year and the total number of students in the previous year who received CalFresh benefits, as provided by the State Department of Social Services.

(G) Whether the campus has a data sharing agreement with the relevant county operating the CalFresh program for the purpose of identifying new, continuing, and returning students who are potentially eligible for CalFresh benefits, or efforts underway to enact such an agreement.

(2) The data and information reported under this subdivision shall be disaggregated by each basic needs service and resource, where applicable.

(3) Campuses are encouraged to collaborate with the State Department of Social Services to obtain the data identified in paragraph (1), as applicable.

(d) (1) The office of the Chancellor of the California State University shall, and the office of the President of the University of California is requested to, develop and submit to the Governor and the Legislature, on or before March 1 of each year from 2026 to 2030, inclusive, a report based on the data and information reported by campuses pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (c) and information on the use of funds made available from the Budget Act of 2022 to implement this section.

(2) A legislative report that includes the information required to be reported in this subdivision and submitted in any of the years 2026 to 2030, inclusive, shall fulfill the reporting requirement pursuant to this subdivision to reduce duplicative efforts.

(e) This section does not preclude the California State University and the University of California from having additional basic needs staff who assist the Basic Needs Coordinator in completing the requirements of subdivision (b).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 600, Sec. 1. (SB 271) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


kind: section

code: EDC

text:
(a) As used in this section:

(1) “Basic needs services and resources” includes, but is not limited to, housing, food, clothing, feminine hygiene, diapers, technology, childcare services and resources, and mental health services and resources.

(2) “Childcare services and resources” includes, but is not limited to, providing information on affordable childcare options on and near campus and information and connections to local resource and referral agencies in order to obtain support in applying to state and federal childcare subsidies and programs and finding local childcare providers, including, but not limited to, the California state preschool program, Head Start, the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) childcare program, and general child care and development programs. Childcare services and resources may also include direct financial support or service support.

(3) “Coordinator” means a basic needs coordinator established pursuant to this section.

(b) Each campus of the California Community Colleges shall do all of the following:

(1) No later than July 1, 2022, establish the position of the Basic Needs Coordinator, and designate a staff person as the Basic Needs Coordinator to serve as the single point of contact for students experiencing basic needs insecurity related to basic needs services and resources. The coordinator shall act as a broker in identifying, supporting, and linking students to on- and off-campus housing, food, mental health, and other basic needs services and resources. To ensure the effectiveness and impact of this position, the coordinator shall be a dedicated position solely focused on addressing the basic needs of students and meet qualifications such as experience providing services to high-need and diverse populations. The coordinator shall oversee and coordinate with other staff tasked with addressing students’ basic needs, shall inform students of on- and off-campus basic needs services and resources and how to access them, and shall develop on- and off-campus partnerships to provide basic needs services and resources to their students.

(2) (A) No later than July 1, 2022, establish a Basic Needs Center, which means a central location on campus where basic needs services, resources, and staff are made available to students. The Basic Needs Center is intended to be a one-stop, single location and point of contact for students to more easily access and gain awareness of basic needs services and resources. The campus shall make a reasonable effort to locate all on-campus basic needs services and resources at the Basic Needs Center. If the campus cannot reasonably locate all basic needs services or resources at the Basic Needs Center, the campus shall provide students with the location and contact information, including name, telephone number, and email address, for all basic needs services and resources not located in the Basic Needs Center. The coordinator shall be housed in the Basic Needs Center.

(B) Each Basic Needs Center shall help ensure that students have the information they need to enroll in CalFresh, the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), the California Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and other relevant government benefits programs. If a campus has an existing center or office that supports parenting students and a student may be better served by that center or office, the Basic Needs Center may direct that student to the student parent center or office. Each Basic Needs Center shall coordinate with their campus financial aid department or financial aid office. This section does not require nor encourage the Basic Needs Center to be combined or colocated with the financial aid department or financial aid office. The funding made available by the Budget Act of 2021 to implement this section, or any subsequent Budget Act or statute to implement this section, shall not be used to combine or colocate the Basic Needs Center with the financial aid department or financial aid office and shall not be used for the administration of student financial aid programs, including staffing. Each Basic Needs Center shall connect students to the financial aid department or financial aid office, as appropriate, to ensure that students are receiving all available financial aid, including supplemental awards such as the awards for students with dependent children established pursuant to Article 9 (commencing with Section 69465) of Chapter 1.7 of Part 42. Each Basic Needs Center shall coordinate with their local homelessness response system to refer students to community resources available to address homelessness in addition to services and resources provided by the campus. Basic Needs Centers may provide support to students who can be reasonably expected to enroll in the upcoming term and to provide support to students during summer and winter breaks who were previously enrolled or are enrolled for the upcoming fall or spring term.

(C) Campuses shall endeavor, to the extent feasible, to use a portion of any funds made available for basic needs support for providing funds directly to students to address urgent needs. To the extent that a Basic Needs Center is already in place, that center may be used to satisfy the requirements of this section. If the existing Basic Needs Center fulfills only part of the requirements of this section, basic needs services and resources shall be expanded as needed to satisfy all the requirements of this section.

(D) The childcare services and resources a Basic Needs Center may provide for parenting students includes, but is not limited to, direct financial or service support.

(3) (A) No later than February 1, 2022, develop a document that shall be provided to students at the Basic Needs Center, once established pursuant to paragraph (2), in either electronic format or paper form, and that shall be made available to students online, that clearly lists on- and off-campus basic needs services and resources that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:

(i) The description of the service or resource.

(ii) The location of where the service or resource is provided.

(iii) The point of contact for the service or resource, including a name, telephone number, and email address.

(iv) Any eligibility restrictions on accessing the service or resource.

(B) On or before September 1, 2025, update the document developed pursuant to subparagraph (A) to include in the list of on- and off-campus basic needs services and resources the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service’s “SNAP Retail Locator” internet website link, which contains a map with locations that are authorized retail food stores under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and accept the use of electronic benefits transfer cards issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 10065) of Part 1 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(C) Provide the document to students as a part of campus orientations in either electronic format or paper form.

(D) Provide to faculty the online link to the electronic format of the document, the location of the Basic Needs Center, once established pursuant to paragraph (2), and the contact information for the coordinator, once designated pursuant to paragraph (1), and encourage faculty to include the online link to the electronic format of the document, the location of the Basic Needs Center, and the contact information for the coordinator in their syllabi.

(E) To ensure that the document remains useful to students, the document shall be reviewed, updated, and made available online on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution, as specified in paragraph (6), no later than the first day of every fall and spring semester or no later than the first day of every fall and spring quarter.

(4) No later than February 1, 2022, streamline the application and intake process for on-campus basic needs services and resources to minimize duplication and eliminate barriers to access. If an application is required, develop and use a single application for students to receive on-campus basic needs services and resources.

(5) No later than February 1, 2022, develop and implement a plan to identify and provide outreach to students, including nontraditional students, who have basic needs insecurity related to housing, food, and mental health. Once the coordinator is designated pursuant to paragraph (1) and the Basic Needs Center is established pursuant to paragraph (2), the outreach shall include information about the coordinator and the Basic Needs Center.

(6) No later than February 1, 2022, provide a student basic needs tab that is clearly visible and easily accessible from a drop-down menu on the home page of the campus’ internet website and include the information described in paragraph (3) conspicuously on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution. Once the coordinator is designated pursuant to paragraph (1) and the Basic Needs Center is established pursuant to paragraph (2), information about the coordinator and Basic Needs Center shall also be included on both the internet website of the campus via the student basic needs tab and the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution.

(7) (A) For the 2026–27 and 2027–28 fiscal years, provide classified employees with access to food pantry services offered by the Basic Needs Center.

(B) It is the intent of the Legislature to redirect funding in the 2026–27 and 2027–28 fiscal years from the Classified Community College Employee Summer Assistance Program established pursuant to Article 11 (commencing with Section 88280) of Chapter 4 of Part 51 of Division 7 to support the activities described in subparagraph (A).

(c) (1) Each campus of the California Community Colleges shall report to the office of the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges information that shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(A) The description and number of basic needs services and resources, broken down by category.

(B) The number of students served by the basic needs services and resources.

(C) Any existing and available data regarding the socioeconomic and demographic backgrounds of these students.

(D) Challenges and best practices in the implementation of the basic needs services and resources.

(E) Whether students who used the basic needs services and resources remained enrolled or graduated from that campus.

(F) The number of students who first started receiving CalFresh benefits in the previous year and the total number of students in the previous year who received CalFresh benefits, as provided by the State Department of Social Services.

(G) Whether the campus has a data sharing agreement with the relevant county operating the CalFresh program for the purpose of identifying new, continuing, and returning students who are potentially eligible for CalFresh benefits, or efforts underway to enact such an agreement.

(2) The data and information reported under this subdivision shall be disaggregated by each basic needs service and resource, where applicable.

(3) Campuses are encouraged to collaborate with the State Department of Social Services to obtain the data identified in paragraph (1), as applicable.

(4) The data and information reported by each campus of the California Community Colleges for the 2026–27 and 2027–28 fiscal years shall also include both of the following for the applicable reporting period:

(A) The number of classified employees served pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (7) of subdivision (b).

(B) If appropriate, whether the use of food pantry services by classified employees pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (7) of subdivision (b) impacted resources available to students.

(d) (1) The office of the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges shall develop and submit to the Governor and the Legislature every year beginning on or before May 1, 2023, a report based on the data and information reported by campuses pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (c) and information on the use of funds made available from the Budget Act of 2022 to implement this section.

(2) A legislative report that includes the information required to be reported in this subdivision and submitted in any of the years required by paragraph (1) shall fulfill the reporting requirement pursuant to this subdivision to reduce duplicative efforts.

(3) The reports submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) for the 2026–27 and 2027–28 fiscal years shall also include the data and information reported by campuses pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (c) for the appropriate reporting period.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 745, Sec. 1.5. (SB 148) Effective October 13, 2025. Operative January 1, 2026, pursuant to Sec. 11 of Stats. 2025, Ch. 745.)

division: 5. GENERAL PROVISIONS

part: 40. DONAHOE HIGHER EDUCATION ACT

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

chapter: 2. General Provisions

article: 3. General Provisions

path: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION > 5. GENERAL PROVISIONS > 40. DONAHOE HIGHER EDUCATION ACT > 2. General Provisions > 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “CalFresh program” means the program established pursuant to Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 18900) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(2) “FAFSA” means the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

(3) “Independent institution of higher education” has the same meaning as defined in Section 66010.

(4) “Private postsecondary educational institution” has the same meaning as defined in Section 94858.

(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to clarify educational policies for purposes of addressing student hunger on campus by ensuring low-income students have equitable access to nutritious and sufficient food sources by improving access for low-income students to the CalFresh program.

(c) It is the intent of the Legislature to codify the United States Department of Education’s Dear Colleague Letter GEN-22-02 issued on January 20, 2022, to ensure that California institutions of higher education are increasing awareness of available benefits for students to use to reduce hunger on campus and to ensure continued enrollment.

(d) For purposes of Section 273.5(a) of Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations, a student shall be determined to be attending at least one-half time any semester or term in which the student enrolls in at least one-half of the number of credits needed each semester or term to graduate within four years of enrollment as a first-time freshmen or within two years of enrollment as a transfer student, unless prohibited by federal law.

(e) (1) Each campus of the California State University and each community college district shall use FAFSA data to identify students who meet the income qualifications for the CalFresh program.

(2) (A) Each campus of the California State University and each community college district shall send an email to the campus-based email account associated with a student identified pursuant to paragraph (1) informing the student that they may qualify for the CalFresh program if the student can also meet one of the exemptions for the CalFresh student eligibility rules provided for in Section 273.5(b) of Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

(B) The email described in subparagraph (A) shall encourage the student to contact the local county welfare agency to apply for the CalFresh program and include the contact information for the local county welfare agency and the designated campus staff who can assist the student in applying for the CalFresh program.

(f) (1) Each campus of the University of California, each independent institution of higher education, and each private postsecondary educational institution is encouraged to use FAFSA data to identify students who meet the income qualifications for the CalFresh program.

(2) (A) Each campus of the University of California, each independent institution of higher education, and each private postsecondary educational institution is encouraged to send an email to the campus-based email account associated with a student identified pursuant to paragraph (1) informing the student that they may qualify for the CalFresh program if the student can also meet one of the exemptions for the CalFresh student eligibility rules provided for in Section 273.5(b) of Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

(B) It is the intent of the Legislature that the email described in subparagraph (A) encourage the student to contact the local county welfare agency to apply for the CalFresh program and include the contact information for the local county welfare agency and the designated campus staff who can assist the student in applying for the CalFresh program.

(g) For purposes of Section 483(a)(3)(E) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended by Section 1090(a)(3)(E) of Title 20 of the United States Code, FAFSA data shall be used in accordance with federal law and for purposes of this section shall only be used to inform students of their potential CalFresh program eligibility.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 934, Sec. 1. (AB 2810) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The Wellness Vending Machine Pilot Program is hereby established. The California State University and the California Community Colleges shall administer the pilot program at their segments of public postsecondary education.

(b) (1) The California State University shall select five campuses, that are deemed most appropriate, to participate in the pilot program. Each participating campus shall establish at the main campus, a satellite campus, or both, at least one wellness vending machine that dispenses wellness products, including, but not limited to, condoms, dental dams, menstrual cups, lubrication, tampons, menstrual pads, pregnancy tests, and nonprescription drugs, including discounted emergency contraception.

(2) Each participating campus shall do both of the following:

(A) To the extent possible, place wellness vending machines in central locations on campus that will enable students to have access 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

(B) Select and implement at least one of the following methods, or other chosen method, to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine:

(i) Pamphlets.

(ii) Posters.

(iii) Flyers.

(iv) Social media.

(v) Creating or updating internet websites.

(vi) Hosting a grand opening event.

(vii) Outreach to campus clubs and organizations.

(viii) During an orientation session.

(3) On or after July 1, 2025, and on or after each July 1, the California State University shall submit a report to the Legislature, pursuant to Section 9795 of the Government Code, on the pilot project at its participating campuses. Information reported pursuant to this paragraph shall be disaggregated by campus, and shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(A) The location of the wellness vending machine.

(B) Which times of the day and days of the week the wellness vending machine is stocked, functioning, and accessible to students.

(C) The total cost to acquire and maintain the wellness vending machine.

(D) Which method or methods were used to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine as required by subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2).

(E) The types of products offered through the wellness vending machine.

(F) Whether the price for each type of product was offered at a discounted rate as compared to the average retail price.

(G) The total sales volume, disaggregated by type of product.

(H) The name of each entity or organization, if any, the campus or segment partnered with to offer products through the wellness vending machine.

(I) The source or sources of funding used to finance the wellness vending machine.

(c) (1) The California Community Colleges shall select five community colleges, that are deemed most appropriate, to participate in the pilot program. Participation of community colleges shall be voluntary. Each participating community college shall establish at the main campus, a satellite campus, or both, at least one wellness vending machine that dispenses wellness products, including, but not limited to, condoms, dental dams, menstrual cups, lubrication, tampons, menstrual pads, pregnancy tests, and nonprescription drugs, including discounted emergency contraception.

(2) Each participating community college shall do both of the following:

(A) To the extent possible, place wellness vending machines in central locations on campus that will enable students to have access 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

(B) Select and implement at least one of the following methods, or other chosen method, to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine:

(i) Pamphlets.

(ii) Posters.

(iii) Flyers.

(iv) Social media.

(v) Creating or updating internet websites.

(vi) Hosting a grand opening event.

(vii) Outreach to campus clubs and organizations.

(viii) During an orientation session.

(3) On or after July 1, 2025, and on or after each July 1 thereafter, the California Community Colleges shall submit a report to the Legislature, pursuant to Section 9795 of the Government Code, on the pilot project at its participating community colleges. Information reported pursuant to this paragraph shall be disaggregated by community college, and shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(A) The location of the wellness vending machine.

(B) Which times of the day and days of the week the wellness vending machine is stocked, functioning, and accessible to students.

(C) The total cost to acquire and maintain the wellness vending machine.

(D) Which method or methods were used to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine as required by subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2).

(E) The types of products offered through the wellness vending machine.

(F) Whether the price for each type of product was offered at a discounted rate as compared to the average retail price.

(G) The total sales volume, disaggregated by type of product.

(H) The name of each entity or organization, if any, the campus or segment partnered with to offer products through the wellness vending machine.

(I) The source or sources of funding used to finance the wellness vending machine.

(d) (1) The University of California is requested to select any number of campuses, that are deemed most appropriate, to participate in the pilot program. Each participating campus is requested to establish at the main campus, a satellite campus, or both, at least one wellness vending machine that dispenses wellness products, including, but not limited to, condoms, dental dams, menstrual cups, lubrication, tampons, menstrual pads, pregnancy tests, and nonprescription drugs, including discounted emergency contraception.

(2) Each participating campus is requested to do both of the following:

(A) To the extent possible, place wellness vending machines in central locations on campus that will enable students to have access 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

(B) Select and implement at least one of the following methods, or other chosen method, to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine:

(i) Pamphlets.

(ii) Posters.

(iii) Flyers.

(iv) Social media.

(v) Creating or updating internet websites.

(vi) Hosting a grand opening event.

(vii) Outreach to campus clubs and organizations.

(viii) During an orientation session.

(3) On or after July 1, 2025, and on or after each July 1 thereafter, the University of California is requested to submit a report to the Legislature, pursuant to Section 9795 of the Government Code, on the pilot project at its participating campuses. Information reported pursuant to this paragraph shall be disaggregated by campus, and shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(A) The location of the wellness vending machine.

(B) Which times of the day and days of the week the wellness vending machine is stocked, functioning, and accessible to students.

(C) The total cost to acquire and maintain the wellness vending machine.

(D) Which method or methods were used to notify students of the presence of the wellness vending machine as required by subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2).

(E) The types of products offered through the wellness vending machine.

(F) Whether the price for each type of product was offered at a discounted rate as compared to the average retail price.

(G) The total sales volume, disaggregated by type of product.

(H) The name of each entity or organization, if any, the campus or segment partnered with to offer products through the wellness vending machine.

(I) The source or sources of funding used to finance the wellness vending machine.

(e) This section shall become inoperative on July 1, 2029, and, as of January 1, 2030, is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2030, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 933, Sec. 1. (AB 2482) Effective January 1, 2023. Inoperative July 1, 2029, by its own provisions. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, by its own provisions.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Basic needs” has the same meaning as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 66023.4.

(2) “Homeless” and “housing insecure” mean students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, or who are at imminent risk of losing housing. This includes students who are any of the following:

(A) Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason.

(B) Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations.

(C) Living in emergency or transitional shelters.

(D) Living in a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings.

(E) Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings.

(3) “Mental health” means services and resources to address the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges. Depending on student age and developmental level, this may include, but is not limited to, conditions such as depression, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use conditions, eating disorders, and anxiety, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

(b) It is the intent of the Legislature that funding appropriated to the University of California and the California State University specifically for rapid rehousing, basic needs, and student mental health be used for the purposes described in this subdivision, including, but not limited to, for all of the following:

(1) Funds appropriated to the University of California and the California State University in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section for rapid rehousing may be used to support efforts to assist homeless and housing insecure students, including, but not limited to, all of the following purposes:

(A) For campuses to establish ongoing partnerships with community organizations that have a tradition of helping populations experiencing homelessness to provide wraparound services and rental subsidies for students.

(B) To connect students with community case managers who have knowledge and expertise in accessing safety net resources.

(C) To establish ongoing emergency housing procedures, including on-campus and off-campus resources.

(D) To provide emergency grants necessary to secure housing, to prevent the imminent loss of housing, or to stabilize housing for students at risk of homelessness.

(2) Funds appropriated to the University of California and the California State University in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section for basic needs are used to support, but are not limited to supporting, meal donation programs, food pantries serving students, CalFresh enrollment, and other means of directly providing nutrition assistance to students, and may be used, but are not limited to being used, for all of the following purposes:

(A) To assist homeless and housing insecure students in securing and maintaining stable housing.

(B) To supply students with personal hygiene products.

(C) To establish Basic Needs Centers as a centralized location on campus where students experiencing basic needs insecurity can be identified, supported, and linked to on-campus and off-campus resources to support timely program completion. Basic Needs Centers may use funds described in this paragraph for its operations.

(D) To designate or hire dedicated Basic Needs Coordinators for the Basic Needs Centers who will serve as a single point of contact for students.

(3) Funds appropriated to the University of California and the California State University in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section for student mental health are used to increase mental health resources for students, including, but not limited to, the expansion, continuation, and support of existing campus-based mental health programs and services.

(c) Funds appropriated in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section that are to be provided to students shall be distributed to the student by the campus financial aid office. Funds appropriated in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section shall be allocated to University of California and California State University campuses based on demonstrated need.

(d) The University of California and the California State University shall each report annually on or before February 1 on the use of funds appropriated in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section for the two preceding fiscal years. Reporting on the use of all funds appropriated specifically for purposes of this section may be included in a single report if all data elements required pursuant to this section are separately identifiable. A report described in this subdivision shall be submitted to the Director of Finance and the Legislature in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, and shall include all of the following:

(1) For funds appropriated for rapid rehousing, the University of California and the California State University shall report information that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:

(A) The number of professional staff and full-time employees that assist students with rapid rehousing.

(B) The number of students served by campus.

(C) The allocation of funds by campus.

(D) A description of the types of programs funded.

(E) Whether students receiving rapid rehousing support remained enrolled at the university or graduated.

(F) Other relevant outcomes.

(2) For funds appropriated for basic needs and student mental health, the University of California and the California State University shall report information that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:

(A) The amount of funds allocated to each campus.

(B) For each campus that was allocated funds, a programmatic budget summarizing how the funds were spent. The programmatic budget shall include any other funding used to supplement the funds appropriated in the annual Budget Act specifically for purposes of this section.

(C) A description of the types of programs in which each campus spent the funds.

(D) A list of campuses that accept, or plan to accept, electronic benefits transfer.

(E) A list of campuses that participate, or plan to participate, in the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program.

(F) The number of students who first started receiving CalFresh benefits in the preceding fiscal year and the total number of students in the preceding fiscal year that received CalFresh benefits.

(G) A list of campuses that have a data sharing agreement with the relevant county operating the CalFresh program to identify new, continuing, and returning students who are potentially eligible for CalFresh benefits, and a list of campuses with ongoing efforts to enter into such an agreement.

(H) A list of campuses that offer or plan to offer emergency housing or assistance with long-term housing.

(I) The number of students receiving mental health services on campus, disaggregated by race and ethnicity, gender, age group, and type of service received.

(J) The average wait time for initial routine mental health counseling appointments.

(K) The average number of campus mental health counseling appointments per student.

(L) The number of students referred to off-campus providers for mental health services.

(M) The number of student mental health staff by provider type and the counselor-to-student ratio.

(N) Total spending on student mental health services, by fund source, including spending covered by insurance providers.

(3) A description of how campuses leveraged or coordinated with other state or local resources to address housing insecurity, food insecurity, and student mental health.

(4) An analysis describing how funds appropriated specifically for purposes of this section reduced food insecurity and homelessness among students, increased student mental health, and, if feasible, impacted student outcomes such as persistence or completion.

(5) Other findings and best practices implemented by campuses.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2026, Ch. 79, Sec. 4. (SB 135) Effective July 13, 2026.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
The Legislature hereby affirms its commitment to the continuing quality and development of graduate and professional programs of the University of California, the California State University, and the independent institutions of higher education in this state.

It is the intent of the Legislature that each governing board of an institution of higher education periodically review the quality of the graduate and professional programs operated by the institution, and the need to add, discontinue, or enhance graduate and professional programs, including programs leading to the joint doctorate degree.

It is further the intent of the Legislature that the development of joint doctoral programs operated by the California State University and the University of California or one or more accredited independent institutions of higher education be established and expedited.

All graduate and professional programs, including joint doctoral programs, are expected to undergo careful evaluation and be approved only when it has been demonstrated that these programs meet the needs of students and the state.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1991, Ch. 1198, Sec. 8.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) This section shall apply to all segments of postsecondary education in this state.

(b) Except for purposes of an application for a professional degree or law enforcement basic training courses and programs, a postsecondary educational institution shall not inquire about a prospective student’s criminal history on an initial application form or at any time during the admissions process before the institution’s final decision relative to the prospective student’s application for admission.

(c) A postsecondary educational institution shall make any necessary changes to its application form to comply with subdivision (b) by the fall term of the 2021–22 academic year.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2020, Ch. 29, Sec. 4. (SB 118) Effective August 6, 2020.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Systemwide fees charged to resident undergraduate students at the University of California and the California State University shall be reduced for the 1998–99 fiscal year by 5 percent below the level charged during the 1997–98 fiscal year, and the systemwide fees charged to those students for the 1999–2000 fiscal year shall be reduced by 5 percent below the level charged during the 1998–99 fiscal year. Systemwide education and registration fees charged to resident graduate students at the University of California and the California State University for the 1999–2000 fiscal year shall be reduced by 5 percent below the level charged those resident students for the 1997–98 fiscal year. This subdivision does not apply to resident students pursuing a course of study leading to a professional degree who are subject to a supplemental fee pursuant to the policy of the University of California.

(b) No provision of this section shall apply to the University of California except to the extent that the Regents of the University of California, by appropriate resolution, make that provision applicable.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 72, Sec. 1. Effective July 6, 1999.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Notwithstanding Section 76300, a campus of the University of California, the California State University, or the California Community Colleges shall not charge any mandatory systemwide tuition or fees, including enrollment fees, registration fees, differential fees, or incidental fees, to any of the following:

(1) A dependent eligible to receive assistance under Article 2 (commencing with Section 890) of Chapter 4 of Division 4 of the Military and Veterans Code.

(2) (A) Any child of any veteran of the United States military who has a service-connected disability, has been killed in service, or has died of a service-connected disability, where the annual income of the child, including the value of any support received from a parent, does not exceed the state poverty level as defined in subdivision (d).

(B) Notwithstanding Section 893 of the Military and Veterans Code, the Department of Veterans Affairs may determine the eligibility for fee waivers for a child described in subparagraph (A).

(3) A dependent, or a surviving spouse who has not remarried, of any member of the California National Guard who, in the line of duty, and while in the active service of the state, was killed, died of a disability resulting from an event that occurred while in the active service of the state, or is permanently disabled as a result of an event that occurred while in the active service of the state. For the purposes of this paragraph, “active service of the state” refers to a member of the California National Guard activated pursuant to Section 146 of the Military and Veterans Code.

(4) (A) An undergraduate student who is a recipient of a Medal of Honor, commonly known as a Congressional Medal of Honor, or an undergraduate student who is a child of a recipient of a Medal of Honor and who is no more than 27 years old, if both of the following requirements are met:

(i) The undergraduate student’s annual income, including the value of any support received from a parent, does not exceed the state poverty level as defined in subdivision (d).

(ii) The recipient of the Medal of Honor who is or was the parent of the undergraduate student is, or at the time of the recipient’s death was, a California resident as determined pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 68000) of Part 41.

(B) The Department of Veterans Affairs shall determine the eligibility of any applicant for a fee waiver under this paragraph.

(b) (1) Notwithstanding Section 76300, a campus of the University of California or the California State University shall not charge any mandatory systemwide tuition or fees, including enrollment fees, registration fees, differential fees, or incidental fees, to a current or former foster youth, if the current or former foster youth meets all of the following conditions:

(A) Is 25 years of age or younger.

(B) Has been in foster care for at least 12 consecutive months after reaching 10 years of age.

(C) Meets any of the following:

(i) Is under a current foster care placement order by the juvenile court.

(ii) Was under a foster care placement order by the juvenile court upon reaching 18 years of age.

(iii) Was adopted, or entered guardianship, from foster care.

(D) Completes and submits the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

(E) Maintains a minimum grade point average and meets other conditions necessary for the student to be in good standing at the public postsecondary educational institution that the current or former foster youth attends, as determined by the appropriate public postsecondary segment.

(F) Meets the financial need requirements established for Cal Grant A awards under Chapter 1.7 (commencing with Section 69430) of Part 42.

(2) A student shall not have the student’s mandatory systemwide tuition or fees waived pursuant to this subdivision in excess of the equivalent of attendance in a four-year undergraduate program.

(3) The amount of a student’s tuition or fee waiver pursuant to this subdivision shall be reduced by any state or federal financial aid, including scholarships or grants, received by the student for the academic year or semester, or the equivalent, in which the student receives the tuition or fee waiver pursuant to this subdivision.

(c) A person who is eligible for a waiver of tuition or fees under this section may receive a waiver for each academic year during which the person applies for that waiver, but an eligible person may not receive a waiver of tuition or fees for a prior academic year.

(d) As used in this section, the “state poverty level” means annual household income that is less than the amount calculated for a single person with no dependents pursuant to Section 18501 of the Revenue and Tax Code.

(e) The waiver of tuition or fees under this section shall apply only to a person who is determined to be a resident of California pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 68000) of Part 41.

(f) Subdivision (a) shall not apply to a dependent of a veteran within the meaning of paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 890 of the Military and Veterans Code.

(g) The provisions of this section shall not apply to the University of California except to the extent that the Regents of the University of California, by appropriate resolution, make a provision applicable.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 695, Sec. 1. (AB 1745) Effective January 1, 2024.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) By March 31, 2019, the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges shall establish an initiative to expand the use of course credit at the California Community Colleges for students with prior learning. The initiative shall identify best practices for the use of course credit for students with prior learning, locate and collect available resources, and provide professional development in connection with the identified best practices. The initiative shall identify the best practices for purposes of establishing potential pilot programs and shall provide recommendations for internal systemwide policy changes to expand the use of course credit at the California Community Colleges for students with prior learning.

(b) (1) By January 1, 2020, the chancellor shall submit a report to the Legislature, pursuant to Section 9795 of the Government Code, on the initiative described in subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, activities established by the initiative. The report shall include recommendations for legislative policy changes necessary to implement the best practices identified by the initiative.

(2) The requirement for submitting a report imposed under paragraph (1) is inoperative on January 1, 2024, pursuant to Section 10231.5 of the Government Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 530, Sec. 1. (AB 1786) Effective January 1, 2019.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The California State University and each community college district shall, and the University of California is requested to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to any member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States, and who is a resident of California, who has received an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or an other than honorable discharge, and to any member or former member of the State Guard, for any academic term attended at one of these institutions for four academic years after the member has left state or federal active duty, which the member shall use within 15 years of leaving state or federal active duty.

(b) A former member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the State Guard who received a dishonorable discharge or a bad conduct discharge is not eligible for priority registration for enrollment pursuant to this section.

(c) The priority registration for enrollment provided pursuant to this section shall apply to enrollment for all degree and certificate programs offered by the institution after the military or veteran status of the student has been verified by the institution the student attends.

(d) Students who receive priority registration for enrollment pursuant to this section shall comply with the requirements of subdivision (a) of Section 78212.

(e) (1) For the purposes of this section, “Armed Forces of the United States” means the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, National Guard, Naval Militia, Navy, Space Force, and the reserve components of each of those forces, including the California National Guard.

(2) As used in this section, “member or former member of the Armed Forces of the United States” includes, but is not necessarily limited to, any student who is called to active military duty compelling that student to take an academic leave of absence.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 379, Sec. 5. (AB 1715) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The California State University and each community college district shall, and the University of California is requested to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to a foster youth, former foster youth, homeless youth, or former homeless youth.

(b) For purposes of this section:

(1) “Foster youth and former foster youth” means a person in California whose dependency was established or continued by a court of competent jurisdiction, including a tribal court, on or after the youth’s 13th birthday and who is no older than 25 years of age at the commencement of the academic year.

(2) “Homeless youth and former homeless youth” means a student under 25 years of age, who has been verified, in the case of a former homeless youth, at any time during the 24 months immediately preceding the receipt of the youth’s application for admission by a postsecondary educational institution that is a qualifying institution pursuant to Section 69432.7, as a homeless child or youth, as defined in subsection (2) of Section 725 of the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 11434a(2)), by at least one of the following:

(A) A homeless services provider, as that term is defined in paragraph (3) of subdivision (e) of Section 103577 of the Health and Safety Code.

(B) The director of a federal TRIO program or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs program, or a designee of that director.

(C) A financial aid administrator for an institution of higher education.

(D) A homeless and foster student liaison designated pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 67003.5.

(E) For American Indian students, a representative of the student’s tribe or a representative of a tribal organization that is a homeless services provider.

(c) For purposes of this section, a student who is verified as a homeless youth as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) shall retain that status for a period of six years from the date of admission to the postsecondary educational institution.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 574, Sec. 1. (SB 512) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) (1) (A) The Office of the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges, in collaboration with the Academic Senate for the California Community Colleges, shall do both of the following:

(i) By September 1, 2019, develop a consistent policy to award military personnel and veterans who have an official Joint Services Transcript containing courses that have been evaluated by the American Council on Education with full descriptions and credit recommendations, course credit for California Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum, California State University General Education Breadth, or local community college general education requirements, as appropriate for the student’s needs, in a course with subject matter similar to that of the student’s military education, training, and service.

(ii) Periodically review and adjust the policy developed pursuant to this subparagraph to align it with policies of other public postsecondary educational institutions.

(B) By December 31, 2020, each community college district shall have a policy consistent with the policy developed by the chancellor pursuant to subparagraph (A) to assess Joint Services Transcripts for awarding course credit.

(2) Each community college campus shall post on its internet website the most recent policy adopted pursuant to this subdivision.

(b) (1) (A) The Office of the Chancellor of the California State University, in collaboration with the Academic Senate of the California State University, shall, and the University of California is requested to, do both of the following:

(i) By September 1, 2022, develop a consistent policy to award military personnel and veterans who have an official Joint Services Transcript containing courses that have been evaluated by the American Council on Education with full descriptions and credit recommendations, course credit for the California State University or the University of California, as appropriate for the student’s needs, in a course taught on the campus where the student matriculates, with subject matter similar, or equivalent, subject to academic and faculty review, to that of the student’s military education, training, and service.

(ii) Periodically review and adjust the policy developed pursuant to this subparagraph to align it with the policies of other public postsecondary educational institutions.

(B) By December 31, 2023, each campus of the California State University shall, and the University of California is requested to, have in effect a policy consistent with the policy developed pursuant to subparagraph (A) to assess Joint Services Transcripts for awarding course credit.

(2) Each campus of the California State University shall, and the University of California is requested to, post on its internet website the most recent policy adopted pursuant to this subdivision.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 567, Sec. 1. (AB 1002) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) (1) By no later than July 1, 2023, the California State University and each community college district shall, and the University of California is requested to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to a student parent.

(2) In implementing this subdivision, each campus of the California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California is encouraged to use information from any or a combination of the following to help determine a student parent’s eligibility for the priority registration established pursuant to this subdivision:

(A) The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

(B) The California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

(C) The application to receive a fee waiver pursuant to Section 76300.

(D) Any campus form or documentation that identifies student parents.

(b) For purposes of this section, “student parent” means a student who has a child or children under 18 years of age who will receive more than half of their support from that student.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 935, Sec. 3. (AB 2881) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Commencing with the 2025–26 academic year, the California State University shall, and the University of California is requested to, with respect to each campus in their respective jurisdictions that administers a priority enrollment system, grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to a first responder.

(b) (1) The priority registration for enrollment provided pursuant to this section shall apply to enrollment for all baccalaureate degree and certificate programs offered by the institution after the employment of the student as a first responder has been verified by the institution the student attends.

(2) A student requesting priority registration pursuant to this section shall provide the institution with documentation that shows proof of employment as a first responder upon an initial request for priority registration and annually upon the start of each subsequent academic year if priority registration is requested.

(c) For purposes of this section, “first responder” means an employee of the state or a local public agency who provides emergency response services, including any of the following:

(1) A peace officer.

(2) A firefighter who is a member of a fire department of cities, counties, cities and counties, districts, or other public or municipal corporations or political subdivisions, whether the members are volunteer, partly paid, or fully paid, excepting those whose principal duties are clerical, such as stenographers, telephone operators, and other workers not engaged in fire suppression or rescue operations or the protection or preservation of life or property.

(3) A paramedic.

(4) An emergency medical technician.

(5) A public safety dispatcher or public safety telecommunicator whose primary responsibility is to receive, process, transmit, or dispatch emergency and nonemergency calls for law enforcement, fire, emergency medical, and other public safety services by telephone, radio, or other communication device, and includes an individual who promotes from this position and supervises individuals who perform these functions.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 643, Sec. 1. (AB 255) Effective January 1, 2024.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text: Each community college district, with respect to each campus in its jurisdiction that administers a priority enrollment system, shall grant priority registration for enrollment to students in the Community College Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, pursuant to Article 8 (commencing with Section 69640) of Chapter 2 of Part 42, and disabled students, within the meaning of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12101 et seq.), who are determined to be eligible for disabled student programs and services pursuant to Chapter 14 (commencing with Section 67300) and Section 84850.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 437, Sec. 2. (SB 906) Effective January 1, 2017.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The Legislature finds and declares that the priority enrollment for registration required by this section is necessary to ensure that the flexibility related to educational opportunities that was adopted as part of the broader changes to the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program in Chapter 47 of the Statutes of 2012 is not undermined by students who are CalWORKs recipients being unable to access necessary classes.

(b) Each community college district that administers a priority enrollment system shall grant priority in that system for registration for enrollment to any student who is a CalWORKs or Tribal TANF recipient.

(c) Students who receive priority registration for enrollment pursuant to this section shall comply with the requirements of subdivision (a) of Section 78212.

(d) For purposes of this section:

(1) “CalWORKs recipient” means a recipient of aid under Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11200) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or any successor program.

(2) “Tribal TANF recipient” means a recipient of aid pursuant to Section 10553.25 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or any successor provision.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 97, Sec. 1. (SB 164) Effective January 1, 2018.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Each public or private postsecondary educational institution that is located in a county that participates in the Restaurant Meals Program established pursuant to Section 2020 of Title 7 of the United States Code shall do all of the following:

(1) Apply to become an approved food vendor for the Restaurant Meals Program if the institution operates a qualifying food facility on campus.

(2) Annually provide all on-campus food vendors not operated by the institution with information regarding the Restaurant Meals Program and the manner in which to apply.

(3) If an on-campus food vendor or a qualifying food facility has been approved to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, annually inform students about the program using information provided by the State Department of Social Services.

(b) This section does not require an institution to create, operate, or maintain an EBT system on behalf of on-campus food vendors.

(c) An approved on-campus food vendor or a qualifying food facility participating in the Restaurant Meals Program pursuant to this section, and a county in which the program is operated, shall meet the requirements of the Restaurant Meals Program. A qualifying food facility that participates in the Restaurant Meals Program pursuant to Section 18919 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall meet all of the requirements for participation in that program.

(d) For purposes of this section:

(1) “On-campus food vendors” does not include any vendor that does not sell prepared food for onsite consumption or that sells food from a mobile food facility, as defined in Section 113831 of the Health and Safety Code.

(2) “Qualifying food facility” is a facility administered by a postsecondary educational institution that sells prepared food for onsite consumption.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 746, Sec. 1. (AB 1894) Effective January 1, 2019.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text: It is the intent of the Legislature that, consistent with the requirements and intent outlined in subdivisions (b) and (c) of Section 78215, and to the extent that the institution meets the responsibilities outlined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 78212, any student who receives priority registration for enrollment participate in the program of services outlined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 78212.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 704, Sec. 2. (AB 595) Effective January 1, 2014.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text: Unless otherwise specified, reports submitted to the Legislature by the University of California, the California State University, and the Office of the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges shall be delivered to the Senate and Assembly budget subcommittees on education, the appropriate Senate and Assembly higher education policy committees, the Legislative Analyst’s Office, the Office of the Governor, and the Department of Finance. Unless otherwise specified, these reports may be submitted in PDF format or comparable electronic format.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2011, Ch. 349, Sec. 3. (SB 940) Effective January 1, 2012.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The Legislative Analyst’s Office shall conduct an assessment, on or before January 1, 2031, evaluating the efficacy of existing programs in nursing jointly offered between campuses of the California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California.

(b) The results of the assessment shall be reported, in writing, to the Legislature and the Governor on or before January 1, 2031. The assessment shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(1) The total number of joint programs currently implemented, including information identifying the number of programs, applicants, admissions, enrollments, and degree recipients.

(2) The extent to which existing programs fulfill identified workforce shortages, including statewide supply and demand data that considers capacity at the California Community Colleges, the California State University, the University of California, and California’s independent colleges and universities.

(3) Information on the job placement of graduates.

(4) Joint nursing program costs and the funding sources that were used to finance these programs.

(5) Time-to-degree rates and completion rates for students in joint nursing programs.

(6) Recommendations on whether and how joint, intersegmental nursing programs can or should be extended and expanded.

(c) The report submitted pursuant to subdivision (b) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.

(d) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2032, and as of that date is repealed.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 998, Sec. 19. (AB 176) Effective September 30, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2032, by its own provisions.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) (1) The Trustees of the California State University, the Regents of the University of California, and the governing board of each community college district are requested to, in collecting data relative to gender, race, ethnicity, or other demographics, from faculty, staff, or students, allow the faculty, staff, and students to identify their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression on any forms used to collect that demographic data, as appropriate.

(2) A governing board shall not be required to update an existing form used to collect demographic data for purposes of this subdivision, but shall provide for the identification of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression on any new or updated form used for the collection of demographic data.

(b) The Regents of the University of California, the Trustees of the California State University, and the Chancellor’s Office of the California Community Colleges are requested to report aggregate information collected pursuant to subdivision (a), to the extent that individuals from whom that information is collected authorize that information to be released where other demographic data is traditionally aggregated and reported for informational purposes and is appropriate. Any report developed shall be transmitted to the Legislature, pursuant to Section 9795 of, and notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of, the Government Code, no later than January 1 of each year and shall be made available to the general public on the Internet Web site of each respective institution. The information reported pursuant to this subdivision shall not include any individual identifying information.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 637, Sec. 2. (AB 620) Effective January 1, 2012.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Subject to subdivision (b), on or before September 1, 2025, each campus of the California Community Colleges and each campus of the California State University shall, and each campus of the University of California is requested to, identify and apply for at least one general store or a store that sells food on campus to become an authorized retail food store under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and, if approved, ensure the store or stores, within a reasonable time, accept the use of electronic benefits transfer cards issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 10065) of Part 1 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(b) If a campus does not have a general store or a store that sells food on campus, subdivision (a) does not apply.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 913, Sec. 3. (AB 2033) Effective January 1, 2025.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Controlled substances” includes, but is not limited to, flunitrazepam, ketamine, and gamma hydroxybutyric acid, which is also known by other names, including, but not limited to, GHB, gamma hydroxyl butyrate, 4-hydroxybutyrate, 4-hydroxybutanoic acid, sodium oxybate, and sodium oxybutyrate.

(2) “Drug testing devices” means test strips, stickers, straws, and other devices designed to detect the presence of controlled substances in a drink.

(b) (1) The California State University and each community college district shall stock drug testing devices, available and accessible, free of cost, in the health center located on each campus.

(2) (A) Notwithstanding any other law, the California State University and each community college district shall not be liable in a civil action or be subject to criminal prosecution for a defective test or inaccurate test result, including, but not limited to, a false positive or false negative test result, from a drug testing device made available pursuant to this subdivision.

(B) The California State University and each community college district shall ensure that drug testing devices made available pursuant to this subdivision have not exceeded their expiration date or recommended period of use, according to the product label, product packaging, or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer.

(c) The California State University and each community college district shall post a notice regarding the requirements of subdivision (b) in a prominent and conspicuous location. This location may include, but shall not be limited to, on each campus health center’s internet website or in new student orientation materials.

(d) The Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, are encouraged to stock drug testing devices, available and accessible, free of cost, in the health center located on each campus.

(e) (1) If the Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, implement subdivision (d), the campuses are further encouraged to post a notice regarding the requirements of subdivision (d) in a prominent and conspicuous location. This location may include, but shall not be limited to, on each campus health center’s internet website or in new student orientation materials.

(2) Notwithstanding any other law, if the Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, implement subdivision (d), the campuses shall not be liable in a civil action or be subject to criminal prosecution for a defective test or inaccurate test result, including, but not limited to, a false positive or false negative test result, from a drug testing device made available pursuant to subdivision (d).

(3) If the Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, implement subdivision (d), the campuses are further encouraged to ensure that drug testing devices made available pursuant to subdivision (d) have not exceeded their expiration date or recommended period of use, according to the product label, product packaging, or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer.

(f) This section does not prevent a campus from providing more than one location where persons may access drug testing devices.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 679, Sec. 1. (AB 1524) Effective January 1, 2025.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text: As a part of campus orientation, the Trustees of the California State University shall provide, and the Regents of the University of California are requested to provide, for all campuses of their respective segments, and each campus of the California Community Colleges shall provide, educational information about CalFresh (Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 18900) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code), the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) (Section 17052 of the Revenue and Taxation Code), the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) (Section 17052.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code), the California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) (Article 2 (commencing with Section 123275) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 106 of the Health and Safety Code), and the student eligibility requirements for CalFresh, CalEITC, YCTC, and WIC to all incoming students.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 935, Sec. 4. (AB 2881) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) The California Community Colleges and the California State University shall provide information about credit by examination opportunities wherever course and class information is available.

(b) The Regents of the University of California are requested to provide information about credit by examination opportunities wherever course and class information is available.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 712, Sec. 1. (AB 1025) Effective January 1, 2014.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) Each campus of the California State University and the California Community Colleges shall, and each campus of the University of California is requested to, include on the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution notice of the following public services and programs:

(1) The CalFresh program.

(2) Resources, as determined by the institution to be most appropriate, for county or local housing services, which may also include, if determined to be appropriate for the geographic area where the institution is located, resources for legal assistance relating to housing.

(3) Resources, as determined by the institution to be most appropriate, for county or local mental health services.

(4) The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC).

(5) The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC).

(6) The California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

(b) Each institution shall include, immediately adjacent to the notices specified in subdivision (a), a link to the internet web page for each noticed program or resource.

(c) Each institution may use existing resources to comply with the requirements of subdivisions (a) and (b).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 935, Sec. 5. (AB 2881) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) (1) The California State University and each community college district shall stock an adequate supply of menstrual products, available and accessible, free of cost, at no fewer than one designated and accessible central location on each campus.

(2) (A) A location’s accessibility shall be determined by considering all of, but not limited to, the following factors:

(i) Hours of operation, relative to hours that students are on campus.

(ii) Proximity to high-traffic areas on campus.

(iii) Accessibility by students of all genders and regardless of physical ability.

(iv) Privacy, including whether accessing products would require interaction with staff or other students.

(v) Safety.

(B) Locations described in this paragraph may include student centers, libraries, wellness or health centers, pantries, and study rooms.

(b) The California State University and each community college district shall post a notice regarding the requirements of subdivision (a) in a prominent and conspicuous location in all women’s restrooms and all-gender restrooms and in at least one men’s restroom.

(c) The Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, are encouraged to stock an adequate supply of menstrual products, available and accessible, free of cost, at no fewer than one designated and accessible central location on each campus.

(d) If the Regents of the University of California, independent institutions of higher education, as defined in Section 66010, and private postsecondary educational institutions, as defined in Section 94858, implement subdivision (c), the campuses are further encouraged to post a notice regarding the requirements of subdivision (c) in a prominent and conspicuous location in all women’s restrooms and all-gender restrooms and in at least one men’s restroom.

(e) This section does not prevent a campus from providing more than one location where persons may access menstrual products.

(f) For purposes of this section, “menstrual products” means menstrual pads and tampons for use in connection with the menstrual cycle.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 664, Sec. 4. (AB 367) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) (1) Each campus of the California State University and the California Community Colleges with a campus mental health hotline shall, and each campus of the University of California with a campus mental health hotline is requested to, have printed on either side of student identification cards the telephone number of the campus mental health hotline.

(2) Each campus of the California State University and the California Community Colleges without a campus mental health line shall, and each campus of the University of California without a campus mental health hotline is requested to, have printed on either side of student identification cards the telephone number of their city’s or county’s mental health hotline.

(b) Subdivision (a) applies to a student identification card issued for the first time to a student, and to a student identification card issued to replace a damaged or lost student identification card, anytime on or after January 1, 2023.

(c) Each campus of the California State University, the California Community Colleges, and the University of California without a campus mental health hotline may establish a campus mental health hotline for students to access mental health services remotely.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 183, Sec. 1. (AB 2122) Effective January 1, 2023.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Donate Life California” means the nonprofit organization established and designated as the California Organ and Tissue Donor Registrar pursuant to Section 7150.90 of the Health and Safety Code.

(2) “Donate Life California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry” means the registry established pursuant to Section 7150.90 of the Health and Safety Code.

(b) The Trustees of the California State University shall provide, and the Regents of the University of California are requested to provide, for all campuses of their respective segments, and each campus of the California Community Colleges shall provide, educational information about Donate Life California and the Donate Life California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry to all incoming students.

(c) A campus may disseminate the educational information described in subdivision (b) in a manner that best fits the needs of the campus and its student population, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(1) During the campus orientation process.

(2) Via a short message system (SMS) alert to students.

(3) In health centers.

(4) Via a webinar.

(5) Via a school newsletter.

(6) On the campus’ internet website.

(7) Via a campus event.

(8) When a student is registering for student health insurance or health or wellness plans, or providing insurance or immunization records to the campus.

(9) In health promotional programming.

(d) Donate Life California shall provide all necessary resources, written or electronic, to assist with the dissemination of educational information pursuant to subdivision (c), based on the needs of the campus.

(e) Donate Life California shall be available to confer and collaborate on an ongoing basis with all campuses.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 60, Sec. 2. (AB 466) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions


text:
Each campus of the California State University and the California Community Colleges shall, and each campus of the University of California is requested to, do all of the following:

(a) By no later than February 1, 2023, host on its internet website a student parent internet web page that is clearly visible and easily accessible from a drop-down menu on the internet home page of the campus’s internet website and include the information described in subdivision (b) conspicuously on both the internet website of the campus via the student parent internet web page, and on the internet website-based student account associated with a student’s attendance at the institution.

(b) (1) The student parent internet web page shall contain information that clearly lists all on- and off-campus student parent services and resources that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:

(A) The description of the service or resource.

(B) The location where the service or resource is provided.

(C) The point of contact for the service or resource, including a name, telephone number, and email address.

(D) Any eligibility restrictions on accessing the service or resource.

(2) Of the services and resources provided on the student parent internet web page pursuant to paragraph (1), the student parent internet web page shall include, but is not limited to, information on the following on- and off-campus student parent services and resources:

(A) Priority registration for a student parent established pursuant to Section 66025.81.

(B) The CalFresh Program.

(C) (i) Federal and state tax credits, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(I) The federal Earned Income Tax Credit.

(II) The California Earned Income Tax Credit.

(III) The Child Tax Credit.

(IV) The Young Child Tax Credit.

(V) The Foster Youth Tax Credit.

(VI) The federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.

(VII) The federal American Opportunity Tax Credit.

(VIII) The federal Lifetime Learning Credit.

(ii) Free tax filing services offered online through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs.

(D) State and federal financial aid applications and programs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(i) The Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

(ii) The California Dream Act application.

(iii) Awards for students with dependent children established pursuant to Article 9 (commencing with Section 69465) of Chapter 1.7 of Part 42.

(iv) Any other federal or state financial aid application or program available for students with dependent children.

(E) The California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

(F) The California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids program.

(G) Cost of attendance adjustment information, including the dependent care allowance.

(H) Resources, as determined by the institution to be most appropriate, for campus or local childcare providers.

(I) Any other financial support or income available for student parents.

(c) Provide the student parent internet web page link to students as a part of campus orientations.

(d) Provide to faculty the student parent internet web page link and encourage faculty to include the student parent internet web page link in their syllabi.

(e) To ensure that the student parent internet web page remains useful to student parents, the student parent internet web page shall be reviewed and updated no later than the first day of every fall and spring semester or no later than the first day of every fall and spring quarter.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 962, Sec. 2. (AB 2458) Effective January 1, 2025.)

title: 3. POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 3. General Provisions