About This Checklist
California AB 495, the Family Preparedness Act, took effect January 1, 2026. This free checklist walks church preschools and licensed childcare programs through what the law asks of them. Then update your family records with our AB 495 emergency contacts list.
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Step by Step
Work through each AB 495 item with your director and staff, one box at a time.
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Built for Preschools
Focused on licensed childcare and preschool programs, where the requirements land for most ministries.
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Reduce Risk
Document the steps your program has taken and protect the families you serve.
What's Inside the Checklist
- ✓ Who AB 495 applies to, and what it asks of licensed preschools and childcare programs
- ✓ Limits on collecting citizenship or immigration information from families
- ✓ How to document and report a law enforcement request for immigration-related access
- ✓ The annual emergency contact review, plus the "10 deep" best practice
- ✓ Sample acknowledgment language parents can sign on your emergency contact list
- ✓ Sharing the Attorney General's model policies with parents, and keeping them current
Get Your Free Checklist
Download the checklist and work through AB 495 with your team.
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Common Questions
1. Why do I need to submit my information?
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We ask for your basic contact details so we can take you straight to the download, and so a member of our team can follow up if you have questions. We'll never spam you or sell your information.
2. Is this checklist a substitute for legal advice?
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No. This checklist is a helpful starting point, but it isn't legal advice. We recommend consulting your legal counsel or HR advisor to confirm exactly how AB 495 applies to your preschool or school.
3. Is this really free?
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Yes, it's 100% free. ChurchWest is committed to helping ministries and schools thrive. If you have questions after downloading, our team is happy to help at no obligation.