California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill ACA17

Caption

A resolution to propose to the people of the State of California an amendment to the Constitution of the State, by adding Section 29 to Article IV thereof, relating to individuals with disabilities.

Impact

The bill would specifically apply to benefit programs such as the State Supplementary Program for the Aged, Blind and Disabled (SSP), the Cash Assistance Program for Aged, Blind, and Disabled Legal Immigrants (CAPI), state disability insurance, and workers' compensation. By establishing stringent requirements for altering benefit amounts, ACA 17 seeks to protect vulnerable populations from arbitrary reductions in their benefits, thereby reinforcing their financial stability and security.

Summary

ACA 17, introduced by Assembly Members Ortega and Krell, aims to amend the California Constitution by adding Section 29 to Article IV, specifically addressing the reduction of direct benefit payments to individuals with disabilities. The bill mandates that any legislative proposal seeking to reduce these benefits must be passed as an urgency statute. This requirement is designed to ensure that legislation affecting financial support for individuals with disabilities is approached with careful consideration and immediate necessity, emphasizing the importance of their welfare.

Analysis

Overall, ACA 17 reflects a commitment to prioritizing the needs of individuals with disabilities within California's legislative framework. By demanding that benefits can only be reduced under specific and urgent circumstances, the bill aims to create a stable environment for those reliant on such support programs, ensuring they are not subjected to detrimental changes without thorough justification or consideration.

Contention

Debate around ACA 17 may arise regarding the implications of requiring urgency to modify disability benefits. Proponents argue that such measures are necessary to safeguard the financial well-being of disabled individuals, ensuring that their support systems remain intact and that any changes proposed are both justified and urgent. Conversely, opponents might view the requirement for urgency as overly restrictive, potentially complicating necessary legislative processes and adjustments, which could hinder the state's ability to promptly respond to changing financial realities or budget constraints.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA ACA19

A resolution to propose to the people of the State of California an amendment to the Constitution of the State, by amending Section 8 of Article V thereof, relating to parole.

CA ACAX11

Stop Politicians from Violating Our Constitutional Rights Act of 2025.

CA ACA16

Budget bill: balanced budget: Members of the Legislature: salaries.

CA ACA13

Public finance: Balanced Budget Accountability Act of 2025.

CA SCA3

Elections: initiatives and referenda.

CA ACA3

University of California: home down payment loans for support staff.

CA SCA1

Educational expenses: school choice flex accounts and special education flex accounts.

CA ACA11

California Water Resiliency Act.

CA ACA2

Legislature: retirement.

CA ACA14

Taxes and fees: voter thresholds.

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