California's 'Hug Act' Takes Effect January 1, 2027: Youth in Juvenile Facilities May Hug Family During Visits Without Prior Approval
A California law expanding contact visits at juvenile facilities will take effect on January 1, 2027. According to the Los Angeles County Probation Department's November newsletter, the LA County Board of Supervisors approved a motion on October 6 directing the department to expedite implementation of the law known as the "Hug Act" — the department's statement on its implementation identifies the bill as AB 1646.
The law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September, expands contact visits at juvenile facilities and eliminates a requirement for prior approval by the chief probation officer. Supervisor Janice Hahn, who presented the motion with Supervisor Holly Mitchell, said: "We have a long way to go to fix our juvenile system, but establishing the right of these young people to hug their loved ones is one small way we can bring some humanity back in. Safety has to be our priority, but there should be room for kids to be able to hug their moms. I am beyond proud of the young people who inspired this legislation and poured themselves into getting it passed and signed into law."
The legislation originated with youth incarcerated at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey, who asked to be able to hug their families hello and goodbye during visits. Assemblymember Isaac Bryan developed the bill with the youth.
The Probation Department operates Los Angeles County's juvenile facilities. Once the law takes effect, hugs between youth and their families during qualifying visits will no longer require prior approval.
(Source: Los Angeles County Probation Department)
Source: Los Angeles County Probation Department
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：探视场合中拥抱的家人与青少年。洛杉矶县缓刑局供图。 / Photo: A family embrace at a visiting event. Photo: Los Angeles County Probation Department.
