Strengthening Divorce Protections for California Families

By Catherine Stefani–

When families go through a divorce, the legal system should protect the people involved, especially children and financially vulnerable spouses. That’s why I introduced AB 1297, and I’m proud that it was the very first bill signed into law during my time in the State Assembly. Before AB 1297, divorcing spouses could exploit a gap in the law by simply not paying premiums or refusing to renew insurance policies, leaving children or their former partner suddenly without coverage. That risk is now gone.

Delivering Real Protections

My bill makes it the law that, when a divorce petition is filed, all existing health, auto, and life insurance policies must remain in place for the duration of the proceedings. Whether by cancellation, nonpayment, or failure to renew, one party can no longer strip away this safety net.

In practical terms, this means a child will not lose their health insurance in the middle of a custody battle. A spouse will not wake up to find their car insurance has vanished. Families will not be forced into crisis because of a technical loophole.

AB 1297 delivers what Californians deserve: certainty, fairness, and protection at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

This is a meaningful milestone—not just for me, but for the countless California families who now have stronger protections when they need them most.

AB 1297 is a major step forward for family law in California. It ensures our system puts people first, reduces unnecessary conflict in the courts, and holds both parties accountable to act in good faith. Most importantly, it keeps families protected when they are at their most vulnerable.

I’m proud that my first signed bill reflects the values I’ve always fought for: fairness, accountability, and compassion. This is a win, not just for those facing divorce today, but for every Californian who believes our legal system should provide protection when it’s needed most.

Continuing the Work on Public Safety

While AB 1297 is an important victory, I’m not stopping there. I remain laser-focused on keeping Californians safe in their homes, neighborhoods, and on our streets. Several of my public safety bills are already advancing in the State Senate:

AB 1363 – Wyland’s Law

Named for 10‑year‑old Wyland Thomas Gomes, who was tragically killed by his father after a restraining order was never properly transmitted to the Department of Justice, this bill strengthens firearm prohibition enforcement. It requires courts to provide proof that restraining orders are sent to the DOJ and creates a system that allows survivors to confirm their orders are on file and enforceable. No one should ever have to question whether the law is protecting them when their safety is at stake.

AB 1085 – Obstructed License Plates

This bill targets drivers who deliberately obscure their license plates to evade tolls, red‑light cameras, or law enforcement. By making enforcement easier and penalties stronger, AB 1085 helps curb reckless behavior, hold bad actors accountable, and keep our roads safer for everyone.

AB 824 – Protective Order Reform

Protective orders must truly protect. AB 824 requires abusers to surrender both firearms and ammunition and ensures survivors are informed of their right to appear remotely in restraining order hearings. The bill was inspired by the tragic case of a San Diego couple murdered by their abuser just blocks from a courthouse where they had a hearing that same morning. AB 824 makes protective orders safer, stronger, and survivor‑centered.

AB 1213 – Restitution First Act

Too often, crime victims are left waiting for justice while offenders’ fines and fees pile up elsewhere. Authored with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, this bill changes that by ensuring court‑ordered restitution is prioritized above other financial penalties. With AB 1213, we put victims first—making sure they receive the compensation they are owed to help rebuild their lives.

These bills build on the same principle as AB 1297: government should work for people, not against them.

As your Assemblymember, I will keep delivering results that make our laws stronger, our families safer, and our communities more secure. With AB 1297, we’ve set the tone—and we’re just getting started.

Assemblymember Catherine Stefani represents California’s 19th Assembly District, which includes the west side of San Francisco and northern San Mateo County. With a background as a prosecutor, policy analyst, and San Francisco Supervisor, she has long been a champion for public safety, affordable healthcare access, and government accountability. She can be reached at 415-557-2312 or at Assemblymember. Stefani@assembly.ca.gov

Catherine’s Corner
Published on August 14, 2025