Governor Gavin Newsom, joined by members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), signed a series of impactful bills aimed at addressing systemic issues impacting Black Californians. This landmark legislation, including a formal apology for California’s role in slavery, marks a significant milestone in the state's ongoing commitment to racial equity and social justice.
For more information on this legislation and its potential impact on your organization, contact our Managing Partner, Richard Liu, at richard.liu@consultils.com.
Overview of Key Bills
The newly signed bills cover critical issues such as food access, discrimination protections, maternal health, and educational support:
Addressing Food & Medical Deserts (SB 1089)
Requires grocery stores and pharmacies to provide advance notice before closures, addressing the disproportionate impact of food and medical deserts on communities of color.
Strengthening Protections Against Discrimination (AB 1815)
Clarifies that "race" includes traits like hair texture and protective hairstyles, providing stronger protections against racial discrimination in workplaces and schools.
Combating Maternal Health Disparities (AB 2319)
Mandates hospitals to report compliance with anti-bias training for perinatal health care workers, empowering the Attorney General to enforce penalties for noncompliance.
Increasing Access to Literature in Prisons (AB 1986)
Mandates the Office of the Inspector General to publish and review the list of banned books in state prisons, promoting access to literature and educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals.
Formal Apology for Slavery (AB 3089)
Affirms California's recognition of the harms caused by slavery and issues a formal apology, to be memorialized with a plaque in the State Capitol.
Expanding Opportunities in Employment, Education, and Foster Care
Additional measures address employment discrimination, expand preschool access, and increase financial aid for foster youth. SB 1348 also establishes the designation of "California Black-Serving Institutions" to recognize higher education campuses that support Black students.
Conclusion
Governor Newsom's recent legislative actions demonstrate California's commitment to addressing systemic racial injustices and promoting equity across multiple facets of society. From food access to educational support and the formal recognition of past wrongs, these measures are a critical step toward ensuring a fairer future for Black Californians. As the state continues to work on these and other initiatives, California aims to serve as a model for other states in creating a more just and inclusive society.
For more information on this legislation and its potential impact on your organization, contact our Managing Partner, Richard Liu, at richard.liu@consultils.com.
Disclaimer: The materials provided on this website are for general informational purposes only and do not, and are not intended to, constitute legal advice. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any information provided here. Please consult with your own legal counsel regarding your specific situation and legal questions.
Richard Liu, Esq. is the Managing Counsel of ILS. He serves clients as a management-side defense lawyer specializing in employment and business litigation. Richard is also an expert on litigation prevention and compliance. He regularly advises Fortune 500 companies and startups on employment, labor, and commercial matters.
Email: richard.liu@consultils.com | Phone: 626-344-8949
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