In a powerful step toward dismantling systemic racism in California’s legal system, Governor Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 1071 (Kalra) into law. The bill strengthens California's groundbreaking Racial Justice Act by ensuring that individuals who raise claims of racial discrimination in their cases have meaningful access to legal support, critical evidence, and a fair process in court.
Racial bias in charging, sentencing, prosecutorial decision-making, and courtroom conduct has long been documented in California and across the United States. The original Racial Justice Act (AB 2542 in 2020) prohibited race, ethnicity, and national-origin discrimination in convictions and sentences, and the subsequent AB 256 expanded access to relief for past judgments.
AB 1071 builds on the previous Racial Justice Acts and addresses gaps in implementation, increases court transparency, and empowers defendants to challenge racially discriminatory treatment in the criminal justice system.
What AB 1071 Does:
Guarantees Legal Support for Those Raising Racial Bias Claims
People who cannot afford an attorney and who present a credible claim of racial discrimination under the Racial Justice Act must now be appointed legal counsel. This ensures no one is left to navigate a complex legal system alone while fighting for racial equity.
Opens the Door to Crucial Evidence
AB 1071 gives people the right to request records and data—such as charging patterns, sentencing practices, and demographic statistics—that can reveal systemic racial disparities in prosecution and sentencing.
Clarifies Statutory Standards and Judicial Duties
AB 1071 clarifies how courts should evaluate claims of bias, including consideration of systemic or institutional discrimination, implicit bias, and historical patterns of racially disparate outcomes.
With AB 1071 now law, California advances its commitment to racial justice in the courtroom. This legislation transforms the Racial Justice Acts from principle to practice by guaranteeing legal representation, greater transparency, and real opportunities for redress. All communities—especially those most impacted by systemic racism—deserve fair, equitable access to justice.
AFSC is a proud cosponsor of AB1071 along with Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, California Coalition for Women Prisoners, California Public Defenders Association, Californians United for a Responsible Budget (CURB), Initiate Justice, Silicon Valley DeBug, and USF Racial Justice Clinic.
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