SACRAMENTO, CA - Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 715, legislation championed by the California Legislative Jewish Caucus that will strengthen California’s antidiscrimination laws and help protect Jewish students who are facing rising antisemitism in the classroom. AB 715 is the culmination of years of effort to ensure that students from all faiths and backgrounds are able to participate in the public education system without fear of unlawful harassment, bullying, discrimination, or bias. Building upon existing civil rights law, the bill sends a clear message that antisemitism, like any other form of hate, will not be tolerated in our public institutions.
“Today, California is sending a strong and unambiguous message — hate has no place in our schools and will not be tolerated,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) and Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), Co-Chairs of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus. “We have been inspired by the leadership of our colleagues — and the incredible advocacy of Jewish students, parents, teachers, and leaders from across California — who fought tirelessly to protect Jewish children. We are also immensely grateful to Governor Newsom, Pro Tem McGuire, Speaker Rivas, and to so many of our non-Jewish colleagues of both political parties who have stood as staunch allies in the fight against hate. Together, we will continue to fight to ensure that students of all faiths and backgrounds are safe, welcome, and can thrive in our schools.”
“I’m deeply grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 715 into law. This bill demonstrates that the state will stand up for our Jewish students and community,” said Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood). “Every student deserves to be safe, valued, and respected — no matter who they are or what they believe. At a time when hate is rising and antisemitism is sweeping our communities, AB 715 reaffirms California’s commitment to inclusion and standing up against bigotry in all its forms. Thank you to my joint lead author, Asm. Dawn Addis, Jewish Caucus Co-Chairs, Asm. Jesse Gabriel and Sen. Scott Wiener, members of the Jewish Caucus, the leaders and members of the AAPI, Black, Latino, LGBTQ, and Native American Caucuses, Senate and Assembly Education Committees, and all the people who showed up and spoke out.”
“I’m a mom and a teacher and I couldn’t be more grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 715,” said Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay), “This is a historic first in the nation effort, that centers on the wellbeing of children across our state, many of whom bravely shared horrific stories about their experiences in our schools. When we hear what these kids and families have faced, it becomes impossible not to act. California has always set the standard for inclusive education and this legislation reinforces our commitment. In protecting Jewish students, we take a step forward in protecting all students from hate and discrimination.”
“Today is a historic day for California’s Jewish community and for every child who has ever felt unsafe, unseen, or unwelcome at school,” said JPAC Executive Director David Bocarsly, the sponsor of AB 715. “By signing AB 715, Governor Newsom has sent a clear and powerful message: antisemitism, like all forms of hate, has no place in our public schools, period. This law is more than policy – it is a promise that Jewish children, their families, and all students, deserve a great public education and classrooms free from hate and discrimination. We are profoundly grateful to the Governor, to our legislative champions, and to the diverse coalition of partners from every corner of California who made this victory possible.”
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The California Legislative Jewish Caucus includes 18 members of the California State Legislature who work to advance the Jewish community’s top priorities and uplift vulnerable Californians of all faiths and backgrounds. Follow the Caucus at jewishcaucus.legislature.ca.gov