What is this bill about?
SB 1210 ensures that all gang databases operate within the same legislative and regulatory oversight and framework already in place for CalGang. It would close the loophole law enforcement agencies have been exploiting to disproportionately add people of color to unregulated databases and hold these agencies accountable.
How does it align with yli’s values?
California has made significant progress in reforming gang database practices through previous legislative efforts, including SB 458 (2013), AB 2298 (2016), and AB 90 (2017). These laws introduced essential protections such as notification requirements, the right to contest gang designations, and oversight by the Department of Justice. However, these reforms only apply to “shared” gang databases, such as CalGang, which are accessible by multiple agencies.
Unfortunately, many law enforcement agencies have circumvented these regulations by abandoning shared databases and creating unregulated internal systems. This loophole undermines the intent of previous reforms, allowing agencies to document individuals without notice, due process, or accountability. These unregulated databases pose significant risks to public safety and civil rights, as they often contain inaccurate or outdated information and are not subject to audits or quality control. SB 1210 removes the term “shared gang database” from existing laws, ensuring that all gang databases, whether shared or internal, are subject to the same oversight and due process protections.
yli partners with thousands of youth across the state, the majority of whom are low-income youth of color. We witness first hand the impacts of our state’s harmful “justice” system on their lives, and are staunch advocates of measures that will reduce the criminalization and incarceration of our loved ones – and ensure their dignified treatment while incarcerated.
This policy aligns with our Racial Justice Platform, which addresses the impacts of the carceral system on communities of color.
What is yli doing about it?
We have just submitted a letter endorsing this bill, and we are showing our support on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Who supports this bill?
- Peace and Justice Law Center