California is known for passing numerous bills through its legislature each year, yet many residents remain unaware of what Democratic leaders have approved until those laws take effect.
In the upcoming 2025 state Legislature, lawmakers submitted a total of 917 bills to Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who signed 794 into law. While this isn’t the highest number—Newsom signed 997 in 2022—some of this year’s legislation could reshape policies starting in 2026, possibly influencing other Democratic-led states.
1. Fast Track Caregiver Designation — AB 495
Newsom approved AB 495, the Family Preparedness Planning Act, introduced by Rep. Celeste Rodriguez. This law establishes a straightforward, one-page affidavit that lets parents designate short-term caregivers, even non-relatives, if they are detained or deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Interestingly, this law applies broadly and doesn’t focus solely on children of undocumented immigrants.
Rodriguez remarked that this measure aims to educate childcare providers about preparing for ICE raids, helping families maintain care arrangements amidst detention, deportation, or hospitalization.
Critics, however, contend that the law won’t change who can legally be a guardian without a court order, which could open the door to misuse. The affidavit only requires basic child information, a checkbox for attempted parental notification, and some form of ID, like a driver’s license or state ID. Republican lawmakers raised alarms that this could be exploited by individuals with ill intentions.
2. California Glock Ban — AB 1127
Another significant law is AB 1127, which essentially prohibits Californians from purchasing new Glock-style handguns, even though these are among the most popular models in the state.
Democrats, including Rep. Jesse Gabriel, argued this measure compels Glock to redesign specific models to prevent easy modification with a small device called a “Glock switch,” which can turn a handgun into a fully automatic firearm. The state claims the bill is focused on modification rather than brand.
Republicans argue that this legislation penalizes legal buyers and restricts access to a commonly used handgun platform. A gun shop owner pointed out that Glock has already created a new model with built-in safeguards, but the attorney general has not approved it for sale in California, leaving potential buyers in a bind.
3. ICE Alert in Schools — SB 98
Another law affecting schools is SB 98, drafted by Democratic state Sen. Lena González Perez. This measure mandates K-12 schools and universities to notify whenever ICE is detected on campus, including the timing and location of such events, along with links to “Know Your Rights” resources. All school districts must integrate these steps into their safety plans by March 2026.
Supporters argue this is crucial to ensure families aren’t caught off guard. Yet, critics believe the bill may draw schools further into immigration issues, potentially stoking fear instead of clarifying the situation. It marks a notable shift in how educational institutions engage with law enforcement on campus.
4. Establishment of Compensation Eligibility System — SB 437
Despite vetoing various reparative measures, Newsom ultimately supported SB 437, which ensures California State University develops a formal process to establish whether someone is a descendant of enslaved African Americans. The state will allocate up to $6 million to support the research and documentation necessary for verifying lineage.
This law is part of a broader restorative justice effort, placing CSU in charge of creating the state’s “ancestry verification” system. By the 2026-27 academic year, the university is expected to draft its approach and report its findings back to lawmakers, with complete implementation anticipated by the 2029-30 school year.
Proponents argue SB 437 offers a reliable method for determining compensation eligibility, but critics view this as an expensive and politically charged endeavor for a university system already facing enrollment and budget challenges. Regardless, it represents a significant step toward establishing the framework for a potential reparations program.
5. Seat Belt Wearing Test for Teenagers — AB 435
Lastly, AB 435, initiated by Rep. Rory Wilson, aims to keep young teens from sitting in front seats and booster seats. After some initial resistance from within the Democratic party, the bill was revised to change how law enforcement assesses whether children can safely use seat belts.
Currently, California requires booster seats until a child turns 8 or reaches a height of 4 feet 9 inches. New regulations will impose a five-step seatbelt test for children aged eight to sixteen, focusing on correct posture, knee bend, shoulder belt position, lap belt position, and proper seating throughout the ride.
If a child fails the test and does not comply with state standards, the driver could face a $490 fine.
