Criminal Justice & Policing
We advocate for a criminal justice system that is fair and free of bias, respects the dignity and rights of all who come into contact with it, and is centered on community-based solutions that prioritize rehabilitation and supportive services over punishment.
We fight for protections against law enforcement violence and abuse and for investments that keep us safe through community-led interventions, services and resources.
Our Focus:
We advocate for reforms to the criminal legal system, including pretrial, sentencing, and parole reforms, ending the death penalty and other extreme sentences, ensuring strong indigent defense systems, and ensuring that police and prosecutors are accountable to the communities that they serve.
Criminal Justice & Policing Legislation
Prompt Access to Counsel (AB 1209)
Criminal Justice & Policing
Though both the United States and California Constitutions guarantee the right to the effective assistance of counsel, Californians are often denied this right. In counties across the state, indigent defendants charged with misdemeanors are appearing …
End Slavery in California (ACA 8)
Criminal Justice & Policing, Racial and Economic Justice
Contrary to popular belief, slavery was not abolished by the 13th amendment. Hundreds of thousands of people are still living in involuntary servitude due to an “exception clause” that allows free labor for punishment of …
Restore Voting Rights in Prison (ACA 4)
Criminal Justice & Policing, Democracy & Civic Engagement, Racial and Economic Justice
Our democracy is rooted in the idea that everyone’s voice matters. Right now, though, over 120,000 Californians in prison are banned from voting in local, state, or federal elections. It’s time we join Vermont, Maine, …
End Racially Biased Searches By Police (AB 93)
Criminal Justice & Policing, Racial and Economic Justice
Every year, law enforcement agencies search tens of thousands of people in California without any warrant, probable cause, nor even any reason to suspect a crime. These baseless “consent searches” occur when police stop someone …
Eliminate Unnecessary Police Interaction in Schools (AB 1323)
Criminal Justice & Policing, Education Equity, Racial and Economic Justice
Decades of research show the long-term harm to young people of even minimal contact with the juvenile or criminal legal systems. Once students make contact with law enforcement, they are less likely to graduate high …
Restrict K-9 Force (AB 742)
Criminal Justice & Policing, Racial and Economic Justice
Update: This bill has been turned into a 2-year bill. It will remain inactive until 2024. The use of police canines has severe and potentially deadly consequences for the public. Nationwide, more than 3,500 people …