California Legislature passes SB 1387, advancing recognition of Jewish identity as ethnicity

The California Legislature has passed Senate Bill 1387, a measure that would make California the first state to formally recognize Jewish identity as an ethnicity in state law, alongside its religious classification. The bill, authored by Sen. Henry Stern and sponsored by Jewish California, passed the Assembly 62-0 and the Senate 38-0, and now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom's signature. SB 1387 mandates that state agencies collecting demographic data on ancestry or ethnic origin include a separate category for Jewish identity. Proponents argue this will ensure accurate representation in state datasets for hate crimes, public health, and education. David Bocarsly, CEO of Jewish California, stated, "SB 1387 makes sure that we are seen and included when the state counts ethnic communities, a national first." The bill ensures voluntary participation, maintains existing religious data categories, and prohibits using collected information for individual registries or law enforcement. The statutory requirements are set to take effect in January 2029, with initial reports published in January 2030.